The debate over carbon dioxide and climate change continues to rage. Â However, there’s always a case for reducing electricity use. Because who doesn’t like saving money, right?
Let’s explore a few ways that you can save energy while reducing your home’s carbon footprint.
Leverage The Power Of Automation
The technology behind home automation is improving at an amazing rate. Thermostats from companies like Nest make home heating and cooling simple. They learn from your use to automatically set temperatures up and down as needed. Going to be home late from work? No problem — you can use your smartphone to ensure your heat doesn’t come on until later.
Wash Cold, Hang Dry
You might not be aware of this, but cold water washing makes sense. Most washing machines and detergents are just as efficient with cold water as hot. So it makes sense to switch to washing in cold, especially if you have a newer washing machine.
To cut back even more, hang your clothes to dry instead of using the dryer. The technology behind clothes dryers hasn’t improved much over time. They still rely on warm air, forced ventilation and spinning around. All of which use a lot of energy.
Note: if you have to use your dryer, add a clean, dry towel to each load. Adding a towel will help your clothes to dry faster, thus saving you both time and money.
Modernize Your Home Lighting
Have you made the switch to power-efficient LED light bulbs yet? This one change can save an immense amount of electricity depending on the size of your home. And you can take things a step further by automating your home lighting as well. Systems from companies like Philips allow you to turn lights up, down and off as needed. You can also control these from your smartphone.
Kill Off The Vampires
Finally, watch for appliances and accessories that draw power when they’re not in use. ‘Electricity vampires’ like smartphone chargers, laptops and televisions can draw power 24/7. It’s a bit of a pain to have to unplug everything all the time. Instead, consider having these appliances plugged in to power bars. When you’re finished using them, you can switch the power bar off and go on with your day.
The above are just a few ways that you can reduce your home’s carbon footprint. If you’re interested in upgrading to a power-smart home, give me a call – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253. Â I’ll be happy to recommend local homes that are high-value and low-carbon.
Click Here to See What Your Home is Worth
37440 N 104th Place
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$3,000,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,493
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6773978
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This is the perfect sized home located in the private golf community of Mirabel. The home has many updates and provides the seamless indoor / outdoor desert lifestyle by way of the wall of pocket doors.. The great room allows the perfect setting for hanging with your family and friends. The kitchen is spacious and includes a giant walk in pantry. Just adjacent to the kitchen is breakfast room and an entrance to the outside for the perfect outdoor kitchen and entertainment area. Perfect for a pool table or ping pong. Adjoining the great room is the family room with ample wall space for the largest of TV's. The primary suite has access to the pool and spa and has an opulent shower and tub. The closet is spacious with quality shelving. All guest rooms are ensuite and spacious. The office / workout room opens to the front court yard to enhance your workout experience. Across the courtyard is the attached casita with it's own entrance. It is fully equipped for your guests. The wine storage is achieved with thoughtfully placed wine coolers under the kitchen island. You'll be spending a good amount of your time in the recently remodeled back patio. It has new travertine pavers, new pool and spa, covered, lighted and heated gazebo with a TV to watch the games! This is truly the Arizona lifestyle. Waitlists exist for Social and Golf Memberships.
23832 N 112th Place
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$3,000,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,915
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6744119
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover the epitome of luxury living w/this stunning custom Santa Fe home, perfectly positioned on a sprawling 1.25-acre lot in scenic Troon Ridge Estates. Embrace unparalleled privacy and serene mountain, golf course & sunset views from this exquisite property. The main residence seamlessly blends classic Southwestern charm w/modern sophistication. Inside, you'll find warm wood floors & stunning ceilings adorned w/rich wooden beams. Latilla wood shutters add an authentic touch while allowing natural light to flood the space. The updated interiors include a walk-in wine cellar w/a tasting room, perfect for wine enthusiasts and entertaining guests. The reimagined upstairs primary suite offers a haven of tranquility. This closet is designed as a multifunctional space... This closet is designed as a multifunctional space serving also as a sitting room/office and the spa-quality bathroom creates a serene retreat. Step outside to your private oasis, featuring a backyard designed for relaxation and entertainment with pool, fireplace, outdoor kitchen and acoustic amphitheater. Adjacent to the main home is a newly remodeled detached guest house, offering privacy and comfort for visitors. This charming addition complements the main residence with its own unique blend of style and modern updates.
