by Peter Madrid | Nov 12, 2024 | News & Updates
PHOENIX, ARIZ. (Nov. 12, 2024) – Modern Business Development CEO Cassie Wells is pleased to announce hiring construction, design, and business development expert Nataliya Palakanis as the firm’s Director of Business Development.
Wells, a commercial real estate industry leader and business development expert, launched woman- and minority-owned Modern Business Development (MBD) in 2022. MBD represents the niche market of subcontractors and service providers in Metro Phoenix who require business development services.
As Director of Business Development, Palakanis’ primary duties will involve creating and implementing strategic growth initiatives to expand the company’s (and the clients’) reach and partnerships. She will identify new business opportunities, cultivate and maintain relationships with MBD clients, and oversee partnership development to enhance the company’s market presence. Palakanis will focus on connections with general contractors, property managers, facility managers, and subcontractors.
“It was a blessing and a curse to be turning down opportunities to expand and represent additional clients,” Wells said. “I knew I couldn’t very well work with my clients on implementing growth strategies if I wasn’t going to do the same. Nataliya’s experience and ‘dot-connecting’ abilities are a wonderful fit for this position representing additional subcontractors. Our current clients are also excited about doubling the Modern BD footprint at networking events; we also have openings for additional clients. Everyone wins.”
Palakanis joined MBD after providing representative services to the luxury residential construction industry. In that role, she helped clients navigate the complexities of building luxury homes while fostering strong relationships with industry partners.
Prior to that, Palakanis worked in the airline industry for 8 years, traveling globally and immersing herself in diverse cultures, architecture, and design styles across various regions. She then transitioned into luxury residential construction, specializing in business development, high-end interiors, and project management for the past five years.
“Throughout my career, I have gained diverse experience across multiple industries, which has enriched my expertise in business development, client relations, business growth, and project management,” Palakanis said. “Working in the airline industry I gained global exposure, honed my customer service skills, and developed a deep appreciation for diverse cultures and design aesthetics. For eight years, I worked in the airline industry, traveling globally and immersing myself in diverse cultures, architecture, and design styles across various regions. These experiences have equipped me with a diverse skill set that I continue to apply in all my professional endeavors.”
Palakanis enjoys spending time with friends and family, unwinding at the beach, and savoring delicious seafood or Mexican cuisine. Modern Business Development gives back to the community. Palakanis said she plans to volunteer time with non-profits including St. Vincent de Paul and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
“Building a business isn’t just about making deals; it’s about creating trust and establishing long-term connections,” Palakanis said. “When you genuinely care about your clients’ and partners’ success, they’ll see you as more than just a service provider – they’ll see you as an invaluable ally in their journey.”
About Modern Business Development
Founded in 2022 by industry expert Cassie Wells, Modern Business Development provides clients with exclusive representation in their field of expertise; specific project and/or end-user project opportunities; representation and participation in the largest networking organizations in the Valley, including but not limited to NAIOP Arizona, Arizona Builders Alliance, and ULI Arizona; and multiple introductions to industry professionals who can help provide the client with long-term recurring business. For more information, visit modern-bd.com.
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by Peter Madrid | Nov 12, 2024 | News & Updates
PHOENIX, ARIZ. (Nov. 12, 2024) – AI in commercial real estate. Evolution of the master-planned community. Growth in Arizona’s data center market. Arts and culture. Lab space. The new, elite hotel.
Those are just a few of the deep-dive topics to be discussed as ULI Arizona presents its 20th Annual Trends Day on February 20 at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa. Trends Day brings together more than 30 top industry experts to discuss the most current state and national real estate trends.
“Celebrating 20 years of innovation, collaboration, and impact, Trends Day stands as a testament to the extraordinary dedication of our members and the development community to share knowledge and elevate best practices,” said Deb Sydenham, FAICP, Executive Director, ULI Arizona District Council. “We’re proud of the past two decades of this incredible event and the positive change it has inspired throughout Arizona communities. Here’s to the next 20.”
ULI Arizona’s Trends Day is recognized as the third-largest ULI program globally.
Trends Day 2025 starts with the annual economic outlook, delivered this year by Julia Coronado, Founder and President of MacroPolicy Perspectives.
