The Green Valley, Tubac, Sahuarita and Marana markets are showing upward trends in prices, say local Realtors.

"Green Valley is an active retirement community 30 minutes south of Tucson," says Realtor Debbie Wyrsch. "Birdwatching, Golfing and many leisure activities offered through Green Valley Recreation centers are some of the few amenities that attract people to Southern Arizona!"

About the market, Wyrsch says, "The Green Valley, Tubac and Sahuarita Arizona real estate markets have experienced significant changes in the past six months - moving from a buyer's market to a seller's market. Historically the Green Valley has had 700-800 properties available for sale through the multiple listing service... summer/fall 2003 inventory level hovers around 400! Since the beginning of 2003, prices have also moved upward about 5-7 percent. As always, homes in the best condition and best locations, properly priced, usually sell quickest."

Marana

Says Realtor Mary Ann Levenson, "There was a time when cotton, wheat and lettuce were synonymous with Marana. Now the network of irrigation canals that crisscross the community is followed by a network of pipes bringing water to a growing population. This agrarian community looks inviting to people who want to work in Tucson's diverse economy but want the advantages of rural life. Work has already begun on several master-planned communities. As greater Pima County grows, more are anticipated. Marana dates from the 1881 arrival of the railroad when the town served as an agricultural hub for nearby ranches and settlements. A Spanish word meaning "impassable tangle," parts of Marana are still reminiscent of the days when thickets of mesquite impeded movement by foot or horse. Though this town's population is over 2,800, it has more than three times that number of students in its public school system, which illustrates its position as the commercial hub for a vast rural area that encompasses some 500 square miles. the rapid development of the old Continental Ranch is having a marked effect on the population. The town is also a center for skydiving for nearby Tucsonans. But agricultural roots run deep, so don't be surprised when the hot topic among Maranans is the annual pygmy goat competition held in the fall."