Weekend Warrior | October 25-26, 2025
10th Annual Amy Jones Group Holiday Pie Event at Discovery Park
It's that time of year again and we can't wait to celebrate with you as we head into another holiday season together. With food from Miracle Mile Deli, tons of activities for the kids, and of course our signature professional family photos for your holiday cards - don't miss the chance to celebrate the season with friends, family and community! RSVP so we know how much food to bring!
Brand New Listing in the Resort Community of Sun Lakes in Chandler, Arizona
Welcome to your light-filled villa in Oakwood Country Club, where every window frames views of manicured greenbelts and mature trees. Come check it out this weekend along with the neighborhood yard sales for some great finds, and your perfect home to bring them back to!
Weekend Warriors: Contracts, Community & a Whole Lot of Candy 🍬🎃
If last week was sunshine and sold signs… this week was a whirlwind!
Between new contracts, community events, and a flurry of fall festivities, our crew somehow figured out how to be in two (or maybe three or four!) places at one time - maybe it was all those pieces of candy we snuck in between events. The Kerby & Pinelake G.A.I.N night, Verde Movies on the Green, a school trick or treat event - we were finding wrappers in our laundry all week! But, we put that suger fuel to good use with -
✅ Three listings under contract this week and offers already rolling in for weekend open houses.
✅ Two more buyers found their dream homes just in time to close before the holidays.
✅ Multiple price improvements across our active listings for those ready to make their move.
✅ And the market? Definitely showing a pep in its step with buyer confidence rising and another potential rate reduction on the horizon.
But the real magic? The community connection.
We kicked off our holiday nonprofit initiatives with an incredible week of service - volunteering alongside Desert Federal Credit Union and Home Stretch at the Hartford Elementary Harvest Festival, delivering your donated costumes to Hands On Greater Phoenix for kids in foster care, and getting ready to share gift tags from Branching Out’s Annual Giving Trees Kickoff coming next month.
This time of year, there’s so much happening - the push, the pull, and the pause of the season all competing for your attention. Let us help you focus on what matters most - whether that’s finding your next home, giving back, or finally slowing down with a slice of pumpkin pie (don't miss our community event to take home your very own!) and a warm cup of joe. ☕🎃
Scroll on for:
🏡 New Listings + Weekend Open Houses
📊 Market Momentum: Why Buyers Are Back (and Sellers Should Be Too)
💛 Community Drives & Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities
🛍️ Holiday Events You Won’t Want to Miss
Let’s plug in, make moves, and make memories - and don’t forget to tag us in your Halloween pics this week if you celebrate! 👻 We can't wait to see those little ghosts and ghouls running around!
From Sun Lakes to Arcadia Lite: This new Arcadia Lite Condo Really Shines
Tucked quietly inside one of Arcadia Lite’s most coveted enclaves, this corner, ground-level condo captures everything locals love about the neighborhood - tree-lined streets, chic restaurants, and a touch of mid-century charm. Overlooking the community pool and courtyard, this one-bedroom retreat offers an ideal mix of privacy, natural light, and connection to the outdoors.
📊 Market Momentum: Offers Up, Confidence Up & The Countdown to a Rate Drop
There’s a noticeable shift happening - and it’s not just the weather.
The Valley real estate market has found its footing again, and buyers are finally starting to move instead of wait.
🧠 What’s Really Happening
After weeks of stability, mortgage rates have held steady in the low 6’s - and with whispers of another rate reduction just days away, buyer confidence is picking up fast. We’re seeing more showings, stronger offers, and multiple contracts coming together across nearly every price point.
The result? Momentum.
✅ Buyer activity is up week-over-week.
✅ Sellers are repositioning strategically with price improvements and concessions.
✅ And listings that have been sitting? Suddenly getting serious attention.
Meanwhile… inventory remains tight across much of the East Valley, meaning that even as prices hold steady, competition is quietly building beneath the surface.
➡️ Translation: We’re in the sweet spot between “quiet correction” and “busy season surge.”
🍕 For Buyers
This is your window - before rates drop again and competition climbs.
Active listings have not surged post-summer, keeping supply limited.
Average concessions are still around $10K, with many sellers open to creative terms.
Entry-level homes remain 10–15% below 2022 peak prices, and there’s real leverage for those willing to write offers before the holiday rush.
💰 Pro tip: Don’t wait for rates to fall - shop now, secure the home, and refinance later.
🪜 For Sellers
Good strategy is beating good timing right now.
Homes priced right and beautifully presented are moving fast - we just saw three listings go under contract this week alone, and several more receiving offers heading into the weekend.
The mid-range market ($500K–$1.2M) continues to outperform expectations, and luxury buyers are showing renewed confidence thanks to attractive jumbo products and adjustable-rate options.
