Brent Hammonds Phoenix Real Estate

08/21/2026

The Truth About Waiting for Lower Mortgage Rates in Arizona

Are you one of the many homeowners here in the Valley who is putting their move on hold waiting for mortgage rates to drop? If so, you should know that the dramatic drop many are hoping for might not be as close as you think.

While it is tempting to wait for rates to hit the four or five percent range, major experts from Fannie Mae and the Mortgage Bankers Association forecast rates staying in the low to mid six percent range through mid 2027.

In our current Arizona market, inflation and other economic factors are keeping rates at what are actually historically normal levels. The good news is that you do not have to stay on the sidelines.

For Valley buyers, there are several powerful strategies to improve affordability right now. You might consider newly built homes in areas like Gilbert or Surprise where builders are offering significant incentives and rate buydowns. Other options include adjustable rate mortgages or exploring assumable loans that allow you to take over a seller's lower existing rate. Waiting for a perfect rate that may not come could mean missing out on the right home today. Our team is here to help you weigh your options and find the best path forward in the Phoenix metro area!

Contact us today to discuss a personalized strategy for your next move and see how we can make the numbers work for you!

Provided by The Valley Solutions Team at HomeSmart.

08/21/2026

What's your favorite kind of sandwich?



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08/18/2026

Should You Buy or Sell First in Today's Valley Market?

If you are a homeowner here in the Valley getting ready to move, one question usually comes first: should you buy your next home before you sell, or sell your current house before you start looking?

While there is no single right answer, selling first often puts you in a much stronger position in our current Arizona market. With inventory levels shifting across Phoenix, Scottsdale, and the East Valley, homes are taking a bit longer to sell than they did a few years ago.

By leading with your sale, you take the risk of carrying two mortgages off the table. This strategy also allows you to leverage the equity you have built in your current home to fuel your next purchase. Whether you plan to use that equity for a substantial down payment or a cash purchase, knowing your exact profit upfront helps you plan with confidence. Furthermore, an offer that is not contingent on a home sale is much more attractive to Valley sellers, giving you a competitive edge in negotiations.

Our team can help you navigate these moving parts by negotiating flexible closing dates or rent-back agreements to ensure a smooth transition. Let us help you make your next move your best move!

Contact us today to discuss the best strategy for your specific situation and get a clear picture of your home's current value!

Provided by The Valley Solutions Team at HomeSmart.

08/18/2026

Even they might not know a housefly buzzes in the key of F. 😱

How musically inclined are you? Some people have perfect pitch! 😉



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08/14/2026

Navigating Home Insurance Costs in the Arizona Market

When you are planning to buy a home here in the Valley, it is easy to focus solely on mortgage rates and home prices. However, homeowners insurance has become an increasingly important part of the affordability conversation. While premiums have risen for about seventy one percent of homeowners over the past few years, there is some encouraging news.

The latest data shows that the rapid pace of these increases is finally starting to slow down. In our unique Arizona environment, insurance costs can vary significantly based on your specific location and the features of the home itself.

For Valley buyers, being proactive is the best strategy. We recommend getting an insurance quote early in the process so you can build a realistic budget without any surprises at the closing table. You can often lower your monthly expenses by shopping around, bundling your home and auto policies, or highlighting recent upgrades like a new roof or updated HVAC system. Understanding these costs upfront allows you to move forward with confidence in your Arizona home purchase. We are here to help you navigate every detail of the Valley real estate market!

Contact us today to learn more about budgeting for your Valley home purchase and getting the best value in today's market!

Provided by The Valley Solutions Team at HomeSmart.

08/14/2026

"Psycho" is an iconic movie that still stands as a timeless classic. 🎬

But did you know? 🤯

It was the FIRST film to ever show a toilet flushing! 🚽💥




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08/11/2026

The best part? 😎 Your energy bill will thank you for it! 💰




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08/10/2026

Why Now is the Perfect Window for Luxury Sellers in the Valley

If you own a luxury home in the Valley, you are currently in a much stronger position than most sellers. While some parts of the broader housing market have seen a cooling trend, the high end tier is performing exceptionally well. In fact, luxury sale prices are rising nearly three times faster than non luxury homes. This is particularly evident in our local Arizona markets like Scottsdale and Paradise Valley, where demand for premium properties remains robust.

High end buyers are often less affected by the affordability pressures seen in other segments, which means million dollar plus sales are actually up significantly compared to last year. These homes are not just selling for more, they are also moving relatively quickly. The median time on the market for luxury properties is now under fifty days, which is much faster than the historical norm.

If you have been waiting for the right moment to capitalize on your investment, this unique window of high demand and rising prices offers a powerful opportunity to make your move with confidence. The luxury market is leading the way in Arizona, and your property could be exactly what these active buyers are searching for!

Contact us today for a private consultation and a custom valuation of your luxury property in the Valley!

Provided by The Valley Solutions Team at HomeSmart.

08/07/2026

🎖️💜 Today we honor the courage and sacrifice of America’s wounded and fallen service members on Purple Heart Day.

Their bravery is never forgotten, and their service is never taken for granted.



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08/07/2026

Thinking about DIYing your hardscape or hiring the pros? 🤔 Discover the pros and cons to help you choose what’s best for your project! 💪🏡



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Hardscaping is the foundation of any outdoor space and a big investment for homeowners.