758 Southlake Road
Lakeside, AZ 85929
$3,000,000
6
Beds
7
Baths
5,793
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6745246
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This beautiful LAKE property in the perfect Arizona picturesque landscape, boasts a 3,398 SF Main house and a 2,394 SF Guest House. Tucked in a private portion of the lake, it is a serene escape into mountain living. The property sits on a stunning ¾ acre lot & offers a unique blend of comfort & eligance, with its log-sided architecture and FULLY furnished interiors. Surrounded by tons of trees & beautiful neighboring homes, this property stands out w/ its private gated entrance & private boat dock, perfect for fishing or kayaking adventures, on this exquisite & rare lakefront property. The promise of peaceful days amazing sunsets & starry nights is a reality here, w/ amenities such as a truly HUGE back deck, outside fireplace plus a lower firepit and BBQ area enhancing outdoor living! Imagine a grand log home where the great room, with its expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, offers a panoramic view of a serene lake. This home has one of the BEST views of Rainbow Lake! The heart of the home features a large rock fireplace, perfect for gathering around on chilly evenings. This fireplace has a gas starter for easy to light wood fires, or it could easily be converted to a ornamental gas fireplace. Both the interior and exterior fireplaces on the main house have gas starters. The ceilings boast beautiful tongue-and-groove woodwork, complementing the rich wood flooring that extends throughout the space. The ceilings throughout the main house, including the carport, and the wall under the stairs are a stunning cedar. An open chef's kitchen, complete with a rock-sided island and stone countertops, invites culinary adventures. The chef's gas commercial grade stove is fantastic. Lots of counter space and a custom made live edge wood island and breakfast bar. A custom pizza, by the fireplace, that you can cook with gas or wood is fun and creative for any setting. Imagine cooking looking out to the lake. The guest 1/2 bath on the main floor has a custom made cypress vanity that is one of a kind that adds rustic elegance. The Primary suite is a luxurious retreat, with its own stunning lake views, an ensuite that includes a soaker tub, double vanity, and a custom tiled shower designed for warmth with radiant floor heat and relaxation. The main floor also houses a cozy guest suite that basically mirrors the Primary and it too has heated radiant floors in the bathroom. Upstairs is a third bedroom with an accompanying bathroom awaits, alongside an open loft that's perfect for hosting additional guests. ALL bedrooms plus the loft have astonishing VIEWS of the lake. This log sided home is a harmonious blend of rustic charm and modern comfort, creating a space that's as inviting as it is beyond impressive. Photos can't begin to embrace it beauty and magic. The SIX car garage adds additional features like a car lift with an air compressor. The garage is 25X60 with an office and storage area above that is 15X60 with a 1/2 bath offers flexibility for work or play. Additional features are fully enclosed fenced property, smart home with cameras and alarms, plus a surround sound system cater to both convenience and entertainment. The electronic hub, cleverly concealed under the stairs in a built-in bookshelf, speaks to the thoughtful design of the home. A dog shower in the mudroom/laundry adds a touch of consideration for pet owners. The gated entrance ensures privacy and exclusivity, making this property a secure haven. For those drawn to the charm of lakeside living, this home on Rainbow Lake is a rare find, promising a blend of relaxation, recreation, and potential revenue. It's an invitation to embrace the tranquility of nature while enjoying the comforts of a well-appointed home. At the back of the property there is a beautiful guest home that offers the epitome of spacious living, with a split bedroom floor plan that seamlessly connects the living room with a wood burning fireplace, to an inviting front deck and an open kitchen. Large windows flood the space with natural light, creating an airy and welcoming atmosphere. The primary suite provides a private retreat, while two additional guest rooms ensure comfort for visitors. This home, with its thoughtful design and ample amenities, represents the ideal guest house for those who value both comfort and style. The landscaping on this property is stellar and the photos can't begin to show it's beauty. The circular driveway is incredibly appointed for ease and ample parking. This property must be seen to understand how fantastic it is. In addition, this property is beyond rare here in Arizona. It truly is so unique and the location on the lake is absolutely one of the very best available. The views are STELLAR. The sunsets are picturesque and the sunset cruises are a must! Imagine living in the White Mountains of Arizona where you have 4 beautiful seasons and where you can breathe in the fresh mountain air and enjoy the 40 lakes and over 600 miles of rivers and streams. In addition to the amazing fishing, this area has one of the most extensive trail systems in the southwest for hiking, biking, horseback riding, quadding and more. Sunrise Ski Resort is also just 40 minutes away with 3 beautiful mountains to ski, snow board or sled. If shopping is your interest, you will love the antique stores and the multitude of arts and craft shows that happen in the summer. The music festivals have something to fit everyone's enjoyment. Do you love to golf? There are 7 amazing golf courses, 3 that are public. The White Mountains, where this home/cabin is the best kept secret of Arizona! Come and explore and enhance your living! Pinetop-Lakeside was also voted 'Best Cabin Region in the U.S... Embrace the MAGIC!
