Weekend Warrior | May 29-31, 2026
Fifty Local Summer Break Activities (Including Some FREE Ones!)
Summer break is almost here, and if you're already wondering how you're going to keep the kids entertained (and cool) for the next few months, you're definitely not alone. Between the rising temperatures and the endless chorus of "I'm bored," summer can feel a little overwhelming for parents. That's why we've rounded up 50+ fun, budget-friendly summer activities to help keep your kids busy, engaged, and making memories all season long â without breaking the bank or requiring a Pinterest-level plan. âïžđ
Live NOW in Ahwatukee - Mountain Views for DAYS...
Set on an oversized corner lot in one of Ahwatukeeâs most loved communities, this beautifully updated single-level home offers the kind of setting buyers move to Arizona hoping to find. Mountain views surround the property, creating a backdrop that feels peaceful, expansive and connected to the outdoors from nearly every angle. With 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and extensive improvements completed over the years, this home blends thoughtful design with everyday comfort.
Weekend Warrior: Summer Is Knocking âïžđĄ
If May has taught us anything, it's that life doesn't slow down just because the temperatures start climbing.
This week we celebrated more of the moments that make us love what we do â helping first-time homebuyers get the keys to their future, helping sellers take the next step toward building their dream home, and even helping a buyer successfully get under contract on a short sale. Yes, they still exist! They're rare these days, but every now and then a unique opportunity finds its way into the market.
Speaking of opportunities, our latest market update is out, and the message continues to be remarkably consistent: don't let the headlines make your decisions for you. The market isn't perfect, but it is creating opportunities for buyers and sellers who have a plan. If a move makes sense for your family, your finances, and your future, there are still ways to make today's market work in your favor.
Outside of real estate, we wrapped up another incredible Community on Purpose event. Thanks to our friends at Eco Roofing and everyone who attended our recent $100 Dinner, we raised $1,200 for Community on Purpose and were able to surprise one very deserving server at George & Gather with a matching donation. Watching a room full of people come together to make an impact never gets old.
Coming Soon in Chandler - You Won't Find This One on Zillow!
Located in one of Chandlerâs most desirable communities, this beautifully updated home offers a rare blend of privacy, thoughtful upgrades, and flexible living space. Set beside a walking path with no homes behind, it feels peaceful and tucked away while still close to everything the East Valley has to offer. With more than 80,000 in improvements, the home has been carefully designed to combine comfort, functionality, and elevated finishes throughout.
New Price on this Chandler, Arizona Home Under $400K
Thereâs something special about a home that just feels easy the moment you walk in - and this one delivers. Fully remodeled and thoughtfully maintained, this 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom home blends comfort, style, and opportunity in one of Chandlerâs most connected locations. Whether youâre looking for your next home, a low-maintenance second property, or an investment thatâs already proven itself, this one checks every box.
Now our attention turns toward summer. We're finalizing volunteer opportunities with ICAN, getting ready to announce another season of movie nights and playdates with Verde, and looking forward to all the ways we'll continue connecting families and communities over the next few months.
We've also seen an increase recently in conversations around trusts, wills, estates, and helping families navigate the loss of a loved one. While those situations are never easy, they are incredibly common, and we're always happy to share what we've learned, offer a second opinion, or connect you with trusted professionals who can help guide the process.
Inside this week's edition you'll find our latest market update, new opportunities around the Valley, community events, and practical insights to help you make informed decisions â whether you're planning a move this summer or simply keeping an eye on what's next.
As always, thanks for being here. We appreciate you more than you know. đ
Inside this weekâs edition:
đĄ New listings + recent closings
đ A fresh market breakdown in plain English
âïž Summer opportunities for buyers
đ Upcoming events, volunteer dates, and ways to get involved
đ Open houses happening this weekend across the Valley
Whether youâre planning your next move, trying to survive May-cember, or simply looking for ways to stay connected this summer⊠weâve got you covered.
New Price on this Chandler, Arizona Home Under $400K
Thereâs something special about a home that just feels easy the moment you walk in - and this one delivers. Fully remodeled and thoughtfully maintained, this 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom home blends comfort, style, and opportunity in one of Chandlerâs most connected locations. Whether youâre looking for your next home, a low-maintenance second property, or an investment thatâs already proven itself, this one checks every box.
đMarket Watch: Don't Believe the Hype
If you've read the news lately, you may have seen two completely opposite headlines.
