Phoenix home prices are now underperforming most major cities across the country. Mortgage rates have climbed to their highest level of 2026. Yet Chandler continues to rank as the second strongest housing market in Maricopa County.

So what is really happening?

Is the housing market getting weaker, stronger, or simply stuck in neutral?

This week's market update breaks down three key trends every Chandler buyer and seller should understand before making their next move.

Key Market Highlights

• Chandler Remains the Second Strongest Housing Market in Maricopa County: According to the latest Cromford Market Index (CMI), Chandler currently holds a score of 153.2, ranking second only behind Fountain Hills. Although the market softened slightly over the past month, Chandler remains firmly in seller's market territory and continues to outperform most cities across the Valley.

  

• The Market Is Waiting, Not Crashing: While 11 cities moved slightly in favor of buyers and 7 moved toward sellers, the average market shift was only -0.3%, much smaller than last week's -1.5% decline. Buyers are waiting for lower mortgage rates, while sellers are waiting for stronger demand, creating a market that feels stuck in neutral rather than moving sharply in either direction.

• Phoenix Home Prices Are Underperforming the National Market: The latest Case-Shiller report shows Phoenix home prices increased only 0.33% month-over-month compared to the national average of 0.72%.

  

  On a year-over-year basis, Phoenix prices declined 1.63% while the national market still posted a 0.67% gain.

  

• Phoenix Is Not Chandler: Many people hear that Phoenix prices are lagging and assume the Arizona housing market is crashing. The reality is that housing markets behave differently by location. While Phoenix has experienced a modest correction after several years of rapid appreciation, Chandler continues to remain one of the strongest local markets in Maricopa County.

• Mortgage Rates Reach the Highest Level of 2026: Mortgage rates have risen to 6.48%, the highest level seen so far this year. While many buyers are waiting for rates to fall, future rate movements remain uncertain and may not happen as quickly as many expect.

  

• Affordability Matters More Than Timing Interest Rates: Trying to perfectly predict future mortgage rates has become increasingly difficult. For buyers, the more important question is whether today's monthly payment comfortably fits their budget. If the payment works and the home fits long-term goals, waiting for the "perfect" rate could mean missing opportunities.

Buyer & Seller Insights

Chandler Market Strength (CMI Rankings)

The latest Cromford Market Index shows Chandler maintaining one of the strongest seller's markets in Arizona.

What This Means for Buyers

• Competition still exists in desirable Chandler neighborhoods.

• Well-priced homes can continue attracting multiple offers.

• Waiting for significantly lower prices may not produce the results many buyers expect.

What This Means for Sellers

• Chandler remains one of the strongest local markets.

• Correct pricing remains critical as buyers are becoming more selective.

• Sellers who overprice may experience longer market times.