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Selling Your Home • July 16, 2025

Why Pricing Your Arizona Home Right Matters

by Paula Rosentreter

Pricing your Arizona home right from day one and set your selling journey up for success. Learn why the right price attracts buyers, optimizes marketing, and results in offers.

First Impressions Matter—Even with Pricing

The moment your home hits the market, buyers are watching. If you price your home too high, you risk turning off serious buyers before they ever step through the door. Online listing platforms highlight new homes daily, and your first week is your biggest opportunity to capture attention.

Tip: Price it right from the beginning to position your home as a smart, attractive buy—not a sitting duck.

Overpricing Can Backfire

It’s tempting to test the market with a higher price. But overpricing often leads to extended days on market, which creates a negative impression. Buyers wonder what’s wrong with the home, and you may end up making price cuts that weaken your negotiating power.

The Cost of Overpricing:

  • Fewer showings

  • Stale listing perception

  • Lower final sales price

The Right Price Attracts the Right Buyers

Correct pricing creates a sense of urgency and competition. When a home is priced accurately, it brings in motivated buyers who are ready to act. In some cases, a well-priced home can spark multiple offers, driving the final price even higher.

Pro Tip: Multiple offers are more likely when buyers believe they’re getting good value—and that starts with strategic pricing.

Arizona Market Data Supports Smart Pricing

Arizona’s real estate market varies by season, neighborhood, and property type. In hot areas like Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Chandler, homes priced right can sell quickly and above asking. But the market shifts fast. That’s why it’s important to use current data—not outdated assumptions or online estimates.

What to Do: Work with a local real estate expert who understands your area’s trends, buyer demand, and recent comps. I can provide a market update and recommend a pricing strategy for your home.

You Only Get One Chance to Be “New”

Your listing is freshest in the first 7–10 days. That’s when most buyers and agents see it online or through alerts and other marketing. A well-priced home during this window will get more showings, more interest, and stronger offers.

Maximize Momentum: Don’t waste your prime window with a price that scares off buyers.

Final Thoughts: Price with Confidence, Not Emotion

Many sellers feel their home is worth more because of upgrades or memories. While your home may have sentimental value, buyers base their decisions on current market data and value perception. Pricing smart is not about underselling—it’s about getting your home sold quickly and profitably.

Ready to Price Your Arizona Home Right?
Let’s run the numbers. Contact me today for a stategic market update and home valuation analysis and a strategy to get top dollar—fast.

Selling Your Home • May 6, 2025

2025 May Be the Right Time for Scottsdale Homeowners 60+ to Sell

by Paula Rosentreter

Thinking About Selling Your Scottsdale Home After 60?

Learn why 2025 may be the right time for Scottsdale homeowners 60+ to sell. Whether you’re looking to downsize, move closer to family, or transition into a more maintenance-free lifestyle, the current Scottsdale real estate market presents a unique opportunity to capitalize on your home’s equity.

1. Home Values in Scottsdale Are Still Strong

Over the last few years, home values in Scottsdale have appreciated significantly. Even with a shift toward market stabilization, sellers are still enjoying high prices—especially in desirable communities like Scottsdale Ranch, McCormick Ranch, DC Ranch, McDowell Mountain Ranch, Grayhawk and many others. If you’ve owned your home for 10+ years, you may be sitting on substantial equity that could help fund your retirement or next chapter.

2. Scottsdale Is in High Demand Among Relocators

Buyers from California, the Northwest and colder states like Illinois, Colorado, and Minnesota are flocking to the Valley for the sunshine, golf courses, and low property taxes. Scottsdale is particularly attractive to affluent buyers seeking second homes or luxury retirement properties—meaning your home could command a premium if marketed correctly.

3. It’s a Great Time to Downsize or Simplify

Many Scottsdale residents over 60 are choosing to right-size into smaller, low-maintenance properties or 55+ communities. Selling your larger home this year can provide the freedom to travel more, reduce upkeep, and eliminate the stress of maintaining a larger property.

