Weekend Warrior | September 18-20, 2026

Make the Car Stop...on Mead: Chandler's Gated Golf Course Community

New Listing! Hidden at the end of a peaceful cul-de-sac inside the gated Ocotillo Lakes community, this beautifully updated residence immediately feels different. Mature trees surround the property, creating a sense of privacy that's increasingly difficult to find, while thoughtful updates and professional staging highlight the home's timeless architecture and nearly 3,000 square feet of beautifully designed living space.

Weekend Warrior: Steady Doesn't Mean Boring

If this week proved anything, it’s that the market is still very much moving.

Two of our buyers went under contract this week, including one who beat out five other offers in Chandler. That’s a pretty good reminder that while the headlines may make everything sound slow, uncertain, or dramatic, the actual market is a lot more nuanced than that.

We talked about this a LOT with our clients this week too: the market is steady, not stalled. In fact, September is shaping up to be our biggest month of the year, which tells us our clients are paying attention to what is actually happening instead of getting pulled around by clickbait. Some areas still favor buyers, some are more competitive, and some homes are sitting while others are getting multiple offers. The strategy depends on the house, the neighborhood, the price point, and the goal - which is exactly why local context matters so much right now.

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Curious What a Zillow Showcase Listing Looks Like? Check This One Out...

A Zillow Showcase listing gives a home a more premium presentation on Zillow, with enhanced visuals like high-quality photography, video, interactive floor plans, and a more immersive listing experience designed to help the property stand out. At the Amy Jones Group, that premium placement matters because buyers are often deciding which homes to click on before they ever schedule a showing. The more attention, engagement, and time we can earn online, the better chance we have to turn that interest into showings, offers, and ultimately the strongest possible outcome for our sellers.

We also got some serious monsoon action this week (thanks to Eco Roofing, Built Different Restoration and Everest Air who helped our clients through the aftermath), so we’re heading into the weekend a teensy bit cooler, which in Arizona absolutely counts as a win. 😄

And there is a LOT coming up. We’ve got events, community projects, local happenings, new listings, a fresh market update, and plenty of invitations inside this week’s edition.

So scroll on, catch up, and if you’re thinking about buying, selling, moving, volunteering, or just trying to figure out what’s happening around the Valley, we’ve got you.

Union Park in Norterra: NEW PRICE on the MOVE-IN Ready Home!

New Listing! Built in 2023 and lightly lived in, this 2,567-square-foot home offers the look and feel of new construction without the wait. Positioned on a desirable corner lot in Union Park at Norterra, the modern two-story floor plan includes 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, a spacious upstairs loft, and flexible living spaces designed for everyday life.

Inside this week’s edition:

🏡 New listings + recent closings
⚽ A fresh market breakdown in plain English
☀️ Summer opportunities for buyers (AND Sellers!)
⚽ Upcoming events and ways to get involved
🎉 Open houses happening this weekend across the Valley

And wherever your weekend takes you, be sure to tag us - we love seeing what you're up to. 💛

Wayne Ranch New Listing: Open Houses This Weekend

New Listing! An incredible opportunity under $400,000, this move-in ready, single-level home offers 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and 1,881 square feet in Wayne Ranch, right in the heart of growing San Tan Valley. Freshly updated with new flooring, interior paint, modern baseboards, and a new water heater, the home is ready for its next owners without a long list of projects to tackle. The spacious floor plan offers plenty of room to gather, relax, work, and grow, while the covered back patio and generously sized backyard...

Our Homeownership Education Portal Is Live

One of the biggest misconceptions about buying a home is that you have to have everything figured out before you reach out to a real estate agent. The truth is, most people don't know where to start - and that's exactly why we created this resource. We're excited to announce our new partnership with FirstHomeIQ, bringing a complete Homeownership Education Portal to the Amy Jones Group website. Whether you're dreaming about buying your very first home, wondering how much you should save, trying to understand credit and financing, or simply curious about how the process works, you'll now have access to trusted, easy-to-understand education all in one place.

