Measuring Your Ability to Achieve the American Dream

Measuring Your Ability to Achieve the American Dream | Simplifying The Market

Forbes.com recently released the results of their new American Dream Index, in which they measure “the prosperity of the middle class, and…examine which states best support the American Dream.”

The monthly index measures several different economic factors, including goods-producing employment, personal and commercial bankruptcies, building permits, startup activity, unemployment insurance claims, labor force participation, and layoffs.

The national index score was rounded out to 100 in January and saw a modest jump to 100.5 in February.

Alaska represented the lowest score on the index at 80.7, due mostly to the recent collapse in oil prices. Nevada came in with the highest score at 108.8, boosted by big gains in goods-producing jobs and new construction activity. The full results can be seen in the map below.

Measuring Your Ability to Achieve the American Dream | Simplifying The Market

Forbes Senior Editor Kurt Badenhausen explained why many states saw a boost in the index last month:

“[B]usinesses are hiring in part in anticipation of tax cuts and less regulation… Many areas of the country have experienced strong upticks in employment and construction, as well as declines in unemployment claims since the start of the year.”

Bottom Line

The American Dream, for many, includes being able to own a home of his or her own. With the economy improving in many areas of the country, that dream can finally become a reality.  Give me a call to get started today – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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10071 E Aniko Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$3,997,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,475 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6765790
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Introducing a stunning new build set to complete in 2025, this desert modern home seamlessly blends contemporary design with the breathtaking natural landscape of Mirabel, Arizona. With a thoughtfully designed layout, the home features three spacious bedrooms, an inspiring office, and a dedicated game room, making it perfect for both relaxation and entertainment. Exterior: The striking facade showcases clean lines and a combination of natural stone, stucco, and expansive glass elements that invite the desert landscape indoors. The property is surrounded by low-maintenance native landscaping, enhancing its eco-friendly appeal while ensuring a harmonious connection with the environment. A spacious covered patio extends the living area outdoors, perfect for enjoying Arizona's stunning sunsets. Interior: As you step inside, you'll be greeted by an open-concept floor plan bathed in natural light. High ceilings and large windows create an airy atmosphere, while polished concrete floors and warm wooden accents add a touch of warmth. The gourmet kitchen features state-of-the-art appliances, sleek cabinetry, and a spacious island that flows into the dining and living areasideal for hosting gatherings. The master suite serves as a serene retreat, complete with a spa-like ensuite bathroom featuring dual vanities, a soaking tub, and a walk-in shower. Two additional bedrooms provide ample space for family or guests, each designed with comfort and style in mind. The versatile office space offers a quiet haven for productivity, while the game room is designed for fun and relaxation, complete with space for a pool table, gaming consoles, and lounge seating. Sustainability: This home is equipped with energy-efficient systems and smart home technology, ensuring a sustainable lifestyle without compromising on luxury. Whether you're seeking a year-round residence or a seasonal getaway, this desert modern home in Mirabel, Arizona, promises to be an exceptional living experience that celebrates the beauty of desert living. Don't miss your chance to own this exquisite piece of architecture!

7007 N 59th Place Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$3,997,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
4,327 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6752372
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Few homes with this intimate head-to-tail view of Camelback Mountain become available for purchase in this highly desirable Paradise Valley neighborhood at the base of Mummy Mountain. 22' floor to ceiling windows fill the expansive Grande living room with natural light and offer mountain and downtown light views. Soaring tongue and groove ceiling and hardwood floors warm the space. Remodeled kitchen features Wolf and Subzero, European cabinetry, center island and custom lighting. The primary suite is a tranquil retreat -featuring a large stone fireplace which separates the bedroom from the spa master bath with a large vanity, soaking tub, and separate shower all surrounded by luxurious marble. This distinctive home offers privacy, tranquility in a premium location and setting. Home features the spa like primary suite, den or 4th bedroom, and a guest wing with 2 ensuite guest rooms both with direct access to patios. Entertain around the saltwater pool and spa, dine on the covered view deck while enjoying tranquil, balanced city light and mountain views. Three outdoor fireplaces, custom landscape, and lighting complete the perfect evening. Private, serene setting in one of PV's best locations featuring distinctive architectural detail and is move in ready! You will truly feel you have entered a wellness spa, this home calms and invites you to stay! Partial list of improvemnts. Roof 4 years ago 2 Tankless water heaters. Whole house water purification. All Landscape irrigation / lighting. Roof insulation Various plumbing improvements. Hvac - 3 units replaced in 2018. Backyard hardsape replaced after owner's purchase.

