Weekend Warrior | September 13-14, 2025
BEST OF THE VALLEY: CATEGORY 50 - đ AMY JONES GROUP đ
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: Glow-Ups, Multiple Offers & Fall Fun đđĄâš
Happy weekend, Warriors! This week has been all about movement - from offers flying out the door to listings getting multiple offers, and even one of our homes starting a big remodel glow-up just in time for the Fall market. Busy? Always. But this season has felt extra charged with opportunity.
Truth be told, this summer was busier than usual - buyers had amazing opportunities, and many took advantage. Now with rates ticking down, the competition is heating back up. Our best advice? Donât wait. Whether youâre planning to buy before the school year ends or youâre holding out until the ball drops, get those ducks in a row now. Because when âthe oneâ shows up, youâll want to be ready. đŠđš
And speaking of âthe one,â weâve got more listings coming your way next week:
đ A single level in Chandler with a pool right across from one of my favorite parks
đ A fantastic buy in Mesa, perfectly positioned in the middle of all the exciting new development
While our three buyer seminars wrapped up this week (huge thank you to everyone who joined us!), the door is always open. Got questions? Call us, swing by the office, or catch our agents at open houses this weekend - theyâll be busy, and youâll walk away with answers.
Inside this weekâs Warrior, youâll also find:
âš A peek at our upcoming fall events (so many ways to give back!)
âš Details on our next Community Connections featuring Caring Transitions
âš Movie nights, playdates, and more at Verde on the Green
Hereâs to fall glow-ups, new chances, and the reminder that opportunity doesnât wait. Enjoy your weekend, Warriors - and keep us in the loop on your adventures! đđ
Fall Break Camps Your Kids will LOVE!
Today weâre sharing fall break camps across Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, and beyond to make planning childcare a little easier. With so many options out there, this list highlights the camps our team of 12 local moms personally recommend and have experience with.
đĄ Ready to Tour? Or Just Love a Peek Inside? đ
Whether youâre actively searching, casually exploring, or simply love imagining your next chapter, this weekendâs open house lineup is for you. Weâve got a collection of stunning homes - each one thoughtfully priced, beautifully presented, and waiting for the right story to unfold.
âš These arenât just homes - theyâre opportunities. Even if youâre not ready to buy today, visiting gives you a chance to:
â See whatâs possible in todayâs market
â Meet our team and experience how we showcase homes (online + in person)
â Start gathering ideas for when the timing is right for you
So grab your calendar, mark your must-sees, and swing by - weâd love to welcome you, show you around, and hear whatâs on your mind about making a move: Weekend Open House Schedule
đ Market Update: Payments Down, Sales Up & A Turning Market
Just like the seasons, the market is shifting - and this week brought some big signals for both buyers and sellers. Payments are down, monthly sales are up, and the CromfordÂź Market Index is hinting that our long-running buyerâs market may not last much longer. Hereâs what you need to know:
đ Supply & Demand
The CromfordÂź Market Index (CMI) - our local measure of market balance - has been signaling a buyerâs market since November 2024. It bottomed out at 72 mid-summer, but as of September 11th itâs climbed to 81. If this pace continues, we could be back to a balanced market (90+) by November, ending a year-long run of buyer leverage.
At the same time, asking prices have been declining for 4 months but seem to be stabilizing. Active listings in the sweet spot of $300Kâ$600K are down about 2% in asking prices, while buyers are writing more contracts. Monthly sales are up 9.4% compared to earlier this year.
đĄ Mortgage Rates & Affordability
Rates have shifted nearly a full percentage point this year, from 7.26% in January to 6.27% today. That drop alone cuts monthly principal and interest payments by about 10%. Combine it with the 2% dip in asking prices and buyers are seeing payments that are roughly 12% lower than they would have been in January.
Even better? Over 60% of mid-range sales ($225Kâ$600K) include seller-paid concessions, often with a 2/1 buydown. That means some buyers are starting with first-year payments as low as $1,690 on a $350K loan â a huge savings compared to the $2,400 payment theyâd have faced earlier this year.
đ What It Means for Buyers
Right now, every home is essentially âon sale.â But the clock may be ticking - if rates hold steady and the CMI climbs, todayâs buyer-friendly terms could fade fast. Translation: get your ducks in a row sooner than later.