The economic outlook launches Trends Day with a high-level look at macroeconomic trends in the U.S. economy and around the globe. Through an engaging presentation, Coronado will offer the outlook for commercial real estate, especially as it pertains to the continued long-term ramifications of the pandemic, including the future of work and challenges related to economic growth.
The Trends Day 2025 Keynote Speakers are Pete McBride, National Geographic photographer/filmmaker, and adventure writer Kevin Fedarko. Their topic, “Into the Canyon: Between River and Rim,” will delve into their epic 750-mile journey through the Grand Canyon.
Early pricing until November 27: private, $330 member; $430 non-member; public/academic/non-profit, $230 member, $330 non-member; student, $125 member, $180 non-member; and under 35, $230 member, $430 non-member.
Standard pricing until February 7: private, $430 member; $530 non-member; public/academic/non-profit, $305 member; $405 non-member; student, $200 member, $255 non-member; and under 35, $305 member, $530 non-member.
Trends Day 2025 runs from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. The JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa is located at 5350 E. Marriott Drive in Phoenix. Register here.
About ULI
The Urban Land Institute is a 501[c][3] nonprofit research and education organization supported by its members. Founded in 1936, the Institute has more than 45,000 members worldwide, representing the entire spectrum of land use and real estate development disciplines working in private enterprise and public service. As the preeminent multidisciplinary land use and real estate forum, ULI facilitates an open exchange of ideas, information, and experience among local, national, and international industry leaders and policymakers dedicated to creating better places. Learn more about ULI Arizona at arizona.uli.org.
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by Peter Madrid | Nov 7, 2024 | News & Updates
PHOENIX, ARIZ. (Nov. 7, 2024) – AZCREW has elected the officers and directors that will lead Metro Phoenix’s premier commercial real estate organization in 2025. AZCREW exists to transform the commercial real estate industry by advancing women globally.
The 2025 Board of Directors comprises President Lynette Dreitz Fort, Principal/CFO, Cawley Architects; President-Elect Nicole Solar, Business Consultant, Olsson; Past President Jenny Liles, Director of Market Operations, CRESA; Treasurer Nicole Cuellar, General Manager, CG Schmidt; and Secretary Kristen Hernandez, Director of Marketing, RED Development.
Directors for 2025 are Chapter Champion Director Carol Schillne, Senior Vice President, ORION Investment Real Estate; Communications Director Hannah Bashaw, Business Development Manager, GCON; Membership Director Jacqi Marth, Director of Business Development, CCS Facility Services; Programs Director Stephanie Handley, Principal, Economic Development, Lamar Johnson Collaborative; Special Events Director Serena Wedlich, First Vice President, CBRE; Sponsorship Director, Savannah Carbine, Account Manager, Climatec; and Non-Voting Historian Beth Jo Zeitzer, President/Designated Broker, R.O.I. Properties.
“As President of AZCREW, a women’s non-profit organization, I am committed to fostering a community of empowerment and growth,” Fort said. “Together, we will embrace new opportunities and continue to make a meaningful impact in the lives of women globally.”
AZCREW’s focus remains on providing unparalleled membership value, focusing on quality programming, and leadership development. AZCREW is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion as evident by its CEO-driven pledge for action in CRE, signed by more than 100 company leaders.
AZCREW’s 2025 strategic initiatives to further its mission include:
- Provide professional development and leadership training
- Cultivate purpose-driven events that will grow the CRE pipeline and leaders in the Valley;
- Create unparalleled business, networking, and deal-making opportunities;
- Elevate member and sponsor achievements and projects organization-wide;
- Continue to advocate and drive change of DEI within the CRE industry;
- Foster connections between business leaders and decision-makers in the market.
About AZCREW:
AZCREW is the local affiliate of CREW Network. CREW Network is at the forefront of achieving gender equity and greater diversity in commercial real estate. We will achieve this by transforming the industry by advancing women globally. Our membership offers unparalleled business development, leadership opportunities and networking both locally in your market and globally across our 12,000-member base. For more information visit arizonacrew.org.
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by Peter Madrid | Nov 5, 2024 | News & Updates
PHOENIX, ARIZONA (Nov. 5, 2024) – Denise Nunez, Executive Managing Director, and Andrew Agresta, Investment Sales Associate at NAI Horizon, represented the seller and secured the buyer in the $4.35 million sale of a permit-ready site located at 19208 S. 196th St., in Queen Creek, Arizona.