42010 N 111th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$3,995,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
6,147 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6763738
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Golf membership available. Nestled on a premier view lot, this exquisite home offers expansive mountain views, valley lights and breathtaking year-round sunsets. The heart of the home is designed for both elegance and comfort, with a great room anchored by a Cantera stone fireplace, an inviting dining room, and a wet bar for entertaining. The gourmet kitchen has been recently remodeled with Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, beautiful stone work, and a cozy breakfast nook that opens to the family room—complete with another fireplace for those cool desert evenings. The spacious master suite offers ultimate privacy, featuring a fireplace, an expansive walk-out balcony leading to the backyard, and a luxurious en-suite bathroom with a massive walk-in closet. A private elevator adds convenience and sophistication. Complementing the main home is a separate pool/spa room, which can double as a guest suite, workout room, or office, complete with a full bath and sauna. Outside, the backyard offers a true oasis with over 1,000 sq. ft. of covered patio space, a pool & spa, fireplace, BBQ area, and wet bar perfect for both relaxation and entertaining. The stunning panoramic views stretch from east to west, offering sparkling city lights at night and picturesque sunrises and sunsets each day. Elegant French oak and Italian limestone floors throughout the home elevate the luxury, making this a one-of-a-kind estate ideal for enjoying the best of Sonoran desert living.

3807 N 55th Place Phoenix, AZ 85018

$3,995,000
6 Beds
5 Baths
5,178 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6747124
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Introducing a completely remodeled, modern adobe on a half acre lot in the heart of Arcadia Proper. Boasting 5 bedrooms & 4 bathrooms in the main house plus a charming casita! From the moment you arrive, you'll be captivated by the seamless blend of traditional adobe aesthetics with contemporary design elements. Saltillo tile flows through the main living areas creating a warm & inviting atmosphere throughout. The chef's kitchen features high-end Thermador stainless steel appliances, custom cabinetry, spacious island, & dining space filled with natural light, perfect for both casual living & entertaining. Immerse yourself in cinematic experiences with state-of-theart surround sound system in the main living areas & outside, elevating your entertainment to new heights.

12331 E Gold Dust Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$3,995,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
5,430 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774178
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Our gorgeous Arizona mountains and desert are the perfect backdrop for this stunning new construction home by Cachet Homes. Thoughtfully designed to maximize the concept of at home entertaining, the home features a large double island kitchen that open to the family room, a detached courtyard guest home, a separate pool house, and a flowing floorplan that allows for privacy as well as gathering spaces for family and friends. The finishes and amenities are contemporary and yet still timeless, and enhance this lovely home. The rear yard has been completely finished, something you don't often see in new construction any more, and boasts a pool house, BBQ ramada, beautiful pool and spa and large grassy areas for play. Emerald Hills by Cachet Homes is an exclusive 7-home subdivision in the desirable Shea Corridor in north Scottsdale. Close to schools, golf, parks, entertainment, shopping and dining - you will be in your dream home and area in no time at all!

9467 E Sundance Trail Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$3,995,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
4,900 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6461596
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Another spectacular contemporary home by August Building Company to be built on a great view lot in Desert Mountain. More information to come. No membership to the Desert Mountain Club available with this property.

