Electronic Gopher Repellers and 4 Other Home Gizmos You Never Thought You Needed

Electronic Gopher Repellers and 4 Other Home Gizmos You Never Thought You NeededAs a homeowner, thinking outside the box, gadget-wise, can lead you to gizmos that solve your problems – even ones you didn’t know you had in more humane, sustainable, energy-efficient ways than ever before. Read on to find out about five such inventions.

It’s Humane!: Solar-Powered Gopher Repellent

If you ever have a problem with rodents like gophers, moles, voles or shrews intruding on your lawn, look no further. This humane repellent doesn’t hurt anyone (people or animals), it simply emits a high-pitched sound at regular intervals to disrupt the animals’ sleeping patterns. It discourages them from moving in by making your lawn inhospitable but without using traps or poison. The sound is too high for humans to hear it, and only travels underground so dogs aren’t disturbed, either.

It’s Tasty!: Outdoor Wine Glass Holders

They seem simple, but sometimes the most obvious things are the hardest to recognize. Like outdoor wine or champagne glass holders removing the need to balance a full glass on uneven ground. Next time you’re on a picnic, take along these portable items, stick them in the grass (or the sand, if you’re at a beach) and hang your stemmed glass on the hook.

It’s Easy!: One Touch Jar Opener

Who hasn’t struggled with a jar opener for the pasta sauce while the noodles boil over and the onions burn? For any cook that doesn’t have a sous-chef handy, don’t worry there’s now a one-touch jar opener for just that occasion. Conveniently sized and battery-operated, these little guys adjust to any jar size and have padded edges to protect the jars so you can reuse them.

It’s Handy!: iPad Fridge Mount

Increasingly, people these days are cooking with recipes from the Internet. With an iPad Fridge Mount, you don’t need to copy out the recipes, print them or worry about your device getting splashed or hit with dinner. The mount is easy to install no tools needed and easy to remove, so the iPad is as portable as ever. The mount can also go on walls or doors.

It’s Smart!: Automated Watering Controller

Unlike the other items on this list, which ranged from $10 to $30, the Blossom Smart Watering Controller sells on Amazon for just under $400. But it saves money, and conserves water, by monitoring the weather (so it can adjust its lawn/garden watering schedule for wetter or dryer days), and you control it through your smartphone. No new wiring, sprinklers or valves are needed.

If you need more info or want suggestions on neat home gizmos that work well in your neighborhood, give me a call – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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42994 N 102nd Street Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$12,750,000
4 Beds
6 Baths
8,704 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6647324
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
GOLF MEMBERSHIP AVAILABLE. Discover the jaw dropping views and the pinnacle of luxury living in this exquisite custom home, masterfully designed by renowned architect Lee Hutchison. Nestled on a sprawling 9.9 acre lot in the upper village of Saguaro Forest within the prestigious guard gated Desert Mountain golf community, this modern organic pueblo inspired home featuring stone walls has a curvilinear design with 360 degrees of awe-inspiring mountain scenery with Pinnacle Peak as the stunning centerpiece. Enjoy picturesque sunrises/sunsets, spectacular moonrises, distant golf course views and evenings full of sparkling Valley lights. Step inside to the open great room, an entertainer's dream with a gas fireplace, custom crafted Az ash wood bar, curved beam ceiling and disappearing pocket doors merging indoor living with the beautiful outdoors. Adjacent lies the game/piano room, a space designed for casual gatherings. Culinary enthusiasts will revel in the high-end gourmet kitchen with custom cabinetry, equipped with top of the line Wolf/Subzero appliances, center island and butler's pantry. Start the day with casual meals in the breakfast area with curved bench seating and a charming office nook, or host formal dinners in the dining room that opens to the front courtyard and features a temperature controlled wine room. Relax in the cozy hearth room, complete with a fireplace, a tv entertainment wall and a charming Dutch door leading to the expansive back patio. This home offers 4 en-suite bedrooms plus 4 half baths in a thoughtful split floor plan ensuring privacy for family and guests. The primary bedroom suite features a morning patio area, gas fireplace and an innovative indoor/outdoor shower, hydro tub and mountain views from every window. Additional luxuries include a beautifully designed office with office pantry, fully equipped theater room, an exercise room ready for a complete workout experience plus a small garden and potting room. The estate also caters to the modern needs with a temperature controlled 4 car garage plus golf cart garage, EV charging station, controls for the 126 solar panels, built in cabinets and multiple storage areas.Over 200 degrees of covered patio space with a fireplace, large dining area, an outdoor entertainment wall all overlooking the stunning negative edge pool, exercise pool and spa (salt water system) plus a fire pit seating area for endless enjoyment.This dream home designed with only the finest materials and finishes plus the spectacular views offers an unparalleled living experience for those who want to enjoy the very best. Desert Mountain Club: Golf members enjoy 6 Jack Nicklaus designed courses and an eighteen hole par 3 course, 7 clubhouses, 10 dining venues, 20 miles of hiking trails, Sonoran Clubhouse with fitness/9 tennis courts/pickle ball/bocce/pools/croquet/spa. Live the Dream at Desert Mountain!!

