Entire home

THE PERFECT HOME: THE BEST! Private,Immaculate,Pool/Spa,Views,Easy walk to Town!

Photo gallery for THE PERFECT HOME: THE BEST! Private,Immaculate,Pool/Spa,Views,Easy walk to Town!

Our pool and patio on another spectacular evening.
The front door Patio! 2025
The front door, 2025
The patio on a beautiful evening! 2019
The entry to the house, 2021.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 4232.3 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Washer

Explore the area

Map
Carefree, AZ
  • Carefree Desert Gardens and Sundial
    ‪10 min walk‬
  • Boulders Golf Club
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Rancho Manana Golf Club
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Phoenix, AZ (DVT-Phoenix Deer Valley)
    ‪24 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Guest room

1 King Bed

Master Bedroom

1 King Bed

2 bathrooms

Guest Bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Hair dryer

Master Bath

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Jetted bathtub · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

THE PERFECT HOME: THE BEST! Private,Immaculate,Pool/Spa,Views,Easy walk to Town!

This home is conveniently located in Carefree/Cave Creek AZ, surrounded by 20 acres of land preserve. Painted Carefree is very private. No close neighbors. Wonderful views of the mountains and its surroundings.

Please inquire: 15% discount from May 15 to September 15, 2025!

We do accept Dogs. Well trained, well mannered Pets. There is a fee. We clean extra each and every time there has been a pet. One would never know that a pooch has visited!

Painted Carefree is an easy walk to many restaurants and attractions both in Carefree and in Cave Creek. Of course you need a car, but in reality you have a very easy walk to town and could go without. This is a single private house, not a villa or condo.

Painted Carefree is very clean and tidy. We take pride in providing many amenities. The house has everything for cooking, for enjoying. Just bring your food and beverages, most everything else is provided. We launder both mattress pads, pillow protectors and blankets after each and every stay. My home is bright and airy and in great condition. It is comfortable and "user friendly". I love this place and I make sure that it is up to my standards and ready for me, move in ready!

Our outdoor living is the very best, cannot be more pleasant. We keep a gorgeous flower garden growing 90% of the year. Petunias, Snapdragons, Sweet Peas, Geraniums, and more are planted annually. Rosemary and Lavender adorn the premiss. Orange, lime and lemon trees grow for you to enjoy the fresh citrus. Jasmine surrounds the home. In the front entr,y we plant Arizona wild flowers. It is so pretty!!
On the back patio we have the greatest wood burning Bee Hive fireplace with a living room set up. So resort like!

Viewed from our back patio are, javalina, quail, coyote, bobcats, desert fox, road runners, jack rabbits and mule deer, all are seen regularly at our watering hole or frolicking in Galloway wash. A mountain lion has been seen as well. (Wish there was a photograph). There is a 360 degree of Mountain views and the very best Arizona sunsets. We always have our bird feeders full and a bird block. These amenities ensure an incredible array of birds. Cardinals, doves, hawks, eagles, Says Phoebe, Woodpeckers, Hummingbirds, Cactus Wren, Phainopepla and so so many more!
The home is located in the heart of Carefree, but one feels like they are way out in the desert because of being surrounded by 20 acres of land trust. The house is situated on 2+ acres with a privacy wall that surrounds the pool and outdoor living area that can be enjoyed day or night.

I am very proud of my home and keep it immaculate , organized and personal. There is a Living room / dining area / TV room and well equipped kitchen. Master bedroom has king sized bed, master bath, walk in closet and a private bedroom patio. The mattress is foam. Guest room has a king sized bed and private bath. The Guest room is well separated from Master bedroom with an entry door to back patio.

Enjoy romantic, starry Arizona nights from the pool, patio or around the outside bee hive fireplace. Great outside dining area. Most enjoyable. Wonderful for entertaining. Wonderful for relaxing. Wonderful for private sunbathing.

Enjoy golf, horseback riding, biking, spring baseball training, hiking, and the Musical Instrument Museum, all are within close proximity . The Boulder Resort is just down the road. Bartlett Lake is 20 miles east with all kinds of boat rentals. Tonto National forest is 5 miles away, meaning you are in the desert without population or development. Great area for bike riding. Hiking at Spur Cross,
Browns Ranch or right outside the back in Galloway Wash is fantastic. We suggest MTM ranch for horseback riding!

We are located in the north end of the Valley of the Sun, anything that Phoenix or Scottsdale has to offer is no further than an hour away or less. Sedona Az. is a good hour north. Tonto National Forest, Bartlett Lake 15-30 minutes east. A great location for city access and real desert living and exploring. Great hikes to indian ruins and parks (Spur Cross, Tonto National Park, Browns Ranch, Sears Kay). All very close. Within walking distance is the post office, grocery store, farmers market, very fine dining, cowboy dining, wine bars, shops and local live music.

