Measuring Your Ability to Achieve the American Dream

Forbes.com recently released the results of their new American Dream Index, in which they measure “the prosperity of the middle class, and…examine which states best support the American Dream.”

The monthly index measures several different economic factors, including goods-producing employment, personal and commercial bankruptcies, building permits, startup activity, unemployment insurance claims, labor force participation, and layoffs.

The national index score was rounded out to 100 in January and saw a modest jump to 100.5 in February.

Alaska represented the lowest score on the index at 80.7, due mostly to the recent collapse in oil prices. Nevada came in with the highest score at 108.8, boosted by big gains in goods-producing jobs and new construction activity. The full results can be seen in the map below.

Forbes Senior Editor Kurt Badenhausen explained why many states saw a boost in the index last month:

“[B]usinesses are hiring in part in anticipation of tax cuts and less regulation… Many areas of the country have experienced strong upticks in employment and construction, as well as declines in unemployment claims since the start of the year.”

Bottom Line

The American Dream, for many, includes being able to own a home of his or her own. With the economy improving in many areas of the country, that dream can finally become a reality.  Give me a call to get started today – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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Sort by: Select Price, Low to High Price, High to Low Newer Listings First Older Listings First Open House Date

18232 W Raymond Street Goodyear, AZ 85338

$499,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,396 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6626813

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This Beautiful home on a premium lot with great views is ready for you! Home Boast Large Formal Dining and Living area at entry, Tastefully designed kitchen and primary living area. Upstairs has loft with primary bedroom and 3 additional bedrooms as well as laundry. Views out the windows for days. If you are looking for a large yard your are in luck, this lot is huge has plenty of room for a pool, outdoor kitchen and entertainment.

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6101 E Kenilworth Road Coolidge, AZ 85128

$499,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,537 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6630090

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Looking for country living w/an appreciation for a 100+ year home with no HOA? Business opportunity? Located outside the city limits (county address) w/a total of 4 acres to make into your dream property. This cozy home is open & bright w/antique door hardware & light fixtures. Home recently upgraded to include NEW -paint inside and out, windows, flooring, and kitchen to include cabinets and appliances! Upstairs room is a perfect bedroom/office opportunity. Detached garage has workroom and storage room area. This home was also used for filming a movie in 1987! Come take a look today, you won't be disappointed! *ALL info pertinent to purchase should be verified/investigated by Buyer to include subdividing, etc. See Documents Tab for additional information.

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4122 S 185th Lane Goodyear, AZ 85338

$499,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,688 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6631109

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Rates are too high client is willing to help with a 2/1 buy down. Ask your agent for details. This beautiful home check a lot of boxes. Owned solar panels, home over 2600 square feet, , wood flooring throughout. This beautiful home is made to entertain with the gourmet kitchen with open sight lines into the living room. Large walk-in closets and convenient upstairs laundry.

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6081 W Estancia Way Florence, AZ 85132

$499,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,737 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6636271

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Amazing home in the beautiful resort community of Anthem at Merrill Ranch! Yard has a gorgeous heat pump heated pool, patio with custom finishes, lots of LED lighting. A true place to relax and unwind. The house has hard flooring throughout. Fabulous kitchen with SS appliances, gas cook top, granite, island, pot rack. Great room plus formal living room/dining room. Den with double doors on 1st floor. Huge laundry room. Lots of storage. Beautiful loft area. All bedrooms have walk-in closets and master has an attached bath and 2 huge walk-in closets. 3 car garage has a mini-split and very upgraded electrical. There is an elevator from the living room to the loft for those who may struggle with stairs. And all in the resort community of Anthem at Merrill Ranch. Amenities galore.

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3199 N Desert Horizons Lane Casa Grande, AZ 85122

$499,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,554 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6646010

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Villago near the Lake, Discover this exquisite 5+ bed, 3-bath residence boasting a 2-car garage, extended driveway, and elegant brick veneers. The living room showcases high ceilings, a neutral palette, and sleek tile flooring. The family room provides a cozy setting for intimate moments. The formal dining room is perfect for hosting dinner parties. The kitchen comes with granite counters, cabinets with crown molding, SS appliances, recessed lighting, a walk-in pantry, a center island, and peninsula with a breakfast bar. The loft is ideal for a media room Master bedroom offers vaulted ceilings, plush carpeting, and an ensuite with dual sinks and a walk-in closet. The backyard is complete with a covered patio, low-maintenance turf, and a refreshing private pool. High speed for your office.

