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Weekend Warrior | January 10-11, 2026
The Amy Jones Group
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New Year Seller Checklist: List Now or Wait?
Most timing advice about selling a house sounds like it was written for someone with unlimited time, a spotless home, and a market that behaves on command - but real life in the Valley rarely fits that script. Between work schedules, school calendars, and the occasional dust storm, timing a sale means balancing what’s practical with what’s possible. This post is a timing checklist for homeowners planning to sell in 2026, designed to help you choose between three realistic windows: listing in winter, prepping for a spring launch, or holding and reassessing later. It works locally because the best time to list depends on what’s happening in your neighborhood, not what a national headline suggests.
Weekend Warrior: Season Kickoff 🏈✨
We’re only ten days into the new year, and wow - the 2026 buzz is already electric. After helping nearly a dozen families cross the finish line in December, we’ve hit the ground running with two closings already this January, another one set for next week in Fulton Ranch (one of our favorite Chandler communities with a listing coming at $4.5M Super Bowl week), and several new listings coming online! Our latest in Clemente Ranch barely hit the market yesterday and already has offers rolling in… proof that preparation matters and momentum is building fast.
If you’ve been wondering whether the market is awake yet - open houses are WILD. Our calendars are packed, the energy is up, and buyers are showing up ready to move. Come find us this weekend and be sure to check out the Showcase Advantage of listing with the Amy Jones Group when you are scrolling this weekend - it really does matter.
But it’s not just houses that are heating up - community is, too. Scroll down for our newest listings, upcoming Business Mixer dates (yes, we’re bringing them back to Mesa, Chandler, and Phoenix), plus details on how you can jump into this year’s service projects with us. And mark your calendar: Verde on the Green returns next week with Tuesday playdates - one of our favorite ways to connect with families right where they are.
We’re so grateful to do this work, and January always feels like game time for our team. This is our Super Bowl season - and we’re just getting started. 🏡
Optimism Emerges for 2026 Home Sales: What Rising Incomes Mean for Buyers and Sellers
When housing affordability makes the headlines, median household income is often cited but what’s rarely explained is that “household income” isn’t a single, uniform measure. The U.S. Census separates households into two distinct categories: family households, made up of two or more related people living together, and non-family households, which include individuals living alone or with roommates. Non-family income...
🔥 HOT New Listings 🔥
Chandler Entertainer’s Dream in Clemente Ranch
Slip into single-level living in this beautifully refreshed Shea Homes residence in highly desirable Clemente Ranch, where comfort meets elevated design. Featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, an oversized backyard retreat, a private pool, and a spacious 3-car garage, this home blends everyday function with lifestyle ease. Thoughtfully updated and move-in ready, it delivers the space, style, and flow today’s homeowners want — all in one of Chandler’s most loved communities.
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A Mesa Hidden Gem in Gila River Ranches
Welcome to Gila River Ranches, a highly desirable Mesa neighborhood where quiet streets, A+ schools, and an unbeatable location come together. This beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath single-level home offers all the right updates—including hardwood floors throughout, a brand-new AC unit, and a recently serviced water heater—making it a truly move-in ready choice in the rapidly growing 85212 zip code.
📊Market Watch: A Strong Start, More Choices, and a Market Waking Up Early
The 2026 market is easing into the year with a quiet confidence. Supply slipped about 10% through December, which means fewer homes on the market today than just a month ago - but we still have more options than we did at this time last year. For buyers, that translates into choice without chaos, though we expect new listings to pick up quickly over the next couple of months as canceled listings return and spring sellers get ready.
December itself proved surprisingly strong. Nearly 6,400 homes closed in Maricopa County - more than 14% higher than last year and well ahead of what we usually see during the holidays. The big movement came from resales, not new construction, confirming a shift: builders have cooled off after two years of dominating sales, while move-in-ready homes are once again leading activity.