4. Tax and Retirement Planning Benefits

Selling your home could offer financial advantages beyond the sale price. If the home has been your primary residence for at least two of the past five years, you may qualify to exclude up to $250,000 (or $500,000 if married) of capital gains from your taxable income. Consult with your CPA or financial advisor to understand how a sale fits into your broader retirement strategy.

5. You Don’t Have to Navigate It Alone

Selling a home can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s been your family home for decades. From decluttering and staging to pricing and negotiation, working with a local expert who understands the Scottsdale market—and your specific needs—makes the process much smoother.

Let’s Talk About Your Next Move

As a Scottsdale real estate broker, I specialize in helping homeowners make informed, confident decisions about selling. Hopefully this helped you think about why 2025 may be the right time for Scottsdale homeowners 60+ to sell. Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or are ready to list your home, I’m happy to provide you with the personalized service you need.

Contact me today at 312-608-9041 for a complimentary home value consultation and let’s discuss the best strategy to accomplish your goals.

Life in the Valley • Uncategorized • March 14, 2025

Top Kitchen Trends in the Phoenix Area for 2025

by Paula Rosentreter

Everyone knows the kitchen is the heart of the home. In the Phoenix area, homeowners are embracing new trends that blend style, function, and desert-inspired aesthetics. Whether you’re remodeling or building a new home, these top kitchen trends for 2025 inspire a space that’s both contemporary and timeless.

  1. Warm & Earthy Color Palettes

White kitchens remain popular, but Phoenix homeowners are now shifting toward warmer tones. Think beige, terracotta, and soft desert greens that complement our natural landscape. Matte finishes in warm neutrals create an inviting, cozy atmosphere.

  1. Natural Stone Countertops

Quartz remains a favorite for durability, but organic looks now include dramatic veined marble or textured granite. Materials like travertine and limestone also bring a touch of Southwest into the kitchen.

  1. Custom Wood Cabinetry

Wood tones are making a big comeback, especially in rich, warm stains. Light oak, walnut, and reclaimed wood finishes provide a natural, handcrafted feel. Many homeowners are choosing slab-style or Shaker cabinets with minimal hardware for a sleek, modern aesthetic.

  1. Open Shelving & Display Spaces

Floating shelves and open cabinetry are trending in Phoenix kitchens. This allows homeowners to showcase favorite dishware, plants, and decor.

  1. Statement Backsplashes

Bold, textured backsplashes are stealing the show. Zellige tiles, concrete tile (or look-alike), and natural stone are popular choices. Many homeowners are extending the backsplash to the ceiling for more impact.

  1. Smart & Sustainable Kitchens

Technology had made its way into the kitchen! You’ll find smart appliances, touchless faucets, induction cooktops, and more as must-haves in Phoenix homes.

  1. Indoor-Outdoor Connectivity

Given our beautiful weather, many homeowners are designing kitchens that seamlessly flow into outdoor spaces. Telescoping glass doors, pass-through windows, and outdoor kitchens allow for easy entertaining and enjoyment.

  1. Multi-Functional Islands

Kitchen islands are growing in size and function, often serving as dining areas, workspaces, and storage hubs. Waterfall-edge countertops and built-in seating are common features, making it the centerpiece of the kitchen.

  1. Mixed Metal Finishes

Instead of matching all metals, homeowners are mixing finishes for a curated look. Brass, matte black, and antique bronze hardware are being paired with stainless steel appliances to create contrast and depth.

  1. Personalized Touches

More than ever, Phoenix homeowners are making their kitchens feel unique with custom elements—custom tile backsplash, vintage light fixtures, or a statement range hood. This trend creates a space with personal style while maintaining functionality.

Closing Thoughts

Phoenix kitchen trends for 2025 are all about warmth, natural materials, and seamless indoor-outdoor living. Incorporating these elements in your next project will help you create a kitchen space that enhances your home’s value. Which of these trends is your favorite?

