Arizona housing is on the rise.

During 2007 the overall median price of single family homes in Maricopa County and the Valley of the Sun decreased in 14 out of 28 cities and 74 of 110 zip codes.

In the same period, the overall median price for the Condo/Townhouse market experienced the same ratio. The valley wide decrease in the overall median price from August 2006 to August 2007 was approximately 7%.

After enjoying a 5 year median price increase in the 90% range, the Phoenix area overall median price was approximately $260,000 at mid 2007.

Phoenix are home prices are still well below California cities and the other west coast cities of Seattle and Portland, as well as many Florida communities.

The Valley feature numerous master plan communities, many with a variety of amenities.

Major retail building occurring throughout the Valley will provide nearby shopping for residents of most new communities.

Desert landscaping has a significant presence throughout the Valley of the Sun.  A large majority of housing areas have a very distinct desert setting with differing species of cactus, drought hardy flowing shrubs and natural desert plants.

Phoenix, the largest city in the Valley covers a vast geographical area, offering a diverse housing market. 

As the hub city, downtown Phoenix is a core employment and culture center with projected growth spurred by the new light-rail system.  Arizona State University has added a Phoenix campus and several central neighborhoods are undergoing upscale makeovers.

The East Valley, home to several of the valley’s high-tech employers, has mature neighborhoods as well as a large number of fill-in communities.  Major home building is still in progress on the outskirts.

The cities in the northeast valley are the most fashionable and high priced areas.  Upscale housing often includes golf courses, mountain preserves and mountainside elevations. 

Located on the north side of Camelback Mountain, Paradise Valley has the highest home prices in the Valley with many homes in the several million dollar range.

The west valley is the fastest growing area in the Valley of the Sun.  Business offices, retail outlets and sports venues are rapidly being built and large master plan communities, with a home town feel are being built in all of the major cities.

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