The 5 Secrets to Hosting an Open House That Leads to Multiple Offers

Open houses are a debatable topic with real estate agents. Some say they aren’t necessary in the age of the internet when options can be narrowed online. Others argue that closing yourself off will limit the number of possible buyers.

What everybody agrees on is that hosting a successful open house is an art that requires some tricks to pull off. Here are five to try out.

Choose Wise Hours

Find out the most popular hours for open houses in the neighborhood and coordinate around those times. If most open houses end at 4 p.m. then consider ending an hour later at 5 p.m.

This extra hour will bring in house hunters who went the entire day without finding something they wanted as well as people who rushed through every other open house so they could see them all. If there are no other open houses then there’s no reason to rush.

Embrace Technology

Most buyers, especially young ones, are starting their home search online. New apps and websites are launching every day and staying up to date on the newest real estate tech hangouts will allow a seller to hit the popular sites as well as advertise to tech-savvy buyers who are embracing new hotspots.

Change Up The Signs

Not only should there be a lot of signage, but the signs should be tailored towards different demographics. Wealthier areas should be signed with tasteful and professional signs while some cute, handwritten signs will bring in the bargain hunters who are looking for something affordable.

De-Personalize Everything

Every buyer needs to be able to see him or herself living in the home. Anything controversial or personal will remind them of the people living there now and get in the way of their imagination running wild. Clean out anything political, controversial or family related before opening the doors.

Learn From The Criticism

An unsuccessful open house is an opportunity to remain open minded and discover exactly what pushed away a day’s worth of potential buyers. Any criticism or feedback should be used to make changes before the next open house so that the same mistakes aren’t repeated on a new group.

What works for one region may not work for another and only a real estate professional with experience in the area will know what tips have proven successful in your neighborhood.  Give me a call for tips that will work for you – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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5719 E Starlight Way Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$50,000,000
6 Beds
8.5 Baths
16,906 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6644810
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to an architectural masterpiece situated within Paradise Valley's prestigious Cameldale Estates. Positioned thoughtfully on a nearly 3-acre parcel in the northern face of Camelback Mountain to allow sweeping views of Mummy, Phoenix, McDowell, and Four Peaks mountain ranges. Design by world-renowned architects SAOTA, collaborating with local architect Stratton, and earning world recognition press/awards for innovative design and unparalleled beauty. Nearly 17,000 sqft of living will blend seamlessly into desert surroundings while offering every conceivable modern luxury. Chef's kitchen, cinema, gym/spa, resort-style infinity pool, with emphasis on seamless indoor/outdoor living. The modern organic design, coupled with exceptional craftsmanship, elevates it to a league of its own.

5738 N Casa Blanca Drive Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$42,500,000
6 Beds
13.5 Baths
23,417 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6762392
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
New modern custom highest end construction build in Casa Blanca & Wilkinson corridor by Regal American Homes. Extremely private estate with stunning mountain views of Camelback, Praying Monk, & Mummy. Central courtyard, open great room & chef's kitchen w/large back kitchen holding hidden bar, pantry, Costco room, & walk-in cooler & freezer. Split floorplan where primary suite includes separate his and hers: vanity, enclosed toilets & closets, large walk-in shower, free standing tub, laundry, gym, office, theatre and therapy rooms. Experience true indoor/outdoor living with massive diving pool & spa, golf simulator, indoor sport/pickleball court, outdoor BBQ & fireplace. Separate guest quarters with 2 bedrooms & kitchen. Private state of the art shooting range & underground bunker lounge. runs, walking path, garden, mature olive, citrus, oak & oleander trees, turf, irrigation, & exterior lighting. Additional rooms include large private gym w/enclosed massage room, office, kid's lounge/playroom, and art and study rooms. Safe room connects to basement with shooting range, lounge and bar, and recreation barn. Short drive to world class resorts, dining, shopping, Paradise Valley County Club & both Scottsdale & Phoenix Airports.