🔥 Still-hot cities: Chandler, Gilbert, Scottsdale, Fountain Hills, and Sun Lakes
⚖️ Balanced: Mesa, Tempe, Phoenix, Glendale
❄️ Softening: Outlying new-build corridors like Queen Creek, San Tan Valley & Buckeye
🧭 Bottom Line
This is not a waiting game - it’s a positioning game. The next few weeks could bring a rate shift that changes affordability overnight. Whether you’re buying before the holidays or prepping to sell in January, now’s the time to fine-tune your strategy and get ahead of the crowd.
📲 Let’s talk data, not drama - we’ll show you exactly where your price range, ZIP code, and timeline give you the most leverage right now.
East Valley Moms Bloom Magazine: School Choice Edition
Choosing a school shouldn’t feel like a full-time job—but for many of us, it does. Between touring campuses, comparing programs, and figuring out what’s best for your unique kiddo, the school search process can be overwhelming. That’s exactly why we created this issue of the East Valley Moms Bloom Magazine: School Choice Edition — a resource designed to simplify, not stress out, your school journey. As a mom who just navigated the big decision of choosing a kindergarten for my own son, I know how heavy the decision can feel.
Perks that Pay Off: Smart Seller Incentives that Nudge Buyers
In the Valley, where borrowing costs are still relatively high, many buyers are approaching the market with caution. Even motivated purchasers are taking their time, comparing options carefully, and paying close attention to upfront costs. To capture their attention without sacrificing property value, many sellers are turning to targeted incentives rather than price cuts. Recent Redfin data shows that seller concessions have become increasingly common in 2025, appearing in roughly 44% of early spring home sales - and in some higher-cost metros, that figure jumped above 70%. From financial perks like interest rate buydowns to logistical flexibility such as extended closings, the goal is clear: reduce hesitation, build confidence, and make the buying process more appealing in today’s evolving market.
🔥HOT New Listings & Weekend Open Houses 🔥
🏡 Ready to Tour? Or Just Love a Peek Inside? 👀
Whether you’re actively searching, casually exploring, or simply love imagining your next chapter, this weekend’s open house lineup is for you. We’ve got a collection of stunning homes - each one thoughtfully priced, beautifully presented, and waiting for the right story to unfold.
✨ These aren’t just homes - they’re opportunities. Even if you’re not ready to buy today, visiting gives you a chance to:
✔ See what’s possible in today’s market
✔ Meet our team and experience how we showcase homes (online + in person)
✔ Start gathering ideas for when the timing is right for you
So grab your calendar, mark your must-sees, and swing by - we’d love to welcome you, show you around, and hear what’s on your mind about making a move: Weekend Open House Schedule
See how much your home would sell for, TODAY! It's totally FREE!
Curious about what your home is worth in today’s market? 🏡 Whether you're planning to sell soon or just want to stay informed, knowing your home's value is the first step. Click below to get a free, no-obligation home valuation!
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, resort-style community with pools, a gym, garages, and walkable vibes, all at a price point that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, an empty nester, or just ready for something easier (and cooler), these two- and three-bedroom units - some with pool views and ground-floor access - check all the boxes.
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.
What Buyers Want in Fall 2025: Think Cozy, Smart & Climate-Ready
If you’re shopping for a home in the Valley this fall, you’re likely weighing more than just price and square footage, today’s buyers are drawn to homes that feel right both visually and functionally. It’s not just about aesthetics, but about how the layout supports daily life, how efficient the systems are, and whether the home is built for...
You're Not Just Buying A Home, You're Buying a Lifestyle
If you’re house hunting in the Valley and feeling stuck, you’re not alone—many buyers hit a point where every option feels like a compromise, whether it’s the perfect kitchen that’s too far from your favorite trails...
East Valley Moms: Best East Valley Haunted Houses & Neighborhoods
Halloween in the East Valley isn’t just about costumes and candy — it’s a full-on neighborhood experience where streets transform into glowing wonderlands of lights, music, and larger-than-life displays. Whether you’re chasing the best trick-or-treat routes or planning a night of spooky sightseeing, we’ve rounded up some of the most over-the-top houses and must-see neighborhoods for your October adventures. Want something a little tamer for the littles? Join us at our third annual Spooky Splash...
🏡 Mortgage & Money Check-In: What’s Going On and What It Means
While Wall Street took a “wait and see” approach this week, Main Street kept moving - and so did Arizona real estate.
Mortgage rates stayed steady in the low 6’s as investors watched for next week’s Federal Reserve meeting, where a quarter-point rate cut is all but guaranteed. With the government shutdown delaying some data, markets traded in a calm, narrow range - and for once, no news was good news.