A local developer acquired the 9.73-acre site, which is ready for immediate construction of an RV/boat and self-storage facility. The planned development will consist of 149,115 net rentable square feet (NRSF), including 595 units with a mix of self-storage and RV/boat parking options. The facility will feature:
- 71 drive-up units;
- 214 climate-controlled units;
- 49 fully enclosed RV parking spaces;
- 206 covered RV parking spaces;
- 55 open parking spaces.
“While many developers have delayed new projects, this site stands to benefit from strong demand for institutional-quality RV/boat and self-storage facilities, particularly in the growing community of Cortina, a master-planned development by Fulton Homes,” Nunez said.
The Nunez Storage Group, led by Denise Nunez, is the national team within NAI Global’s Self-Storage Advisory Group, specializing in the sale and acquisition of self-storage assets across the country.
About NAI Horizon
Exceptional global commercial real estate solutions begin with local market leadership and expertise. Established in 1992, NAI Horizon is a full-service commercial real estate company serving Arizona with offices in Phoenix and Tucson. NAI Horizon is passionate about commercial real estate, providing Brokerage and Property Management Services for local, national, and international clients. NAI Horizon is a member of the NAI Global commercial real estate network providing real estate solutions to more than 325 offices worldwide. For more information, visit www.naihorizon.com.
About NAI Global
Advisory Services, Leasing, Property Management, Property & Note Sales, and Tenant Representation
NAI Global is a leading global commercial real estate brokerage firm. NAI Global offices are leaders in their local markets and work in unison to provide clients with exceptional solutions to their commercial real estate needs. NAI Global has more than 325 offices strategically located in 65 countries throughout North America, Latin America, Europe, Africa and Asia Pacific, with over 5,800 local market professionals, managing in excess of 1.1 billion square feet of property and facilities. Annually, NAI Global completes in excess of $20 billion in commercial real estate transactions throughout the world.
NAI Global provides a complete range of corporate and institutional real estate services, including brokerage and leasing, property and facilities management, real estate investment and capital market services, due diligence, global supply chain and logistics consulting and related advisory services. To learn more, visit www.naiglobal.com.
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by Peter Madrid | Oct 22, 2024 | News & Updates
PHOENIX, ARIZ. (Oct. 24, 2024) – When Seth Simmons founded Southwest Design Building 10 years ago, he was certain his experience as an exceptional general contractor would play a big part in the fledgling company’s success.
A decade later, Southwest Design Building is flourishing as Simmons has completed projects in Arizona, Colorado, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah, New Mexico, and Nevada. Simmons and his team have constructed projects in healthcare, retail, commercial, hospitality, food and beverage, and Industrial totaling more than $100 million. Project types vary from raw land development to multi-site mixed-use, with each project being different from all others.
Seth Simmons
Building on his 10 years of success with Southwest Design Building, Simmons has now added two additional companies to his business portfolio. Seeing his clients’ needs for additional future services post-construction and maintenance in general after construction, he started Southwest Facility Maintenance to serve these needs.
In addition, after years of joint venture projects with Sigma Contracting, Inc., Sigma Southwest was created to merge and expand the services and resources of both.
“I am very honored and humbled to be able to carry the Sigma brand forward after (Sigma Contracting founder) Dan Hinkson has successfully operated for more than 40 years in the construction industry and look forward to another successful 40 years,” Simmons said.
Simmons has made Southwest Design Building successful by managing multiple user and multiple location projects for repeat clientele, as well as challenging stand-alone projects. For 10 years he has provided leadership for staff and operations, as well as direction for all design-build operations, program management, project management, condition assessment services, and construction processes.
Simmons possesses a unique understanding of design, authority, and city review processes that many contractors don’t have. His years spent with a design-build firm, as well
as the necessary construction processes and administration, have helped him become a well-recognized and well-utilized general contractor.
Understanding how important trust is in a contractor, Simmons has built and maintained multiple, long-lasting relationships yielding repeat projects and satisfied clients. Clients recognize Southwest Design Building’s commitment to quality, budget, and schedule for all their construction needs. His commitment to this is proven by the fact that returning clients account for more than half of the business every year.