4820 E Perkinsville Road Seligman, AZ 86337

$42,000,000
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
5,737 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6776308
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
HISTORIC 'FORT ROCK RANCH' for sale in Seligman, AZ. Formerly the Buckman Stage Station, Fort Rock got its name after a battle in 1866 with the Hualapai Indians which was hard fought, and won, in the midst of the majestic rock formations surrounding the skirmish. Picturesque landscape is a feast for the eyes & soul. Breathtaking, panoramic views with widely varied topography. SEE AERIAL VIDEO in PHOTOS slide 2. Water abounds. 22 wells & multiple dirt tanks dot this 104,145 acre property. (52,677 deeded / 51,468 leased) Live water includes Meadow Lake, Upper Trout Creek, Fort Rock Creek, Tom Bacon Lake, Horse Lake & more w/ native species of fish. The Air Strip has been resurrected, with the first plane landing on site in over 30 years. EPIC! * Click 'MORE' for addt'l important details! * The iconic 'Fort', the home of the Ranch Foreman, was built in 1894 and still stands today in all its glory (3,660 sq ft). The main home, affectionately known as 'Headquarters', was built in 1926 and is strategically located by Meadow Lake (5,737 sq ft). Several other structures house ranch employees. Bonus - secluded off grid cabin on the way to Trout Creek. Fort Rock is a working cattle ranch w/ apprx 600 head currently on the ranch. They are primarily black angus bulls w/ mostly black angus cross cows - but still some cross bred mix on the ranch. Cattle may convey with the right offer (954 AU's). 80+ acres of irrigated pasture possible. Ranching, hunting (elk, lion, deer) and other investment prospects abound. Fort Rock Ranch participates with the AZ Game and Fish Landowner Compact and enjoys a longstanding, mutually beneficial partnership. This is a rare opportunity to own a magnificent piece of western history.

6418 E Joshua Tree Terrace Unit 2 Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$33,900,000
6 Beds
10 Baths
12,500 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6767863
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This extraordinary 12,500 sq.ft. home is nestled in one of the most desirable locations, offering unparalleled views of Camelback Mountain from the front and Mummy Mountain in your backyard. With its prime position overlooking the Ritz-Carlton and just a stone's throw from Old Town Scottsdale, this property brings the WOW factor to luxury living. Featuring 6 spacious bedrooms and garage parking for 6, this home is designed for both elegance and comfort. The second floor provides a breathtaking panoramic view, stretching from Talking Stick Resort to Downtown Phoenix—perfect for enjoying Arizona's stunning sunsets. The PV Hillside Committee is conducting its concept review, with renderings available in 30 days. Built and Design by The Construction Zone should be ready 12/26.

5500 N Dromedary Road Phoenix, AZ 85018

$30,000,000
1 Bed
2.5 Baths
4,641 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781148
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Iconic Camelback Mountain Estate: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity. Perched on the side of the iconic Camelback Mountain, this extraordinary estate is a rare gem, offering a more than 180-degree view of the valley below, Camelback Mountain to the rear and is known for its storied history as the infamous ''Merry Christmas House,'' this property has been lovingly owned by the same family for decades and is now ready for its next chapter. Home was built in the 1970s, the original 4,661-square-foot residence exudes the timeless design influence of Frank Lloyd Wright, with its bold integration into the natural surroundings, expansive use of glass, and subtle stone accents that capture the essence of desert living. The home's organic architecture and stunning panoramic views create a tranquil, private sanctuary, while the layout offers a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor living. Set on a generous 23.66 acres, this remarkable property also boasts incredible potential for future development, with subdividable land offering the opportunity for up to 4 parcels. The possibilities are endless, from creating a family compound to building multiple luxury estates. Additionally, a potential floorplan and site plan designed by the renowned architect Mark Candelaria are available, allowing you to bring your vision to life. With its prime location, iconic status, and incredible potential, this estate is truly one of a kindan opportunity that will not come again. The property is privately gated, ensuring seclusion and security while being just moments away from the heart of the city. Whether you choose to preserve the legacy of the existing home or create something new, this is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to own a piece of history on one of Arizona's most sought-after mountain peaks. Don't miss out on this unparalleled opportunity.

