There’s always something to howl about.

Blogoff Post #76: Ask the Broker: Is it too early for Anthem . . . ?

A local question with broad implications:

In 2004 I fell in love with Anthem, and was actually thinking of moving there. Last year the housing market went so crazy that I decided to wait. And the way things are looking today, I’m afraid now to move there. I still love the area and the houses up there. And the commute won’t hurt me because I can telecommute. But I’m afraid that my house won’t hold its value. Do you have any opinion about the outlook of Anthem?

Anthem is a beautiful master-planned community built by Del Webb. Parks, playgrounds, golf courses, a huge waterpark, a kiddie railroad — in many ways it’s heaven on earth. Heaven may be nearer, though: Anthem is a long drive from Downtown Phoenix. Still worse, there is only one road in and out. When that road is blocked by an accident, nobody comes or goes.

For this reason, Anthem was the first area to betray signs of weakness in last Summer’s buying frenzy. It is also very likely to the be last market area to recover as we get back to normal.

Does that mean you shouldn’t buy there?

Anthem may not do as well in gross appreciation as other, similar communities — for example Estrella Mountain Ranch in Goodyear.

It comes down to this: Does the investment value of your home matter more to you, or the community and amenities you love in Anthem? Your answer to that question will tell you what to do…

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