Prescott Homes – Why Buy Now?
You may be asking, “Why buy Prescott homes now?” Well, for starters, Prescott, Arizona – and the surrounding communities of Chino Valley, Prescott Valley and Dewey-Humboldt (which locals often refer to collectively as the “quad cities” area) – consistently ranks among the best places to live, retire and/or start (or even relocate) a business. National publications and web sites such as Forbes, U.S. News & World Report, Money, MSN Real Estate, AARP and many others continue to recommend the Prescott area as one of the best in the country for many reasons.
Despite the recent downturn in the economy, real estate is still one of the best investments available. This is particularly true in areas like Prescott, where home values have not been affected as drastically as many others. In fact, now may be one of the best times in years to invest in Prescott real estate. Savvy, informed investors always buy when everyone else is selling – and vice-versa. They’re always on the lookout for exceptional values in the marketplace – especially in real estate – which, historically, has held its value better than other assets.
One of the things that makes Prescott so attractive for investors, retirees, small business owners and others is that its economy is not dependent upon industries that are especially vulnerable in times of economic slowdowns. In fact, Prescott recently made the short list of just 27 U.S. cities deemed “recession proof” (Associated Press, May 4, 2008.) What’s more, nearly 80 million baby boomers will be reaching retirement age over the next two decades, and many of them will be looking to areas such as Prescott for retirement or second homes.
The Prescott area has tremendous growth potential, yet there are both natural and self-imposed restraints in place to keep development from getting out of hand. Between the local geography, public lands (which are not accessible for development) and simply a limited availability of land in general, the area should continue to grow at a robust yet sustainable pace.
Prescott offers small-city living with many of the amenities of larger metro areas. As far as shopping, there’s everything from small boutiques, antique, gift and specialty shops to a large, modern mall with several “anchor” stores (as well as many of the popular contemporary chain stores found in big-city malls.) For entertainment, there are two modern multiplex cinemas, local theatre troupes, and plenty of nightlife. And the downtown area, featuring Courthouse Square (pictured above; see home page for more) and the famous Whiskey Row, offers a multitude of dining, shopping and seasonal activities.
The area even boasts the new Tim’s Toyota Center, home of the Arizona Sundogs, newly crowned champions of the Central Hockey League. The Arizona Adrenaline of the American Indoor Football Association now calls the arena home as well. As if that weren’t enough, some of the biggest names in entertainment are also featured, live and in concert.
Despite all of this growth, the wide range of activities and entertainment – not to mention the rich history and abundance of outdoor activities (see home page) – the Prescott area has avoided many of the less desirable aspects of larger cities. Traffic congestion is minimal, the air and water are clean and clear, and the crime rate is quite low. Medical care is outstanding, as provided by Yavapai Regional Medical Center, one of the very best veterans’ hospitals in the nation, and many private practitioners of both conventional and alternative medicine. Roughly an hour away in the Phoenix area, more advanced care is available at facilities such as the renowned Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, and others.
For all these reasons and more, it should be clear: This could be one of the best times ever to buy Prescott homes. From brand-new homes with all modern amenities, to classic Victorians - many fully restored - there is something for every taste and budget. Isn't it time you come and see why Prescott is "Everybody's Hometown?"