Just a Gem! You won't go wrong! And we will make every effort to make sure you are happy. Every Effort!!

During off season, mid may till mid September our cancelation fees are flexible. Please inquire!

Note : this property requires a rental agreement. Rental Agreement can be downloaded at step two in the "Request to Book" process. Once the booking is confirmed please sign the rental agreement and return to owner, by mail. If having trouble with download, please contact VRBO and they will walk you through the process. 1-877-202-4291

Written by a former guest! The Carefree Life The thermometer read just fifty two
And my wife, who’s not a moaner,
Said “Take me away to somewhere warm,
I’ve never been to Arizona.”
So I searched the Net for several hours,
You have to tread warily, see?
But in the end I found us a place,
And its name was Painted Carefree.
There was no doubt, we had to go
And explore the state of Arizona.
A couple of emails, and we’re already friends
With Susan, the property owner.
Four days in Flagstaff to acclimatize
Then we drove down the I 17,
Finding the house was easy because
It’s the most colorful house to be seen.
The painted house was cool, I mean cool(!),
Full of art and rugs and treasures
And so was the pool, in a watery way,
We could splash around there at our leisure.
We were keen to film the wildlife,
And there, just over the wall
Were Mr. and Mrs. Javelina,
With their baby, all stripey and small.
Then came a wily coyote
Strolling along by the wash
It was all so terribly exciting,
What else would we see, oh my gosh!
But later that day, close up to the lens
Was the prettiest thing you could look at,
Taking a drink, with its whiskers all wet.
Was a shy and magnificent bobcat!
We’ve had our fun, enjoyed the sun
There’s been so much to attract us
We loved the hills and critters too
And the amazing saguaro cactus.
The time has come to pack our bags
With a feeling of deflation,
But it’s been just great, a memorable time
What a wonderful vacation!
P & D G, Cambridge, UK
‘By the time we get to Phoenix we’ll be cryin’………

Property manager

Susan L. M. Smith
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool
Hot tub
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Similar properties

House Rules

default

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Please see attached agreement. "Private Pool"
default

Events

No events allowed
default

Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 1 total)
Contact for correct fees concerning your pet/s.
default

Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas
Smoking outside only.
Contact for early check out or arrive earlier to check in. We can adjust in most cases. See attached Rental Agreement for contact information.
Heating pool can be costly in winter. See attached Rental Agreement for information on pool heating. We would like to discuss pool heating directly.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Carefree

Located in Carefree, this holiday home is in the city centre and in the mountains. Cave Creek Museum and Desert Foothills Theater are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Desert Forest Golf Club and Rancho Manana Golf Club. Wild at Heart and Arizona Powerchutes are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Carefree, AZ

What's nearby

  • Carefree Desert Gardens and Sundial - 10 min walk - 0.8 km
  • Boulders Golf Club - 4 min drive - 3.9 km
  • Rancho Manana Golf Club - 5 min drive - 3.8 km
  • Troon North Golf Club - 16 min drive - 15.5 km
  • Mayo Clinic Hospital - 23 min drive - 22.9 km

Getting around

  • Phoenix, AZ (DVT-Phoenix Deer Valley) - 24 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Harold's Cave Creek Corral - ‬17 min walk
  • ‪Buffalo Chip Saloon & Steakhouse - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪Cavecreek Roadhouse - ‬17 min walk
  • ‪El Encanto Mexican Cafe - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪The Hideaway - ‬2 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does THE PERFECT HOME: THE BEST! Private,Immaculate,Pool/Spa,Views,Easy walk to Town! have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool. Pool types include heated pools.

Is THE PERFECT HOME: THE BEST! Private,Immaculate,Pool/Spa,Views,Easy walk to Town! pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total).

Where is THE PERFECT HOME: THE BEST! Private,Immaculate,Pool/Spa,Views,Easy walk to Town! located?

Located in the heart of Carefree, this holiday home is within a 15-minute walk of Carefree Desert Gardens and Sundial and One To One Primary Care. Desert Forest Golf Club and Black Mountain Trail are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 128 out of 131 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 131 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 131 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 131 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 131 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Zoë M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great spot!

Really lovely house and location - would love to visit again.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rob M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing, this IS the perfect private home!