5109 E Rovey Avenue Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$12,250,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
7,113 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6584415
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
September 2024 completion on schedule! This exceptional residence, the pride of Paradise Valley, provides breathtaking, unimpeded views of the mountains. It's a creation of Bedbrock Developers, recognized as the foremost luxury home builder in Paradise Valley. This magnificent home, architecturally designed by award winning Cosan Homes, principal Scott Carson, offers an expansive 7,113 square feet of living space, which includes a luxurious 1,191 square- foot, three room guesthouse, and is the epitome of elegance and luxury. Interiors designed by Kristin Hazen of Kristin Hazen Design, feature an open floor plan that includes a grand great room, a gourmet kitchen, back kitchen, gorgeous bar and recreation room. The masterful design and attention to detail are evident throughout the house bedrooms and five and a half bathrooms. The primary suite serves as a private retreat complete with a spa-like bathroom, his and hers walk-in closets, and a private patio overlooking Camelback Mountain and the serene backyard. Each additional bedroom is equally as impressive, featuring its own ensuite bathroom and walk in closet. The outdoor living spaces, expertly designed by David Creech of CF Design, are as remarkable as the interior. Offering spectacular and unparalleled 360° panoramic views of Camelback Mountain, Mummy Mountain, Piestewa Peak, the property boasts a gorgeous pool, spa and ample space for entertaining. Architect Carson masterfully integrated glass walls and ceilings in order to maximize the breathtaking mountain vistas resulting in an abundance of natural light and seamless integration with the surrounding landscape. Located in the highly coveted Paradise Valley, this home is conveniently situated just moments away from world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment. It truly represents a rare and special property in an exceptional location.

10835 E Mountain Spring Road Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$12,000,000
5 Beds
8 Baths
12,289 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6677333
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Extraordinary estate nestled in Silverleaf's Upper Canyon McDowell Mountain preserve with a majestic mountain backdrop, dramatic down valley city views, and golf course proximity, this home is exquisitely picturesque. Built by Catalina Custom Homes with design inspired by traditional Spanish architecture, this storybook is a living legacy of grace and character. An architectural masterpiece, featuring 5 bedrooms, 8 baths, two offices, and game room with ten patios/outdoor living areas, meticulously planned for functional living with large spaces for optimal elite entertaining and vignette boutique spaces that add interest and charm. Finished with the finest custom details for the most discerning resident. Timeless sophistication with grand ceilings boast extensive (see ''more'' now) custom millwork, intricate detailed coffered ceilings, moldings/trim, and hand picked reclaimed beams. Details are abound including architectural mason designed custom stonework, complimenting hand painted accent tiled walls, European hickory wide plank and stone flooring, alder wood doors and roll-out windows, and convenient dumbwaiter. At the heart of the home is an oversized great room with double island kitchen, separate prep pantry, informal dining and limitless living space with two fireplaces. Owner's retreat offers spacious bedroom, living area and additional adjoining flex room. Attached guest residence has private entry and access to main home, features oversized living area with fireplace, kitchenette and abundant bedroom and bath. Spacious outdoor living areas, downstairs off great room and an upstairs off game room, enhance seamless living and maximize the panoramic views from every angle. Manicured English style garden is the heart of the back yard, surrounded by covered living spaces and rectilinear vignettes that create charming spaces for outdoor living. Privately entertain with large pool and spa with generous grass area, outdoor kitchen and oversized fire pit that overlooks spectacular down valley views. Refined luxury living at its best.