2671 Highway 82 -- Patagonia, AZ 85624

$29,950,000
16 Beds
15 Baths
8,934 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6595615
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This is your opportunity to own the historic Rail X Ranch, set against a landscape that is truly breathtaking! To the West are hypnotic sunsets and to the East is the Coronado National Forest with vistas that seem to go on forever. This is a rare chance to own a piece of Arizona's history. Located at 4,500 feet above sea level temperatures are generally 10 to 15 degrees cooler year-round than in nearby Tucson. This stunning 1739 Acre Ranch Estate features a main residence with casita totaling 11,398 square feet and containing 8 bedrooms, 9 full bath rooms and 3 half baths. The main house was Constructed in 1937 and is nestled in the foothills overlooking a tree lined pond and containing numerous patios and porches to enjoy both sunsets and sunrises. The property also has 2 additional homes for employees or managers as well as 3 apartments for employees or guests. The Ranch features a 1930s barn which serves as a workshop and storage area as well as a steel building which could easily converted to a horse barn. The main compound also includes a large office suite and conference room, the property has everything you need to work from home or to handle ranch operations on site. After decades without hunting, wildlife abounds at the Rail X Ranch, including deer, dove, quail, and even javelina. The birding is exceptional, with more than 260 species documented in the nearby Patagonia Sonoita Creek Preserve. Just South of town, there are myriad opportunities for fishing and boating at Patagonia Lake State Park; and the area is filled with wonderful opportunities for horseback riding and hiking. The Ranch has the added benefit of having an artesian well on the property with Water bubbling up and feeding a transportation ditch to deliver this precious resource throughout the ranch. Combined with 8 wells situated throughout the property the Ranch has a unique and valuable asset in its water resources. To complete the picture, The Rail X is also one of the few ranches in the area which has maintained ownership of the mineral rights for the property. This asset provides land security now and into the future. The Rail X Ranch is truly an iconic and unique part of Arizona's History and Heritage and provides a rustic setting yet with all of the upscale amenities to enjoy and cherish your living environment!

333 Schnebly Hill Road Sedona, AZ 86336

$29,900,000
8 Beds
9 Baths
13,591 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784655
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
4 ACRES in Uptown Sedona! Don't miss out on the chance to own this iconic Sedona landmark in the heart of Sedona, just a few minutes walk from Tlaquepaque. Endless possibilities await with this versatile multi-use MASSIVE property with breathtaking views of the Red Rock...in the past, it was a spiritual Life Center, and at one time, there were plans to turn it into a resort. Comprising eight distinct parcels, this property features three adjacent lots along Oak Creek, two huge hillside lots and two individual residences, each accompanied by its own guest house. The larger residence is set on 3.1 acres, built in 2019 and features an unique UPDATED 900 sq ft casita where Elvis Presley worked out at in1967 while filming a Western in Sedona. The smaller residence is a gorgeous two-story cabin built in 1997 with 2230 sq. ft. and 805 sq. ft. guest house. Current zoning is RS-18 and OC (Oak Creek Heritage)