 

Sources: BHG.com, Architectural Digest, realsimple.com, azbaysidehomeimprovement.com, mcsphoenixremodeling.com, houzz.com

Home Service Resources • February 11, 2025

Large Peel and Stick Paint Color Samples Sent to Your Home

by Paula Rosentreter

If you’re thinking about making some updates to your home, you probably know that I can be a resource for local home service providers. If your project involves a new paint color inside or on the exterior of your home, though, I’ve got another great resource that can make selecting just the the right color easy with large peel and stick paint color samples sent to your home.

How does this work?

My partner, Sherwin Williams, provides me great tools to help you select just the right paint color. First, I’ll lend you one of my fan decks with all of their colors (or you can look at them online here). They’re small but this can help you narrow your list of options. Once you have that, just send me the list of colors you’re considering and how many you would like of each color. I’ll go to their pro site online and order large peel and stick samples (up to 8-1/2”x11”). Order multiple samples of each color if you want to look at a bigger area or post them on different walls to walk by them in different lighting. I did this myself last time I painted.

Is there a cost for this?

No, this is a FREE service with the large peel and stick paint color samples mailed to your home.

Sherwin Williams is just one of the many partners I have in my toolbox. Need a referral to a painter or other home service provider? Please to hestitate to reach out. I’m here to help–not just when you’re ready to sell, but anytime you need reliable home service providers, market updates and real estate advice (even if you’re just curious), and guidance if you’re housing needs change.

Life in the Valley • Local Resources • October 14, 2024

Propositions Supporting Growth Across Metropolitan Phoenix

by Paula Rosentreter
propositions supporting growth across metropolitan Phoenix

As a real estate agent, I do not talk about politics with my clients. I appreciate differing opinions and everyone’s right to vote as they see fit. That said, I do believe in sharing information about propositions supporting growth across metropolitan Phoenix. I appreciate you reading my thoughts below on three key propositions and learning more through the links provided.

 

Maricopa County Transit Tax

Maricopa County residents, please vote YES on PROPOSITION 479 to continue an existing half-cent sales tax that funds transportation. A yes vote extends the tax until 2045 and if it does not pass, the tax ends in 2025.

Again, this is NOT a new tax and transportation funding is critically important our quality of life, especially with ongoing population and job growth across the valley. Learn more about this important proposition here.

 

Scottsdale Park & Preserve Maintenance

I am asking Scottsdale residents to vote YES on PROPOSITION 490 to improve the city ‘s aging parks and maintain our treasured McDowell Sonoran Preserve. In addition to park and preserve maintenance, the funds add police ranger patrol to parks and preserve trailheads and add fire department resources, including a second rescue team and increased fire prevention and fire fighting funds. This is done with a new sales tax that REPLACES an expiring sales tax at a LOWER rate. Learn more here.

 

Scottsdale Spending Limit

Lastly, I encourage Scottsdale residents to consider voting YES on PROPOSITION 491 to increase Scottsdale’s state-imposed spending limitation. All Arizona cities have limitations that cap the maximum amount it can spend each year to provide services and programs. Most Arizona cities (if fact, 82 out of 91) have passed something similar already.

Please note that this change is NOT an increase in taxes. It simply allows the city to operate within a spending limitation that more closely matches existing revenue sources to meet current and planned services and programs. Costs continue to increase so if we have the revenue, why not allow for spending within that amount to support the city’s needs?

Without this adjustment, the city will have to make difficult decisions about which services and programs to continue funding. Learn more here.

 

Regardless of whether you vote YES on these three propositions supporting growth across metropolitan Phoenix, I do hope you exercise your right to vote on election day!

Housing Market Updates • August 10, 2024

Industrywide Real Estate Changes

by Paula Rosentreter
Residential Real Estate Changes

The National Association of Realtors settled a nationwide class action lawsuit with residential sellers. As a result, industrywide real estate changes are being implemented this month. The deadline for implementation is Aug. 17, 2024 but the new rules actually went into effect Aug. 1 in Arizona. The impact to buyers and sellers is summarized below.