9775 E Hidden Valley Road Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$3,995,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
4,600 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6347935
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to the epitome of modern luxury living in the heart of our exclusive lifestyle community, Desert Mountain. This brand-new custom home that has broken ground defines elegance and sophistication, offering a harmonious blend of contemporary design, opulent features, and an unparalleled level of craftsmanship. Spanning an expansive 4600 square feet, this residence boasts 5 bedrooms, 5.5 baths, and a host of amenities that cater to every facet of refined living. Step inside and be captivated by the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces. The open-concept layout flawlessly transitions from the interior's sleek lines and top-tier finishes to the captivating outdoor oasis. Completion spring 2025. Entertain in style as you host gatherings in the sun-soaked courtyards and indulge in poolside relaxation creating memories that will last a lifetime. The heart of this home lies in its gourmet kitchen, complete with state-of-the-art appliances and an exquisite butler's pantry, perfect for culinary enthusiasts and gracious hosts alike. Abundant natural light illuminates the interior through large windows that showcase the breathtaking surroundings. Unwind in the luxurious primary suite, a serene retreat featuring a spa-like en-suite bath and a walk-in closet. Four additional well-appointed bedrooms each with their own en-suite baths provide comfort and privacy for family members and guests. Completing this exceptional property is a guest house that offers versatile space, ideal for an art studio, home office, gym, or additional living quarters. Located within our sought-after lifestyle community, residents enjoy exclusive access to amenities that include 7 golf courses, fitness, tennis, pickleball, swimming, and 7 restaurants. Membership is not included with this property, however additional information regarding membership applications is available through the document tab.

94 Biltmore Estate Phoenix, AZ 85016

$3,995,000
8 Beds
7.5 Baths
8,933 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6714218
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
BY FAR, THE BEST VALUE ON THE BILTMORE CIRCLE! Incredible opportunity awaits! Now is your time to own an historic home on the prestigious Biltmore Circle for UNDER $4MM!! Iconic, Timeless- Original Biltmore Estate. A true testament to opulence and the American spirit of the early 20th century, The Biltmore Estate is an emblem of luxury, history & architectural brilliance. Located in the sought-after Biltmore Circle & set amidst stately mansions, a RARE opportunity to own a piece of this Arizona history is now available! Whether undertaking a full restoration, or creating your vision of a modern-day luxury masterpiece, the possibilities are endless. This original & classic Spanish Hacienda Biltmore Estate, circa 1933, was built and owned by the BILTMORE HOTEL LLC. The estate's location is is nearly unbeatable. Positioned on one of the most desirable view lots within the Biltmore Circle, the estate offers a serene & inspiring setting, providing expansive grounds of verdure, meandering water gardens, breathtaking views of Camelback Mountain, Praying Monk, rare lake views & an IMPRESSIVE 177 ft+/- of GOLF FRONTAGE on the Links Golf Course. With the benefit of NO HOA & two separate residences on the lot, the home's current offering provides the ideal multi-generational living or vacation rental possibilities. Included is a 6,219 sf main estate, an attached 900+/- sf 1BR/1BA guest townhome w/ kitchen & great room, a small casita w/ 1BA & kitchenette, and a detached second home, designed & built by internationally acclaimed architect, Jeffrey Page of Space Line Design. The 2,500+/- sf modern architectural gem was featured on HGTV: UNIQUE DESERT HOMES, PHOENIX HOME & GARDEN magazine, as well as numerous other publications in the US, UK, Turkey & the UAE. The villa offers a large great room w/ soaring ceilings, walls of glass, & 2 BR/3 BA plus an office. Completing the estate is a 6 car-garage (one is an RV height), providing plenty of room for your classic cars or 'toys'. SELLER FINANCING COULD BE CONSIDERED. Embrace your vision with this truly one-of-a-kind opportunity! See also land/lot listing MLS #6715940