One said Phoenix inventory is approaching record highs. Another said Arizona is facing a massive housing shortage. So which is it?
According to this month's Cromford Report, the answer is... neither.
The truth is much less dramatic and much more useful: the Greater Phoenix housing market is remarkably stable right now. Inventory is sitting in a normal range, prices have remained relatively steady for more than two years, and buyers are continuing to sign contracts despite mortgage rates hovering in the mid-6% range. In fact, listings under contract are up more than 11% compared to this time last year.
That's exactly what we're seeing on the ground.
This week alone we helped first-time homebuyers, sellers moving on to build their dream homes, and even a buyer secure a short sale â something we don't see very often anymore. The opportunities are out there for people who know how to find them.
For buyers, this remains one of the more favorable negotiating environments we've seen in years. While inventory isn't excessive, it's certainly healthier than the frenzy markets of 2021 and 2022. That means buyers have options, negotiating power, and the ability to be thoughtful about their decisions. Those windows don't tend to stay open forever.
For sellers, don't make the mistake of thinking summer means "wait until fall." Some of our own listings continue to go under contract well ahead of average marketing times because buyers are still active and serious homes are still attracting attention. The report notes that while buyers remain largely in the driver's seat, condition, pricing, incentives, and marketing matter more than ever.
The Bloom Summer Issue is Here!
Summer in the East Valley doesnât have to be something you just âget throughâ â it can actually be something you enjoy. If youâre looking for ways to keep your kids busy (and happy) during those long summer days in Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, and beyond, the Bloom Summer Edition is your go-to starting point. Inside, youâll find fresh inspiration for making the most of summer with toddlers through school-aged kids â from simple local outings and water play ideas to easy, low-pressure ways to say yes to fun without overcomplicating your schedule. If youâve been wondering how to fill the days without feeling overwhelmed, this issue is packed with realistic, local ideas designed for busy moms who want a summer that feels a little more joyful and a lot more doable. đ
One trend we're watching closely is the continued strength of the resale market. While new construction continues to struggle, resale transactions are holding up well and demand has proven surprisingly resilient. Luxury properties continue to outperform, but opportunities exist at every price point when expectations match reality.
âïž What This Means for You
Buyers:
If you've been waiting for the "perfect" time, you may be overlooking a very good one. More inventory, more negotiation opportunities, and motivated sellers can create favorable conditions that don't exist in stronger seller markets.
Sellers:
Summer is not a dead season in Arizona. Families are still relocating, first-time buyers are still shopping, and homes that are prepared and priced correctly are still moving.
đ The Big Takeaway
There's no single "best" market.
There's only the market that best supports your goals.
Whether you're buying your first home, moving up, downsizing, navigating a trust or estate situation, or simply wondering what your options look like, the most important thing isn't timing the market perfectly.
It's understanding how to make the current market work for you.
And that's exactly what we're here to help with. đ
New Price on this Mesa, Arizona Home Under $325K
This updated 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath condo in Mesa offers a rare attached 2-car garage and no neighbors above or below, creating the feel of a private townhome with true move-in-ready convenience. Inside, youâll find new tile flooring, freshly painted cabinets, redesigned lighting and fixtures, and beautifully remodeled bathrooms featuring timeless white subway tile.
Why Your Appraisal Matters More Than Ever
Learn how refinancing, HELOCs, and mortgage recasts work and why your homeâs appraisal can make or break your financial strategy. Discover how proper prep can protect your options and help you save and the best kept secret of all? None of these ideas require packing up a single box!
New Price on this Scottsdale, Arizona Home Under $2M
This beautifully upgraded 2,304-square-foot home offers 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and sits on a spacious lot just under a quarter acre in the highly sought-after Paradise Valley School District, blending modern comfort with resort-style living and exceptional versatility. With a private backyard oasis complete with a heated pool, outdoor entertaining areas, and recent major improvements, the property offers the rare combination of move-in-ready comfort, lifestyle appeal, and proven income potential - equally suited for full-time living, a vacation retreat, or a high-performing investment.
đ„ UPCOMING EVENTS & OPEN HOUSES đ„
How Do You Know When You've Got a Good Offer?
When you receive multiple offers on your home here in the Valley, itâs tempting to focus on the highest number and call it a win but experienced sellers know the price is only part of the story. The strongest offer is the one that actually makes it to closing, and that depends on far more than the dollar amount at the top of the page. The real difference between an offer that looks impressive and one that truly performs comes down to the terms and conditions that determine whether the deal will move forward smoothly or fall apart.