20958 N 112th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$29,500,000
6 Beds
8 Baths
14,369 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774989
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This newly built Modern Mediterranean Estate has been uniquely crafted and perfectly designed to offer the ultimate luxury lifestyle. Nestled on nearly two acres in the prestigious Silverleaf Community and surrounded by uninterrupted panoramic city view- this home perfectly encapsulates everything to be a top- notch entertainment destination. The expert design of this Modern Mediterranean residence was a collaborative effort between Erik Peterson of PHX Architecture, interior designer Laura Kehoe, and custom builder Ted Reisdorf of Paragon Custom Homes. Built with the finest materials by top artisans in the valley, every detail exudes luxury. The grand great room seamlessly opens to the stunning outdoor space for the finest indoor/ outdoor living- made for the ultimate enjoyment of the perfect Arizona evenings. Accompanied by a gourmet kitchen with a separate catering kitchen, casual and formal dining areas, and an additional butler's pantry this home does not miss a single detail. The entertainment hub is thoughtfully designed, featuring a nightclub-inspired bar, billiards area, lounges, multi-game simulator, wine room, and a theater that seats 19. The private office leads to the opulent 2,000 sq ft owner's suite, complete with a sitting area, wet bar, and breathtaking city and mountain views. The suite boasts three custom-designed, boutique-style closets with private laundry, and a spa-like bathroom with dual vanities, a makeup station, a steam shower with multiple heads, and a soaking tub. The bathroom also has access to a private garden with a hot tub overlooking the valley. Guests will enjoy luxurious accommodations in the three full guest suites with their own family room or one of the two guest casitas. Offering a true luxury indoor-outdoor lifestyle, the entertaining spaces extend seamlessly to the multi-level outdoor areas, providing incredible views of mountains, sunsets, and city lights from every angle. The main level boasts a resort-style infinite pool, multiple sun-soaked and shaded patios, an outdoor kitchen, a lush grassy lawn, and two separate hot tubs- perfect for a lifestyle of relaxation and entertainment. Silverleaf is an exclusive, guard-gated community distinguished by its tree-lined streets, private parks, and some of the most exclusive homes in Arizona. At its heart lies the renowned Silverleaf Club, featuring a par-72 golf course designed by Tom Weiskopf, a stunning clubhouse, a luxurious spa, and an array of amenities that offer the ultimate desert resort lifestyle

7620 N Red Ledge Drive Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$29,000,000
8 Beds
10 Baths
16,000 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6652586
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Step into the future of architectural brilliance with this forthcoming masterpiece, the 16,000-square-foot modern home Serenity Heights (one of two executive homes in ''SaddleRidgeLiving'' Development), that has been designed and will be built by renowned architect Ivan Shongov of architekshon, Inc, alongside Kurt Holland of Incline LLC in the prestigious Clearwater Hills community the highest and most coveted view lot in Paradise Valley. This contemporary haven stands as a testament to innovation, luxury, and the seamless integration of design and nature. Architectural Marvels: Envisioned by a luminary in the field, this modern marvel transcends traditional boundaries. The design seamlessly merges sleek lines, expansive glass, and cutting-edge materials to create a residence that not only defines modern living but redefines it. The cantilevered infinity pool is thoughtfully designed with a glass bottom and ambient lighting unveiling the intricate details of the natural rock formations. Unrivaled Views: Situated on a sprawling 11-acre estate, this home commands the highest and most coveted view lot in Paradise Valley offering unparalleled views of Mummy and Camelback Mountain. Experience the ever-changing panorama from nearly every corner of the home, where nature becomes a living canvas. Environmental Harmony: Designed with a commitment to environmental preservation, this residence minimizes intrusion on the natural surroundings, allowing you to coexist harmoniously with the beauty of the landscape. Exclusive Privacy: Nestled within the 24-hour attended gated Clearwater Hills community, this property boasts an exclusive private gated entrance and a majestic 3,000-foot driveway which is shared with only one other estate home in Saddleridge. Luxurious Features: Indulge in the amenities of this exquisite residence, kitchen with butler's pantry, and dining areas to the balcony; living room with fireplace; expansive bar; library; home theater; family room; professional gym with dressing room, sauna, and steam room; ~3,000-bottle wine room; atrium lobby with staircase and circular glass elevator; private office; primary suite with a suspended fireplace, extensive closet systems, ensuite bathroom, and private laundry; roof terrace featuring two gazebos, an outside bar, and lounge areas, along with a custom ~10-person hot tub; IT room; secure safe room; home automation and sound system; and a 24-zone HVAC system. Experience a sense of liberation and escape in the middle of the fifth largest city in the country. The design and location make you feel like you're in a different cosmos, providing a retreat from the hustle and bustle while being close to Scottsdale and Phoenix airports. Serenity Heights is not just a dwelling; it's an elevated lifestyle, a retreat where architectural innovation meets natural splendor, offering privacy, luxury, and an unparalleled sense of being on top of the world. Welcome to your future haven in the sky. Don't miss the video!

