An interesting article in today's Arizona Republic talks about a sold home in upscale Ahwatukee that is across the street from a house that is "unusually painted'.  The neighbor house sold for nearly asking price, a rare thing in today's buyer's market. 

People outside of the Valley may wonder why that is worthy of mention.  But here in the Phoenix the neighborhoods have a severe case of Stepford-ism.  Part of the point of the plethora of HOA's is to make sure everyone follows the same style, architecture and paint guidelines.  The anticipated result is that everyone's resale value will remain high. 

However, as this article points out, that isn't necessarily the case.  The pendulum is swinging the other way, I think.  As the next generation is starting to buy, they are looking for homes that are unique, different and SWANK, for lack of a better term. 

Builders are starting to see it too and reflect that, I think.  On the East Valley is started with Gilbert's Agritopia by Scott Communities.  Buyers drove down a street filled with grass lawns and saw homes with stones, brick, and siding, instead of the usual stucco and they lined up to buy those homes.  Then the incredible and ginormous Morrison Ranch started, they even have real mailboxes and white picket fences, can you believe it?  Now, it's pretty much everywhere, Phoenix's version of Tuscan colors, even in my own neighborhood of Country Lane. 

What will be the next wave?  What will the next round of Phoenicians want?  I think it will be front porches and sidewalks.  I think people are wanting to get back outside and into their communities.  I guess we'll have to see.