Weekend Warrior | January 31-February 1, 2026
New Year Means New Routines
January in the Valley has a way of making you notice the little things that have been quietly bothering you since before the holidays—maybe it’s the kitchen counter that’s turned into a paper collection zone, or the entryway that’s always cluttered with shoes after a hike at South Mountain. The slower winter pace gives you space to see what’s really working (and what isn’t) in your home, and to realize that these aren’t personal failings at all—just signs that your space could use a little more structure to match your daily rhythm. The good news? Most of it can be fixed in a single weekend with simple setups and small daily habits that help everything run more smoothly for the next twelve months.
Weekend Warrior: Big Energy, Bigger Impact
If last week was any indication, 2026 is wasting no time finding its rhythm. From an incredible broker open at our Harmony listing in Fulton Ranch to strong pre-market interest and qualified buyer showings already underway, this week reminded us why preparation and relationships still matter most. When you invest early - through strategic outreach, thoughtful presentation, and meaningful agent connections - you create momentum before a home ever goes live. And that’s exactly what we’re seeing right now.
Alongside that, our team has been busy supporting buyers in multiple-offer situations as activity continues to heat up across the Valley. Even as inventory grows, the best homes in the best pockets are still moving quickly - and winning in this market requires clarity, responsiveness, and a strong advocate in your corner. Outside of transactions, we’ve been just as focused on staying connected to the community. Between ongoing partnerships, upcoming events, and our current food and Valentine’s drives supporting local families and seniors, we’re proving daily that real estate is about more than houses and the communities they are in - it’s about people, relationships, and showing up consistently.
Brand New Listing in Gilbert's Popular Chaparral Estates
Tucked into the welcoming Chaparral Estates neighborhood, this home offers something rare: a serene residential setting with walkable access to everyday conveniences and quick connections to downtown Gilbert, Agritopia and South Gilbert living.
Looking ahead, we have exciting listings coming soon across both the East and West Valley, continued early-access opportunities for serious buyers, and more ways to serve, connect, and give back in the weeks ahead. Whether you’re planning a move, watching the market closely, or simply looking for ways to stay engaged locally, we’re here - and we’re grateful to do this work alongside such an incredible community.
Let’s make it a great weekend. 💛
On a Budget to Prep a Home? Here's What We'd Do.
In the Valley, where homes range from mid-century ranches in Arcadia to newer builds in Gilbert and Peoria, preparing a home for sale doesn’t have to mean a full remodel. After walking through hundreds of homes before they hit the market, one thing is clear: buyers don’t fall in love with expensive upgrades — they fall in love with homes that feel clean, bright, and easy to imagine themselves living in. When you’re working with a fixed budget, the goal isn’t to renovate, but to remove the small reasons a buyer might hesitate or adjust their offer, and this ,500 breakdown shows exactly how we’d allocate a realistic budget to help a Valley home photograph better, show better, and ultimately sell faster.
🔥 BRAND NEW LISTINGS - VALLEYWIDE 🔥
Should You Rent or Buy in 2026: Our Hot Take on Valley Real Estate
If you’re weighing whether to rent or buy in 2026, you’ve probably noticed that everyone has an opinion — and many of them sound like financial advice from someone who bought their house in 1987. Here in the Valley, that choice can feel even more complicated, with options ranging from long-established neighborhoods like Arcadia to newer master-planned communities in places like Gilbert or Peoria. The rent-versus-buy decision lives at the intersection of money, lifestyle, and what you want your future to look like. Yes, mortgage rates...
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.
Check Out Our Newest Listings All Across the Valley
We’re heading into February 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 as the year gets underway. Early January is often quieter on the surface, but listings like these are a reminder that momentum is very real - and that well-priced, well-located homes are still drawing strong interest right out of the gate.
A Stunning $4.5 Million Dollar Estate in the Gated Island at 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: Familiar Patterns, Better Payments & Why Context Still Matters
As we close out January, we’re taking a step back to look at how today’s market compares to this time last year - and the headline is simple: a little more movement, a little more choice, and a lot of reasons to look beyond just the headlines. Across the Valley, active listings are up nearly 10% compared to last year, which means buyers have more options than they did in early 2025. At the same time, demand is also stronger. Pending sales are up, more homes are moving through escrow, and year-to-date closings have increased by almost 5%. In other words, homes are still selling - buyers just have more time and more opportunity to be thoughtful.
Pricing tells a similar story of balance. The average price per square foot on closed homes is slightly higher than last year, while the median sales price is down about 1.4%. That’s not a crash or a boom - it’s a market adjusting and stabilizing. Sellers are still seeing solid values, especially in well-priced, well-marketed homes, while buyers are no longer chasing runaway prices in most areas.
One of the biggest changes from last year is financing. The typical 30-year fixed rate is now around 6.19%, down from just over 7% a year ago. That difference translates into real monthly savings for many families. Yet even with this improvement, the market hasn’t suddenly “taken off”—which reminds us that interest rates are only one piece of the puzzle. Lifestyle needs, job changes, family plans, confidence, and timing all play major roles too.
We’re also seeing more transparency around “Coming Soon” listings, which gives a clearer picture of what’s really coming to market. Most homes in this status only stay there for about six days, and only a small percentage use it long-term. For most buyers and sellers, this means the impact on overall timing is minimal - but it reinforces how important early awareness and strong local guidance can be.
Overall, today’s market looks remarkably similar to last year in terms of balance. Inventory is slightly higher, demand is stronger, days of inventory are up modestly, and prices are steady. The result is a healthier, more predictable environment - especially compared to the extremes of recent years. The takeaway? This is a market that rewards preparation and good questions.
For buyers, it means more room to evaluate options, negotiate wisely, and focus on long-term fit. For sellers, it means pricing, presentation, and marketing matter more than ever. And for everyone, it means the most helpful conversations aren’t just about “Is now the time?”—they’re about cash flow, lifestyle, flexibility, and what the next chapter really looks like.
Whether you’re actively planning a move or simply staying informed, we’re here to help you make sense of the numbers and turn them into confident decisions—whenever the timing is right for you.
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.
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...
🔥 UPCOMING EVENTS 🔥
6 Steps to Planning a Successful Business Mixer
We LOVE connecting with our community and sharing each others stories. Every Quarter, The ...
Our event calendar is officially back in full swing, and we’re easing into the year with all the things that make this community special. We just wrapped up Playdate on the Green last week, and it was exactly the kind of fun, relaxed connection we love seeing - kids playing, parents catching up, and neighbors becoming friends.
Next up is our monthly Moonlit Movies on the Green at Verde at Cooley Station, featuring Frozen, which feels like the perfect January pick (even if “frozen” is very relative here in Arizona). We’re also getting excited for our February Business Mixer, a favorite way to bring local professionals together with intention, where we’ll be collecting and creating Valentine’s Day cards for seniors as part of our give-back focus.
Behind the scenes, we’re preparing to announce upcoming volunteer events with ICAN and Branching Out through Community on Purpose, and yes - we promise the summer pool party will be back too… just not quite yet. It’s still a little cold for that 😉

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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.
📅 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!
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.
Thinking about buying or selling a home?
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