6721 E Cheney Drive Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$25,000,000
11 Beds
10.5 Baths
22,222 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6670110
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to Villa de Angeli, a timeless masterpiece nestled within the serene beauty of Paradise Valley, Arizona. This sprawling estate, spanning over 22,000 square feet, is situated on 3+ acres of absolute paradise. It features 11 bedrooms, 15 baths, 3 kitchens, a billiards room, a 12-seat tiered theater, stunning wine room, a pool house, and an indoor basketball/pickleball court. An expansive remodel by an award-winning design team was just completed on the primary residence, including the addition of the great room & wine cellar, a complete theater and kitchen update, new Calacatta Gold marble flooring, and incredible crystal silver leaf chandeliers. Throughout this impeccable legacy estate, you are surrounded by marble and hardwood floors, imported stone and tile work, custom Cantera stone fireplaces, grand iron doors, massive mesquite beamed ceilings with carved corbels above, all of which create an atmosphere of unparalleled luxury. As you arrive at one of two gated and secluded entries, you'll be greeted by lush, mature landscaping that envelops the property in a quiet enclave of luxury and opulence. The long, beautifully landscaped motor court sets the stage for the upcoming grandeur. Step into the primary open-air courtyard, guarded by a palatially carved Cantera archway and Juliet balconies. Enjoy listening to the sounds of the central fountain and roaring fireplace paved underfoot with old Chicago brickwork. Enter the grand reception room, adorned with polished and leathered Calacatta marble flooring, a double height hand-carved Cantera fireplace with overmantel, exquisite crystal and silver-plated chandelier, 22' ceilings, and 16' retractable doors that open to the resort like grounds. The secondary courtyard entrance welcomes house guests through original Mexican mesquite doors from the 1800s. It opens to a delicious courtyard and gathering room offering a private sanctuary with gardens, a central fountain, and a Cantera fireplace indicative of a Spanish villa. Outside, the resort-style pool beckons with its lazy river and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. With multiple covered and open-air entertaining areas and vistas, Villa de Angeli epitomizes the essence of a world-class resort. Centrally located in Paradise Valley, just steps from the new Ritz Carlton resort and close to high-end shops and restaurants, this estate offers a rare opportunity to acquire a property of such magnitude and beauty. Welcome home to Villa de Angeli, where luxury and comfortable living know no bounds.

21137 N 102nd Street Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$24,895,000
5 Beds
6.5 Baths
11,362 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769470
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Vistaero is a one of a kind estate, located on a five-acre hillside lot, within the prestigious Silverleaf community of North Scottsdale, offering an extraordinary blend of luxury, refined design, and breathtaking natural beauty. Designed by renowned Silverleaf pairing of architect Scott Carson, with interiors by Kristin Hazen, and built seamlessly into its mountainside surroundings, the Modern Mediterranean Estate spans 11,362 square feet, containing five bedrooms and three half bathrooms, harmonising perfectly with its mountain backdrop and offering panoramic views of the valley and Arizona sunsets. A private driveway winds its way to an expansive garage, designed to house between eight to sixteen vehicles—perfect for the car enthusiast seeking a blend of function and grandeur. Carved into the mountainside off the garage, a lower level owner's entrance provides private access to the home. A striking three-story circular staircase and an elevator connect all levels of the estate. On the same level areas have been set aside for an indoor golf driving simulator, state-of-the-art movie theater, and a dedicated Man Cave for billiards, poker, or simply unwinding with friends. Every room on the main level offers stunning views of the Arizona desert and its vibrant sunsets. A formal dining room leads to a Galleried Great Room and Kitchen opening onto the estate's covered outdoor patio, anchored by a spectacular negative-edge pool that runs parallel to the home, transitioning between the property and the sweeping landscape beyond. The Owner's Suite, located on the north side of the home, is an exceptional private retreat offering panoramic views on three sides, with an intimate desert side bathroom, two toilet rooms and two large and luxuriously appointed closets. The suite's patio overlooks the pool, while a bridge connects directly to the main outdoor living area. A second-floor office with pool and West Valley views provides an ideal private workspace, ensuring that luxury extends to every corner of this estate. A further hallway connects to a secret wine cave, adding a touch of old-world charm, awaiting for your finest vintages, and an exquisite guest suite with its own entrance and three parking or covered entertainment spaces. The upper level, accessible by the grand staircase or elevator, includes three additional bedrooms, each offering spectacular views. A gallery overlooks the Great Room, and a large outdoor patio invites even more opportunities to enjoy the stunning surroundings. This level also features a further office, a family room, and an exercise room with direct access to the mountainside. The exercise area includes a unique open-air patio, designed with a secure space for small pets to exercise alongside you while being protected from desert wildlife. Vistaero is nestled within the exclusive, guard-gated Silverleaf community, a destination known for its elegant blend of Spanish and Mediterranean-inspired architecture, lush landscapes, and world-class amenities, including a Tom Weiskopf-designed golf course. Silverleaf offers the perfect balance of luxury living and the natural beauty of the Arizona desert. The Estate is mid-construction, with all groundwork and framing completed. Its anticipated completion date is early fall 2025. This exceptional property is not just a residence but an embodiment of the Silverleaf lifestyle, where privacy, luxury, and natural beauty converge.