đ What It Means for Sellers
Yes, recession chatter is loud - UBS recently put the odds at 93%. But history shows recessions donât always mean housing slowdowns. In fact, Phoenix home sales increased during the 2001, 2008, and 2020 recessions as mortgage rates fell and demand rose.
That said, sellers should keep a few things in mind:
More listings may hit the market as rates improve, creating short-term competition.
The 3rd quarter is seasonally slower, with demand dipping back down around the holidays.
Luxury and retirement markets may lag, since those buyers rely more on investment portfolios than mortgage rates.
đ The Bottom Line
The market is turning - and fast. Payments are down double digits, sales are on the rise, and the buyerâs market weâve known for nearly a year could rebalance before the holidays. Whether youâre buying or selling, strategy and timing matter more than ever.
đČ Curious where this shift leaves you? Letâs connect and run the numbers for your neighborhood.
đ„HOT New Listings & Weekend Open Houses đ„
See how much your home would sell for, TODAY! It's totally FREE!
Curious about what your home is worth in todayâs market? đĄ 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 Chandlerâs hottest hidden gems? This is it. The newest condo release at Santana Ridge isnât just another listing drop - itâs a rare chance to get into a gated, resort-style community with pools, a gym, garages, and walkable vibes, all at a price point thatâs hard to beat. Whether youâre 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, itâs completely normal to feel overwhelmed at the start. The good news? You donât 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 youâre a homeowner in the Valley with a low mortgage rate, you might be feeling a bit stuck these days. Perhaps youâve considered making a move - whether itâs 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 todayâs interest rates hits, and suddenly, that idea gets pushed aside.
You're Not Just Buying A Home, You're Buying a Lifestyle
If youâre house hunting in the Valley and feeling stuck, youâre not aloneâmany buyers hit a point where every option feels like a compromise, whether itâs the perfect kitchen thatâs too far from your favorite trails or a desirable neighborhood with a cramped layout, leaving you wondering if the right home even exists in this market. This kind of analysis paralysis is common, especially when the search drags on, because the focus shifts too heavily to features like bedroom counts, square footage, and appliances instead of how you actually want to live. By stepping back and thinking about lifestyle first, the process gets clearerâyou stop asking, âDoes this home check all the boxes?â and start asking, âCan I picture myself living well here?â
đ°đ§ Community Connections: Monthly Expert Series đ°
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. Thatâs 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. đŹ 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 - thereâs something here for you.
đ
Recording Available - Landlord Legal Pitfalls: Stay Compliant & Protected
đ Presented by Chad Hutchins, Keyrenter Gilbert
đ» This webinar was completed on 4/25 - Check Out the Recording Here
đ
Recording Available - Prepping Your Home For Sale? Here are the Projects with the Most ROI!
đ Presented by Jim Glaab, Co-Owner of Home Stretch
đ» This webinar was completed on 5/9 - Check out the Recording Here
đ
May 30th - Understanding School Choice
đ Presented by Brittany Master, Owner of School Search Consulting
đ» This webinar was completed on 4/25 - Check Out the Recording Here
đ
June 6th - Mastering Home Efficiency and HVAC Savings
đ Presented by Luke Palmer, Everest Air
đ» This webinar was completed on 6/6 - Check Out the Recording Here
đ
June 20th - The Ins and Outs of 1031 Exchange
đ Presented by Rick Wittstock, Vice President IPX 1031
đ» This webinar was completed on 6/20 - Check Out the Recording Here
đ
July 25th - Smart Moving: Stress Free Tips from the Pros!
đ Presented by Derek Greene, Get Your Move On
đ» This webinar was completed on 7/25 - Check Out the Recording Here
đ
September 19th - Downsizing and Right Sizing for You!
đ Presented by Jamie Davis, Caring Transitions
đ»RSVP TO JOIN US LIVE!
âïž Have questions about real estate or community? Letâs 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!
đ Upcoming Events Calendar đ
Little Summer Habits that Make Your Home Feel Like a Retreat
Summer in the Valley naturally inspires simplicity and easeâlighter 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 dayâs end. The best part? You donât need a big budget or a redesign to capture that feeling; itâs 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.