Clients include CBRE, Banner Health, DaVita, Honor Health, Dignity Health, Common Spirit, Younan Properties, and Conde Enterprise.
“I take pride in being responsive to real needs by acknowledging that money and time are always tight, and performance must be measurable,” Simmons said. “We serve as an extension of the owner – equivalent to staff that otherwise would have been hired, serving for the duration of the project.”
In 10 years, Simmons has grown the Southwest Design Building office to 12 employees that include estimators, project managers, superintendents, project coordinators, and accounting professionals. In 2018, the company purchased its current location at 22 E. Victory St., in Phoenix.
“I am very excited for the next 10 years. With the addition of Sigma Southwest and the added team members, the sky is the limit for Southwest Design Building, Southwest Facility Maintenance, and Sigma Southwest,” Simmons said.
For more information, visit southwestdesignbuild.com.
DaVita Ashley dialysis
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by Peter Madrid | Oct 21, 2024 | News & Updates
October 21, 2024 – A landmark conservation easement covering 1,889 acres of vital ranchland in Big Chino Valley has closed, marking a significant step in the region’s land and water conservation efforts. This agreement, made in partnership between Yavapai Ranch, The Nature Conservancy (TNC), and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), is the first easement to be completed in the area.
Unregulated groundwater pumping, development and climate change have negatively impacted the Big Chino Aquifer, a groundwater basin located in north-central Arizona primarily within Yavapai County. This critical resource provides a future water supply for the communities of Prescott, Prescott Valley and Chino Valley. It also supports the Verde River – which irrigates farms and provides recreational opportunities for people.
The Yavapai Ranch conservation easement is a voluntary agreement that limits development and associated groundwater withdrawals from the Big Chino Aquifer, while preserving agricultural use. The conservation easement incentivizes managing water use at existing levels and continuing agricultural best management practices. By collaborating with the landowner, this protection will help maintain the region’s delicate water balance and ensure that the grasslands remain a home for birds and wildlife.
Land Advisors Organization (LAO) and Hermitage Land Co. represented the landowner. LAO’s Conservation Division partnered with TNC to secure Farm Bill funding for the project. They also designed a broader conservation easement program that focuses on preserving agriculture and a flowing Upper Verde River by ensuring there is enough water in the right place at the right time for people and nature amidst warmer and drier weather.
“We’re grateful to our ranching partner for collaborating with us on this easement,” said Jody Norris, TNC Land Protection Director. “By working together, we’re able to protect water, wildlife, grasslands and preserve the family’s ranching business.”
This easement is part of a broader conservation strategy in northern Arizona and is supported by the Regional Conservation Partnership Program. The RCPP – which has provided a $23 million grant for this work – is designed to protect water resources, preserve local agricultural land and resilient grasslands, and promote sustainable land management practices in Big Chino Valley, northwest of Prescott.
“Land Advisors Organization worked with The Nature Conservancy and conservation partners to design the RCPP and a conservation easement program as a framework that provides a locally led solution to rural groundwater management. This partnership has provided a much-needed alternative to state-mandated regulation,” said Heather Reading, Conservation Division Leader for Land Advisors Organization. “I’m thrilled that our clients at Yavapai Ranch were the first landowners to participate in the program and demonstrate leadership in resource management.”
The historic Yavapai Ranch is one of the oldest continually operating cattle ranches in Arizona, having been homesteaded in 1868. The conservation easement is over 1,889 acres on the eastern edge of the ranch that skirts the Big Chino Valley grasslands, one of the largest intact native grasslands in Arizona.
These high-quality grasslands support one of the state’s largest remaining herds of pronghorn antelope — an Arizona wildlife species of concern due to impacts of grassland conversion and habitat fragmentation. The ranch is within the Grand Canyon to Prescott Corridor Complex, identified by Arizona Game and Fish as critical for all wildlife given that this area has the highest future potential for fragmentation and development in the state.
Additionally, the conservation easement lies atop the western edge of Big Chino Aquifer. The aquifer is located outside of an Active Management Area (AMA), which means that groundwater withdrawals are not regulated in any way. Thus, it is at risk of depletion from residential development, municipal pumping, and the increasing threat of large-scale commercial crop farms.