19920 W Verde Hills Drive Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$12,000,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
5,339 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6527371
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Wickenburg's Premier Equestrian Estate on over 400 Acres of lush high Sonoran Desert with views in all directions. A magnificent custom designed (by Bill Otwell) and built (by Joe Culhane) Main Residence w/Five Patio's and Extensive Landscaping including a custom built Rock Driveway. Custom designed & built detached Garage w/RV Bay. Guest Home, Horse Facilities. 108.3 Acres and Residence in Yavapai County, 295.47 Acres in Maricopa County.

9333 E Happy Valley Road Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$12,000,000
11 Beds
12 Baths
20,211 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6611332
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled behind towering privacy gates, this Mediterranean-inspired estate unveils itself as a haven of luxury, privacy, and unparalleled grandeur. Crafted by a visionary owner, this residence transcends the ordinary, offering an array of luxurious amenities and quality finishes that rival the most exclusive 5-star resorts. With sweeping views of the iconic Pinnacle Peak to the north and the glittering city lights and majestic Camelback Mountain to the south, this property is a true masterpiece. Whether you're a car collector, equestrian enthusiast, toy aficionado, or a consummate entertainer, this estate caters to your every passion. Garages that house prized collections, entertainment spaces that dazzle, outdoor oasis that is an immersive experience designed to delight the senses. More than just a garden, this lush landscape represents an investment in timeless beauty. The deliberate choices made by the owner have resulted in a sanctuary that transcends the ordinary.

11450 E Hideaway Lane Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$12,000,000
5 Beds
7 Baths
6,925 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6536559
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Exclusive Silverleaf Summit estate is perfectly perched at the top of this coveted enclave deep in the majestic McDowell Mountains. With breathtaking views in every direction, this captivating custom home captures picturesque sunsets, city lights and stunning mountain terrain. For those seeking privacy, tranquility, a canvas for creativity, nearly 4 acres of pristine desert and luxurious minimalism, Hideaway Lane is the ultimate destination. Long paver drive winds up past the gated motor court to the elevated entryway and private courtyard. Custom iron & glass entry door invites you to a truly open, seamless space. Intimate formal dining room currently used as a secondary living area, expansive great room and understated yet elegant gourmet kitchen with breakfast room all share the most incredible views in Silverleaf. Three generously sized bedroom suites, powder room and laundry room complete the first floor living. Modern wood & glass staircase leads up to the elegant owners' retreat which speaks for itself. Inviting the panoramic views in, this suite is thoughtfully planned with its fireplace and luxurious spa bath, complete with outdoor shower reaching to the sky. French doors open to the valley views and to the gallery deck, which spans the length of the home. Across the hallway, open flex space with full bath offers a loft view to the living areas below, and is perfect for pilates, a studio, or anything that inspires. Down to the lower level, the entertainment zone is home to theatre room, custom crafted modern bar & glassed in wine room along with additional powder room. This is also the garage & motor court level with abundant storage. Elevator services all three levels.From the entry courtyard across from the main house is the attached fully appointed guest casita which shares the special views and provides a truly separate yet connected space for guests. For the piece de resistance, celebrate the reason for this home. Enjoy the expansive outdoor living space from the telescoping great room doors...dine al fresco, take a night swim or spa overlooking the Valley, or simply relax and take in the views. This resort is only minutes from world class shopping, dining, outdoor recreating and all amenities offered by the DC Ranch community. However, this home feels miles away, close to nature, and made for a very special buyer. Welcome Home!

