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March 2008
By Stephanie Maher Palenque

Happiness is like a butterfly, which, when pursued, is always beyond our grasp, but, if you will sit down quietly, may alight upon you.
Nathaniel Hawthorne

Ted and Carol Hagstrom had an experience that Carol describes as “spiritual” the first time they saw the model of the home they would soon purchase. “We entered the Anthem Country Club gates the day before, and knew that this was meant to be our home – we just needed to find the right home for us,” explained Carol.

As Ted and Carol entered the model, Carol noticed that Ted was not by her side. At first mildly annoyed, she turned around to find Ted interacting with a butterfly in front of the home. Ted has collected butterflies around the world as a hobby. “The minute we saw the butterfly, we knew this was meant to be our home. Whenever we make decisions that have been connected with butterflies, it turns out to be the right decision,” shared Carol.

The Hagstroms purchased the Monterey model and had their home (40418 North Hawk Ridge Trail, Anthem) built on a beautiful lot that overlooks the 12 th hole and lake on the Ironwood Golf Course.

When all was said and done, they had $150,000 worth of upgrades and customizations on their home. They purchased the $30,000 cabinetry upgrade, basically installing the cabinets found in the Rochester model, all throughout the home. “The kitchen never felt like a ‘kitchen' to me, because of the beautiful furniture that runs through all of the rooms, including the kitchen,” said Carol. “In fact, even the laundry room has the same beautiful cabinets.”

The Hagstroms didn't stop with the cabinetry package. They went outside of Del Webb, who didn't offer all of the elegant upgrades that they envisioned in their new home. They had crown molding installed throughout the home, extra lighting, a wine bar built in to the center island in the kitchen, built-in furniture and niches in the office, great room, and every closet in the house, Travertine tile throughout, custom draperies and window coverings, and custom and faux paint throughout. The Monterey model offers a split floor plan, which could be “a great family home, or a fabulous empty nester home,” according to real estate agent Mike Higgins. There are three bedrooms in the home, each with its' own private bathroom. Owner Carol Hagstrom suggests that it is also versatile, as the existing den could easily be converted to an extra bedroom.

According to realtor, Mike Higgins, there are only a handful of the popular Monterey models for sale right now, and this one blows the others away with upgrades and value.

The home is perfect for entertaining, either indoors, outdoors, or both. “There's a tremendous feeling of the inside and outside being one, without separation,” explained Carol. The Hagstroms certainly did everything possible to foster this feeling and make the backyard a perfect place for entertaining friends and family. There is a built in pool and spa, as well as an elevated seating area with built in “resort-stlye” lighting. There is also a built-in outdoor kitchen and barbecue for the numerous outdoor garden parties and cookouts that the new owners are sure to have. Luckily, the current owners thought of every detail including a mist system and automatic awning. This one won't be on the market for long – true value is always recognized!

This home is brought to you by “Country Club Specialists” Mike Higgins and John Luders of RE/MAX Integrity Realtors 623-551-2345; www.azmasters.com. The listing price is 729,900.