August is bringing plenty to talk about around the Valley! This month, we’re celebrating Arizona Cardinals legend Larry Fitzgerald and his Hall of Fame moment, checking out the new 85°C Bakery Café in Avondale, and taking a look at what’s happening with the real estate market and mortgage rates.

In this month’s newsletter:

Larry Fitzgerald went into the Pro Football Hall of Fame recently. As a Cardinals fan, he’s my favorite because of the kind of man he showed himself to be year after year.

A few things I’ve always admired about Larry:

• Humility. He never acted like he was bigger than the game.
• Character. No drama. No trash talk. No off-the-field nonsense. Just a true professional.
•Work ethic. Every game looked like he was giving everything he had.
• Loyalty. He could’ve left Arizona to chase a ring, but he stayed and he never quit on this city.
• Leadership. He led by example and earned the respect of teammates, coaches, opponents, and fans.
• Consistency. You always knew exactly what you were going to get from Larry.

When I think back, I remember him taking over the 2008 playoff run, the three-touchdown game against the Eagles that sent us to the Super Bowl, the long touchdown against the Steelers that had all of Arizona believing, and that unforgettable overtime catch-and-run against the Packers.

Those are incredible football memories. But years from now, I don’t think that’s what I’ll remember most. I’ll remember the way he carried himself.

For me, this is Larry Fitzgerald’s real legacy. One of the greatest players to ever wear an NFL uniform, but an even better example of humility, class, loyalty, and character.

Congratulations on an incredibly well-deserved Hall of Fame induction, Larry. Arizona has been proud to call you one of our own.

Cardinals fans…what’s your favorite Larry Fitzgerald memory?

I’d love to hear it down below.

Larry! Larry! Larry!

85°C Bakery Cafe is officially open in Avondale!

Got to get in early with my girls before the crowd showed up. Shout to Mayor Mike Pineda, M.Ed. for the invite! Place smelled amazing, and I was definitely excited to check it out.

Even got to meet Andy Kuo, CEO of 85°C. Pretty cool seeing a company with over 1,000 locations worldwide open up right here in Avondale.

“Are rates going down soon?”

My best guess: Not much changes for the rest of this year or most of 2027. We may see some ups and downs, but nothing major. If meaningful rate cuts happen, I think they’re more likely later in 2027 or in 2028.

Just my opinion—not a prediction, the economy, global events, many other factors, can change the outlook.

Watch the video and let me know what you think. If you have questions about buying, refinancing, or your home’s equity, send me a DM. Aaron Alvarez 602-705-9835 West American Mortgage NMLS 304208

Unit 77 at the Bethany Villas is a brand new listing in Central Phoenix. This 2 bed, 2 bath condo has new flooring, fresh interior paint and is move in ready. The beauty of this condo complex is all utilities are included, even electric! The best part is the list price is only $237k.

There are many different financing options available as well, let’s take a look at what this unit would cost.

See the full listing here or contact J.D. Manning with My Home Group at (480) 797-8975.

What do you get in Peoria for $525k? Peoria is a big city with a variety of different homes and locations, and if you know where to look, you can find interesting houses like this one on Desert Harbor, near 91st Ave & Thunderbird.

Needing Cash to Close? Seller is offering 3% for Closing Costs or Buy Down w/ Full Price Offer !!, Come enjoy on the Lake living at it's finest. Rare opportunity to own 1 of only 3 homes located in the Harbor Island Gated Community with a balcony overlooking this Lake Front home. Panoramic Lake views from 2nd story balcony off spacious primary bedroom. Party sized patio w/ ceiling fans. Speakers inside & through out the home. Fishing allowed in well stocked lake (catch & release) boating allowed, pontoon boats (electric) Spacious home for family and friends, 4 bedroom & 3 full baths. Hardwood oak flooring in living & dining area, granite counter tops, oak kitchen cabinets & double pantry. Close proximity to the 101, shopping districts and sports venues.

My agent partners are starting to see more and more multi-generational families looking to live in the same property. This home in Buckeye is a great set up, with a separate NexGen set up with its own kitchen, and garage. Plus the RV garage provides room for your toys, business equipment or all that stuff you’ve been moving around for the past 25 years and can’t seem to part with…

Next Gen® Home with RV Garage! Built by Lennar and never occupied, this thoughtfully designed home combines two highly sought-after features in one exceptional floor plan. The attached private Next Gen® suite includes its own entrance, living room, bedroom, full bath, laundry, and one-car garage, creating a flexible living space while remaining connected to the main home. The approximately 14'9'' x 43' RV garage offers exceptional space. The main home features an open-concept layout with a spacious kitchen overlooking the great room, a private primary suite, and two additional bedrooms. Enjoy the benefits of new construction with immediate move-in, no waiting for construction to be completed. Conveniently located in the desirable Arroyo Seco community. RV garage measures approx. 14'9" x 43', with a separate one-car garage measuring approx. 12' x 22'.

See all of the pictures here.

Property listed by Jeff Reed with My Home Group Real Estate, LLC

Looking for something a little different to do this weekend? Titanic: An Immersive Voyage in Scottsdale lets you step into the story of the legendary ship through recreated spaces, historic artifacts, interactive exhibits and immersive projections. It’s definitely not your typical Valley weekend activity!

Our family had a chance to visit recently and it was a great time.

Thinking about your next home? Reach out, I’d love to chat with you about what may be possible to help get you in your dream home. There are some good options for refinancing your current mortgage too.

You can call or text me on my personal cell at (602) 705-9835 or reply to this email.

Here’s all the boring stuff I'm legally required to share: West American Mortgage NMLS #304208