The Market Is Moving: Are You Moving With It?

Dom "Del Prete" Martinez | AZREIA

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from wearing multiple hats as an agent, investor, and business owner, it’s this: there is always opportunity in Arizona’s real estate market… but the kind of opportunity shifts. Markets rarely change with a big announcement and if you’re not actively in the game or connecting with people who are, you can miss that shift without even realizing it.

Lately, I’ve seen three perspectives aligning in a really interesting way.

From the agent side, homes that aren’t priced right are sitting longer—and hallelujah, sellers are finally noticing! After a couple of relists, many are realizing the truth: the market, not their “I want X number,” determines value. At the same time, buyers are becoming more selective. For the first time in years, they have the space to make strategic decisions instead of rushing into whatever they can get. And while rates still matter, the prepared buyers are the ones who can act confidently when the right opportunity shows up.

From the investor side, creative strategies are gaining serious momentum and cash isn’t the only way to win anymore. Terms, seller financing, partnerships, private capital, sub-to deals, house hacking, and value-add plays are all back in rotation. Even though prices are higher, savvy investors are structuring their deals so properties still cash flow—and in some cases, cash flow even better.

From the AZREIA side, one thing is clear: investors who stay plugged into community always win bigger. Some of my favorite moments lately have come from sitting with members, talking through deals, and brainstorming solutions together. When you show up consistently, whether to a meeting, subgroup, or workshop, your confidence, clarity, and deal flow grow faster than you think. Many times, it only takes one good conversation to completely shift your perspective—or your next deal.

As we move through the end of the year, now is the time to sharpen your fundamentals, expand your conversations, and prepare yourself for the opportunities ahead.

I’m honored to write to you this month, and I look forward to seeing you at an upcoming meeting. Let’s make this next season your most strategic one yet.