 

HOMEBUYERS

  • You’ll now sign a written agreement with your agent prior to touring homes.
  • The buyer-broker employment agreement includes a specific amount or rate of compensation your agent receives when you purchase and close on your home. This is negotiable.
  • The seller may offer to pay all or part of the compensation to your agent. This is still allowed, but no longer appears in the MLS.
  • Regardless of whether the seller offers up front to cover all, part, or none of your agent’s commission, your offer to purchase the home can be made contingent on the seller doing so.
  • Open houses continue and no agreement needs to be signed to tour the home.
  • For complete details, click here.

 

HOME SELLERS

  • You still have the option to offer compensation to your buyer’s broker. In fact, I encourage this as part of the overall property marketing plan making your listing more attractive to potential buyers.
  • If you choose to offer compensation to the buyer’s broker, there are changes to how this occurs. This offer no longer appears in the MLS but with your permission, I can promote it on other platforms such as social media, flyers, a sign at the property, and other websites.
  • Regardless of your compensation offer, the buyer may ask for you to pay a specific amount as a term within their offer. In other words, their offer may be made contingent on you doing this. As with any contract term, it is negotiable and of course what’s important is the NET amount you’ll receive.
  • For complete details, click here.

 

If you have questions about these industrywide real estate changes, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to help guide you throughout the process to a successful closing!

Life in the Valley • Local Resources • June 17, 2024

Frozen Cocktails Across the Valley

by Paula Rosentreter
Frozen Cocktails Across the Valley

As the valley heats up, how do you stay cool? I love a dip in the pool and a nice frozen cocktail while out for dinner. Here are a few of my favorites found at restaurants across the valley.

 

Peach Bellini’s at Oregano’s 

Officially called the original Gibbilini Bellini, Oregano’s (locations across the valley) used to limit you to two bellini’s per visit because they pack a punch with rum, champagne, peach schnapps, and chianti. Like many other products, they got smaller over time so I don’t think they do that anymore. I prefer to order mine without the chianti but try it “as is” first.

https://solcocina.com/

 

Frozé at Sol Mexican Cocina

Frozé can be found on the brunch menu at Sol Mexican Cochina located at the Scottsdale Quarter but I’ve never been there for brunch and have enjoyed it a number of times for dinner or happy hour. They also have a couple of frozen margaritas, including one with mango purée in a chile-salted glass. With that heat, I’m not sure if it cools you down or heats you up, though!

https://solcocina.com/

 

Frozen Mai Tai at Tommy Bahama’s

While shopping at Kierland Commons or as a destination, consider stopping at Tommy Bahama’s for a frozen mai tai. It’s served with a beautiful bright orchid garnish. They also make a mean piña colada! Whichever you choose, I would suggest an Uber if you plan to have more than one.

https://www.tommybahama.com

 

Frozen Black Cherry Sangria at Jalapeño Inferno

There are several frozen cocktails at Jalepeno Inferno but I’ve only had the frozen black cherry sangria. Unfortunately, they recently closed their DC Ranch location but their other Scottsdale location and Peoria location are still open.

https://jalapenoinferno.com/

 

Arizona Frozé

I have not been to Arizona Frozé in Old Town Scottsdale yet but I plan to visit soon! They’re known for their frozen wine, offering five alcohol flavors and one non-alcohol flavor on tap at any given time. They also sell wine bottles, pouches and a variety 6-pack of popsicles to go.

https://arizonafroze.com/

 

If you also enjoy frozen cocktails across the valley and have others you’d recommend, please share by commenting below!

Housing Market Updates • June 15, 2024

Metro Phoenix Housing Market Update

by Paula Rosentreter
Metro Phoenix housing market

The metro Phoenix housing market update is interesting this month because we see a further movement away from seasonality. As a whole, the residential housing market is balanced but there are differences across the valley. In fact, the majority of the market is in a soft seller’s market.