10763 E Addy Way Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$3,995,000
4 Beds
6.5 Baths
6,043 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6746620
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This high-quality custom home with sunset views in guard-gated Mirabel Club is being sold COMPLETELY TURNKEY and is truly ONE OF A KIND, with quality materials that cannot be built for even close to this price today. As you approach, you'll notice the pristine curb appeal, in low-maintenance desert landscaping. The courtyard with wrought iron gate and water feature sets the mood upon arrival, and provides a central meeting space for your guests, with covered patios for both the guest house and one of the guest suites. Before stepping inside, take a moment to appreciate the 9.5' custom alder door, an impressive piece on its own. Upon entry into the living room, you'll immediately notice the thoughtful design, quality finishes, breathtaking views, sunset bronze flagstone flooring, massive two-way stone fireplace, and beamed ceilings. The entertaining area includes a full wet bar with copper sink and under-counter drink fridge. Imagine hosting your friends in this dining room while enjoying sunset views out your window. The ironwork on the wine cellar is another nod to the thorough attention paid to every detail. Continue toward the kitchen, first stopping at butler's pantry with ice maker and dual-drawer dishwasher. The kitchen is comfortable yet luxurious, from the hand-finished alder cabinets to the herringbone terra cotta backsplash. High end appliances include 48 Wolf gas cooktop, Wolf carbon finish dual-ovens, microwave, and warming drawer. There is abundant cool storage, with a full-size fridge plus two cooling drawers along with a full-size freezer plus two freezer drawers, all Subzero. Continuous hickory flooring connects the kitchen and family room, with vega beams radiating out over the curved room, seamlessly connecting them into a flowing great room. Across the home you'll find the owner's wing. The office features square wood beamed ceilings, with that square pattern duplicated on the hickory flooring below. The ample primary suite is complemented by a sitting room with kiva fireplace, a perfect place to take in the stunning views. The primary bathroom includes the same quality finishes you've seen throughout, from the travertine slab countertops, alder doors, down to the rustic iron towel holders. Completing the primary suite is the oversized closet, with built-ins from wall to wall. Multiple guest suites provide privacy for all of your family and friends. First, upstairs you'll find an ensuite bedroom with their own loft living room, and access to the rooftop deck with amazing views. Also within the main house is a second ensuite bedroom. For additional guests, through the front courtyard is a full guest house, with living room and half-kitchen, private patio, large ensuite bedroom, and direct access to the third garage bay. Even the fundamentals have been recently updated. The entire roof was recoated (2021), and all four AC units and two furnaces replaced (2021), as well as two large water heaters with recirculating pumps replaced (2020). Outside, the landscaping was redone with the entire irrigation system replaced (2021). The pool was resurfaced with mini-pebble finish, tile edge, and travertine coping, along with a wi-fi Aqualink control system added (2021) and the pool heater replaced (2020). Finishing off this home is precisely where you'll want to unwind every evening, in the spacious and gracious backyard. The covered patio extends the length of the home, and includes an outdoor fireplace for those cool nights. Two additional uncovered seating areas offer options for taking in the sun. Entertain at the built-in BBQ, and don't miss the outdoor half bathroom. The backyard is a serene high-desert landscape, strategically placed to take in the picturesque Arizona sunsets while overlooking the golf course. Located toward the end of a cul-de-sac, so extremely light traffic, and all adjacent homesites have already been built. Mirabel's weather is famously dry and sunny. Our risk of natural disasters is extremely low. Being higher and somewhat removed from the city means the stars are bright at night, the air typically much cleaner, and the daytime high temperatures can be about eight to ten degrees cooler than the Valley floor, every day of the year. You would be amazed how comfortable 95 degrees is at night or in the shade. So, being in Mirabel on a year-round basis is an attractive proposition. In addition to the endless shopping and fine dining options all just minutes away, the owner of this home will be close to major league and collegiate sports, fabulous medical care (including the Mayo Clinic and hospital), terrific air service, and a wide variety of cultural attractions. This home is truly one of a kind and I encourage you to come see it today, and you'll be glad you did.