🧠 What’s Really Happening
Even with limited reports, we saw encouraging signs across the board:
Inflation numbers came in softer than expected, a green light for lower borrowing costs.
The 10-year Treasury yield hovered just under 4%, the best levels we’ve seen in months.
Mortgage-backed securities stayed strong, signaling steady buyer demand even amid uncertainty.
✅ Translation: The market’s breathing again - not racing, not panicking - just moving with confidence.
🏡 What It Means for You
If you’re house-hunting, you’re walking into one of the most stable rate environments of 2025 so far. Sellers are still offering concessions, and with a rate cut likely next week, affordability could tick up right as new listings hit the market.
If you’re selling, buyers are watching closely - and the ones writing offers now are serious. The calm before a rate drop often means smart shoppers move early to beat the crowd.
🌍 What’s Next
All eyes are on next week’s FOMC decision and a few key housing and consumer confidence reports. Expect a little movement in rates depending on what the Fed says about December cuts - but the overall direction remains buyer-friendly.
🕸️ Fun Fact: The average mortgage closing takes 30–45 days - just enough time for a spider to spin a haunted house full of webs before you get your keys. 🕷️🎃
📰🧠 Community Connections: Monthly Expert Series 📰
At the Amy Jones Group, we know that real estate is just one part of the bigger picture - and that building a thriving community starts with sharing knowledge, resources, and support. That’s why we created Community Connections - a free, virtual Zoom series where trusted local experts break down the topics that impact your home, your finances, and your future. 💬 From landlord laws and legal pitfalls to simplifying home repairs and upgrades, each session delivers clear, actionable advice in a casual, come-as-you-are format. Whether you're buying, selling, investing, or just looking to learn - there’s something here for you.
Landlord Legal Pitfalls: Stay Compliant & Protected
Prepping Your Home For Sale? Here are the Projects with the Most ROI!
Mastering Home Efficiency and HVAC Savings
The Ins and Outs of 1031 Exchange
🎁 Holiday Drive Sneak Peek!
We’re getting ready for our big holiday drive, and we’d love for you to be part of it. This year, we’re partnering with Branching Out & The Good Works Project again to adopt three homes filled with foster siblings — making sure they feel the magic of the season together. There will be so many ways to get involved: financial donations, gift shopping, wrapping, delivering, and more. If you (or your company) want to join us in making a difference, let’s get you on our mailing list now so you don’t miss the details.
📅 Upcoming Events Calendar 📅
Halloween Costume Drive for Hands on Greater Phoenix
Date: Now through October 28th
VIRTUAL: Support Children in Foster Care with Halloween Costumes
Overview: 🎃 We’re so honored to be partnering with Hands on Greater Phoenix to bring a little extra magic to kiddos in foster care this Halloween. 🧡 Now through October 20th, we’re collecting new and gently used costumes that will help kids celebrate the season with joy and confidence. Costumes can be dropped off at our office - every single donation makes a difference in giving these children a chance to feel included and special. Together, we can make sure no child misses out on the fun of dressing up. 👻✨
Playdate on The Green: Mini Monster Mash
Date: October 28, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Location: Verde at Cooley Station, 3939 E Williams Field Rd, Gilbert
Overview: Wear your costume! This special Halloween playdate will feature kid-friendly spooky crafts, fun music, and a special BOO-tastic bounce house. Bring the whole family and your littles - this is going to be one playdate on the green at Verde that you do NOT want to miss.
Playdate on The Green: Tiny Turkeys
Date: November 11, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Location: Verde at Cooley Station, 3939 E Williams Field Rd, Gilbert
Overview: Get ready to have some fun with your tiny turkeys at this Thanksgiving playdate for the whole family! There will be thankful list crafts to give your kids something fun to talk about at the Thanksgiving table, turkey sticker sheets for making colorful take home memory makers and wooden crafts that you can keep for years!
Date: November 19, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Location: ICAN Main Campus, Chandler AZ
Overview: Spend an evening making a difference at Me and My Family Night at ICAN’s main campus! 💛 This special event brings ICAN kids and their families together for free crafts, hands-on activities, and a warm, shared dinner - and we get to be part of making it all happen. From helping little ones with their projects to serving up a meal with a smile, it’s a chance to connect, give back, and create memories alongside an incredible community. Come ready to roll up your sleeves, have some fun, and see firsthand the impact your time can make.
10th Annual Amy Jones Group Pie Event at Discovery Park
Date: November 23, 2025
Time: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Location: Bedrock Ramada at Discovery Park in Gilbert, Arizona
Overview: Every year we get together to celebrate our families, clients and community for all the wonderful stories we get to be a part of - YOUR STORIES! We bring together good food, this year from our friends at Miracle Mile Deli, good fun, and of course the professional family photos for you to use for your holiday cards again this year! It's going to be a blast, so please RSVP so we know how much food (and how many pies!) to get!