Prices held steady and nudged up slightly, but not in a way that changes the story. Median prices are up just 1–3% year over year, while incomes rose faster and rates are lower than most of 2025 - making homes modestly more affordable than they were a year ago, especially under $700K.
And the Cromford® Market Index - our favorite early signal - continues drifting toward sellers. Ten cities are now solidly in seller territory, two are balanced, and six still favor buyers. Gilbert, Phoenix, Mesa, Peoria, Queen Creek, and Goodyear are showing the strongest momentum, driven mostly by shrinking supply rather than a rush of demand.
Bottom line: this is the early, quiet phase of a market turning. Buyers still have negotiating room today, but that advantage could fade as spring approaches. Sellers don’t need to rush, but preparation matters more every week that goes by.
January is when the foundation gets set - and those who start planning now almost always benefit later.
Seven Low Stress Things to Do Now if You Want to Buy this Year
If buying in 2026 is on your radar, winter in the Valley is a great time to get organized. The pace slows just enough, the weather is mild, and you can often carve out a few quiet moments between holiday gatherings and kids’ activities. This season isn’t about rushing to open houses or trying to time the market - it’s about making real progress by getting clear on your numbers, your priorities, and your timeline.
The Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Home Ready to Sell
Thinking about selling your home? Whether you're upsizing, downsizing, relocating, or just ready for a change, it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed at the start. The good news? You don’t have to figure it all out at once. With the right plan, selling your home can feel a lot less stressful - and a lot more strategic. This guide walks you through the key steps to get your home ready for market with confidence, clarity, and a clear sense of purpose.
Waitlist Open & Special Financing Available: Santana Ridge Condos in Chandler
Looking for a sign to stop renting, simplify your lifestyle, or snag an investment in one of Chandler’s hottest hidden gems? This is it. The newest condo release at Santana Ridge isn’t just another listing drop - it’s a rare chance to get into a gated...
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!
Smart Money Moves to Make Now if You Are Thinking of Buying This Year
f selling your home in 2026 is even a maybe, this is a smart moment to get organized — not because you need to decide anything right now, but because a few small financial and planning moves early in the year can bring real clarity. And clarity changes everything. It makes each next step easier and more confident, whether that’s having an informed conversation with an agent, pricing out potential repairs, exploring timing options, or ultimately deciding that staying put is the right choice for now.
Zoo Lights at The Phoenix Zoo - Through January 15th
If you’re a zoo member, consider planning your visit around one of the member preview nights — they’re typically less crowded and (spoken like a true Arizona native) not quite as cold. These special nights happen early in the season, so it’s a good idea to check dates in November. During member preview nights, the zoo also offers a few extras just for members, like appearances by Mrs. Claus and, in past years, free carousel rides, which makes the experience feel a little more magical and a lot more relaxed.
📅 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...
💬 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. 💙
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😲 In Case You Missed It!
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What's Your Exit Plan: Selling with a Bigger Goal in Mind
Most homeowners in the Valley begin by asking, “Is now a good time to sell?”—but that’s not always the best starting point. Selling a home isn’t about timing the market perfectly, it’s about what comes next and whether the move gets you closer to the life you’re building. Maybe it’s a new job in downtown Phoenix, a home that’s become too much to manage, or a desire to swap suburban square footage for the convenience of being closer to the action. Whatever the reason, selling is just one part of a bigger plan—which is why the smartest question isn’t “Should I sell now?” but rather “What am I moving toward, and how do I get there?”
The Secret Life of a Listing: What Happens Before You Ever Go Live
From the outside, it looks quick - one day your home is just your home, and the next it’s online with glossy photos, a polished write-up, and a “For Sale” sign in the yard. But the truth is, getting a home ready to sell is more like producing a reality show: there’s casting (lining up the right photographer, stager, or handyman), set design (making every room shine), and storyline (building the perfect description and marketing plan). By the time your home goes live, it’s the grand finale of a whole production happening behind the scenes - and we’re here to make sure every detail gets its moment in the spotlight.
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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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 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.
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