Wes Ballew; Realtor

10/09/2026

Central Phoenix buyers gained meaningful leverage during September.
As of October 2:
• 427 homes are active • Only 24 homes are pending • Months of supply increased to nearly six months • The contract ratio fell to 14.5% • The six-month average sale price is approximately $490,000 • Closed homes are averaging 103 days on market
The average 30-year mortgage rate also reached 7.28% at the beginning of October. That sudden increase in borrowing costs likely caused some buyers to pause, lower their budgets, or become more selective.
The important thing to remember is that Central Phoenix is not one uniform market. Garfield, Coronado, Downtown Phoenix, and Melrose are each moving differently.
I’ll be breaking those neighborhoods down individually over the next few weeks. Follow along for the complete Central Phoenix Market Check.
Which neighborhood would you like to see first?

04/24/2026

Are Home Prices Expected to Go Up or Down in Phoenix This Year?

If you’re thinking about buying in Phoenix right now, you’re probably asking the same question everyone else is: “Should I wait or is this the opportunity?” The honest answer?Phoenix home prices in 2026 are not crashing—but they’re also not skyrocketing.Instead, we’re in something much more strategic (and frankly, much healthier): a balanced, transitioning market. Let’s break down exactly what’s happening....

If you’re thinking about buying in Phoenix right now, you’re probably asking the same question everyone else is: “Should I wait or is this the opportunity?” The honest answer?Phoenix home prices in…

03/25/2026

The Travel Advantages of life in Central Phoenix

If you’re looking at homes in Central Phoenix, one of the most practical—and underrated—questions is: how easy is it to actually get around from here? Because in this part of the city, proximity to light rail, major roads, and freeways can dramatically change your day-to-day life—and your home’s long-term value. Let’s break it down the way a local would. Light Rail: Convenience vs....

Examining the advantages of life in Central Phoenix

03/18/2026

How Walkable Is This Central Phoenix Neighborhood—Day and Night?

If you’re thinking about buying in Central Phoenix, “walkability” is probably high on your list. And not just the Zillow-style, “Sure, there’s a coffee shop within half a mile” version. You want to know: Can I actually live here without getting in my car every time? And will I feel comfortable walking after the sun goes down? Let’s break that down in a way that actually reflects real life in Central Phoenix....

If you’re thinking about buying in Central Phoenix, “walkability” is probably high on your list. And not just the Zillow-style, “Sure, there’s a coffee shop within half a mile” version. You want to…

03/11/2026

The Buzziest Restaurants in Central Phoenix Right Now

Your insider guide to where locals are eating in 2026 Central Phoenix has quietly become one of the most exciting food neighborhoods in the Southwest. What used to be a collection of classic Phoenix institutions is now a vibrant dining scene filled with chef-driven concepts, craft cocktail lounges, and restaurants drawing national attention. Whether you’re a longtime local or new to the neighborhood, here are some of the…...

Your insider guide to where locals are eating in 2026 Central Phoenix has quietly become one of the most exciting food neighborhoods in the Southwest. What used to be a collection of classic Phoeni…

03/04/2026

Is This Area Primarily Owner-Occupied or Rental?

One of the first questions serious buyers ask in Central Phoenix is: “Who actually lives here?” Not just who owns the houses but who lives in them. Because there’s a difference. Central Phoenix isn't a standard, run of the mill suburban area, we have all types of homes in close proximity. Neighborhoods like Garfield, Coronado, and Oakland are particularly a mix of renters and owners....

One of the first questions serious buyers ask in Central Phoenix is: “Who actually lives here?” Not just who owns the houses but who lives in them. Because there’s a difference. Central Phoenix isn…