21487 N 110th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$11,950,000
4 Beds
5 Baths
8,889 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6645881
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This timeless Modern Mediterranean estate is located on a quiet cul-de-sac in the heart of Silverleaf's prestigious Upper Canyon. Captivating views are found in every room, capitalizing on its 2250' elevation and unique mountain setting. This grand residence is the ideal size encompassing 8,889 square feet of indoor livable space in addition to sprawling outdoor living areas. The superb interior styling, orchestrated by Donna Vallone of Vallone Design, creates the perfect blend of casual luxury with a sophisticated modern edge. The house was designed by architect Luis Antonio Bonilla owner of the Antigua Home Designs. The main level living offers a large Primary retreat with spa-like bathroom, a private guest suite, luxurious office, spacious living room with bar area, grand soaring ceilings and pocket doors seamlessly blending the indoor and outdoor. The second-floor features two oversized guest suites. This estate home was built to the highest standard of quality and detail by Argue Custom Homes. Quality finishes throughout include the gourmet kitchen with Wolf/Subzero appliances, wide plank wood flooring, crown moldings and custom ceiling detail, extensive home automation system, back lit wine wall and private Office. Outdoor living spaces include a large covered rear patio in addition to two separate ramadas, a BBQ center, heated pool/spa and extensive turf. The immaculate and spacious 4 car garage including a custom show garage is yet another highlight. This home is a rare find in the neighborhood due to its combination of size, styling and views. Silverleaf is a renowned master-planned community known for its award-winning golf club, guard-gated privacy, dramatic classic architecture, proximity to the McDowell Mountains, and access to nearby schools, shopping, and dining. Silverleaf, located in North Scottsdale, Arizona, is a prestigious guard gated community known for its luxurious estates, exclusive golf courses, private Club and stunning desert landscapes. The Tom Weiskopf-designed Silverleaf Golf Course is a highlight for golf enthusiasts. With a blend of Spanish and Mediterranean-inspired architecture, the community offers a high standard of living, including upscale amenities like spas, fine dining, and exclusive shopping. Residents enjoy a harmonious balance between modern luxury and the natural beauty of the desert environment, making Silverleaf a sought-after destination for those seeking an exceptional lifestyle in North Scottsdale.

20715 N 103rd Place Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$11,900,000
5 Beds
7 Baths
12,797 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6626124
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Impeccable Modern Mediterranean Estate in Silverleaf! Built by Salcito Custom Homes and designed by world renowned architect Dale Gardon this private gated estate offers unrivaled quality. Enter through the 13-foot glass and iron door to reveal 22-foot ceilings, exquisite chandeliers, marble floors and just under 13,000 square feet of modern Mediterranean living. Boasting 5 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms, this exceptional and gracious estate is meticulously crafted with the highest quality materials and professionally maintained, delivering both luxury and comfort. The second floor Principal Suite is a revelation, encompassing a luxuriously large bedroom, dual walk-in closets and separate bathrooms, a sauna, and a whimsically beautiful shoe boutique! Dale Gardon has crafted conceptual ... plan options to include a Principal Suite on the main level. A sophisticated yet welcoming floor plan provides for relaxed living or sumptuous entertaining with a chef's kitchen, lovely breakfast nook, glamorous formal living, and dining rooms. The media / game room has Swarovski Crystal curtains, built in wine fridge, solid wood floors, silver leaf inlaid ceiling and a fireplace, all designed with unsurpassed attention to detail. There is a Fendi inspired detached 2,700 square foot guest home featuring a beautifully designed private spa, state of the art exercise room, outdoor shower, putting green and multiple patios. Other thoughtful amenities located throughout this magnificent nearly 2-acre estate include custom cabinetry, 2 laundry facilities, elevator, wine room, 8 fireplaces, formal European gardens, heated pool, gated auto court with six climate-controlled auto garages and an electric vehicle charging station, fully equipped barbeque pavilions and phenomenal views of the McDowell Mountains and Silverleaf golf course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to make this home your own!