5831 N Echo Canyon Circle
Phoenix, AZ 85018
$3,000,000
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
3,667
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6748221
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to Echo Canyon's guard-gated community! This modernly remodeled home offers breathtaking views of Echo Canyon & The Praying Monk. Upon entry, you're welcomed by an expansive great room w/ soaring ceilings. The gourmet kitchen features a stunning prep island adorned w/ a Dekton Trilium countertop. The primary suite is luminous, highlighting views of the Praying Monk & providing private access to the tranquil backyard. Its spa-like bathroom showcases a custom metal barn door, a floating vanity w/ double glass sinks, & Grohe fixtures. Outside, an outdoor kitchen equipped with a 50'' Wolf Professional Gas BBQ & seating area awaits, alongside two custom-designed Eurocave wine coolers holding 500 bottles! A separate den(or potential 3rd bedroom) with fireplace & built in Murphy Bed.... The community also features private hiking trails, pool, spa & tennis.
14256 N Territory Trail
Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
$3,000,000
4
Beds
5.5
Baths
4,734
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6758592
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover this spectacular contemporary home in Adero Canyon, perfectly positioned against a serene preserve on a quiet cul-de-sac. If you seek privacy, stunning views, and a tranquil setting, this property is an absolute must-see. Access Adero Canyon through a private gate, which opens to a select enclave of 31 semi-custom luxury homes. This exquisite residence features 4 large ensuite bedrooms, 2 private offices one with private entry, a bonus/movie room, 5.5 bathrooms, and an oversized 4-car garage. The main living spaces and the master suite are located upstairs to take full advantage of the 360-degree mountain views. Upon entry, you'll be welcomed by a spacious great room that seamlessly flows into the gourmet kitchen. This culinary haven boasts a 48-inch Wolf range & hood....cont'd A 42 Sub Zero French door Refrigerator, double Wolf wall ovens, a large island, and a walk-in pantry. The open great room design extends to a generous outdoor balcony, ideal for entertaining. The primary suite is a private retreat, featuring an upgraded body shower sprayer, a separate bath tub, and a large, beautifully finished closet. A separate walkway leads to one of the private offices, offering extra quiet and privacy away from the main house. Downstairs, you'll find 3 additional large en suite bedrooms plus a large movie/games room with pocket doors that open to a private outdoor oasis. This outdoor paradise includes a heated oversized pool with a swim-up sunken bar, a spa, a built-in covered outdoor kitchen and bar area, a full pool bathroom, a putting green, and a grassy area for entertainment. Enjoy the spectacular outdoor spaces and the breathtaking 360-degree mountain views along with the serene preserve.
5818 N 45th Street
Phoenix, AZ 85018
$3,000,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,372
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6768941
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Stunning 4-bedroom + office, 3.5-bathroom home in the prestigious Camelback Canyon Estates neighborhood of Phoenix, AZ. This property epitomizes modern elegance and offers an unparalleled living experience with its prime location nestled between Camelback Mountain, Paradise Valley, and Arcadia. The home boasts extraordinary views of the iconic Camelback Mountain, visible from the spacious pavered front courtyard, kitchen window, and the backyard oasis. The open and light-filled living spaces are designed for both comfort and style, featuring a double-sided fireplace and a wet bar with clever wine storage. The kitchen is a chef's dream, adorned with sleek walnut cabinetry, a built-in buffet, Miele appliances, and Sub-Zero refrigerator/freezer. The butler's pantry provides additional storage, food prep, and office/craft space. The split floorplan ensures privacy, with a spacious primary suite that includes a sitting room/office and two closets. The luxurious primary bath is equipped with walnut cabinetry, double vanities, a custom walk-in shower featuring fossilized limestone tile surround, two shower heads/four body spray jets , and a jetted soaking tub. The crown jewel of this home is the spectacular backyard, designed by modern building design for ultimate outdoor living. Motorized pocketing glass doors open to a post-free patio cover, shading dining and living areas, complete with a movie projector and motorized screen. The outdoor kitchen is top-of-the-line, featuring a Turbo Stainless Steel BBQ, Turbo Teppanyaki grill, and a rare built-in wood-burning grill by Grillworks, Inc. The updated heated resort pool includes a spacious Baja ledge and a tiled vanishing edge spillover spa. Additional shaded lounging spaces, natural gas fireplace with seating, and outdoor shower complete this private resort feeling. This home is conveniently located near the best dining, resorts, shopping, and recreation the valley has to offer, including Global Ambassador, Steak 44, The Henry, AJ's Fine Foods, The Village Health Club, and Echo Canyon Trailhead on Camelback Mountain
3355 N 55th Place
Phoenix, AZ 85018
$3,000,000
5
Beds
4
Baths
3,973
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6764526
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to Arcadia Parkside, an exclusive gated enclave of four exquisite homes in the highly sought-after Arcadia neighborhood, just steps from Arizona Country Club and local hotspots. This stunning residence features lush landscaping and a well-designed floor plan spanning nearly 4,000 square feet. The chef's kitchen boasts a spacious island and top-of-the-line appliances, ideal for culinary enthusiasts. Soaring ceilings create an impressive atmosphere, while reclaimed wood beams, French oak flooring, and custom millwork add warmth. The exceptional primary suite offers a luxurious soaking tub, oversized shower, and a generous walk-in closet. The backyard is an entertainer's dream, with ample patio space, lush landscaping, and a sparkling pool. Experience the perfect blend of sophistication and tranquility at Arcadia Parkside, where every detail has been thoughtfully curated for a luxurious lifestyle.