Moonlit Movies on the Green â 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! đđŠ Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, and favorite people for a magical night under the stars - plus, as our special guests, youâre invited to enjoy the VIP section reserved just for Amy Jones Group clients and friends. Weâll 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! âșđČ 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. Itâs 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!
Village of the Valley Drive for Supplies
Date: Now through October 2nd
VIRTUAL: Support Village of the Valley with a Drive & Drop Off Supplies
Overview: Weâre so honored to be partnering with Village of the Valley, an incredible organization supporting women on their healing journey after escaping domestic violence. đ Now through October 2nd, weâre collecting supplies like notebooks, pens, and tote bags to help these women as they work through their coursework and journaling. Every donation makes a difference - and together, we can remind them theyâre not walking this road alone. Reach out for a list of supplies, our Amazon Wish List or to help volunteer with Community on Purpose.
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 ICANâs main campus! đ 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, itâs 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 âorganically,â but the truth is, it takes action, consistency, and a whole lot of heart. Community isnât just something weâre part of - itâs 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!
Spooky Splash: Floating Pumpkin Pool Party
Mark your calendars for Halloween morning, Friday, October 31 from 9:30â11 a.m., and join East Valley Moms at Swimhaus for our third annual spooky splash floating pumpkin patch party designed for little ones ages 0â5. For just $6 per child (adults are free!), families can enjoy a floating pumpkin patch in the 90-degree indoor pool, a pumpkin painting station where each child takes home a mini pumpkin, mommy-and-me open swim with certified lifeguards, an indoor trick-or-treat trail with favorite community partners, plus glitter tattoos and hands-on art fun.
Kid Friendly Swimming Holes in Arizona
These kid-friendly spots are more than just a place to cool off -theyâre a full-on family adventure, complete with scenic drives, gentle hikes, and unforgettable memories. Today Iâm 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 theyâre all doable with kids in tow.
đ Ready to Start Planning Your Move? Let's Sit Down And Chat! đ
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...
đŹ Your Story Is Our Impact
Weâre 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 weâve helped you navigate a move, connected you to the community, or simply made you feel seen and supported, weâd 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. đ


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đČ 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, âIs now a good time to sell?ââbut thatâs not always the best starting point. Selling a home isnât about timing the market perfectly, itâs about what comes next and whether the move gets you closer to the life youâre building. Maybe itâs a new job in downtown Phoenix, a home thatâs 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 planâwhich is why the smartest question isnât âShould I sell now?â but rather âWhat am I moving toward, and how do I get there?â
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 itâs online with glossy photos, a polished write-up, and a âFor Saleâ sign in the yard. But the truth is, getting a home ready to sell is more like producing a reality show: thereâs 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, itâs the grand finale of a whole production happening behind the scenes - and weâre 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, youâve finally found the one - but in todayâs Valley market, thatâs 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. Thatâs why weâve put together this guide to help you understand the most important factors to consider when itâs 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 cafĂ© in the Valley, and youâve got maybe 10 seconds - tops - to grab their attention before they swipe past. In todayâs market, first impressions happen fast and almost always on a screen. So if youâre 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? Youâve 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 youâre looking for. Letâs break it down. đĄ
Timing the Market Versus Preparing for It: Which One Actually Pays Off?
If youâve been thinking about selling your home in the Valley, you might be stuck in that all-too-familiar mental tug-of-war - âShould I list now, or wait for the perfect moment?â With mortgage rates shifting, prices adjusting, and headlines changing by the day, itâs no wonder so many homeowners find themselves hesitating. One week it feels like a sellerâs 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 itâs the âright time.â 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 youâre moving across the country or just looking for a fresh start in a new state, the process can feel overwhelming - but itâs also full of opportunity. From navigating school districts and commute times to finding a neighborhood that fits your lifestyle, thereâs a lot to consider. Thatâs why working with a real estate team that specializes in relocation isnât just helpful - itâs essential. Because relocating isnât just about finding a house - itâs 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 Arizonaâs scenic attractions. Northeast lies the Superstition Mountains, the location of the legendary Lost Dutchmanâs 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 youâre 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 farmersâ markets â such as the Downtown Mesa Farmersâ Market held every Saturday â or savor the global flavors of Mesaâs 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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