6368 N Lost Dutchman Drive Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$3,995,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,392 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6724005
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
NESTLED AT THE BASE OF THE VALLEY'S MOST ICONIC NATURAL LANDMARK, CAMELBACK MOUNTAIN, THE VILLAGE AT MOUNTAIN SHADOWS IS SITUATED IN THE HEART OF PARADISE VALLEY. BUILT EXCLUSIVELY BY CULLUM HOMES AND DESIGNED BY THE RENOWNED ARCHITECTURAL FIRM CANDELARIA DESIGN ASSOCIATES. THIS BEAUTIFUL CUSTOM ECHO TWO-STORY FLOOR PLAN FEATURES 3 BEDROOMS(2 PRIMARY SUITES 1 UP AND 1 DOWN), 3 FULL BATHS AND 1 POWDER BATH. GUESTS ENTER THROUGH THE PRIVATE COURTYARD LANDSCAPED TO PERFECTION TO THE LARGE IRON AND GLASS FRONT DOOR. THE GREAT ROOM WITH FIREPLACE WALL WITH BUILT IN SHELVES AND RETRACTABLE WALL OF GLASS LEAD YOU OUT TO THE COVERED PATIO AND OUTDOOR BBQ. THE BACKYARD WITH VIEWS OF CAMELBACK MOUNTAIN MAKE THIS INDOOR/OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING SPECIAL. THE DINING ROOM WITH DRY BAR. KITCHEN WITH... QUARTZITE STONE ISLAND, EAT-AT BAR, BUILT IN PANTRY, OTHER CABINETS FOR STORAGE AND EXTRA APPLIANCES (SUB ZERO, WOLFF) TOP OFF THIS CHEFS KITCHEN. A BUILT IN COMMAND CENTER JUST OFF THE KITCHEN IS PERFECT FOR A SPACE TO STILL WORK. THE STYLISH POWDER ROOM, LAUNDRY ROOM AND ELEVATOR LEAD DOWN TO THE 3 CAR GARAGE. TONS OF GARAGE STORAGE BUILT INS, EPOXY FLOORING AND A/C CONTROLLED. THE FIRST PRIMARY SUITE OPENS OUT TO THE BACKYARD, BATH AND WALK IN CLOSET FOR SINGLE LEVEL LIVING. THE WOOD STAIRCASE (ENTIRE HOME WOOD) OPENS UP TO A LOFT LIVING AREA, SECONDARY LARGE PRIMARY SUITE WITH BEAUTIFUL BATH AND OVERSIZED CLOSET OPEN UP TO A LARGE PRIVATE TERRACE. THE 3RD GUEST BEDROOM IS LARGE TO MAKE A BUNK ROOM WITH EN SUITE AND ROMEO AND JULIET BALCONY. A OFFICE OR GYM ROOM TOPS OFF THE SECOND LEVEL. THIS HOME HAS SO MANY EXTRAS AND IS HIGHLY UPGRADED THROUGH OUT INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR. COME SEE THIS HOME TODAY. IT WILL NOT LAST LONG! RESIDENTS HAVE ACCESS TO THE PLETHORA OF AMENITIES AVAILABLE AT THE MOUNTAIN SHADOWS RESORT. THE COMMUNITY BOASTS A PRIVATE POOL AREA, PARK AND IS GUARD-GATED 24/7 FOR THAT HIGHLY DESIRED LOCK AND LEAVE LIFESTYLE.