25572 N 113th Way
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$3,000,000
4
Beds
6
Baths
5,593
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6726576
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Spectacular luxury home located in coveted guard gated Troon Village, w/ dramatic drive-up appeal & picturesque Sonoran boulder setting, boasts panoramic mountain views. Architectural masterpiece w/ fine details & thoughtful home design, this great room split bedroom plan with exquisite indoor outdoor AZ living is an entertainer's dream.Luxurious kitchen with expansive eat-in island, Wolf gas range & electric ovens, SubZero fridge/freezer, opens to inviting family room with charming stone fireplace, slate floors, rich wood planked ceiling accented with stunning beams, opens to outdoor living with retractable glass & screen slider & dine in style with Four Peaks views & seated wet bar with access to downstairs tasting room and 500 bottle temp-controlled wine cellar. Executive office with custom built-ins, Owner's retreat with flex exercise/office opens to private patio and backyard outdoor living space and pool/spa. Ideal ensuite secondary bedrooms with private entries and expansive wrap around balcony with fireplace. Downstairs hub with an impressive in-home theatre with wet bar plus flex room that could serve as a bunk room/office/exercise room with half bath. Spacious 1200 SF air-conditioned extended three car garage is fit for a king with half bath, motorcycle lift ,work benches, air compressor lines and easy access elevator lift to main level. G5 automated system, owned solar panels, 5 new AC units, pool equipment and appliances. A sanctuary in the Sonoran desert.
10670 E Hedgehog Place
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$3,000,000
5
Beds
6
Baths
4,665
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6675444
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this enchanting Spanish-style home nestled amidst boulder outcroppings with breathtaking views of the McDowells, Pinnacle Peak and Crescent Moon. Located in the gated community of Pinnacle Canyon, this custom home was built by RS Homes with a focus on blending elegant architecture and natural beauty. Inside you will discover a warm and inviting interior adorned with classic accents including wood vegas & fireplace mantels, chocolate Saltillo & travertine tile, wood flooring and divided light windows. The inviting kitchen, with colorful tile countertops and backsplashes and convenient dumb waiter, adjoins a breakfast room with sunrise views. The primary suite, with cozy fireplace and private patio access, includes a bonus room perfect for nursery, exercise room, etc. Outside, the enchanting backyard oasis awaits with elevated covered patio and dining area, pool, spa, outdoor kitchen and pool bath. With extreme attention to detail, this is an opportunity to own a jewel box in the desert.
29906 N Miradar Court
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$3,000,000
4
Beds
5
Baths
5,684
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6651364
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Spectacular luxury living in this meticulously designed Spanish Ranch home, nestled in Granite Mountain Ranch, North Scottsdale's only gated equestrian estates. Gorgeous Four Peaks mountain view estate is on almost 5 acres (2 lots) located at the end of a large cul-de-sac. Sale includes two parcels totaling 4.803 acres - parcels 219-40-083 and 219-40-082.The property's circular driveway and stone gate house create a grand entrance with a fountain and gas fireplace that welcomes guests with a sense of luxury and prestige. An architectural masterpiece, this four-bedroom custom home with attached casita was originally crafted for the architect himself, and exudes sophistication and attention to detail at every turn. The interior is captivating with elegance and warmth, and has four distinct shapes of large tumbled travertine, laid in a Versailles pattern throughout main living areas and extending gracefully to the outdoors. Pillars and niches adorned with ambient lighting create a timeless look. Main living area has amazing views to the outdoors with a massive cantera stone gas fireplace. The kitchen is a chef's delight, equipped with a warming drawer, appliance garage, a new ASKO dishwasher and a huge center island with granite slab countertops. The Wolf built-in cooktop and oven are propane gas and the range hood is accentuated with faux painting. The SubZero double refrigerator and two dishwashers ensure efficiency. The separate bar seats five and is granite-topped with ice maker and wine chiller. This residence is a showcase of thoughtful features, including a central vacuum system, four AC zones, an AV closet and a beautiful powder room. The den, complete with wood-beamed ceilings offers versatility with its closet, potentially transforming it into a bedroom. A four-car garage with epoxy floors and a spacious in-garage storage room. The utility closets house a water softener, 4 HVAC air handlers, and two hot water heaters. The primary suite on the same side as the den invites tranquility, with wood flooring, knotty alder cabinets and doors, and a gas fireplace. The primary bath is a spa-like retreat, featuring a coffee bar with built-in SubZero refrigerator, jetted soaking tub, separate closets with custom built-ins, and an indulgent six-shower head experience. Enjoy the breathtaking view of Four Peaks from the primary bathroom, complemented by a travertine outdoor shower. Your visitors will love the guest amenities, with two spacious guest suites on the opposite side of home with private baths and large walk-in closets. A 400 sq ft casita with a kitchenette, SubZero fridge, walk-in closet, and full bathroom provides your guests a private retreat. Technology seamlessly integrates with luxury in this property, with Control 4 system, managing 4 outdoor security cameras, music with in-ceiling speakers throughout the house and back patio, weather, and six mounted TVs which convey to the buyer. A formal dining room with a bricked ceiling and double doors opening to the front courtyard sets the stage for intimate gatherings around the gas fireplace and courtyard fountain. The outdoor space is an entertainer's dream. The backyard oasis offers unobstructed Four Peaks and Matzatzal mountain views, with a Jacuzzi and pool that can be controlled from inside the home. Owned solar system heats the pool for extended enjoyment in the fall and spring. A built-in grill and bar, wood-burning fireplace and firepit complete the entertainment amenities. Granite Mountain Ranch is the only gated equestrian community in Scottsdale where each homeowner can have up to 4 horses per lot. It has 100 home sites spread across 315 acres, 15 acres of equestrian facilities including 2 large arenas and 2 round pens, paved and lighted streets, underground utilities and a private water resource. It's adjacent to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. You'll have easy access to unlimited riding trails, hiking, biking & fishing. Within a 10-to-30 minute drive are many of Arizona's top golf courses.
Prescott
AZ 86305
$2,999,999
3
Beds
3
Baths
3,586
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6609583
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Less than 25 miles from downtown Prescott, AZ awaits a truly special equestrian treasure - Happy's Dream Ranch. Designed for the pleasure of humans and horses alike, this beautiful property set in Long Meadow Ranch features a warm yet elegant modern 3586 sqft. farmhouse with a 1-car attached, and 2-car detached garage. Beyond the home, the property includes a hay barn w/ bunkhouse, a tiny home, and two airy barns with tack rooms and a total of 20 stalls. Perimeter fenced and cross fenced, there is ample room to train, ride, and run on the magnificent 36.46 acre property - including in a 120' x 240' arena, and an electric Eurociser. With a backdrop of majestic Granite Mountain and stunning 360 degree sweeping views, Happy's Dream Ranch provides the quintessential Arizona ranch lifestyle!
2659 E Maplewood Street
Gilbert, AZ 85297
$2,999,999
5
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,031
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6717424
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
PERSONALIZE YOUR DREAM HOME & CHOOSE YOUR FINISHES! Gilbert's Landmark at Somerset, spanning 4,031 sq ft - nestled by the park on .54 acres with a 4-car garage & storage room. A large courtyard welcomes you, while inside, 5 bedrooms, including a luxurious primary suite & a full guest retreat & playroom, await. The heart is the open kitchen, great room, & nook area, perfect for gatherings. Retreat to the primary bedroom oasis with a spa-like ensuite, large walk-in closet & large walk-in shower with benches on both sides & a separate soaking. A large, covered patio & a N/S lot orientation. Don't miss out on this opportunity to own a custom-built masterpiece in Gilbert's Somerset. Skip the lengthy design & construction process! ESTIMATED COMPLETION QUARTER ONE 2025!