11235 E Wingspan Way Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$22,500,000
6 Beds
8.5 Baths
11,556 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6771767
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Perfectly situated within the prestigious community of Silverleaf, this 4.67-acre estate crafted by Salcito Custom Homes is a true work of art. Positioned in the coveted ''saddle'' of the Upper Canyon Summit, this grand residence offers a blend of warmth and sophistication with its unique French Modern interior-style and meticulous architectural design by Dale Gardon. From its commanding position, the home captures sweeping views of the Silverleaf Golf Course and the valley below. Upon entering, the superb interiors, a collaboration with Rebecca Salcito of the Salcito Design Group, you are immediately captivated. From the marble-carved fireplace to hand-blown glass chandeliers, and draperies fashioned from ombre alpaca fabrics, every detail exudes luxury. European Oak wood flooring graces every room. Step through the welcoming foyer into an open floor plan that encompasses a captivating great room, a striking kitchen complete with a catering area, and a dining room featuring a wine wall. The kitchen showcases exquisite Bulthuap cabinetry, known for its clean design and unique features, including integrated appliances and a convenient breakfast cabinet. Both the main kitchen and catering kitchen boast Calcatta marble waterfall countertops with a leathered finish. The main level houses the office, owner's retreat, and seamless outdoor living spaces. The owner's retreat is a sanctuary of its own, graced with a beautiful marble fireplace mantel and a sitting room adorned with picture windows and access to a private spa cove. The ensuite bathroom showcases marble flooring, showers, and vanities, along with custom wood cabinetry featuring integrated hardware, a matte white soaking tub, and a custom 14' Bubble chandelier. Upstairs, a private office or additional ensuite guest room awaits, while the lower level offers an entertainment area with a spacious family room, game room, and two more ensuite guest rooms. As you approach the estate, a private gated driveway leads from the cul-de-sac to a generous auto court and garages, perfect for car enthusiasts with space for up to 11 vehicles. Additionally, a detached guest house offers incredible views, a living room, bedroom, and a separate garage. Outdoors, you'll find spacious living areas complete with fire features, a double-sided pop-up television cabinet, multiple dining and sitting spaces, a sparkling infinity pool, and a secluded private spa adjacent to the master bath. This distinguished home is a true gem for the most discerning, destined to be cherished and revered. Silverleaf, located in North Scottsdale, Arizona, is a prestigious guard gated community known for its luxurious estates, exclusive golf courses, private Club and stunning desert landscapes. The Tom Weiskopf-designed Silverleaf Golf Course is a highlight for golf enthusiasts. With a blend of Spanish and Mediterranean-inspired architecture, the community offers a high standard of living, including upscale amenities like spas, fine dining, and exclusive shopping. Residents enjoy a harmonious balance between modern luxury and the natural beauty of the desert environment, making Silverleaf a sought-after destination for those seeking an exceptional lifestyle in North Scottsdale.

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