We believe buying a home shouldn't feel intimidating. It should feel empowering. The more you understand the process, the more confident you'll be when it's time to make one of the biggest financial decisions of your life. The portal is designed to let you learn at your own pace with articles, videos, calculators, and educational tools that answer the questions most buyers have long before they're ready to tour homes. Even if buying is still a year - or a few years - away, it's never too early to start building your knowledge. Of course, education is only one piece of the puzzle. Every family's goals, finances, and timeline are different, which is why we're always happy to sit down, answer questions, and help you create a plan that's personalized to you. Think of the portal as your foundation—and our team as your guide whenever you're ready for the next step.

Whether you're a first-time buyer, planning your next move, helping an adult child prepare for homeownership, or simply curious about what's possible, we invite you to explore the new Homeownership Education Portal. Because informed buyers make confident homeowners - and that's exactly what we want for every client we serve. 💛

New Price on this Chandler Luxury Property in Gated Fulton Ranch

Welcome to Harmony Place - an extraordinary luxury residence tucked within the gated Island at Fulton Ranch, one of Chandler’s 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.

📊Market Watch: The Headlines Aren’t the Market

If you only read national real estate headlines, you’d probably think buyers have disappeared, sellers are stuck, and everyone should wait.

That is not what we’re seeing.

September is currently shaping up to be our biggest month of the year, and this week one of our buyers beat out six other offers in Chandler. At the same time, there are still homes sitting, builders offering aggressive incentives, and buyers negotiating concessions.

That may sound contradictory, but it really isn’t.

It just means there is no single “Phoenix market.”

Chandler and Gilbert are Tighter Than The Headlines Suggest

One of the biggest themes in the article we shared this week was land scarcity in Chandler and Gilbert. There simply isn’t the same amount of room to keep building outward in these established East Valley communities, and that changes the resale market.

When supply is naturally constrained, a well-priced, well-presented home can still create real competition.

That’s exactly what our team saw this week with a buyer who had to compete against six other offers in Chandler.

Meanwhile, buyers looking farther out may have more choices because resale homes are competing directly with brand-new construction, and builders are still offering some very compelling incentives.

Different geography. Different supply. Different buyer behavior.

Same metro area.

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Land Scarcity Near Phoenix Is Driving Up Competition in Chandler and Gilbert

Six cities in the Phoenix Valley are in a seller’s market. A short drive south, in Maricopa, inventory has accumulated to a degree that could take years to absorb. The difference has less to do with demand, which remains relatively healthy across both areas, and more to do with where new homes can physically be built.

...Continued from above

💰 Builders Are Still Competing Hard for Buyers

New-home incentives remain one of the biggest opportunities in the market right now.

Builders are using closing-cost credits, rate buydowns, and financing incentives to attract buyers, which means resale sellers in growth areas need to understand what they are actually competing against.

But buyers should also look past the headline incentive.

We’ve said this before because we’re seeing it work: sometimes the better move is to ask for the cash price without the inflated incentive package, then compare that against using your own lender and financing structure.

The advertised deal is not always the best deal.

The best deal is the one that produces the strongest combination of purchase price, monthly payment, cash needed at closing, and long-term equity.

📈 What We’re Watching Right Now

This week, we talked about the fact that pricing has been remarkably steady.

The median price per square foot is hovering around $250, roughly flat from mid-August, while the median sales price remains around $450,000. Even more interesting, homes currently under contract are running closer to $255 per square foot, which suggests the pipeline is stronger than some of the backward-looking headlines would imply.

That doesn’t mean prices are about to take off.

It does mean we’re not seeing the dramatic third-quarter price deterioration that some buyers and sellers may have expected.

And that’s why waiting for a giant “market correction” can be a frustrating strategy if your actual goal is to move.

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Active AirBnB Could Be YOUR Next Permanent Getaway in Mesa!

Tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac in one of Mesa's established neighborhoods, this beautifully maintained home offers the perfect balance of everyday comfort and unforgettable outdoor living. With no HOA, a desirable corner lot, and a proven history as a successful Airbnb, you'll enjoy the flexibility to make this property exactly what you want it to be—your forever home, vacation retreat, or investment opportunity.

Buying a Home as a Self Employed Buyer

One of the first things a lender will look at is how long you’ve been self-employed. They want to know that your income is stable and that your business is likely to keep generating revenue. In many cases, lenders prefer to see at least two years of consistent self-employment history. If you haven’t been in business that long, you may still qualify if you have significant experience in the same industry or line of work. Every situation is different, but a solid two-year track record can make the process much more straightforward.