The headwaters of the Verde River emerge from perennial springs fed by the Big Chino Aquifer and the upper river is almost entirely dependent on the aquifer for baseflow. Flows from the 195-mile Verde River are a lifeblood for Arizona. The Verde River supports abundant native fish and wildlife. It supports the tri-cities of Prescott, Prescott Valley, and Chino Valley that depend on groundwater from its aquifers.
Downstream communities of the Verde Valley depend on the river for irrigated agriculture and river recreation that drives tourism and economic prosperity. Even further downstream, the Verde River provides a critical source of drinking water for over 5 million people in metropolitan Phoenix.
For more information on the RCPP program, please contact:
Jody Norris
Protection Program Director
The Nature Conservancy in Arizona
jody.norris@tnc.org
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About The Nature Conservancy:
The Nature Conservancy is a global conservation organization dedicated to conserving the lands and waters on which all life depends. Through science-based solutions and partnerships, the Conservancy addresses the most urgent environmental challenges.
About Land Advisors Organization:
Land Advisors Organization is the nation’s largest land brokerage and advisory firm, specializing in large-acreage transactions and conservation easements that balance land development with sustainability. The firm’s advisors work with landowners and purchasers to provide a comprehensive and effective evaluation of land in markets across the United States.
About NRCS:
The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is an agency of the United States Department of Agriculture that provides technical assistance to farmers and other private landowners and managers. NRCS’s mission is to help conserve and restore natural resources on private lands.
by Peter Madrid | Oct 15, 2024 | News & Updates
PHOENIX, ARIZONA (Oct. 15, 2024) — Wespac Construction Inc. is excited to announce the upcoming construction of a new 76,652 SF academic facility, set to enhance the existing campus of Saint Thomas the Apostle, located on 24th Street between Camelback Road and Campbell Avenue in Phoenix.
The current facilities, originally built in the 1950s, have aged and are struggling to meet the needs of the expanding parish and the demands of a modern school.
The new multi-story building will include a variety of essential facilities such as classrooms, administrative offices, and a cafeteria. A welcoming lobby and unique spaces such as a state-of-the-art student union and commons area will enrich both the academic and social experiences for students.
The parking lot will undergo renovations. A significant portion will remain untouched, while the rest will be resurfaced and restriped. The project will not reduce the number of parking spaces available. Construction will be carried out in a way that ensures the campus remains fully operational throughout the process.
This project is being delivered in partnership with Saint Thomas the Apostle School, the Roman Diocese of Phoenix, and Hamilton Architecture. The project is slated for completion in the first quarter of 2026.
Wespac Construction is honored to collaborate on this significant project, helping to shape a modern educational space that will serve the community for generations to come.
About Wespac
Established in 1991, Wespac Construction Inc. is a general contracting and construction management firm, offering preconstruction and construction services in a variety of market sectors. From small tenant improvement projects to large shell and master-planned communities, Wespac is a true partner to our clients throughout the entire project lifecycle. We pursue the art of construction, while contributing knowledge, leadership, passion and commitment to every employee, client, and project team. Wespac has offices in Phoenix and Flagstaff, Arizona. www.wespacaz.com
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by Peter Madrid | Oct 14, 2024 | News & Updates
MESA, ARIZ. (Oct. 14, 2024) – The Streamline Companies held a grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony last week at an asset it acquired in February, an 18,500 SF office building on Power Road in Mesa, and also announced it is under contract to acquire a new asset, a medical office building in Phoenix.
Investors, tenants, and ambassadors with the Mesa Chamber of Commerce attended last week’s grand opening at 1234 S. Power Road in Mesa. The asset, Twelve 34 South Power, is 93 percent occupied. It totals 13 suits, including the office of The Streamline Companies.
Tenants include a urological practice, two counseling services, a financial service, an insurance company, and a yoga office and studio. Improvements included repaving the entire parking lot, a new monument sign, and xeriscape landscaping.
“We’re excited to be here in the Southeast Valley, we love Mesa,” said David J. Hrizak, CEO of The Streamline Companies. “We were the first recipients from the City of Mesa for its xeriscape landscaping program. We collaborated with the City of Mesa to remove grass and go to a more desert landscape program to reduce the water usage at the building. We’re making a commitment to be here not just for today but for many years to come.”
