The market is trending down, and fast. Now is your chance to purchase a home in Arizona. Price drops have led to a mass sell-off in the Phoenix area in particular. Even in Sun City, Sun City West, and other surrounding areas in the west valley.
Real estate analyst Nick Gerli, the CEO of Reventure App, warned of a potential incoming crash, as home prices are down 6.9% from their peak in June 2022. A Phoenix real estate market crash would look like a substantial and sustained drop in home prices. A surge in available properties and a decrease in sales activity is to be expected. This could involve home values falling by 20% or more, with homes staying on the market for extended periods, and a decline in the number of sales. This could be a huge opportunity for buyers!
Jennifer Marie Quinn, Realtor
During the pandemic, the real estate market exploded. It was an exciting period for realtors and buyers alike. Demand skyrocketed and prices surged. According to Zillow, Between February 2020 and February 2025, home prices were up 53 percent in Phoenix and 56 percent statewide in Arizona. Prices also grew over 40% in this period. Jennifer M Quinn, Realtor.
Demand has slowed in recent years and prices continue to drop. There has been a cooling of the Phoenix area market as prices have adjusted. This signals a wonderful opportunity for aspiring buyers.
You are finally going to start to get opportunities to buy a house where values are getting cheaper, and you’re going to have a lot of selection. Jennifer Quinn, real estate professional – here to help you get the home you deserve.
A huge benefit of living in the west valley of Phoenix is the close proximity of Maricopa County’s largest regional park, White Tanks Regional Park. Consisting of 29,271 acres of desert and mountain landscape, this is a popular attraction for hiking, biking, horseback riding, seasonal hunting, camping, and more. It is equipped with bathroom facilities, benches, and ramadas throughout the park. Close to the waterfall trailhead there is even a playground for the kids.
Library & Nature Center
As one enters the park you may notice the beautiful library and nature center located near the entrance on the north side of the road. The nature center opened in 2010 and includes live native reptiles, an information center, and a gift shop. You can view the park from the library from the large viewing are of the park. Nature education programs are offered for children, families, and adults as well.
Natural Wildlife
Wildlife is ever present as you make your way through the park. Mule deer, javelinas, coyotes, and occasionally mountain lions prowl the area. The region is home to a variety of small rodents, small bird species, and even a wide variety of reptiles as well. Watch out for the scorpions, spiders, and wasps that inhabit the preserve. Guided hikes offered by the park service offer visitors an excellent opportunity to learn about and view the native flora and fauna.
Recreational Opportunities
Most notably, the park is well known for its many hiking trails. Roughly 26 miles of hiking trails meander through the terrain. Looking for a simple walk? Or perhaps something more moderately challenging? There are a variety of paths to go by and the choice is yours. The most popular hike is the Waterfall trail, a 0.9-mile walk that culminates in a narrow canyon featuring a seasonal waterfall. For a more challenging experience one may consider the Goat Camp Trail to Mesquite Canyon Trail Loop or Barry Goldwater Peak. Be prepared for the rocky terrain and steep inclines
Bicycling and horseback riding are encouraged on many of the trails. In addition to the network of hiking trails, there exists a 10-mile competitive track designed for high speeds, challenging one’s skills, and racing. It is a fantastic experience to ride through the many trails that allow biking and horseback riding.
History, Culture, & Lore
The area is rich in Hohokam and Meso-American Indian archaeological sites. At least 7 sites have been confirmed to have been occupied by Hohokam villages from about 500 – 1100 C.E. The remnants are often overlooked as they are not well preserved. Pay attention to your surroundings to observe the many petroglyphs scattered throughout the park. It is believed that some petroglyphs left behind by Meso-Indians here date back over 10,000 years.
Plan A Trip
This preserve is truly a treasure to the residents of Maricopa County. A real awesome place to spend time in nature with loved ones. Remember to come prepared. Above all, have fun exploring the vast nature preserve that is so special to Arizona.
Nestled east of Phoenix in the Tonto National Forest lies the Superstition Mountains of Arizona. The Superstition Mountains are steeped in Arizona folklore. Native tales speak of a mountainous region that is inhabited by the God of Thunder. Some tribes dare not venture into this preserve as to avoid the risk of offending The Black Legion. Even so, legends such as the Lost Dutchman’s Mine give this area a sense of intrigue.
The Superstitions are said to get their name from the Akimel O’odham people who spun stories about strange sounds emanating from the mountains, people disappearing, mysterious deaths, and an ongoing fear of the mountain. Inspired by the oral history of the Akimel O’odham, local farmers in the 1800’s officially named the mountains the “Superstitions” in honor of their indigenous history.