...Continued from above

⛳ The Real Question Is: What Are Buyers Choosing?

This is where the market gets much more useful. Instead of asking, “Is the market good or bad?” we’d rather ask: What are buyers choosing in your ZIP code and price range?

Are they choosing new construction because the builder is buying down the rate? Are they paying a premium for a move-in-ready resale? Are they ignoring homes that need work? Are they willing to compete for a property in a neighborhood with limited inventory? Are they negotiating $10,000 in closing costs somewhere else?

Those answers tell us far more than a national headline ever could.

💛 What This Means for Buyers and Sellers

For buyers, there is still plenty of leverage in parts of the market — but don’t assume that means every home is negotiable. If the right property comes up in a tight neighborhood, you may still be competing.

For sellers, this is why preparation matters so much. You are not simply competing against the house down the street. Depending on your location and price point, you may be competing against builder financing, updated homes, better monthly payments, or simply a property with less work attached to it.

The market is steady. The opportunities are real. And the people making the smartest moves right now are the ones looking past the clickbait and paying attention to what buyers and sellers are actually doing.

A Practical Guide for Relocating to the Valley

Relocating buyers face a specific set of challenges that a standard purchase doesn't involve: limited ability to tour, no firsthand feel for neighborhoods, compressed decision windows, and no local network to draw on. Working through each of those deliberately is what separates a smooth relocation purchase from a stressful one. If you're planning a move to the Valley, the key is approaching each stage with structure and clear expectations.

Elevating the Luxury Real Estate Experience

Luxury real estate is about much more than a home with a higher price tag. It's about thoughtful representation, strategic marketing, trusted relationships, and understanding that every client's definition of luxury is different. That's why we've expanded the luxury resources on the Amy Jones Group website—to give buyers and sellers a place to explore not only Arizona's exceptional properties, but also the expertise, global connections, and personalized service that make a difference when navigating the luxury market.

As members of the Luxury Real Estate network, our clients benefit from far more than a designation behind our name. Sellers gain access to one of the world's largest luxury real estate platforms, connecting their home to qualified buyers both locally and around the globe. Buyers gain access to an extensive network of luxury professionals, exclusive opportunities, and experienced guidance throughout every step of their search. Combined with more than two decades of experience serving the Phoenix metro area, these relationships allow us to deliver local expertise backed by international reach.

Whether you're considering the sale of a luxury property, searching for your next home, relocating to Arizona, or simply exploring what's available in our market, we invite you to browse our Luxury Real Estate resources. Our goal has never been to impress clients with credentials alone. It's to show how those relationships, designations, and partnerships translate into better marketing, stronger representation, broader exposure, and an elevated experience from beginning to end. 💛

Check Out Our Newest Listings All Across the Valley

We’re heading intoSpring with brand-new listings that perfectly reflect the range of homes we’re 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.

CHECK IT OUT!

🔥 UPCOMING EVENTS & OPEN HOUSES 🔥

One of our favorite things about this time of year is seeing how many different ways this community continues to show up for one another. 💛 We’re officially wrapping up our Rhinestone Ranch project with Branching Out, and what started as a big idea turned into more than $5,000 in donations, incredible partners helping with the work inside the home, and so many people contributing time, resources, furniture, supplies, and heart. We are so excited to know the girls will be moving in soon and that these spaces were created with so much care behind them.

And we are definitely not slowing down from here. Fall is packed with opportunities to connect, serve, celebrate, and spend time together. We’ve got the Women Empowered Fall Social on September 29, our Breast Cancer Awareness Month and chemo-pack fundraising projects underway, First Sips on October 6, Girls’ Night Out at Verde with Mummies Day Out on October 14, Hocus Pocus on the Green and EcoRoofing’s annual Trunk or Treat on October 16, Tiny Pumpkins Play Date on October 20, The Village Athletic Club in Chandler on October 24, and an ICAN Harvest Party on October 27. Then we roll right into another First Sips on November 3. Whew!