Streamline Capital Group, the investment arm of The Streamline Companies, entered the Arizona market in 2023 with the $5 million acquisition of a two-building complex totaling 39,000 SF, rebranded as The Grand on 44th, in the Arcadia Lite neighborhood. The property underwent nearly $1 million in renovations to modernize the facility and convert vacant spaces into ready-to-move-in suites, sparking interest in the asset.
After Streamline Capital Group acquired the Mesa office building for $2.8 million, it rebranded it as Twelve 34 South Power.
Hrizak announced that Streamline Investment Group III is under contract to acquire Parkwood Professional Plaza, a four-story, 73,532 SF medical office building at 5501 N. 19th Ave., in Phoenix, for a favorable price.
“After the acquisition, Parkwood Professional Plaza will be rebranded to Uptown Medical Center. We will then implement the Streamline Process by investing $1 million for the completion of tenant improvements and modernization program begun by the current owner,” Hrizak said. “We believe the combination of its prime location and favorable local demographics positions it perfectly for long-term use as a medical office building.”
The asset is strategically located just west of the Biltmore area and less than a mile from the Abrazo Central Medical Campus, Hrizak added.
For more information about The Streamline Companies and investment opportunities with Streamline Capital Group visit thestreamlinecompanies.com.
Tenants at 1234 S. Power Road include a urological practice, two counseling services, a financial service, an insurance company, and a yoga office and studio. Improvements included repaving the entire parking lot, a new monument sign, and xeriscape landscaping.
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by Peter Madrid | Oct 8, 2024 | News & Updates
PHOENIX, ARIZ. (Oct. 8, 2024) – Look around the Valley and chances are you will encounter one of the numerous projects on which Steve Spears has left an indelible mark as Senior Project Consultant for Coreslab Structures Arizona.
The Catalina parking garage at Park Central in Phoenix. The SkySong parking garage in Scottsdale. The Cavasson parking garage also in Scottsdale. The Grand at Papago parking garage in Tempe. The Montebello parking garage at VAI Resort in Glendale.
After more than 40 years of experience in the precast/prestressed concrete industry, Spears is retiring in December from Coreslab Structures Arizona, where he worked for the past 25 years.
“Steve Spears has assisted on hundreds of projects, providing conceptual vision, identifying alternative solutions, and offering value-added ideas to assist the Coreslab team in determining the most cost-effective precast solution,” said Rick Reichenberg, Vice President | General Manager of Coreslab Structures Arizona.
During his tenure at Coreslab Structures Arizona, Spears’ primary focus has been on assisting architects, engineers, developers, and owners early in the building process with pre-construction design assistance, estimating, budgeting, value engineering, BIM, capturing LEED points, project fabrication, product delivery, and field installation all the way through to the project closeout.
“I sincerely appreciate the many meaningful friendships and daily learning opportunities I have had along this amazing journey. My business goal has been to be an effective design-build partner and add value by optimizing the project solution for our clients,” Spears said. “I’m particularly grateful in knowing that I am leaving my loyal business partners in the good hands of Ryan Mohn, another highly qualified Coreslab professional with over 10 years of experience.”
Spears is a member of the Arizona Association of Economic Development (AAED) and the Arizona Builders Alliance (ABA). He served on the Executive Council of the Arizona State University Del E. Webb School of Construction.
Spears and his family plan to live in Costa Rica for six months out of the year, working with their church’s ministry. Spears will continue to be a part-time resident of Dewey, Arizona. Away from the office he enjoys mountain biking, playing golf and tennis and is new to the popular sport of pickleball.
The Catalina parking garage at Park Central in Midtown Phoenix. (Photo courtesy of Larry Kantor Photography).
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About Coreslab Structures
Since 1975, Coreslab Structures Inc., has emerged as a major supplier of structural, architectural and hollow core solutions to markets in Canada and the U.S. With 17 precast/prestressed concrete facilities across North America, Coreslab is a leader in construction innovation, structural design and sustainable practices, dedicated to providing top quality products and services. Its commitment to excellence, leading technical expertise and collaborative culture allows it to deliver award-winning, innovative solutions that meet the schedule and cost requirements of its valued customers. To learn more visit www.coreslab.com.
by Peter Madrid | Oct 4, 2024 | News & Updates
GOODYEAR, Ariz. (October 4, 2024) – Estrella, a large-scale master-planned community in the bustling West Valley, is pleased to announce a significant milestone in its ongoing development. With the successful sale of 719 homesites within the vibrant villages of Lucero and Montecito, Estrella is flourishing and attracting national homebuilders.
