For those searching for Tucson homes there are several styles that may be suitable depending on personal choices, and individual tastes. Tucson homes, and many of those located in Southern Arizona reflect the style and tradition of the area. Most envision this area of the country as an image that could be part of a postcard type setting. The truth of the matter is that its not far from the actual fact. Tucson has visually pleasing residential areas that are set amongst rolling foothills with mountains in the background. The basic home styles encompass several different architectural styles, most reflect the rich heritage and traditions of the southwestern desert. Here’s are some of the styles one might expect to find when looking for Tucson homes.

Early Homes Styles Reflect the History of the Southwest

Because Tucson has such a rich storied background, and history, the area offers a wide variety of different types of construction that span for several generations. A common home type is the Santa Fe style with a flat roof. The inspiration behind this style came from Native American Indians in the area. Many homes built in the 1950’s and 60’s are L & U shaped, and known as Ranch style. These can most often be spotted by the pitched style roof, and large windows in the living rooms.

Today’s Tucson Homes Are Contemporary and Modern

The southwestern style is popular and in demand. Homes in Tucson today are of a more contemporary style. Bungalows that are constructed in the Craftsman style continue to be a popular choice for those looking to purchase a home. Most will find that the Mediterranean style is the type of Tucson Homes that are constructed today, and generally the most sought after by home shoppers. Mediterranean homes are easily recognized with the stucco exterior, tile roofs, and iron fencing.

Tucson Homes still express the great history of the southwest, and incorporate the traditions of classical Arizona history into the architecture and style. Tucson homes range from the most modern with all the amenities to the very traditional. No matter where one looks in the Tucson vicinity, finding a home style that is appealing should be an easy task to accomplish.

The Tucson real estate market continues to experience the fluctuations typical of all markets in the present economy, but the overall news is positive. Tucson real estate sales are up overall when compared to 2009 figures, and despite a decrease in May over April’s figures, the overall sales continue to trend upward. However, the sales prices are much lower, indicating that many more sales are being made but at significantly lower prices.

According to the Tucson Association of Realtors, sales figures for May, 2010, show an increase of 17.43% over May, 2009. This follows an increase of 36.44% for April, comparing sales in that month for 2009. The continued upward trend in sales reflects a slight dip between April and May of 2010, but the overall sales are much higher this year than in 2009 for both months, with a 20.75% overall year-to-date increase for 2010.

At the same time, Tucson real estate prices took a slight dip over last year. Average sales price was down 4.55%, from $204,125 to $194,838. List prices took an even sharper plunge, down 9.18% from May, 2009. Pending contracts were down 26.04% from last year’s figures, although April showed a gain of 16.58% over 2009.

The largest number of sales occurred in the $100,000-$180,000 range, with a total of 541 units, or 43% of all sales. The average number of days on the market was 66, with 182 units on the market over 180 days.

New listings are also down by 14.09% in volume, indicating that fewer houses are coming on the market. Possibly, the soft market over the last two years has made sellers leery of placing their houses on the market; alternatively, some people may not be able to afford the move to a newer home and choose to remain and renovate their existing structures.

The Tucson real estate market is experiencing a rebound from 2009 sales figures, despite the dip in price and listing numbers. The current Tucson real estate market seems to be recovering and increasing over the past year. Hopefully, this rebound is truly an upward trend and will continue throughout the year.

Looking for a one-of-a- kind, memorable and hip environment where you can enjoy cocktails with friends or that special someone? Ranging from highly sophisticated to laid back, each of these upscale Tucson establishments offer something a little different, and are sure to entertain you while providing the latest great tasting cocktails. If you’re seeking a sophisticated lounge environment, your evening will sizzle at these unique hotspots in the heart of Tucson’s trendsetting nightlife scene.

Be sure to stop by Sapphire Lounge, 61 East Congress Street in Tucson’s El Presidio area. Known for its rooftop sky deck patio lounge with great views, there are also two floors below that provide an exotic environment for drinks, pulsating music, dancing, and mingling. You’ll love the cool vibe created by the blue lighting and sleek furnishings and décor, and you won’t want to miss the nights when dueling pianos are featured. Enjoy the drinks, delicious food, and great company you’ll find at Sapphire Lounge. Visit www.facebook.com/sapphirelounge.

Close by the Sapphire you’ll find Club Zen Rock. This club brings the Vegas environment to Tucson, with its VIP tableside bottle service and beautiful women perched on swings above the crowd on the dance floor. Located at 121 East Congress Street in Tucson’s bustling downtown, you’ll find the latest music in this club with an underground feel and Tucson’s only basement dance floor. Dress to impress and don’t miss the edgy scene at Zen Rock. See more at www.zenrocktucson.com.

If you’re in the mood for a sumptuous steak to go with your world- class martini, there’s no finer place to try than Sullivan’s Steak House. The slogan at Sullivan’s is Steaks, Martinis, and Jazz, and live jazz is featured along with their impressive selection of wine, bourbon, single malt scotch, and cognac. See what other delights are on the menu at www.sullivansteakhouse.com.

Savor the enticing aromas of prime rib, seasoned steaks, fresh seafood and much more as you sip a well-chilled margarita, mojito, or martini and watch your meal grilled over an open flame at Firebirds Wood Fired Grill. The Firebar features half-priced appetizers every Monday-Friday from 3-7PM, and you’ll love the tony and sophisticated ambience here along with the tantalizing food and drinks. You can discover more of what’s in store at www.firebirdsrestaurants.com.

How about more of an offbeat scene? Try The Shelter. With its laid back vibe, you’ll love the hipster scene here with the retro décor, billiards area, tabletop Pong games, and kitschy films shown on the screen. Featuring different music theme nights and a daily happy hour, you’ll also appreciate their expertise in the mixology of great cocktails. Find out more at www.tucsonunderground.com/places/shelter.