6525 E Bluebird Lane Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$11,900,000
5 Beds
6 Baths
7,870 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6613083
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This estate is is Lot II of III in the Bird Street Estates. Situated on over an acre, this estate epitomizes opulence and grandeur. As you step foot into this estate, you will immediately be captivated by its unparalleled architectural scale. This two-story marvel has been elevated to capture the breathtaking views of Mummy Mountain. Every element of its orientation and site design has been meticulously crafted to ensure that these awe-inspiring vistas are visible from every angle within the property. The essence of indoor-outdoor living is masterfully accentuated by a linear design expression, seamlessly blending the interior with the exterior. This residence boasts expansive indoor-outdoor living areas and is equipped with first-class amenities that cater to the most discerning tastes. An outdoor bar, a zero-edge pool, large covered patios, and a spacious grass lawn provide the perfect backdrop for unwinding and entertaining amidst the desert's natural splendor.

5939 E Quartz Mountain Road Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$11,900,000
5 Beds
8 Baths
8,320 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6629682
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Spectacular views, nestled in nature, this hillside home w/ a Private detached Guest house below offers peace and tranquility on the highest point of prestigious Hummingbird Lane. it features Floor to ceiling glass & expansive window walls thru-out on a single level . Premium quality construction & finishes: Double wall design w/15'' thick steel & concrete exterior walls + int. framing, the latest tech-engineering propelled the design. Wired for full automation; Hi-speed Tesla chargers in His & Her garages. Landscape near completion w/ a 50ft. circular Entry court that allows Parking for 6+ cars. 2 separate Pave-stone drives. Main home is 5600 sq.ft. and a private year-round Guest home of 2700 sq.ft. gives a multitude of options. Private pool at the Guest house a full sub-zero kitchn. Quiet sophistication is the theme of the home. The Views capture Mummy Mnt,.to the South and panoramic vistas to the North w/ a private Desert garden that provides a nature trail for access to Hummingbird Lane. A very special MM-Park view lot is double deep and fronts on Quartz mnt. on the North and ascends to Hummingbird Lane on the South for perfect sunrise & sunset walks. The guest house was designed for parents or family use w/ all the amenities of a SFR home. Separate Dining room/ family/Living room & breakfast area. Currently has a spacious 2 car garage, but home could be reconfigured for more garages or anything to suit the needs of a buyer who appreciates the finest Hillside/North views in PV. on a very special lot. $ Million+ Boulder Formation & landscape package w/ mature-select Ironwood & desert trees; the setting & location.....is a must see to appreciate.

8302 N Mockingbird Lane Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$11,500,000
6 Beds
7 Baths
8,151 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6632749
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This brand new desert contemporary home is brought by luxury developer Aspen Dev Co and checks all the boxes! The 8,151SF home includes 6 en-suite bedrooms including a separate 1bd room apartment, office, media/theatre room, guest den (or kids playroom), mudroom, exercise room with infrared sauna, open concept kitchen/living/dining area including linear fireplace, laundry room with dry-cleaning/steamer appliance and agitating sink. Appliances are Sub-Z and Wolf and a large separate pantry has an additional dishwasher, fridge/freezer, and tons of storage space. The 4 car garage includes electric vehicle hook-up and a dog wash station. Solar panel compatibility is available for future. The breathtaking interior courtyard floods the entire home with natural light. Equally well planned is the outdoor entertaining areas with a large pool (with automatic cover), spa, outdoor shower, sunken fit pit with seating, outdoor kitchen with 42 Wolf grill and Green Egg and inviting dining areas. Full tennis court with pickle ball markings, as well. No detail has been overlooked or left out! Come see this light-filled contemporary home!

8185 E Alameda Road Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$11,500,000
5 Beds
11 Baths
5,950 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6593970
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Boasting nearly 10 acres of land, this gated estate includes a stunning Spanish-style main house, a full equestrian facility, an entertainment pavilion with attached theater, 2 standalone casitas, 2 staff apartments & a 1200 sqft multi-use building. The 5,950 sqft main home was renovated in 2021. Vaulted, wood beamed ceilings, engineered hardwood floors & statement luxury light fixtures through-out the home. The primary suite presents a seating area, balcony & spa worthy ensuite. The backyard has an outdoor kitchen, a heated pool, spa & putting green. The 5,000-SF, entertainment pavilion has a game room, full bar, kitchen, gym, yoga studio & 3rd-level deck with 360º mountain and city views. The equestrian facility encompasses 15 stalls, 2 arenas, 3 turnouts & 2 RV parking.