One of our favorite parts of these little Instagram snapshots is getting to look back at all the ways this community continues to show up for one another. đ We just wrapped another incredible Business Mixer where attendees filled tables with backpacks and school supplies for Televerde, and weâre already looking ahead to a busy season of giving back. This summer, weâll be partnering with ICAN for volunteer events supporting local kids and families, collecting food and pantry staples for My Motherâs Pantry in San Tan, and when the weather cools down, weâll begin supporting Breast Cancer Awareness Month through chemo bag drives and advocacy efforts. Around here, community isnât a side project - itâs woven into everything we do. And weâd love your help finding even more ways to serve. What are your favorite local charities or causes? Tag us when you post about them or share their current needs so we can highlight them here and in future editions of Weekend Warrior. đ
Weâll be sharing more behind-the-scenes, event updates, and ways to get involved over the next few weeks - so if youâre not already following along on Instagram, thatâs the best place to stay connected and see it all unfold in real time. đ
Around here, events arenât just things to attend - theyâre how we build relationships, strengthen families, and create lasting memories together. If youâre looking for a way to plug in, serve, or simply spend time with great people, there truly is something for everyone this season. đ
Tempe Property with Income Potential Under $750
When you receive multiple offers on your home here in the Valley, itâs tempting to focus on the highest number and call it a win but experienced sellers know the price is only part of the story. The strongest offer is the one that actually makes it to closing, and that depends on far more than the dollar amount at the top of the page. The real difference between an offer that looks impressive and one that truly performs comes down to the terms and conditions that determine whether the deal will move forward smoothly or fall apart.

For Deals, Discounts, Don't Miss Events and HOT local picks for your whole crew, visit East Valley Moms! and subscribe to the EVM Weekender.
Moving to the East Valley soon?
In partnership with East Valley Moms, we've released the East Valley Relocation Guide just for you! With tips for new moms, where to take your kiddos for swim lessons and more - you are not going to want to miss this guide! Download your copy below or message us for details on how to get a hard copy!
East Valley's Best Public Pools for Summer
I absolutely love the water, and honestly, itâs one of the best ways to survive Arizona summers. Growing up here, Iâve loved seeing how much local public pools have evolved, with incredible splash pads, water slides, and interactive play structures that make summer fun accessible for families on almost any budget. Many pools now offer creative programming like poolside storytime and themed events that add an unexpected layer of fun beyond just swimming. Most public pool admissions are only around $2â4 per person, and with free admission days and family pass options, they open up a whole new world of affordable summer play for kids of all ages.
Luxury Chandler Island Listing Under $5M with Two Guest Houses
Welcome to Harmony Place - an extraordinary luxury residence tucked within the gated Island at Fulton Ranch, one of Chandlerâs most coveted lake communities. Thoughtfully designed for elevated living and effortless entertaining, this 6,492-square-foot estate blends architectural presence with warm, livable spaces and a rare level of flexibility. With six bedrooms, six-and-a-half baths, dual guest houses, and resort-style outdoor living on approximately 0.65 acres, this is a home that meets the moment for multigenerational living, hosting at scale, and everyday life done beautifully.
đŹ Your Story Is Our Impact
Weâre still feeling incredibly grateful after being recognized with the Gilbert Chamber Impact Award - but the real impact we care about is the one we make in your lives, every single day. If weâve helped you navigate a move, connected you to the community, or simply made you feel seen and supported, weâd love for you to share your experience in a Google review. Your stories help others find us - and remind us why we do what we do. đ
Check Out Our Newest Listings All Across the Valley
Weâre heading intoSpring with brand-new listings that perfectly reflect the range of homes weâre seeing come to market right now - from San Tan Valley,Mesa, Chandler, Queen Creek and everything in between. From walkable, centrally located living to classic Arizona neighborhoods that balance convenience and comfort, these homes represent the kind of opportunities buyers are already acting on.
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đ Ready to Start Planning Your Move? Let's Sit Down And Chat!
Our team of full time real estate agents (and mommas!) are here to answer your questions and chances are, if you have them - we've had them to! The local Arizona real estate market can be tricky if all you've got to go off of is click bait and old news - we've got the most current stats and can share with you exactly what our clients are seeing...
đČ In Case You Missed It!