The home is lovely and very well appointed. You just feel “at home” as soon as you arrive. The property manager is the best we have ever worked with! So grateful for our time here.
Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Claire M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Care free in Carefree

Being "home" while being on vacation was a great combination. A lovely property and the attention to detail was impressive
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Adrienne S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 9 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Paul a.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

painted carefree

Everything was as described and was a smooth process.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Exquisite Sonoran Desert Vacation

Spectacular home surrounded by preserved land with phenomenal views of mountains and desert. Home is beautifully appointed and reflects the touch and care of the owner. The house, patio, pool and spa were immaculately clean. The colorful flower beds, bird feeders, and nightly howls of coyotes gave the house a magical feel. Carefree and the neighboring town of Cave Creek still possess the character of the old west. There are several wonderful restaurants in town; many within walking distance. Nearby attractions include Spur Cross for hiking, biking and horseback riding, the Musical Instrument Museum, Native American Indian ruins dating back centuries and much more. This house is perfect for a couple, friends or family vacation. We will definitely be back.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

stephen p., Lafayette, CO

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

As advertised!

Great location and property! Teri and Susan were very accommodating. If you are looking for a property that feels remote yet close to everything - this is it. Well equipped, wonderful views and beautiful patio/pool area, it doesn't get any better.
Stayed 22 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Raquel B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Couldn’t be more Perfect!!

What a great stay! Property was as described, comfortable, fully equipped, and ready to enjoy! Teri was the most helpful host and always available for questions. The eclectic style of the casita inside in addition to the wonderful opportunity to experience nature outdoors makes this such a perfect place to get away. I will be back for sure!!
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Karri G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Bliss at Painted Carefree

Our stay at Painted Carefree exceeded our expectations. If you want peace and serinity this is the place. Its quiet, private, and extremely clean. We will be back for another vacation. The owner and owners helper were amazing to work with and just wonderful people.
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

julie k., New Mexico

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Private and Unique

This is a quiet, private and unique property situated close to entertainment and dining options. Located about 15 minutes from the Scottsdale Quarter shopping. The property is well appropriated, check in was seamless and Terri was available and attentive. The backyard and pool were nice and private with several seating options and a pool to cool off in. We enjoyed relaxing and watching wildlife in the morning and evenings. The home stayed wonderfully cool (that being an important feature in 115 degree weather). I would recommend listening for coyotes in the early morning hours. Basha’s grocery will deliver to your door and You really must visit Earl’s Greasy Eats nearby. Best breakfast burrito ever.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kelley P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Painted Carefree Retreat

We so much loved our time spent at this beautiful, peaceful, relaxing, private space. so close to town… yet… so far away. We felt so comfortable! Not just the Beds or Furniture… that’s just a Bonus! It feels loved and planned out for a perfect Retreat. We didn’t need anything else! Everything you could want is There. From the booking ease and great communication with Susan… and… Teri greeting us with the coffee we drink and breakfast treats! It was a pleasure chatting with her as she showed us around the house and pointed out paintings, pictures artwork. Everywhere you look has a beautiful view! This place is Very Special. Thank You 😊
Stayed 9 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

john & judy b.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A little bit of heaven...The desert is so quiet and peaceful.

Great!!
Stayed 9 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Floyd S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Painted Carefree is one-of-a-kind

Private but close to everything we needed, and this home is lovely, well stocked and perfect for 2 couples. The owners and property mgr. we’re friendly and delightful to work with.
Stayed 13 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Aleks B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

An Arizona Treasure

We loved our stay at the Painted House. The home is a treasure and the location is idyllic. The town of Carefree is walking distance and oh so charming. We loved all of the unique hand-selected decor at the house - Susan has great taste. We enjoyed the fireplace outside and the hot tub so much! The home has everything needed for a wonderful stay and we really appreciated the thoughtful touches throughout - games, a toddler booster seat we were so thankful for and welcome coffee/creamer and pastries upon arrival. It was a great place for our two pups as well. After all, its not a family trip without them! Teri and Susan were so warm and lovely. It was chilly while we were there so the pool was freezing and unfortunately it would have been too expensive to heat it but we still had the best family vacation. A perfect oasis to disconnect and reconnect with the ones you love. We hope to come back next year!
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Marty C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful home in beautiful location

Colorful walls; amazing outdoor area-hot tub, pool, grilling, eating, orange trees, etc.; comfy master, good bathrooms, nice kitchen, good spaces, etc. We hope to stay again!
Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Shannon S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Private home with great views

This home is lovely. Carefree and Cave Creek are so close to Phoenix but feel so far away. The hot tub is amazing. Bedding, mattress, pillows all were very comfortable. Kitchen is nicely stocked with herbs and spices, condiments and plastic bags if needed. Internet connection and cellular service are fast. We will return.
Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Tracey P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best stay in Arizona ever!

This home was everything as advertised and more. The property manager Teri went above and beyond communicating with us and making sure everything was seamless. We loved the home, the vibe and the location. Cannot wait to visit again.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Shelby D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Absolutely perfect!

