90% humidity???

I had the opportunity to travel to Tennessee this past weekend for a family wedding. It was my first time to Eastern Tennessee, and it was quite an experience.

My cousin & his family live in Knoxville, but the wedding was an hour away at an amazing church facility that was on top of a hill that had beautiful views of the lake below. The drive to & from was a joy as well, with stretches of the road through a full canopy of trees overhead. It was a stark contrast to things here in Phoenix, and a welcome change from the heat despite the oppressive humidity.

In this newsletter:

Have a great weekend!

We all want our homes to reflect our personality, and paint is one of the easiest ways to do it. Benjamin Moore's 2026 Color Trends embrace rich, earthy tones, with Silhouette, a warm chocolate brown, leading the way as Color of the Year. The full palette features cozy neutrals, soft greens, muted blues, and natural hues that create inviting, comfortable spaces while still feeling stylish and current.

While it's fun to follow the latest trends or choose a color you absolutely love, it's also worth thinking about resale value. That bold red dining room or bright purple bedroom may be perfect for you, but prospective buyers often have a hard time seeing past someone else's personal style. Neutral colors allow buyers to picture their own furniture, décor, and life in the home, making rooms feel larger, brighter, and more welcoming.

If selling your home is even a possibility in the next few years, consider sticking with warm, timeless colors that appeal to the widest audience. A fresh coat of paint is one of the most affordable updates you can make, and it can have a surprisingly big impact on a buyer's first impression. Save the bold colors for artwork, décor, or accent pieces that can easily move with you to your next home.

Mortgage rates ticked higher this week as bond markets reacted to rising Treasury yields and renewed concerns that inflation could remain stubborn. When investors demand higher returns on long-term bonds, mortgage rates typically move in the same direction.

While higher rates can impact affordability, they also create opportunities for buyers. A slower market often means less competition, more room to negotiate, and a better chance of securing seller concessions. If rates decline in the future, increased buyer demand could quickly drive competition, and home prices, back up.

Curious what your rate would be in today’s market? Reach out to my lending partner, Aaron Alvarez with West American Mortgage, at (602) 705-9835.

Second Chance Opportunity! This home is back on the market after the previous buyer was unable to perform, giving another lucky buyer the opportunity to make it theirs. Even better, the seller has installed a brand-new A/C system, adding peace of mind to this move-in-ready 3-bedroom, 3-bath home featuring an open floor plan, low-maintenance landscaping, and a convenient location near schools, parks, shopping, and dining.

See all the pics & info here.

Property listed by Randy Anaya with Real Broker

Referrals are the backbone of any realtors business, and mine is no different. Many of you have sent your friends & family my way over the years, and it is always fun to get that call ‘they said you’re the best, so I’m calling to get your help!’

If you know anyone thinking of buying or selling in 2026, I’d love the opportunity to connect with them and see how I can help.

I’m a sucker for an amazing view. This property in Carefree checks that box and has one of the most unique lots you’ll ever find.

Nestled among the boulders on the south side of Black Mountain, this private, single-level retreat spans over 22 acres, including an adjacent buildable lot, offering exceptional privacy and breathtaking views from every room. Accessed via a gated private drive, this remarkable property is just minutes from shopping and dining, yet feels like a secluded sanctuary. This exceptional architectural estate by Andy Gramling is a study in refined craftsmanship, intentional design, and timeless elegance. An expansive open floor plan creates seamless balance and comfort featuring a stunning great room with a two-way fireplace that opens gracefully to the surrounding outdoor living spaces. Designed to celebrate its breathtaking setting, every room has direct patio access to enjoy the endless views.

See all the photos here.

Property listed by Kayla Kerulis with Real Broker

Of course spending the weekend in Tennessee had me looking online for homes. My cousin has a property with over 10 acres and it was spectacular. A nice mix of privacy & open space, plus room for all the stuff you need & want on an acreage.

This home in Eastern Knoxville is a good set up as well.

Get a 2 for 1. Be on Top of your World on your own Private Mountain in Beautiful East Tennessee. 2311 Smith School Rd is a meticulously kept property, being offered by the original owners. The stone wood burning fireplace is truly the center of attention in this move in ready Basement Ranch. The Master Suite has a walk-in closet and step in shower. The Laundry Room and Sunroom are additions to the original home. The basement Den has a free standing wood stove w/glass door. This home is loaded with character and E. Tenn. charm. The exterior has just recently been remodeled with new Board & Batton Vinyl Siding. Enjoy the outdoors on the paver brick patio w/firepit. You can have friends and family stay near by in the Guest House.

See all the pics & info here.

Because if we didn’t laugh…we’d cry