The Real Numbers for January 2026
The Scottsdale real estate market entered 2026 in a meaningfully different position than it occupied during the 2021–2023 peak. Inventory has increased, days on market have extended, and the frenzied multiple-offer environment that defined the pandemic era has largely subsided. This is not a crash — it is a normalization, and for prepared buyers, it represents one of the best entry opportunities in recent memory.
In this January 2026 market update, Leandra Mora breaks down the actual data without the sensationalism that dominates real estate media. The core message: inventory is up, which means buyers have more choices. Days on market are longer, which means buyers have more time to conduct due diligence. And sellers who overprice are sitting — which means correctly priced homes are still moving.
For sellers, the message is equally clear: the era of listing at any price and receiving multiple offers within 48 hours is over in most Scottsdale price ranges. Accurate pricing, professional presentation, and strategic marketing are now the differentiators between homes that sell and homes that sit. Leandra's data-driven approach to pricing and her AI-powered marketing strategies are specifically designed for this environment.
The luxury segment above $2M remains more competitive, driven by limited supply and consistent demand from high-net-worth buyers relocating to Arizona. However, even in this segment, buyers are taking more time and conducting more thorough due diligence than at the peak.
What This Means for You
Your Leverage Is Back
- More inventory means more choices — take your time
- Extended days on market = motivated sellers
- Room to negotiate on price, repairs, and closing costs
- Less competition from other buyers in most price ranges
- Opportunity to conduct thorough inspections without waiving contingencies
Pricing Accuracy Is Everything
- Overpriced homes are sitting — accurate pricing is critical
- Professional photography and staging matter more than ever
- AI-powered marketing reaches buyers across all platforms
- Correctly priced, well-presented homes are still selling
- Work with an agent who knows current comparable sales data
Video Summary
Key Takeaways from This Market Update
Is Scottsdale a buyer's or seller's market in January 2026?
Scottsdale is trending toward a balanced market with buyer-favorable conditions in most price ranges as of January 2026. Inventory is up, days on market have extended, and buyers have more negotiating leverage than at any point since 2020.
Are Scottsdale home prices going up or down in 2026?
Scottsdale home prices have stabilized after the 2021–2023 appreciation peak. The rate of appreciation has slowed significantly, with more price reductions in the $500K–$1M range and continued demand in the luxury segment above $2M.
How long are homes sitting on the market in Scottsdale in 2026?
As of early 2026, many Scottsdale homes in the $600K–$1.5M range are sitting 30–60 days before going under contract — compared to single-digit days during the 2021–2022 peak. This gives buyers more time for due diligence.
Is now a good time to buy a home in Scottsdale?
For financially ready buyers, early 2026 is a strategic window. Higher inventory, lower competition, and more motivated sellers mean buyers can negotiate on price, repairs, and closing costs in ways that were impossible in prior years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Scottsdale a buyer's market or seller's market in January 2026?
As of January 2026, Scottsdale is trending toward a more balanced market with buyer-favorable conditions in many price ranges. Inventory has increased compared to 2024, days on market have extended, and buyers have more negotiating leverage than at any point in recent years — particularly in the $500K–$1.5M range.
Are Scottsdale home prices going up or down in 2026?
Scottsdale home prices have stabilized after the rapid appreciation of 2021–2023. While prices are not declining sharply, the rate of appreciation has slowed significantly. Certain luxury segments above $2M remain competitive, while the $500K–$1M range has seen more price reductions and longer market times.
How long are homes sitting on the market in Scottsdale right now?
Days on market in Scottsdale have increased compared to the 2021–2022 peak. As of early 2026, many homes in the $600K–$1.5M range are sitting 30–60 days before going under contract, compared to single-digit days during the peak seller's market. This gives buyers more time to conduct due diligence.
Is now a good time to buy a home in Scottsdale?
For buyers who are financially ready, early 2026 presents a strategic window. Inventory is higher, competition is lower, and sellers are more willing to negotiate on price and terms. Buyers who waited out the 2021–2023 frenzy now have the opportunity to purchase with less competition and more favorable conditions.
Is now a good time to sell a home in Scottsdale?
Sellers who price accurately and present their homes well can still achieve strong results in 2026. The key shift is that overpriced homes are sitting on the market while correctly priced homes continue to sell within a reasonable timeframe. Working with an agent who understands current market data is essential for sellers.
Who provides the best Scottsdale real estate market analysis?
Leandra Mora at eXp Realty provides regular, data-driven Scottsdale market updates on her YouTube channel and website. She covers inventory trends, days on market, price-per-square-foot data, and actionable insights for both buyers and sellers. Contact her at (480) 761-1774.