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Weekend Warrior | Labor Day Weekend 2025
The Amy Jones Group
BEST OF THE VALLEY: CATEGORY 50 - 🌟 AMY JONES GROUP 🌟
Voted Best of Chandler Reader's Choice Award, we're now competing for the TOP East Valley Spot. Vote once a day, every day until September 23rd for the Amy Jones Group (and your other local Favorites!) right here. We couldn't do this without you!
Weekend Warriors: Labor Day, Local Wins & Lasting Impact 💛🏡
Happy Labor Day weekend, Warriors! While most of us are thinking about cookouts, pool time, and family events (and we’ve linked some of our favorite happenings around the Valley for you 👇), it’s also a time to pause and reflect on what this holiday is really about: honoring the contributions of workers who keep our communities running. That makes it the perfect moment to highlight our Community Heroes Appreciation Program - a $1,000 credit we offer to our educators, first responders, healthcare workers, military, and civil servants as a small thank-you for the big ways they serve us all.
And speaking of impact - wow, what a week! Four more families closed on their homes, and three new buyers are under contract, all moving toward September closings. Two of those families are even relocating together - one combining households, another buying homes less than a mile apart. Trend alert? Or maybe we’re just developing a new specialty in keeping loved ones close. 🏡❤️
Another highlight? Going under contract on one of the most beautiful waterfront properties in Ocotillo - in well under average days on market. (If you’ve seen the marketing, you know why.) In fact, our marketing obsession is getting noticed. After some clients asked ChatGPT and Gemini who the best realtor in Chandler was - and found us - we’ll now be bringing that same strategy to a nearly $2M property that’s been sitting unsold with another agent. Marketing matters. But so does communication. And when you hire us, you get a team obsessed with both.
It wasn’t just about houses this week either. We hosted our second home buyer seminar at the condo conversion project in Chandler, and our business mixer in Mesa benefitting ICAN brought together dozens of local business owners to give back while connecting with each other. Our fall calendar is packed with more ways to learn, connect, and give back - including Movies on the Green and Tuesday Playdates at Verde (we cannot wait to see you there!).
So here’s what you’ll find in this week’s Warrior:
✨ A fresh market update (Pro Tip: buyers are finally jumping off the fence)
✨ A round-up of Labor Day events around the Valley
✨ Details on upcoming seminars, mixers, and community fun
✨ Sneak peeks at new listings and opportunities
Here’s to celebrating the people who make our communities strong, the families who trust us with their next chapter, and the joy of living this life together. Enjoy your long weekend, Warriors - and don’t forget to tag us in your adventures! 🌟
Labor Day Weekend in Williams: The Best Kid Friendly Itinerary (We promise!)
Today we’re excited to share our family guide to Williams, Arizona - the perfect spot for a summer getaway with kids! Known as the Gateway to the Grand Canyon (just under an hour away), Williams is packed with family-friendly fun, from strolling historic Route 66 to exploring lakes, forests, and even a few surprise adventures that kept both our 12-year-old and 4-year-old entertained. Whether you’re planning where to stay or what to explore, our summer itinerary has everything you need for a memorable trip.
🏡 Thinking About a Move? Or Just Love a Good Open House? 👀
Whether you're house hunting, window shopping, or just love dreaming about your next move, this weekend’s open house lineup is calling your name. We’ve got a fresh list of beautiful homes across the East Valley - each one thoughtfully priced, styled to impress, and ready for its next chapter.
✨ These aren’t just houses - they’re possibilities. Whether you’re buying now or planning ahead, stopping by is a great way to meet our team, see how we market (online and IRL), and start to picture what’s next for you.
Grab your calendar, pick your favorites, and come say hi - we’d love to see your face and hear what’s on your mind: Weekend Open House Schedule
📊 Market Update: Rates Relieve Pressure, Sellers Hold the Edge
The trend that began six weeks ago is still going strong: supply keeps falling, and demand is steadily rising. The Cromford® Market Index (CMI) is now improving at an average monthly pace of 9.4% - a slight uptick from last week’s 9.3%, but proof that momentum is still in motion.
🌟 City-by-City Shifts
This week, 15 cities improved for sellers, with only Maricopa and Tempe tipping toward buyers.
Big Movers (Luxury): Fountain Hills, Cave Creek, and Scottsdale are leading gains, while Paradise Valley is slowing down.
Strong Performers (Mid-Range): Avondale, Gilbert, Chandler, Peoria, and Surprise all posted double-digit increases in favor of sellers.
We now stand with 6 cities in seller’s markets, 4 balanced, and 7 leaning toward buyers.
