McCormick Ranch

Considered by many to be one of the largest planned community developments in the country, McCormick Ranch is a model for mixed-use development. Encompassing approximately seven square miles of prime real estate in the heart of Scottsdale, Arizona, McCormick Ranch was once the site of one of Scottsdale's last big Arabian horse ranches.

Flattered by a just-right hint of California décor and design ambience, the homes in McCormick Ranch boast lush grass, tall towering trees and mature shrubbery. Styles range from beautiful single-family homes to luxury estates to gorgeous waterfront properties nestled next to one of the seven manmade lakes scattered throughout the community. In addition, McCormick Ranch is home to golf course villas, townhomes, condominiums and patio homes...in other words, truly something for everyone and every lifestyle.

Winding alongside luxuriant greenbelts, some 25 miles of bicycle paths are a much-loved part of McCormick Ranch, so taking a leisurely ride, walk or stroll through the community is always a pleasure. If fishing is what tickles your fancy, no problem – Camelback Lake is stocked for fishing and sailing is permitted on both Camelback Lake and Lake Margherite. A number of homes snuggled around these lakes even enjoy boat docks, and it's important to note that the lakes and greenbelt are not just for show – they're also designed as part of the community's water drainage system.

Golfers love McCormick Ranch because it has two 18-hole golf courses that mirror the landscape of many of the community's homes – lush tree-lined fairways and a wealth of emerald-green grass. Both courses were designed by Desmond Muirhead and as its name implies, the Palm Course is graced with lots of soaring palm trees. This show-off course has ten water holes and the expert's advice for the signature hole, number nine, is simple: A long iron fairway wood is your best choice, since a hard-hit drive will run you right through the island fairway. Meanwhile, the Pine Course is host to numerous mature pine trees that remind many residents of the Midwest. One of the favorite holes on this course is number 15, which is McCormick Ranch's number-one handicap hole, featuring an island fairway and green. Expert's advice: Aim your shot with just the right amount of power, because any shot over the green will find the water.