4938 N Ascent Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$3,994,293 - 2Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Phoenician, Scottsdale
Open House
$3,994,293
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,035 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6670454
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
**HOME TO COME FULLY FURNISHED! TURN-KEY READY!!** A NEW PRIVATE RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITY WITH A COVETED LOCATION AT THE BASE OF CAMELBACK MOUNTAIN ADJACENT TO THE ICONIC PHOENICIAN® IN SCOTTSDALE. ONLY A SHORT DISTANCE TO FASHION SQUARE AND OLD TOWN SCOTTSDALE. THIS COLLECTION OF CUSTOM HOMES BUILT EXCLUSIVELY BY CULLUM HOMES THAT REFLECT A TIMELESS, MODERN DESIGN AND LOOK OUT OVER THE BEAUTIFUL PHOENICIAN® GOLF COURSE. FEATURING THE ''DESERT ZEN LIVING'', A TWO-STORY HOME FEATURING 2 BEDROOMS, 2.5 BATHROOMS, AND A 3-CAR GARAGE. THROUGH THE EXTRAVAGANT FRONT ENTRANCE LOCATED ON THE LOWER LEVEL, A BEAUTIFUL STAIRCASE OR AN ELEVATOR TAKE YOU TO BOTH LEVELS OF THE RESIDENCE. THE MAIN LEVEL BOASTS TWO EN-SUITE BEDROOMS, A FORMAL DINING AREA, OPEN CONCEPT KITCHEN, ADDITIONAL POWDER ROOM AND THE GREAT ROOM AREA. SPACIOUS KITCHEN WITH ISLAND, EAT-AT BAR AND WALK-IN PANTRY. A GLASS WALL LEADS YOU TO THE COVERED PATIO OFF THE GREAT ROOM WHERE GORGEOUS VIEWS AWAIT YOU. OWNER'S SUITE WITH WALK-IN CLOSET, DOUBLE SINK VANITY, SEPARATE TOILET ROOM, TUB AND WALK-IN SHOWER. ALONG WITH AN ADDITIONAL EN SUITE BEDROOM, LARGE LAUNDRY ROOM WITH EXTRA STORAGE AND A DECK AREA. THE COMMUNITY IS GUARD GATED FOR PRIVACY AND SECURITY. AT THE BASE OF CAMELBACK MOUNTAIN, YOUR PRIVATE POOL, FITNESS CENTER, AND SOCIAL SPACES OFFER AN INTIMATE GATHERING PLACE FOR WELLNESS, SOCIALIZING AND RELAXATION. RESIDENTS ARE OFFERED THE OPTION TO JOIN THE PHOENICIAN® AMENITY ACCESS PROGRAM  ACCESS AND DISCOUNTS TO THE NEW ATHLETIC CLUB, 38,000 SQUARE FOOT SPA, TENNIS FACILITY AND RESORT POOLS AT THE PHOENICIAN® RESORT.

4526 E Calle Tuberia -- Phoenix, AZ 85018

$3,990,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
3,935 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784564
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This turn-key, custom Rafterhouse in Arcadia Proper exudes elegance & warmth, from the front courtyard to the backyard's media projector, the attention to detail in this home is truly unmatched. As you enter, the quality finishes and touches stand out from the white oak floors, to the fireplaces, the soaring vaulted ceilings, and collapsable doors leading to the lush backyard with views of Camelback Mountain. Boasting nearly 4,000 SqFt, with 5 bedroom, 4.5 bathrooms, & an additional flex/living space, this highly desired floor plan provides it all. In the gourmet, chef's kitchen you'll find top of the line appliances, fixtures and custom cabinetry. The pantry offers plenty of storage, as well as the oversized kitchen island.. Just off the heart of the home & formal dining area, you'll find powder room for guests & an additional living/flex space with more sliding glass doors out to the back yard. The Primary bedroom feels more like a resort, with mountain views from the spacious bathroom and a beautifully designed closet. Two hallways lead to the additional four bedrooms which are perfectly laid out, with two having en-suite bathrooms, and the other two sharing a full bath. The extended 3 car garage offers plenty of storage, with a mud-room and drop zone leading into the home. The lush backyard is perfect for entertaining, with an outdoor dining area, built-in gas grill, outdoor living area & bar at the ramada, & a gas fire pit and additional seating area. With a Crestron Home AV system, citrus tree's, detached storage, and a newly added generator.

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