We had such a wonderful time at Painted Carefree! We fell in love with the house immediately, and felt so at peace during our week there. Watching for animals behind the terrace was a special treat each morning with our coffee, and the pool cooled us off after lazing in the sun and shade. I especially loved the outdoor fireplace at night to sit by while looking at the stars, reading and just enjoying the surroundings and incredible sunsets. Communication with Susan and Teri was warm and perfect, and the goodies Teri left us in the refrigerator were much appreciated. Thank you Susan for sharing your beautiful home, we hope to be back next year!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Tonya H., Arkansas

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect!

Location, but privacy. So restful and carefree. A beautiful, cozy and clean home away!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jurgen L., Berlin, Germany

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Carefree AZ Vacation

Lovely home in great location! Complete privacy and well-maintained property. Close to shopping and all that AZ has to offer. We had a great time and hope to return again soon.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lisa D., Denver Colorado USA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful, zen-like retreat

Peaceful, zen-like retreat for a long getaway. The outdoor garden/patio space was ideal for relaxing and entertaining. No detail was overlooked - from the fully stocked kitchen to a host breakfast first morning to a Smart TV to the scenic wash behind TV. Carefree is a short walk away and features restaurants, galleries and boutiques. We will definitely return. Loved Susan, John and Teri - so friendly and helpful!
Stayed 14 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Linda V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Carefree Living!

Great location and wonderful outdoor space with pool, hot tub and wood burning fireplace. Home sits on over 2 acres with easy access to walking in Galloway Wash right out the back gate! Comfortable home with two bedrooms and two baths located within walking distance to Carefree. Very private with wonderful sunsets and attentive property management.
Stayed 18 nights in Jan 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jeffery H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect new year's stay 2021/22

Greatly enjoyed the inside and outside of the property at Carefree. Walked the wash, identified some cacti and birds. Also went for two long hikes nearby in Cave Creek. Excellent markets, restaurants, and shopping less than 1 mile away. The highlights of the property for us were the hot tub and pool, outdoor fire place, and lounging in the comfortable living room playing games and cards with our 10 year old son.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Melissa Pearson T., Powell Butte, Oregon

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wow! Great Carefree home!

Such a lovely property and location. Close to all Carefree has to offer. Beautiful grounds as well as home. Kitchen well stocked with everything we needed, comfortable bed, TV room for watching the game, wonderful pool & Hot tub, and woo hoo very pet friendly. Communication with Manager and Owner was easy peasy. We plan to return!
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Tom P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Desert Paradise

We had a magical stay at the painted house in Carefree! What a wonderful town, so aptly named, and the house was just perfect ~ Beautifully decorated, lovely pool, breathtaking views! We received a much needed break in this tranquil desert paradise!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2021

About the host

Hosted by Susan L. M. Smith

Host profile image
Featured in the photo is Teri on the left and Susan on the right. I, Susan, am a outdoor type person. Love animals, love to garden, love great food, love to have fun. You will recognize all these passions at my lovely home!
Teri is my manager and great friend. She is an Arizona native and knows her away around like no other. She takes extreme pride in caring for Painted Carefree and our guests.
My home in Carefree is very special. We take the best care of it that we can. We want your vacation to be personal. Please feel free to contact us for your needs and for anything that makes you as content as possible. We aim to please you and to make this a fun, relaxing great experience for you. Our home is really well kept. We are very serious about the beds and linens. Have fun!

Why they chose this property

This home was purchased in Carefree as our retirement home. It is perfect. Perfect location, perfect layout, perfect views. The house is a perfect size for a couple or two. While in the home, you feel like it is really big, but it is not. You can easily manage it without feeling over whelmed. It truly is perfect. I am not ready to retire and am letting others enjoy it till my time comes. This is a home not just a rental! Please take care of my sweet Painted Carefree!

What makes this property unique

Privacy! Privacy! Privacy! Views! Views! Views! Plus amazing wild life. Superior Resort Living within the privacy of a home. We take extreme pride in providing a lovely home for your vacation. Every thing is clean and all is working well. We are particular with caring for our beds and linens, changing the mattress pad after each stay is part of our routine. We are available to help you at most anytime with any concern. Check out our awesome reviews.
Outdoor living at its very best.
We are centrally located for easy access to major roads that connect you to the beautiful parks and attractions of Arizona. Far enough away from the highways to be in a rural community, yet close enough to go to other wonderful Arizona places with ease. Being north of Scottsdale puts you in a more rural community without the hustle and bustle of the city, yet with a simple drive the city is accessible. The access to hiking and outdoor activities is right here without excessive traffic. Our Carefree/Cave Creek location is in town, which, means most everything is in walking distance. You may walk to dinner, wine bars and walk home. You can walk to the grocery store or post office. But when you are at the home you would think that town is a zillion miles away and that is because we are sounded by 20 acres of Land Trust. Your going to love it, just like I do, just like everyone else that has visited.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests