Biking in Arizona

It was an especially warm winter day today, and my brother-in-law and I took advantage of the opportunity to get some good cardio in.  This picture was taken today just north of Mesa, Arizona on Usury Pass Road, a popular highway for cyclists.

Saving Your Trees from Frost Damage

Only a couple of years ago, all the Ficus trees in Phoenix were dealt a huge blow by a severe frost that sent temperatures plummeting.  This year, it has been the southeastern United States that has been hammered by frost and snow and ice.  Many in the field of agriculture are worried that they won't have a harvest at all this year.

Anyway, I found this great article that gives suggestions on how to protect your trees and plants from frost damage.  Remember that while trees generally do little to change the value of a property, they do make your home much more appealing, which will result in a faster sale if you put it on the market.  They also provide much needed shade and aesthetic appeal for you to enjoy as long as you live there.  Take care of your trees!

Prices Still Going Down

It seemed as though the market had stabilized this fall when demand finally shot up as a result of bargain prices and first-time homebuyer tax credits, but it turns out that was not the case.  Resale home prices have continued to plummet while only foreclosure prices seem to be stabilizing.  Check out this article in the Tribune for more information:  Home prices drop for 32nd straight month.  But take it with a grain of salt because home sales are seasonal, and people have already started coming out of the woodwork, looking for a home to purchase this summer.

Biggest Storm in Years Hits Valley

My sister who owns a tree service in Mesa, Arizona together with her husband, Dan (photo above), is running all over town today doing estimates on tree-related storm damage.  Streets are flooded, there are rumors of tornadoes touching down in north Scottsdale, and the luxury car auction in Scottsdale was demolished when the tents came down.  On a more personal note, I haven't been able to get out and go running or biking, and I can feel myself getting out of shape!  Please take care of your trees.  Get a certified arborist to trim them on an annual or semi-annual basis, depending on the tree, and you are much less likely to lose your trees to storm damage.  Trees are a valuable asset to your property and are very difficult to replace, so take care of them.