Weekend Warrior | November 1-2, 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!

RSVP TO JOIN!

Brand New Listing in the heart of Ahwatukee, Arizona

Discover the beauty of Ahwatukee living in this single-level retreat tucked into the quiet and highly sought-after community of Mountain Ranch Estates. With 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a 3-car garage, this 2,155-square-foot home offers the perfect balance of comfort, functionality, and effortless desert charm.

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Weekend Warriors: Sweet Spots, Safe Streets & So Much to Give 🍭🏡💛

We hope everyone had a fun and safe Halloween night out with your little ghosts and ghouls - and that you’re not planning to survive the weekend solely on leftover candy (tempting, we know!). Keep an eye out for local dentists offering “buy back” programs this week - a win-win for your kiddos and their smiles. 😄

While costumes and candy took center stage, our team was busy making moves behind the scenes with three new listings hitting the market - two in Ahwatukee and one in Trilogy, right on the same street as another of our recent sales (neighborhood experts, reporting for duty!).

5332 S Citrus Court Gilbert, AZ 85298 | Trilogy Golf Course in Gilbert, Arizona

5332 S Citrus Court Gilbert, AZ 85298 | Listed by the Amy Jones Group with Real Broker...

As we shift into the season of gratitude and giving, we’ve got a full lineup of ways to connect and give back - including our Client Appreciation Event (RSVP in the header!), a holiday food drive for ICAN families, and holiday presents for kids in sibling foster homes. Whether you’re looking to get out, give back, or both - we’ve got plenty of ways to plug in.

And if you’ve been watching the market, here’s your friendly nudge: now’s the sweet spot for buyers. Rates are lower than they were a year ago, but prices haven’t caught up just yet - meaning more opportunity before the new year momentum hits. With 6 cities in seller’s markets, 5 balanced, and 7 in buyer’s markets, it’s all about timing… and we’ve got the data to help you find your perfect fit.

Scroll on for:
🏡 New Listings & Weekend Open Houses
📊 Market Insights: Finding the Sweet Spot
💛 How to Give Back This Season
🎁 Holiday Events You Won’t Want to Miss

Let’s wrap up this week with gratitude, generosity, and maybe just one more fun-sized treat. 😉

Welcome to Your Oakwood Country Club Retreat

Welcome to your light-filled villa in Oakwood Country Club, where every window frames views of manicured greenbelts and mature trees. The vaulted ceilings and 180-degree windows create a sense of airiness that feels both grand and welcoming. From your first step inside, this home tells a story of easy elegance—an ideal blend of form, function, and Arizona sunshine.

CHECK IT OUT!

📊 Market Momentum: Affordability’s Best Stretch in Years

There’s a shift happening again - and this time, it’s good news.

The latest ICE Mortgage Monitor just confirmed what many of us are starting to feel in real time: housing affordability has hit a 2½-year high. A steady pullback in mortgage rates has given buyers a little more breathing room - and it’s showing up in conversations, showings, and contracts across the Valley.

🧠 What’s Really Happening
Over the last few weeks, bond yields have cooled, allowing mortgage rates to drift downward. That’s easing the pinch for buyers who stepped back earlier this year and giving refinancers a reason to take another look at their locked-in rates.

✅ Affordability is improving for the first time in years.
✅ More buyers are re-entering the market before the holidays.
✅ Refinancers are exploring fresh options while inventory remains limited.

The market feels steady - but it’s a delicate balance. Inflation surprises or global shifts could change that quickly. For now, though, this is a welcome pause… and maybe the opening move in a more balanced market cycle.

➡️ Translation: We’re in a rare stretch where both buyers and sellers can win - if they act before the new-year rush.

🍕 For Buyers
If you paused earlier this year, this may be your signal to jump back in. Lower rates are stretching budgets farther, and competition hasn’t caught up yet. With affordability peaking and supply still tight, the next few weeks could be the most advantageous window we’ve seen in years.

💰 Pro Tip: Don’t wait for the headlines to catch up - shop now while rates are trending lower and prices remain steady.