💡 Mortgage Rates in Perspective
The typical 30-year fixed mortgage rate is down to 6.52% — not “low,” but certainly better than the 7%+ levels we saw earlier this year. For perspective:
The long-term median since 1971 is 7.3%.
Between 1971–1993, rates were never below 7%.
From 1974–1991, they were rarely below 9% and often above 10%.
By comparison, today’s 6.52% looks a lot friendlier than what your parents and grandparents faced.
📈 Demand Finds Its Footing
The Cromford® Demand Index bottomed out on August 4 at 75.8. It’s now 76.8 - still about 23% below “normal,” but the key is trajectory: the number is climbing, and the pace is quickening. Add in declining inventory (many sellers have pulled homes off the market), and the balance tips even more in favor of those who remain active.
Another clear signal: the count of listings under contract. Seven weeks ago, we were behind 2024 levels. Today, we’re up 6.9%, nearly back to 2023’s line. The gap between 2024 and 2025 is widening - and in sellers’ favor.
📝 Practical Takeaways
For Buyers:
Lower rates + motivated sellers = opportunities.
Incentives, concessions, and smart negotiations are still on the table, but shrinking inventory could change that quickly.
For Sellers:
Leverage is increasing in both luxury and family-focused markets.
Price it right, prepare well, and act now while demand is gaining steam and competition is limited.
🔑 The Bottom Line
Momentum favors sellers, but buyers still have a window to play - especially with rates lower than long-term norms and demand trending upward. Timing, strategy, and preparation will make all the difference.
📲 Curious what this shift means for your neighborhood? Let’s connect and create a plan that works for you.
🔥HOT New Listings & Weekend Open Houses 🔥
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.
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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.
Stuck Between Moving & Staying? Ask Yourself These Three Questions
If you’re a homeowner in the Valley with a low mortgage rate, you might be feeling a bit stuck these days. Perhaps you’ve considered making a move - whether it’s upgrading for more space, relocating to a different part of town, or finally finding a home that feels just right. But then the reality of today’s interest rates hits, and suddenly, that idea gets pushed aside.
Grand Parents Day: A Guide for The Sandwich Generation
Today we’re talking about the “sandwich generation” - adult children balancing the demands of raising young kids while also caring for aging parents. It’s an almost impossible juggling act; between soccer games, science projects, and swim lessons, one in four moms are also managing caregiving responsibilities for their own mothers or fathers. What may begin with small tasks like helping a parent downsize or recover after surgery can quickly escalate into providing dementia support or navigating physical limitations.
Little Summer Habits that Make Your Home Feel Like a Retreat
Summer in the Valley naturally inspires simplicity and ease—lighter meals, open windows, and slower mornings. Even with a full schedule, the season invites us to see home as a retreat rather than just a landing spot at day’s end. The best part? You don’t need a big budget or a redesign to capture that feeling; it’s less about how your home looks and more about how you use it. A few small, intentional habits can make your space feel softer, calmer, and more like a true summer escape.
📰🧠 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.
📅 Recording Available - Landlord Legal Pitfalls: Stay Compliant & Protected
🎙 Presented by Chad Hutchins, Keyrenter Gilbert
💻 This webinar was completed on 4/25 - Check Out the Recording Here
📅 Recording Available - Prepping Your Home For Sale? Here are the Projects with the Most ROI!
🎙 Presented by Jim Glaab, Co-Owner of Home Stretch
💻 This webinar was completed on 5/9 - Check out the Recording Here
📅 May 30th - Understanding School Choice
🎙 Presented by Brittany Master, Owner of School Search Consulting
💻 This webinar was completed on 4/25 - Check Out the Recording Here
📅 June 6th - Mastering Home Efficiency and HVAC Savings
🎙 Presented by Luke Palmer, Everest Air
💻 This webinar was completed on 6/6 - Check Out the Recording Here
📅 June 20th - The Ins and Outs of 1031 Exchange
🎙 Presented by Rick Wittstock, Vice President IPX 1031
💻 This webinar was completed on 6/20 - Check Out the Recording Here
📅 July 25th - Smart Moving: Stress Free Tips from the Pros!
🎙 Presented by Derek Greene, Get Your Move On
💻 This webinar was completed on 7/25 - Check Out the Recording Here
🗓️ Upcoming Session – Join Us on Zoom!
📅 DATE TBD - Downsizing and Right Sizing for You!
🎙 Presented by Jamie Davis, Caring Transitions
💻Message us for Details!
☎️ Have questions about real estate or community? Let’s connect.
