Tariffs, Home in 5 is back, Your VIP Giveaway + Workshop Invite!

Home in 5 Program is back!

The Home in Five program is back, but with limited funds—once they’re gone, they’re gone. This down payment and closing cost assistance program has helped many Maricopa County homebuyers, but it isn’t always available. Before last year, funding was unavailable for several years. If you’ve been waiting for an opportunity to buy, now is the time to see if you qualify before the funds run out. Click here for more info

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Market Update, Rates and Tariffs

More listings hitting the market and mortgage demand is surging after interest rates dropped to their lowest level since last October. Home prices remain stable, and demand is showing signs of life as buyers take advantage of improved borrowing conditions.

A major factor shaping the coming months is the recent drop in mortgage rates, which led to a 20% jump in weekly mortgage demand. Refinance applications surged 37% in just one week, showing that buyers from the last two years are finally seeing an opportunity to improve their rates. Purchase applications also rose 9% for the week and are now 2% higher than the same week one year ago. While this is a slow and steady increase, it’s a positive sign that demand is ahead of last year’s pace.

With mortgage rates trending down, the market could gain even more momentum heading into the peak spring and summer season. Additionally, new tariffs on materials from China, Canada, and Mexico are expected to put upward pressure on construction costs, which could push new home prices even higher. As a result, resale homes may become a more attractive option for buyers, strengthening their position in the market.

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🏡 Exclusive Open House: New Build Duplex & Investment Workshop! 📈

This isn’t just a walk-through—it’s a chance to learn how to build wealth through real estate. Over 20 years ago, I started with my first fix-and-flips. Now, I’m developing new builds from the ground up. I want to share the lessons, the wins, and the strategies that got me here!

✨ What You’ll Learn:
✅ How to get started in real estate investing
✅ The process of buying land & building new construction
✅ Investment lending options – land & build financing included!

A lender will be on-site to answer all your financing questions, so you can see how this strategy might work for you. Whether you're an experienced investor or just curious, this is your chance to take the next step!

🔗 RSVP now – space is limited! Click picture for more info.

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ANOTHER GIVEAWAY!! ☕️

We love to support local business and we love coffee! We are giving away 5 gift cards to our friends at THE STAND parked daily - 2601 E Baseline Rd. GIlbert, AZ 85234

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO WIN ONE OF THESE GIFT CARDS, email us back at ocotillorealtyteam@gmail.com and we will give the first 5 people to email us a gift card to try them out! Trust us, you want to try them out!

February Finds: Fires, Forecasts, and Finally, Fresh Fun in Phoenix

February Market Update

February 2025: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know

The Phoenix housing market is sending mixed signals as we move into February. Active listings have surged by 44% compared to last year, reaching 22,432 homes. This increase gives buyers significantly more choices, but it also presents challenges for sellers competing for attention in a crowded market.

The luxury market is thriving, with homes over $3 million driving much of the price growth:

• 142 homes sold for over $3 million in the last two months, compared to 92 a year ago.

• 35 homes sold for over $6 million, nearly 4x last year’s volume.

This activity at the top end has pushed the average price per square foot up 8.8% year-over-year. However, the median price—a better measure for most buyers—has held steady at $450,000, reflecting stability in the broader market.

What This Means for Buyers

More inventory doesn't necessarily mean less competition—homes are still moving quickly, and some are even receiving multiple offers. While interest rates remain close to 7%, prices have stayed stable, and new listings give buyers more options to consider. It's a market where patience and strategy matter, but you still have to act decisively when the right opportunity arises.

What This Means for Sellers

Pricing strategically is critical. With more competition and a slower contract ratio (currently at 33, down from 47.7 last year), buyers have options. Well-prepared homes priced to match the market will still move. Pay attention to what’s under contract in your neighborhood—not just what’s active.

The high-end market remains a world of its own, driven by cash buyers and unaffected by mortgage rates. Sellers in this segment can expect strong demand to continue, as long as the stock market holds steady. As always, real estate is hyper-local. Whether you’re buying or selling, having the right strategy is key.

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Why Updating Home Insurance is Critical—Especially if Your Home is in a Trust

Recent wildfires, such as the Palisades and Eaton fires in Los Angeles County, have been devastating—destroying thousands of homes and tragically taking lives. For those affected, the loss is not only emotional but often compounded by gaps in insurance coverage.

This hits close to home. I’ve had friends who’s family and friends have lost houses they lived in for decades. These experiences are a sobering reminder of how important it is to regularly review your homeowners insurance for accuracy, especially when your home is owned by a trust.

If your property is held in a trust, your insurance policy should reflect that ownership. Adding the trust as an "additional insured" ensures both you and the trust are protected from property damage and liability claims. Overlooking this simple update can leave significant gaps, putting your home and future at risk.

It’s never easy to think about worst-case scenarios, but a few proactive steps now can offer peace of mind later. If you’re unsure whether your policy is up to date, it’s worth checking with your insurance provider to make sure you’re fully protected.

If you are looking for ways to help, send us a message and we will connect you to personal sites of people we know who need help.

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FOOD & FUN IN FEBRUARY

February in Phoenix offers a vibrant array of activities and new dining experiences to explore. Here are some highlights for the remainder of the month:

Upcoming Events:

• WM Phoenix Open (February 6-9): Experience the excitement at TPC Scottsdale, where top golfers, and celebreties compete in this lively tournament.

• Arizona Renaissance Festival (Weekends through March 29): Step back in time with medieval entertainment, artisan crafts, and hearty fare in Gold Canyon.

• Arizona Strong Beer Festival (February 17): Savor a diverse selection of craft brews at the annual event, a favorite among beer enthusiasts. (phoenixmag.com)

New Restaurant Openings:

• Best New Restaurants: Explore a curated list of the hottest new dining spots in Phoenix, offering a range of cuisines and atmospheres. (phoenix.eater.com)

• Beginner's Luck
  All-day restaurant offers straightforward, affordable food with a touch of sophistication, including sweet versions of focaccia made daily in a variety of flavors.

• Tesota
  Tesota is a standout restaurant in Phoenix's culinary scene, offering exceptional dishes that have garnered significant attention.

• Uchi Scottsdale
  Uchi brings a unique dining experience to Scottsdale, featuring innovative Japanese cuisine that has quickly become a favorite among locals.

• Huarachis
  Huarachis offers authentic Mexican flavors with a modern twist, making it a must-visit spot for food enthusiasts in Phoenix.

• Élephante
  Opened in late 2024 at Scottsdale Fashion Square, this coastal Italian restaurant features wood-fired pizzas and fresh pastas in a stylish setting.

Take advantage of the amazing weather and treat yourself to something new—whether it’s a festival, a fun event, or a fresh dining experience!

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