The value of a home in the Payson area

I always find it interesting when buyers speak of future values of properties that they are looking at. Certainly, everybody wants to feel like they're getting a good deal. But I think in the Payson area, particularly for folks looking for a second home, folks often miss the broader point. In my opinion, just by buying here, they are getting a good deal.

I grew up coming to the Payson area out of the valley. I was a flatlander/weekender/cityfolk, whatever you want to call me. My parents bought land east of Payson in 80 or 81 and my Dad regularly came up on weekends. They built a small little cabin on an acre of land backing the forest, gradually adding more modern conveniences to it.

My parents had three different houses in the valley, the last of which purchased while I was in college. The one constant through all of those years? The place east of Payson. It was where we went to relax, often bringing friends along with us. It was a place that created incredibly fond memories and ultimately made me want to be in the Payson area. I know of plenty of others who have had the same experience. Often times if folks consider selling their family place in the Payson area, it's the kids who will make them think twice about it.

So why is the Payson area special? The Rim for one. It towers in the background as you drive through Payson, sitting quietly in the background, yet always providing a comforting presence. The weather is another. Don't get me wrong, it's a bit dry right now. But it's still beautiful outside. Even in the summer, you have your windows open most of the time. Try doing that this time of year in Phoenix.

The area trails are something to behold and I think one of the most underrated items of this area. I try to hike at least once a week and my list of trails to-do is still plenty long. Because the thing is, I'm always coming across trails that I want to re-visit, often at different times of the year.The Highline Trail is a terrific base trail. While 50 miles long, there are plenty of ways to cut it up into a shorter hike. And there really are so many other trails. Plus you can always freelance a little mountain here or there and sometimes come upon something phenomenal.

Going for a drive up here can be pretty neat. You never know what wildlife you're going to see - elk, deer, ringtail cat. There's even something relaxing about seeing some of the free range cattle that grazes throughout the region during the summer. Going up on top of the Rim can be a great day trip, as the Rim Road offers a ton of views. 

That's all just the tip of the iceberg. Folks are friendly here with a down home, yet still plenty educated, style about them. This is where you learn about life from people who have truly lived it. Characters abound, with real life stories that are powerful.

So remember, it's not all about numbers. Just by getting a place in the Payson area, you're getting a good deal.