Make a Small Home Easier to Live in With These Tips
Small homes often get overlooked, but they can offer some of the most comfortable and functional living spaces around. While they may not have room for every hobby, guest, or storage bin, theyâre typically easier to clean, furnish, maintain, and enjoy. The best small homes arenât defined by their square footage â theyâre defined by how thoughtfully the space is used. Whether itâs a cozy condo, a charming cottage, or a compact apartment, smart design choices can make a home feel spacious, efficient, and welcoming. Here in the Valley, where many buyers are prioritizing affordability and lifestyle, knowing how to maximize a smaller space can make all the difference between a home that feels cramped and one that feels just right. đ
Selling a Long-Term Home? You'll Want to Read This First!
For many long-term homeowners, the biggest challenge isnât pricing the home or updating the kitchen â itâs managing everything thatâs been accumulated over years or even decades of living in one place. Furniture, paperwork, seasonal dĂ©cor, hobby supplies, kidsâ belongings, and everyday life have a way of filling a home with memories and âstuff.â The key is giving yourself time. Sorting gradually over several weeks feels manageable, while trying to tackle everything at once before listing can quickly become overwhelming. A simple room-by-room approach helps: decide whatâs moving with you, what will go to family, what can be donated, and what should be discarded. The goal isnât to empty the house overnight, but to make steady, intentional decisions that keep the process moving forward.
You Found the One...Here's How To Win It!
After touring a dozen homes and scrolling through hundreds more, youâve finally found the one - but in todayâs Valley market, thatâs only half the battle. The real challenge is getting your offer accepted. With multiple offers often in play, success comes down to strategy, speed, and clarity. Thatâs why weâve put together this guide to help you understand the most important factors to consider when itâs time to make a move, so you can submit an offer with confidence and the best chance of winning your dream home.
The 10 Second Scroll Test: Will Your Listing Pass It?
Picture this: a buyer is scrolling through listings on their phone while waiting for coffee at a local cafĂ© in the Valley, and youâve got maybe 10 seconds - tops - to grab their attention before they swipe past. In todayâs market, first impressions happen fast and almost always on a screen. So if youâre thinking about selling, the question is: does your listing make someone stop, look twice, and want to know more?
Relocating to the Valley? Why the Right Agent Matters
Thinking about relocating to Arizona? Whether youâre moving across the country or just looking for a fresh start in a new state, the process can feel overwhelming - but itâs also full of opportunity. From navigating school districts and commute times to finding a neighborhood that fits your lifestyle, thereâs a lot to consider. Thatâs why working with a real estate team that specializes in relocation isnât just helpful - itâs essential. Because relocating isnât just about finding a house - itâs about building a life, and the right agent can make all the difference.
If you LOVED working with us, please share the LOVE!
The Amy Jones Group prides itself on our commitment and service to our clients. Voted Best of Our Valley for nine years running, we appreciate the support from our past clients, vendor and community partners!
Weekend Events
Gilbert Events This Weekend
Gilbert is central to many of Arizonaâs scenic attractions. Northeast lies the Superstition Mountains, the location of the legendary Lost Dutchmanâs Gold Mine, as well as the Tonto National Forest which contains scenery ranging from rugged desert to cool pines. South lies Saguaro National Park...
Chandler Events This Weekend
Whether youâre into live music, outdoor recreation, family-friendly entertainment, performing arts and cultural events, or sporting events, there's plenty of things to do in Chandler this weekend. Stay another day and disconnect with a visit to top attractions and weekend events in and around the Chandler area. There's plenty to do here in Chandler. Find more ideas on our Things to Do page.
Queen Creek Events This Weekend
There is always something happening in Queen Creek from Founder's Day to Garlic Week at the Olive Mill to the Holiday Festival and Parade to the Ice Cream Social - there are fun activities for everyone ALL year long!
Mesa Events This Weekend
During the day, browse artisan vendors and local purveyors at pop-up farmersâ markets â such as the Downtown Mesa Farmersâ Market held every Saturday â or savor the global flavors of Mesaâs dynamic culinary scene at a street fair or food festival. In the evening, laugh it up with friends and family during an improv act at the Neighborhood Comedy Theatre, settle in for a stage production at the Hale Centre Theatre, or listen to live music at a local bar, craft brewery or concert hall.
Thinking about buying or selling a home?
Start your home buying journey today.
See our 8-step home buying process
Find out what your home is worth.
Now is the perfect time to see how much your home has appreciated




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