The recent sale of 508 homesites in the Montecito village is to national homebuilders Richmond American Homes and Lennar. The recent homesite purchases closed on Sept. 30. The homesites start with sizes ranging from 47 feet up to 65 feet wide.
The Montecito sale continues the momentum at Estrella with the sale of 211 homesites in the village of Lucero in early 2024 by Brightland Homes and Richmond American Homes. Those models are set to open in early 2025.
“As the West Valley booms with quality employment, and more commercial, entertainment and retail offerings than ever before, homebuilders have definitely turned their attention to the neighborhoods Estrella can offer,” said Jeff Zimmerman, Vice President of Development for Estrella Development Company. Estrella Development LLC is a joint venture with Harvard Investments, Toll Brothers, and Värde Partners.
“Estrella is one of the largest master-planned communities in the West Valley benefits from the healthy growth taking place in the City of Goodyear. We have great schools from pre-K through high school within Estrella. With tons of amenities already in place, it makes Estrella’s new homes even more attractive to homebuyers,” Zimmerman said.
Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Estrella Mountains south of I-10 in Goodyear, Estrella is adjacent to the 19,000-acre Estrella Regional Park. Residents have exclusive access to community amenities including two residents’ clubs with resort-style pools, fitness centers, restaurants, a water park area for kids, and more. The community also provides residents with a Yacht Club, 72 acres of lakes, and the award-winning public Championship course The Golf Club at Estrella. There are more than 65 miles of hiking and biking trails and more than 50 community parks within Estrella.
The Estrella Welcome Center
Estrella’s growth is a testament to its enduring appeal and strategic vision. The community’s thoughtful planning and commitment to excellence have attracted top-tier builders, ensuring that each new home reflects the highest standards of craftsmanship and design. At the gateway to the Estrella community is the newly conceived Welcome Center, the recipient of three regional and national design awards in 2024.
“We have invested millions of dollars into the community to improve the experience in every way – including infrastructure, amenities, and overall experience. We’ve added new parks, improved signage, upgraded the golf experience and contributed significantly to refreshing the club experiences, to name a few,” said Tim Brislin, President of Harvard Investments, managing partner of Estrella.
“These significant new lot purchases confirm the builders’ confidence in Estrella today, and further cement Estrella’s reputation as a sought-after development that builders can invest in, as well as a recognized destination for homebuyers seeking a quality community with everything in place to enjoy now,” Brislin said.
The new builder neighborhoods will include the addition of more resident parks as well as introduce a diverse range of home styles and floor plans, catering to the varied needs and preferences of modern singles, couples, and families.
The Montecito and Lucero lot sales were facilitated by Greg Vogel, Ryan Semro, Bret Rinehart, and Wesley Campbell with Scottsdale-based Land Advisors Organization.
“Estrella has a long-standing history in the West Valley and is one of the largest master-planned communities in the country. It serves as a centerpiece of the booming West Valley, offering incredible amenities for residents,” said Greg Vogel, CEO of Land Advisors Organization. “It’s no surprise that national builders recognize the immense opportunity here, with the substantial land supply and the area’s significant employment growth. Our team is honored to represent Harvard Investments in bringing these builders to Estrella and helping unlock the full potential of this remarkable community.”
The Golf Club at Estrella
About Estrella
Home to more than 8,200 families, Estrella is a 20,000-acre mixed-use master-planned community located in the City of Goodyear, approximately 17 miles west of Phoenix. Estrella’s 500-plus acres of open space include more than 50 parks and 65 miles of paths and trails, plus 72 acres of lakes for kayaking, sailing, and catch-and-release fishing. Amenities include Starpointe and Presidio Residents’ Clubs, the Yacht Club of Estrella, two fitness centers, resort-style swimming pools, basketball, volleyball, pickleball, and tennis courts. Estrella is also home to a Nicklaus-design Championship golf course, The Golf Club of Estrella. Estrella is owned in a joint venture among Värde Partners, Toll Brothers, and Harvard Investments. For more information about Estrella, please visit estrella.com.
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