In this month's edit: a closer look at the Scottsdale real estate market, the design details catching my eye in today's homes, and a few places and happenings around town worth knowing about.
As always, a little real estate, a little lifestyle, and a few things I think you'll love.
01
THE MARKET
WHAT IM SEEING RIGHT NOW
A Market of Contrasts
Scottsdale's market is telling an interesting story this fall. The median sold price reached $950,000 in September, up nearly 9% from a year ago, while homes are spending slightly less time on the market.
But higher prices don't mean buyers have lost their negotiating power. With a range of properties to consider and sellers making adjustments, pricing and presentation remain just as important as ever.
For buyers, there's opportunity in being selective. For sellers, the right strategy from day one makes all the difference.
Scottsdale Residential Market | September 2026 | Source: ARMLS
MY TAKE
What stands out to me isn't just where homes are selling, but how they're getting there. With properties closing at an average sale-to-original-list-price ratio of 92.5%, the gap between a seller's initial expectations and the eventual sale price is worth paying attention to.
For sellers, thoughtful pricing from the beginning can make a meaningful difference. For buyers, understanding a property's history and how it compares to recent sales can reveal opportunities that aren't always obvious at first glance.
02
AT HOME
THE DETAILS I'M NOTICING IN NEW CONSTRUCTION
There's a noticeable shift in the way luxury homes are being designed. The bright white interiors and oversized statement fixtures that dominated for years are giving way to warmer materials, more architectural details, and spaces that feel thoughtfully collected rather than overly designed.
A few details I'm particularly drawn to right now:
01 / WARMER WOODS Rich oak, walnut, and natural wood finishes are bringing depth and character back into kitchens, cabinetry, and architectural details.
02 / STONE WITH MOVEMENT Rather than perfectly uniform surfaces, I'm loving natural stone with visible veining, texture, and variation. Materials that bring their own character into a space.
03 / ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING Less emphasis on oversized statement fixtures and more thoughtful use of recessed, concealed, and integrated lighting that highlights the architecture itself.
04 / THE WORKING PANTRY One of my favorite details in newer luxury homes: a secondary space for appliances, prep work, and everyday functionality, allowing the main kitchen to remain beautifully uncluttered.
03
AROUND TOWN
WHAT I’M TRYING, ORDERING & LOVING
EAT — THE ENDS
Inspired by the late Anthony Bourdain, The Ends in Old Town has quickly become one of our favorite dinner spots. Everything we've tried has been excellent, but the biscuits deserve a special mention. Definitely one to add to your list.
SIP — HEF'S HAUS
I recently stopped by Hef's Haus and loved their lattes. I tried the Cinnamon Toast Crunch latte, which I hear has already rotated off the menu, but their rotating specialty drinks mean there's always something new to order.
GO — FARMERS MARKETS ARE BACK!
One of my favorite signs that fall has arrived in Scottsdale: farmers market season is back. The Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market is the perfect excuse for a slow Saturday morning, with fresh flowers, seasonal produce, local vendors, and a coffee in hand.
04
THE NEIGHBORHOOD
THIS MONTH: ARCADIA
Arcadia has a character all its own. Between the mature citrus trees, established neighborhoods, and Camelback Mountain as a backdrop, it's one of those places where the setting is just as much of the appeal as the homes themselves.
I love the mix of original ranch-style houses and thoughtfully reimagined properties, along with the neighborhood's proximity to some of the Valley's favorite restaurants and cafés. It feels established, relaxed, and distinctly Arizona.
Whether you're thinking about making a move, have a question about the market, or just want to share a favorite Scottsdale find, my inbox is always open.