Chandler Tree Lighting & Reindeer Games
Date: November 29, 2025
Time: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Location: Dr. AJ Chandler Park West in Downtown Chandler
Overview: Join us for the annual holiday kickoff and tree lighting! Local businesses can host a “Reindeer Game” at their 6ft table.
Game/Activity Sponsors Needed - Contact [email protected] if you are interested in volunteering, joining us for the fun, or sponsoring a game or activity with us!
Bunco for Community on Purpose
Date: December 3, 2025
Time: 3:45 PM - 7:45 PM
Location: Amy Jones Group Office at Expansive Chandler, Arizona
Overview: Join us for a fun night of Bunco benefiting Community on Purpose programs. It's going to be a fantastic night raising funds for our holiday drives & we'll be partnering with Dress for Success to bring some extra joy to women right here in our own community. Click the link above to join us, volunteer, or to start a drive in your own community this holiday season!
10th Annual Amy Jones Group Pie Event at Discovery Park
Date: November 23, 2025
Time: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Location: Bedrock Ramada at Discovery Park in Gilbert, Arizona
Overview: Every year we get together to celebrate our families, clients and community for all the wonderful stories we get to be a part of - YOUR STORIES! We bring together good food, this year from our friends at Miracle Mile Deli, good fun, and of course the professional family photos for you to use for your holiday cards again this year! It's going to be a blast, so please RSVP so we know how much food (and how many pies!) to get!
Community on Purpose: Making Giving Back a Way of Life
People often say that community just happens ‘organically,’ but the truth is, it takes action, consistency, and a whole lot of heart. Community isn’t just something we’re part of - it’s something we create. My passion for service began early and this is the story of how we ended up running Community on Purpose alongside the Amy Jones Group.

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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!
The Polar Express in Williams Review for the Whole Family
Today, I’m sharing all about our trip and our honest review of The Polar Express train ride in Williams, Arizona — a truly magical holiday experience with a toddler in tow. Northern Arizona offers several North Pole and Santa-themed adventures, but after hearing feedback from friends and family who had tried both The Polar Express and the North Pole Experience in Flagstaff, we decided to hop aboard the train to Williams. The consensus was clear: The Polar Express tends to be the better fit for younger kiddos, offering all the magic and wonder without overwhelming them. Keep reading for our favorite tips and tricks to make your ride unforgettable — plus our recommendations on where to stay while you’re in Williams!
Family Fun on a Budget: A Free Day of Play in Gilbert
One of my family’s favorite places to spend time in Gilbert is near the corner of Greenfield and Guadalupe, where the beautiful Riparian Preserve sits right next to the Southeast Regional Library. If you’re up for a longer walk, there’s even a third hidden gem nearby that makes the outing even more special. The best part is you can park your car once and have access to all of these spots, making it an easy, one-stop day of play with something for everyone in the family.
📅 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!
5 Pre-Winter Fixes You’ll Be Glad You Tackled in September & October
Home maintenance tends to follow a seasonal rhythm—spring is for refreshing and repairing, summer focuses on upkeep and upgrades, and early fall is all about prevention. Waiting until the temperatures drop to prep for winter can lead to higher costs and added stress, but by tackling a few small projects in September, you can avoid the rush, take advantage of the still-warm weather, and head into the colder months with fewer unknowns. Whether you’re staying put through winter or considering selling in the future, these fixes help keep everything running smoothly.
You're Not Just Buying A Home...You are Buying a Lifestyle
If you’re in the middle of house hunting in the Valley and feeling stuck, you’re not alone. Many buyers hit a point where every option feels like a compromise—maybe the kitchen is perfect but the home is too far from your favorite trails, or the neighborhood is ideal but the layout feels cramped. That kind of analysis paralysis is more common than you might think, especially when the search drags on and the focus shifts
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?
Timing the Market Versus Preparing for It: Which One Actually Pays Off?
If you’ve been thinking about selling your home in the Valley, you might be stuck in that all-too-familiar mental tug-of-war - “Should I list now, or wait for the perfect moment?” With mortgage rates shifting, prices adjusting, and headlines changing by the day, it’s no wonder so many homeowners find themselves hesitating. One week it feels like a seller’s market, the next buyers are backing off, and just like that, the landscape shifts again. The truth is, many people wait - hoping for lower rates, higher prices, or some magic sign that it’s the “right time.” But seasoned sellers and smart agents know that trying to perfectly time the market rarely works out the way you expect. What does work? Being prepared.
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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