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15550 S 5th Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85045

$499,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,640 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6653163

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

Unique ground floor unit. Freshly painted cabinets, doors, trim and walls. 12 ft ceilings, 8 ft doors, stainless steel appliances, kitchen island, wine cooler, granite countertops in kitchen and baths, separate tub/shower. Additional storage room next to bath 2. Master Suite has walk in closet and dual vanities, tiled shower and large tub. New AC System 2021. Refrigerator 2019. Microwave 2018. Wine Cooler 2017

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3500 E Torrey Pines Lane Chandler, AZ 85249

$499,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,516 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6650176

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

**Golf course lot**Charming property in the 55+ community of Springfield Lakes/Solera Chandler with fresh interior paint, new granite counter tops, sink & disposal. Spacious great room floor plan w/rich espresso cabinets, modern built-in appliances, pantry, island-breakfast bar for casual dining. Serene main bedroom w/private bathroom, dual sinks and 2 walk-in closets**. Dbl-doors den is perfect for an office. Garage has attached cabinets for extra storage. Oasis of newly redone backyard, covered patio and ample space for lively barbecues or peaceful afternoons. This property is not just a house; it's a gem waiting to be your perfect home! Come take a closer look**some furnishings available on separate Bill of sale.

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980 W Santa Fe Drive Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$499,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,056 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6651275

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

WHOA no HOA! Invest today & ENJOY THIS SPACIOUS HOUSE ON A HILL w/ VIEWS of the Beautiful Bradshaw/Weaver Mountains*BACK COVERED PATIO provides shade for enjoyable afternoons. GAS bib for GRILL! Natural Light pours into the Bathrooms & almost every room from TUBULAR SKYLIGHTS! Several Mature Trees * RV Gate to the Large Fenced Backyard * Spacious 2,056 SF home on a quiet street * Large Foyer*Formal Living Room* Large Open Kitchen w Island *Custom Oak Cabinets * Cultured Marble Windowsills & Niches * Corner Sink w Outdoor Views * Breakfast Nook w/ Views to the North & East * Nice LG Refrigerator/Freezer * Cozy Gas Fireplace nestled in the Family Room*LARGE WALK IN CLOSETS*PRIMARY ENSUITE*TONS OF STORAGE SPACE* Full wall of Built-in Cabinets, UTILITY SINK & Work & Tool Station in Garage!

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42616 W Kingfisher Drive Maricopa, AZ 85138

$499,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

1,821 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6654188

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Unique Guest Casita (Unattached) and an Ideal Backyard that is Adjacent to Green Space. Province Amenities are Outstanding. Nearly $30,000 in recent upgrades (see document in tabs). This incredible 4 bed, 3 bath home now available! Discover a desirable open layout adorned w/tall ceilings, neutral paint, plantation shutters, tile flooring, & a warm fireplace. The kitchen is a homeowner's dream, fully equipped w/granite counters & backsplash, wood cabinets, an island w/a breakfast bar, & a breakfast nook w/a bay window. Retreat to the main suite, offering plush carpet, an ensuite w/dual sinks, walk-in closet, & private outdoor access. The backyard promises a tranquil spot for relaxation & year-round entertainment, w/a refreshing pool & a covered patio

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15958 W Shangri La Road Surprise, AZ 85379

$499,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

3,077 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6654011

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This charming property offers comfort and practicality, featuring granite counters, oversize dark maple cabinets, 20' tile flooring, upgraded carpet, and stainless-steel appliances. The kitchen, overlooking the family room, creates a warm atmosphere for gatherings. A separate dining area and a generous living room provide ample space for everyday living. The master bedroom, complete with a sitting room and balcony, it's the perfect comfortable retreat. The backyard offers a refreshing pool, great for relaxation and outdoor enjoyment. Conveniently located close to schools, shopping, entertainment, and restaurants, this home provides accessibility without compromising comfort. Don't miss the opportunity to make this welcoming property your home sweet home

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16202 S 17th Drive Phoenix, AZ 85045

$499,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,178 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6654992

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Incredible 3 bed 2.5 bath residence with mountain views ready for new owners! Immaculate home boasts a new roof in 2020 & new HVAC in 2023! Step inside to high ceilings & welcoming living room open to a spotless kitchen featuring stainless steel appliances, granite counters, a cool copper sink & an island great for gatherings. Spacious loft upstairs, ideal for home office, playroom, arts & crafts, you name it! Double door entry to oversized main bedroom with sitting area, designer paint, 12-ft walk-in closet & private bath with dual sinks. Two more large bedrooms & bath upstairs for family & guests. Tranquil backyard is one of the largest in the area with easy care turf and swaying shade trees. Top rated Kyrene schools, a playground just steps away & mountain trails await!

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2323 N Central Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85004

$499,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,398 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6665758

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

Experience elevated urban living in this 2 bed, 2 bath condo on the 19th floor of Regency on Central, a historic mid-century luxury high-rise located steps from the light rail, dining, retail, and entertainment in the heart of vibrant Phoenix. Freshly painted interiors with stained wood trim and plush new carpets in bedrooms create a serene retreat. Enjoy a modern kitchen with granite counters and stainless steel appliances. Revel in the breathtaking skyline views from your private balcony. Building amenities include a heated pool, spa, fitness center, 24/7 door personnel, and more.

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