Not sure where to start? Looking for a pediatrician, a pizza place, or a pool home? We've got you covered. With nearly two decades of experience in the East Valley, we know the ins and outs you need to know to find YOUR favorite spot. Give us a call and get to know our crew - they are working for you!
📅 Upcoming Events Calendar 📅
Homebuying & Hand-Tossed (Pizza + Real Estate Q&A)
Date: September 7, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
- Location: Santana Ridge Luxury Condominiums | 3330 S Gilbert Rd. Chandler, AZ 85286
- Overview: Thinking about buying a home - whether it’s your first or just the first in a while? Join us for a relaxed and informative Buyer Seminar at our brand-new condo conversion project in Chandler! Open to all buyers, no matter where you’re shopping or how far along you are in the process, this is your chance to get expert guidance, ask questions, and feel confident about your next move. Let’s demystify the homebuying journey - together.
Moonlit Movies on the Green – Mufasa: The Lion King
Date: September 19, 2025
Time: Movie begins at dusk (Approx. 7:00 PM)
Location: Verde at Cooley Station, 3939 E Williams Field Rd, Gilbert
Overview: Kick off the season with us at Moonlit Movies on the Green at Verde, featuring the Disney classic The Lion King! 🌙🦁 Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, and favorite people for a magical night under the stars - plus, as our special guests, you’re invited to enjoy the VIP section reserved just for Amy Jones Group clients and friends. We’ll have the best seats in the house, extra goodies, and all the community vibes you love. This family-friendly event is free to attend, so come early, claim your spot, and get ready to sing along to Hakuna Matata as the sun sets.
Happy Campers: September Playdate at Verde
Date: September 23, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Location: Verde at Cooley Station, 3939 E Williams Field Rd, Gilbert
Overview: Join us for our very first Playdate at Verde - Happy Campers! ⛺🌲 This free, family-friendly morning is packed with fun for the littles, including campsite-themed crafts, a storytime, and plenty of space to play and explore. It’s the perfect chance to meet other families, enjoy creative activities, and soak up some community connection. Bring the kids, bring your friends, and get ready for a morning of smiles, giggles, and hands-on fun - all courtesy of our friends at Verde and the Amy Jones Group.
Date: September 23, 2025
Time: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Location: Seville Golf and Country Club | 6683 S Clubhouse Dr, Gilbert, AZ 85298
Overview: Join the Women Empowered Committee this September for DREAM., the kickoff to our 2025 theme, "DREAM. DEFINE. DO." This Fall Social offers a relaxed and inclusive space for professionals across all industries to connect, build meaningful relationships, and be inspired as we begin a year focused on intentional growth and empowerment. Whether you're new to the community or a familiar face, this is your invitation to dream big - and do it alongside a supportive, like-minded network. More details coming soon!
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.
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.
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!
Kid Friendly Swimming Holes in Arizona
These kid-friendly spots are more than just a place to cool off -they’re a full-on family adventure, complete with scenic drives, gentle hikes, and unforgettable memories. Today I’m sharing two of our favorite swimming holes that are perfect for families looking to mix a little fun with fresh air. Each one offers something unique - from stunning turquoise waterfalls to shady spots ideal for a picnic lunch - and they’re all doable with kids in tow.
A Budget Friendly Weekend in Flagstaff with Kids: Your Guide!
Today we're sharing our favorite budget-friendly weekend itinerary for Flagstaff with kids, including our top pick for the best kid-friendly hotel in town. We recently tried this trip ourselves and were pleasantly surprised by how affordable Flagstaff can be - especially when you make the most of the hotel’s amenities. Keep reading for a ready-to-go plan that keeps the fun high, the temps cool, and the adventures rolling without breaking the bank. And if you’re trying to pack in as much of northern Arizona as possible with just one overnight stay, we’ve even mapped out a turnaround itinerary that covers the Grand Canyon, Sedona, Bearizona, and more - all with just one hotel night.
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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...
💬 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!
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?
Open Houses Versus Private Showings: Who Wins?
Thinking about buying a home in the Valley? You’ve probably spotted a few open houses - but are they really the smartest way to shop? Or are private showings the real secret weapon? Truth is, both have their place, and depending on where you are in your home search, one might give you a major edge. In a market where the good ones go fast, how and when you tour matters just as much as what you’re looking for. Let’s break it down. 🏡
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.
If you LOVED working with us, please share the LOVE!
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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The Seller Experience
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The Buyer Experience
We understand that buying a home can be an overwhelming experience. But with us, you can feel confident that we have your back from beginning to end.