🪜 For Sellers
Strategy is everything. With rates easing, more qualified buyers are returning, but they’re still price-sensitive and savvy. Homes that show well, tell a story, and hit the market positioned right are the ones capturing attention - and offers.

🔥 Still-Hot Cities: Chandler, Gilbert, Scottsdale, Fountain Hills, Sun Lakes
⚖️ Balanced: Mesa, Tempe, Phoenix, Glendale
❄️ Softer: Queen Creek, San Tan Valley, Buckeye

🧭 Bottom Line
We’re stepping into the best affordability window in years - but it may not last long. Whether you’re buying, selling, or planning your next move, now’s the time to review your options before the market shifts again.

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.

🔥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...

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: Ultimate Guide to Kid Friendly Patio Dining

Today we’re sharing our favorite kid-friendly patio dining spots in the East Valley - local gems that serve up great food, plenty of space for wiggly kids, and even a few fun extras to keep everyone smiling. Grab your sunglasses and your appetite, because these patios are perfect for the whole family! And if you’re on the hunt for more family-friendly dining ideas, don’t miss our full roundup of local “kids eat free” offers.

🏡 💡 Monthly Mortgage Tip: Plan Ahead for Year-End Financial Goals

As the year winds down, November is the perfect time to review your mortgage and financial goals before the holiday season takes over. A quick check-in now can help you start 2026 on solid footing.

✅ Check your escrow balance: Make sure your property taxes and insurance are up to date.
✅ Review your mortgage statement: Confirm all payments are applied correctly and consider making one extra payment to reduce interest over time.
✅ Gather documents early: If you plan to buy, sell, or refinance next year, having your paperwork organized now will make the process smoother.

A little prep today can make a big difference in how confidently you move into the new year.

📉 The Fed Cut Rates Again - Here’s What It Means for Homebuyers 🏡

The Federal Reserve just lowered its benchmark rate for the second time in a row. While this doesn’t directly set mortgage rates, it can help ease borrowing costs and bring more stability to the housing market, which can ultimately lead to lower or more stable mortgage rates in the weeks ahead. Here's what it means for you:

👉 Buyers:

Slightly lower rates can improve your purchasing power - potentially increasing your approval amount or reducing your monthly payment.
Rate cuts can make mortgages slightly more affordable, if you’ve been waiting for better timing, this could be an opportunity.
Rate cuts can also increase demand as more buyers re-enter the market. Now may be a strategic window to take advantage of buyer negotiations before additional market movement.

👉 Sellers:

More buyers may re-enter the market as confidence builds.
Lower rates could improve affordability and open the door to new opportunities.
Lower rates attract more qualified buyers, improving traffic and potential offers.

The Fed hinted that another cut isn’t guaranteed in December, but the overall trend supports a healthy, balanced housing market heading into year-end.

📰🧠 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!

Understanding School Choice

Mastering Home Efficiency and HVAC Savings

The Ins and Outs of 1031 Exchange

Smart Moving: Stress Free Tips from the Pros!

Downsizing and Right Sizing for You!

🎁 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 📅

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!

ICAN Me & My Family Night

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!

Playdates on the Green: Santa's Little Helpers

Date: December 9, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Location: Verde at Cooley Station, 3939 E Williams Field Rd, Gilbert
Overview: Get your kiddos ready for the holidays with letters to Santa, building a gingerbread craft, and coloring stockings. This is the perfect event for littles who want to get out and have some fun in the sun at Verde on the Green!

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.

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

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!

Top East Valley Parks for the Perfect Birthday Party

Today we’re sharing everything you need to know for the ultimate park birthday party! If you’re lucky enough to have a kiddo with a birthday that doesn’t fall between June and September, you’re in for a treat - the East Valley is the perfect place to host a celebration at your local park.

📅 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. 💙

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!

Refer a Friend

😲 In Case You Missed It!

Fall Color Palettes That You Are Going to Love

When most people think of fall, they picture cozy sweaters, cooler weather, and plenty of orange — but fall 2025 design trends are taking a fresh direction, especially here in the Valley. According to the latest color reports from Homes & Gardens and Vogue, the traditional autumn décor staples are giving...

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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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.