  • Seller’s markets – Chandler, Sun Lakes, Fountain Hills, Apache Junction, Tolleson, Tempe, Avondale, Gilbert, Anthem, Mesa, Glendale, El Mirage, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Litchfield Park, Peoria
  • Balanced markets – Goodyear, Cave Creek, Surprise
  • Buyer’s markets – Sun City West, Sun City, Arizona City, Queen Creek, Maricopa, Buckeye, Casa Grande

 

INVENTORY IS RISING

Inventory of homes for sale is still 26% below normal for this time of year. It usually peaks in February or March, but this year it’s still increasing. We are, however, starting to see it soften. The market is performing similar to 2015 with sellers having to compete on their home’s condition, price, and seller concessions. This has been quite a wake-up call for unrealistic sellers, resulting in increased price enhancements (reductions) and listing cancellations. Seller concessions are higher in areas close to new construction and among lower priced homes where buyers need concessions to buy down their interest rate.

 

SUMMER MAY BE THE TIME TO BUY

Buyer demand is 22% below normal for this time of year. Mortgage rates have not declined as expected earlier this year, but summer may still be an excellent time to buy because sellers with homes on the market now are generally motivated. You can always refinance when interest rates fall. In the meantime, we can negotiate seller concessions for you to buy down your interest rate. Also, some lenders are offering no-cost refinancing with them up to three years after your closing date.

There’s a saying in real estate, “marry the house, date the rate.” Interest rates are temporary since you can refinance, but your purchase price doesn’t change. Home prices are expected to continue to rise in the Phoenix market. When you find the right home for your family that you can afford, buy it!

 

QUESTIONS OR MORE INFO?

As mentioned at the start of this post, the majority of the market slightly favors sellers, part slightly favors buyers and part is balanced. If you have questions about this metro Phoenix housing market update or would like more information on a specific part of the valley, reach out to me at 312-608-9041 or paula.rosentreter@azmoves.com

 

Source: The Cromford® Report

Housing Market Updates • May 12, 2024

Phoenix Housing Market Update

by Paula Rosentreter
Phoenix housing market update
The Phoenix housing market update is again a mixed bag. Residential housing sales leveled off early this Spring. We typically see contracts increase from January through April, even into May, but that didn’t happen this year. The market leveled off in February and has  remained flat since then. That said, pricing continues to rise.

Our metropolitan market as a whole is currently at the high end of a balanced market, but there are differences across the valley.

  • Seller’s markets – Chandler, Tolleson, Apache Junction, Gilbert, El Mirage, Glendale, Sun Lakes, Avondale, Mesa, Fountain Hills, Phoenix, Anthem, Tempe, Scottsdale, Peoria, Litchfield Park, Paradise Valley
  • Balanced markets – Laveen, Surprise
  • Buyer’s markets – Goodyear, Gold Canyon, Cave Creek, Sun City, Sun City West, Queen Creek, Maricopa, Casa Grande, Buckeye, Arizona City

 

LOW INVENTORY CONTINUES

Inventory of homes for sale is 31% below normal for this time of year. Homeowners with extremely low interest rates on their current mortgage are generally staying put. However, those with life changes affecting their housing situation (growing family, job change, etc.) are selling and capitalizing on the tremendous equity growth in recent years.

 

DON’T WAIT, BUY NOW

Buyer demand is 20% below normal for this time of year. Mortgage rates remain relatively high but are expected to fall later this year. When that happens, buyers will re-enter the market and there will be more competition for homes (pushing prices higher). You can wait for that to happen or you can buy now with less competition and refinance your rate later.

I can also help you negotiate seller concessions to buydown your rate for up to three years until it makes sense to refinance. The buydown funds are yours, even if you refinance prior to using them up (in that case, you would get a refund from your lender). Many lenders also offer no lender or appraisal fees when you refinance with them up to three years after your closing date.

There’s a reason they say “marry the house, date the rate.” Interest rates are temporary since you can refinance, but your purchase price doesn’t change. Home prices are expected to continue to rise in the Phoenix market, not fall. What are you waiting for?

 

QUESTIONS OR MORE INFO?

As mentioned at the start of this blog, part of the market favor sellers, part favors buyers and part is balanced. If you have questions  about this Phoenix housing market update or would like more information on a specific part of the valley, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at 312-608-9041 or paula.rosentreter@azmoves.com

 

Source: The Cromford® Report

Life in the Valley • Local Resources • May 12, 2024

Local Companies with Delicious Products

by Paula Rosentreter
Support these local companies with delicious products made in the Phoenix area.

