Everyone knows that in real estate it's all about location. And that's often something that is dependent upon the tastes and personal preferences of the individual at hand. Some people may think the prime location is pool side. Others may think the prime location is surrounded by extensive gardening. Some people would choose oak trees over pecan. Some people would choose palm trees over Maple. Some people want gas lighting rather than the more generally used electric services. The options are endless so the argument about the "prime" location will continue forever more. There is no definitive answer, but there's always room for argument. So...let's talk about Arizona.

Arizona is found in the Southwest corner of the US. Phoenix is the capital as well as the largest city. Phoenix is followed in sheer size by Tucson, Mesa, and Glendale. Arizona was the 48th (and last of the contiguous states) to be accepted to the union on February 14, 1912. Most people know Arizona for its desert climate and landscape; boasting mild winters and the dry, dry heat that is becoming increasingly more popular year by year. The year of 2006 was a turning point for Arizona as the state took the number one spot in population growth away from the long time leader, Nevada, making Arizona the fastest growing state in the United States.

Arizona real estate is seen as desirable by many. It's landscapes and horizons are often noted as inspirational and have done their part to attract a large number of new residents in recent years (as well as tourists). Real estate is all about location and if Arizona has anything it's great location! It's one of the four corner states with easy access to: New Mexico, Utah, Nevada and California. It also shares an international border with Mexico. Arizona itself offers residents and visitors alike the Grand Canyon and the South Mountain Preserve as well as several beautiful state parks, national forests and monuments.

But it can't claim oceanfront property. It's always been Arizona's downfall when it come to real estate. Many regard oceanfront property as the prime location. George Strait brought the point home with his hit song starting off with, "I've got some ocean front property in Arizona; from my front porch you can see the sea...If you'll buy that I'll throw the golden gate in free." We're not going to be able to argue that Arizona does offer ocean front property; that would require a national disaster of monstrous proportions. But thanks to WestStone Communities, we can almost make that argument. They've introduced Onyx Tower to Arizona and it's making a big splash.

The significance of Onyx Tower lies not in the sleek, urban design of the 26 story, 1 to 3 bedroom resort condo tower, but in its location. Onyx not only offers close proximity to Phoenix's many opportunities for culture, recreation and entertainment, but it's in the enviable position of claiming waterfront property. And waterfront property in the middle of a desert is frankly, nearly magical.

Resorts are meant to promote relaxation and recreation. And Onyx Tower offers it all: waterfront views & activities, an exclusive sky lounge available to residents and guests, movie theatre, billiards room, fitness center, fireside lounge, infinity edge pool, spa and lap pool and more. The exclusive resort style residences at Onyx claim easy access to: Sky Harbor Airport, ASU, Mill Avenue and downtown Tempe, upscale shopping, and Phoenix's diverse mix. If that doesn't "promote relaxation and recreation" then nothing will!

WestStone Communities' sister community, Vantage, offers a fabulous alternative to Onyx. Both offer resort style living, but define themselves differently. Vantage's Tuscan inspired look and feel stands out in comparison to Onyx Tower's hot, urban design. Together they cater to a wide variety of resort lifestyle residents.

At Vantage the WestStone dedication to excellence in resort community living is just as evident, but their love of design shines in the many differences between the two communities. The location is fantastic and boasts almost as many resort lifestyle opportunities as Onyx (minus the waterfront claim). But in exchange for the waterfront views of Onyx Tower, Vantage residents enjoy the last opportunity to own a bit of the beautiful views of the Ahwatukee foothills. With two pools, a spa, outdoor entertaining areas, a clubhouse complete with theatre, fitness room, entertainment lounge, kitchen and grand dining room. That impressive list of amenities seems to be enough to appease those looking for the best in resort style living. And that's not even the extent to which WestStone has gone to fulfill all desires. Vantage is located in one of the desirable zip codes and backs directly up against the South Mountain Preserve. This 16,000 acre municipal park offers Vantage residents endless opportunities for recreation and a view that is beyond compare.

When it comes to the prime location, Arizona is definitely in the running. And when it comes to resort style living, WestStone Communities' Onyx Tower and Vantage are major players that just might knock their competition out of the game. They've definitely ensured that Arizona is one of the "places to be" for resort style living at its finest!