Located in the Tonto National Forest, The Superstition Mountains is a primitive habitat. Much of the wilderness area is accessible only by foot or horseback. At a size of over 160,000 acres, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the Superstitions. Additionally, Lost Dutchman State Park borders Tonto National Park and is accessible through Tonto National Forest, but it isn’t part of forest.
It is truly one of Arizona’s most treasured recreational attractions. The Superstitions offer activities for hikers, bikers, horseback riders, and water sports enthusiasts.
Make sure to come prepared. Bring plenty of water, charge your devices, and plan for warm conditions.
Myths & Lore
The Lost Dutchman Mine: This is the most prominent and enduring legend, centered around a German prospector (often referred to as the “Dutchman”) who supposedly discovered a rich gold mine in the Superstition Wilderness. He shared the location with a trusted friend on his deathbed, but the mine has never been definitively located. Many people have searched for it, some even losing their lives in the process.
The Curse of the Thunder God: This legend, prevalent in Apache lore, suggests that the Superstition Mountains are home to a powerful Thunder God who fiercely protects the land. Those who disrespect the spirits of the land, including those seeking to take its gold, are said to face dire consequences.
Apache Lore: Some Apache traditions believe the Superstition Mountains offer access to the “lower world” or underworld. They also attribute severe dust storms in the area to winds from this dimension.
Black Legion: Stories of a fearsome band of Apache warriors, known as the Black Legion, also surround the Superstition Mountains. They are said to have been guardians of the land, striking down those who tried to take its riches.
Roaming Cannibals: Some local beliefs include stories of bands of roaming cannibals hunting in the area.
Strange Sounds and Disappearances: The Superstition Mountains have long been associated with strange noises and the occasional disappearance of people.
Ghost Stories: The mountains are also known for ghost stories, including tales of Apache spirits and other supernatural phenomena.
“If you are in the Phoenix area and need something to do with the family, I got you covered!”
With an average temperate range of 86° / 59° for the month of April, It is no wonder that Phoenix is a premier destination for families of all types.
One of my personal favorites for this time of year is the Desert Botanical Garden. With several walking paths, a visitor’s center, and periodic art exhibits, the botanical gardens are perfect for a nice outing. Bring the kids!
A noteworthy destination: Butterfly Wonderland. (Next door to) Pangaea and OdySea. Prepare for a beautiful experience. Butterflies are special to my family. So of course this one ought to head the list.
Or perhaps you fancy a visit to the Phoenix Zoo. Lions, and Tiger, and Bears, oh my!
Next up, Musical Instrument Museum of Phoenix. This quaint exhibit offers some hands on activities. Great for preteens and teens. Now open 9am – 5pm daily.
For your inner doodler, Crayola Experience in Chandler, AZ. This is a must for the artists in your family. A Crayola themed activity that is sure to be engaging.
Jennifer M Quinn
To unleash the outdoorsman in you… A hike? Might I recommend Papago Park, Piestewa peak, or Camelback Mountain? As far as hiking trails, these are my top three for Phoenix. For an easier nature walk I recommend Papago Park. Camelback Mountain and Piestewa Peak are the tallest summits in Phoenix. Be prepared. Bring two 16 ounce bottles of water per person minimum. Please remember to just be prepared. Sturdy hiking shoes are a must.
The real estate market in Arizona has evolved in the post-pandemic landscape. It is likely to become more favorable for buyers. This is true for a number of reasons. One of which is the fact that costs are rising at a slower rate. Couple that with a higher inventory compared to 2024 and you get favorable circumstances for buyers. Even as home values appear to be increasing.
There are still some factors to consider, such as above average interest rates. Demand has also skyrocketed in lieu of the increase in population. The silver lining: approximately 20% of inventory have had price cuts moving into 2025. The market is relatively stable (mid 6%) in terms of 30 year mortgage rates.
According to houzeo.com, buyers are likely set to return to the market in hopes of purchasing a home this year at a higher rate than last year. Inventory will likely increase as home values are starting to rise even more.
AZBigMedia.com describes the current climate as being in a market pause as a result of the tumultuous presidential elections from 2016 onward. This has not hampered the demand for home buyers attempting to purchase a home here in the Grand Canyon State. Demand means more transactions. It is a win win situation for buyers and sellers alike..
Arizona-style homes have seen a surge in popularity in recent years, and 2025 promises to be an ideal time for buyers. These homes are particularly appealing to those looking for open-concept layouts, spacious kitchens, multiple bathrooms, and expansive master suites.