I enjoy supporting local businesses, especially local companies with delicious products! Whether for your own enjoyment or to use as gifts, I hope you find something new to try.

 

ARIZONA FARMS CHEESE

Made in Tempe, you can buy Arizona Farms Cheese products at local Costco stores, along with several farmer’s markets including the Uptown Farmer’s Market and Scottsdale Old Town Farmer’s Market. A few items are also available on their website for pick-up at their Tempe location.

https://www.arizonacheese.com/

 

AUDREY’S CHIA COOKIES

Audrey’s Chia Cookies are a better-for-you treat made with natural ingredients and packed with chia seeds. Find them at AJ’s, Fry’s, or you can purchase them online. Lemon and Almond are their top selling flavors, but they also have chocolate chip and for a little while longer…crispy brownie. They’re made in Chandler, Arizona.

#audreyschiacookies #chiacookies #audreyschia #chandleraz #madeinchandler #azhomespaula

https://www.audreyschia.com/

 

CERRETA CANDY COMPANY

This family candy business is located in Glendale and was started over fifty years ago by Jim Cerreta, Sr. Today, four generations run the business. They make a variety of chocolate, other candy and nuts that can be purchased at their Glendale location or online. They also offer 30-minute tours weekdays.

https://cerreta.com/

 

FAIRYTALE BROWNIES

The owners of Fairytale Brownies met in kindergarten and opened their business in 1992 with a family recipe. Their bakery is located in Phoenix (open M-F 9-3) and while they no longer offer factory tours, there are large viewing windows where you can see the bakers hard at work. Most of their business is online and shipped, which makes it a fun gift, but you can also find them at select AJ’s and the Tempe Farmer’s Market.

https://www.brownies.com/

 

HAYDEN FLOUR MILLS

This family-owned business is located on Sossaman Farms in Queen Creek, milled on the same farm where the grains are grown. I guess flour itself isn’t delicous but it does help us make tasty treats. Anyway, they have a store in Gilbert or you can buy their products online. As an aside, the historic  Hayden Flour Mill in Tempe is a historic site owned by the City of Tempe and used as an event space.

https://haydenflourmills.com/

 

HONEY HIVE FARM

Based in Peoria, this family owned hive-to-table honey comes in several flavors, including orange blossom, local cactus, and mesquite. Shop online with free local shipping. They also offer beekeeping classes.

https://honeyhivefarms.com/

 

KETTLE HEROES POPCORN 

Started in 2013 by two brothers, this company is based in Tempe. The popcorn is delicious with flavors inspired by the southwest, including Prickly Pear and Hatch Green Chile Cheddar. A portion of the proceeds are donated to the Pat Tillman Foundation and other local organizations. Find their products in Fry’s, AJ’s and other local stores, on their website, or visit them in Tempe for a fresh batch!

https://kettleheroes.com/

 

NOBLE BREAD 

This artisan bakery has amazing bread and it’s no wonder because it takes them 36 hours to make a loaf of bread! Find it at AJ’s stores, local farmer’s markets and their wood-fired deli in Phoenix, Noble Eatery.

https://noblebread.com/

 

QUEEN CREEK OLIVE MILL

Based in Queen Creek, they have the most amazing olive oil and related products you can buy there, at their Kierland Commons stores in Scottsdale, or online. Visit their Olive Mill Estate in Queen Creek and and take their Olive Oil 101 tour. See their website for details and other events.

https://www.queencreekolivemill.com/

 

ZAK’S CHOCOLATE 

This Scottsdale chocolatier has an award-winning small-batch craft chocolate store. Their truffles are a true work of art and make a beautiful gift. Find a list of their current flavors and pre-order online for pick-up at their Scottsdale location.

https://zakschocolate.com/

 

Try one of the above and let me know your thoughts. Please also share other local companies with delicious products you recommend!

Coldwell Banker Realty- Scottsdale 

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