By Beth Duckett, Edward Gately and Philip Haldiman

Residents of Hacienda del Rey consider their neighborhood a “hidden jewel” in south Scottsdale.

Where it’s located: Northwest of McDowell and Hayden roads, behind the Lowe’s Home Improvement store, the neighborhood includes 104 homes and several families have loved it so much that they convinced other family members to buy a home there.

 

The 30-year-old neighborhood was “starting to show its age,” so residents pooled their talent and resources, and initiated an extensive revitalization plan in 2009, said Dana Close, who has lived there for 20 years.

“When we cleaned up the common areas and pool area, it then became contagious, with people putting in new patios and freshening their landscaping,” she said. “It encouraged a lot of remodeling. Now our houses sell before you can even get a sign in the yard. Our prices have gone up.”

Three cool things about the neighborhood:

The residents – the community has a diverse demographic, from new families with young children, to single adults and older couples. Also, numerous community events take place throughout the year to bring residents together.

“It’s a very friendly neighborhood and if anybody has an issue, somebody’s always there to help,” said Karyl Sanford, (above) who has lived there 17 years. “It’s pet friendly and children friendly.”

Location – residents can be in downtown Phoenix in 15-20 minutes, and in downtown Tempe in 10 minutes. It’s an even shorter trip to downtown Scottsdale amenities.

Recreation – the community includes a private park, the Greenbelt, with a large grassy area bordered by a social seating area on one end and a sports court on the other for playing tennis, volleyball and shooting baskets. In addition, residents share an orchard and herb garden.

Also, El Dorado Park, a major city park, is located just a few blocks away.