Phoenix Real Estate City Guide

A Phoenix Homebuyer’s Guide

Phoenix is the spectacular capital of the state of Arizona. Home to a metro population of more than 4.5 million (the actual city population is approximately 1.5 million), Phoenix is one of the most dazzling, decidedly cosmopolitan cities in not only the Southwest but perhaps the entire country.

If you want to move to Phoenix, you are going to find a number of exciting elements to consider. Whether you want a home in Phoenix or are just looking to rent, there are tons of options available.

Why Phoenix?

For one thing, moving to Phoenix connects you to a massive, endlessly impressive array of neighboring cities. You will find yourself in close proximity to cities such as Tempe, Scottsdale, Glendale, Chandler, and Mesa. As a whole, these cities are part of the Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area.

Phoenix is a city that can appeal to almost anyone. Students, young couples, families, and active seniors flock to this diverse metropolis, and it isn’t hard to understand why. Apache Junction, Fountain Hills, and Sun City are just a few reasons why Phoenix is not only an extraordinary city today, but poised to become even more impressive over the coming decades.

Phoenix is currently home to such notable features as Chase Field, the Phoenix Zoo, Heard Museum, South Mountain Park, Arizona State University, and a number of compelling districts and neighborhoods. Phoenix boasts everything you could ever want in a city, from a thriving coffee house scene to spectacular natural surroundings, to unique restaurants and drive-throughs.

Neighborhood Guide

Getting around Phoenix is a breeze. Keep in mind that while Phoenix does have a decent walkability to it, and while it does offer a solid public transportation option (The Light Rail is excellent), this is definitely a city for cars. Even if you are just planning to visit the city for a weekend, locals will tell you that a car rental is probably a good idea.

The districts of Phoenix break down thusly.

Downtown Phoenix

Covering almost 3 square miles, Downtown Phoenix is famous for its impressive skyscrapers. This is a powerhouse of commercial interests, with three of the five tallest skyscrapers in the state located here.

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Midtown Phoenix

Many of the best entertainment options in Phoenix are here. Midtown Phoenix also carries a decidedly historic aesthetic.

West Phoenix

Featuring Maryvale and Estrella, West Phoenix has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years. The Ak-Chin Pavilion is a great place to discover live music.

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North Phoenix

You can find Deer Valley in North Phoenix. The area is also home to North Gateway and New Village, but the main attraction for North Phoenix is the Phoenix Mountains. North Phoenix is sure to astound those who love spectacular hiking and biking adventures.

Camelback East

You can find the iconic Biltmore Hotel in this decidedly upscale portion of Phoenix. The Phoenix Zoo and Papago Park are also here. Some of the most attractive luxury homes in the entire city make Camelback East some of the most desirable Phoenix real estate.

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South Phoenix

South Phoenix is home to the biggest municipal park in the United States: South Mountain Regional Park. Additionally, the burgeoning urban village of Laveen is here, contributing significantly to South Phoenix’s move towards urban improvement.

Ahwatukee

Another example of an upscale neighborhood helping to define Phoenix, Ahwatukee offers close proximity to Chandler and Tempe. South Mountain Regional Park is to the north.

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Living in Phoenix

The first thing you will realize is that you’re not going to be bored. The Arizona Cardinals and Arizona Diamondbacks are just two of the major sports teams in the city. In fact, it is one of only 13 cities in the United States to have a team in all four major sports leagues.

Phoenix offers a variety of options for renting and home buying. You will find apartments at a wide range of price points. You will also find townhouses, luxury condominiums, and even high-rise luxury apartments. Homes are equally diverse, available in a variety of price ranges and styles to suit all budgets and lifestyles.

Things to Do in Phoenix

When it comes to things to do in Phoenix, there are definitely some essentials.

Chase Field: Home to the Diamondbacks, Chase Field is one of the most modern sports arenas in the country.

First Fridays Art Walk: Located on Roosevelt, between Central and Seventh, local galleries and businesses come together to display some of the greatest artists in Phoenix. It’s also a nice opportunity to take in the wonder of the diverse local businesses.

Raliberto’s: Phoenix is home to a plethora of amazing Mexican restaurants. Many will tell you that Raliberto’s is the best, but half of the fun is figuring that out firsthand.

Chandler City Center: If you love the nightlife, the city centers throughout the area are going to be good bets.

Sea Life Aquarium: The Phoenix area offers a few aquariums of note. For many locals, Sea Life Aquarium stands as the best, especially for families with kids.

Heard Museum: There are many great museums throughout Phoenix (the Phoenix Art Museum is another), but the Heard Museum’s celebration of Native cultures and art makes it one of the most impressive.

Housing Market Trends

• The median home sales price for Phoenix was $210,000 for the period from November 1, 2016, to February 1, 2017
• The current median cost per square foot is $142, an increase of 8% from the same time last year.
• The median rent for the period from January 2, 2017, to February 2, 2017, was $1,350.