There’s a little bit of everything ahead - volunteer opportunities, family events, women’s events, community gatherings, and plenty of chances to simply get together. Around here, community is never a side project. It’s woven into how we do business, how we build relationships, and how we make sure the people and organizations doing important work around us feel supported.

So save a few dates, bring a friend, bring the kids, volunteer where you can, and keep telling us about the causes that matter to you. We’ll keep doing our best to connect the people who want to help with the places that need them most. 💛

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.

Home Selling Surprises to Expect in the Valley

If there's a mantra every seller should memorize before listing, it's this: expect the unexpected. While we're going to educate you about the process of selling your home and share our thoughts about how the sale could go based on what's happening in your market right now, no two sales are exactly alike. There are buyers, inspectors, lenders, appraisers, showing schedules, repair requests, and a surprising number of small details that can affect your plans, your budget, or both.

We’ll be sharing more behind-the-scenes, event updates, and ways to get involved over the next few weeks - so if you’re not already following along on Instagram, that’s the best place to stay connected and see it all unfold in real time. 💛

Around here, events aren’t just things to attend - they’re how we build relationships, strengthen families, and create lasting memories together. If you’re looking for a way to plug in, serve, or simply spend time with great people, there truly is something for everyone this season. 💛

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!

Download Here

Arizona Adventure Guide for Families

At East Valley Moms, we’ve spent more than a decade helping local families discover things to do close to home—and over the years, some of my favorite stories to share have been the ones that take us beyond the East Valley and exploring our state.

💬 Your Story Is Our Impact

We’re 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 we’ve helped you navigate a move, connected you to the community, or simply made you feel seen and supported, we’d 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. 💙

Who do you know with real estate needs?

The greatest compliment you could give, is the referral of your friends or family. Trusting us with their real estate needs is an honor and a compliment we take very seriously! Click the link below to refer them and be assured that they will be well taken care of!

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😲 In Case You Missed It! Check Out our Blog!

The Renovations Paperwork You'll Want To Gather Up!

A renovated kitchen, finished basement, new roof, or upgraded heating system can add a lot to your home’s story. When it’s time to sell, however, buyers may want to know more than what they can see. They may also ask when the work was completed, who completed it, and whether permits, warranties, or service records are available. Here in the Valley, having those documents ready can make conversations with buyers smoother and help us describe the work with confidence.

Thinking About Selling Your Rental Property?

Maybe the property has been a good investment, but you’re ready to cash out. Maybe being a landlord has become more work than you expected. Or perhaps the lease is coming up for renewal and you’re wondering whether this is the right time to sell.

Selling an Inherited Home - What To Do First

An inherited home comes with its own set of legal, financial, and logistical decisions, and most of them need to be sorted out before a listing conversation even begins. If you're handling an inherited property here in the Valley, you may also be coordinating from a distance or balancing input from other family members. The property may be in another city. The condition may be unknown. Other family members may have a stake in what happens next. This post covers what needs to happen before an inherited home is ready to sell, and where to turn for the right guidance at each step.

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, they’re typically easier to clean, furnish, maintain, and enjoy. The best small homes aren’t defined by their square footage — they’re defined by how thoughtfully the space is used. Whether it’s 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. 💛

You Found the One...Here's How To Win It!

After touring a dozen homes and scrolling through hundreds more, you’ve finally found the one - but in today’s Valley market, that’s 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. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you understand the most important factors to consider when it’s 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 café in the Valley, and you’ve got maybe 10 seconds - tops - to grab their attention before they swipe past. In today’s market, first impressions happen fast and almost always on a screen. So if you’re 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 you’re moving across the country or just looking for a fresh start in a new state, the process can feel overwhelming - but it’s also full of opportunity. From navigating school districts and commute times to finding a neighborhood that fits your lifestyle, there’s a lot to consider. That’s why working with a real estate team that specializes in relocation isn’t just helpful - it’s essential. Because relocating isn’t just about finding a house - it’s about building a life, and the right agent can make all the difference.

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📅 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...

Gilbert Events This Weekend

Gilbert is central to many of Arizona’s scenic attractions. Northeast lies the Superstition Mountains, the location of the legendary Lost Dutchman’s 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 you’re 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 farmers’ markets — such as the Downtown Mesa Farmers’ Market held every Saturday — or savor the global flavors of Mesa’s 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.