When it comes to buying a home, there’s one real estate mantra that stands the test of time: Location, location, location. This phrase should be at the forefront of your mind as you embark on your homebuying journey. But location isn’t just about being close to work or good schools—it’s about the full experience of living in the area. This includes unique community events that can impact your lifestyle, your daily routine, and, ultimately, your decision to buy.
Why Location Matters
The concept of location, location, location highlights the importance of choosing a neighborhood that aligns with your lifestyle, needs, and long-term goals. It’s not just about the aesthetic of a home or the square footage—it’s about how well the area suits your personality, preferences, and habits. While factors like proximity to amenities and schools are critical, you also need to consider factors like noise levels, traffic, and whether the neighborhood is prone to certain types of crowds or events.
Let’s use Scottsdale, AZ as an example. Location can also be defined by the influx of tourists and large-scale events that draw thousands to the city. These events may be a selling point for some buyers, but they can be a deal-breaker for others. As a homebuyer in Scottsdale, it’s important to understand how these events can affect your daily life, especially if you’re new to the area. Let’s dive into a few major events that dominate the months of January and February: the Barrett-Jackson Car Auction and the Waste Management Phoenix Open.
The Barrett-Jackson Car Auction
Held every January, the Barrett-Jackson Auction is a must-attend event for car enthusiasts from around the world. Known as “The World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctions,” this event draws massive crowds, bringing excitement and traffic to Scottsdale. Thousands of classic cars and luxury vehicles are sold at the auction, and attendees from across the country flood the city for a week of cars, parties, and gatherings.
For homebuyers, this event can serve as a sign of the area’s vibrancy and appeal to a certain crowd. If you love cars, this event might be an exciting addition to your neighborhood’s character. But if you’re not a fan of the crowds, high traffic, or the noise that comes with such a popular event, it could be a downside to living near the Scottsdale area during January. Buyers should consider how the timing of these events will impact their quality of life, especially if they work from home or value peace and quiet.
The Waste Management Phoenix Open
Following closely behind in February is the Waste Management Phoenix Open, one of the most well-known and unique events on the PGA Tour. Hosted at TPC Scottsdale, this golf tournament is famous for its lively atmosphere, massive crowds, and the famous 16th hole “stadium” where spectators make the event feel more like a party than a golf tournament. With over 700,000 fans attending each year, the Waste Management Phoenix Open brings high energy and plenty of fanfare to Scottsdale.
For those buying a home in Scottsdale, it’s essential to consider how the Open will affect your daily life. The event brings with it heightened traffic, crowds, and noise, especially around the golf course and nearby neighborhoods. Homebuyers in the area should assess whether they enjoy the buzz or prefer a quieter, more tranquil environment. Just like with the Barrett-Jackson Auction, the Waste Management Phoenix Open can be a plus for those who enjoy the social scene and excitement, but a challenge for those seeking peace and privacy.
How These Events Influence Homebuying Decisions
When you’re looking for a home, it’s crucial to think about how your lifestyle aligns with the neighborhood’s schedule. For example, if you’re purchasing a home in Scottsdale and you plan to work from home, you might want to look at homes that are a little farther from the event venues to avoid disruptions from the crowds and traffic during these peak months.
Additionally, some buyers might view these events as an opportunity to embrace the energy of Scottsdale. If you’re someone who enjoys attending high-profile events, living near where the action is could be an exciting selling point. The social scene, access to these events, and proximity to dining, entertainment, and luxury experiences may feel like a huge perk, especially if you’re buying in a sought-after area like Scottsdale’s McCormick Ranch or near the TPC Scottsdale.
On the flip side, if you’re someone who enjoys peace and quiet, you may want to consider a location that’s a bit removed from the hustle and bustle. Buying in neighborhoods slightly farther from the event venues might help you avoid the chaos during January and February while still keeping you close to all of Scottsdale’s amenities and attractions the rest of the year.
The Bottom Line
As the saying goes, location, location, location is everything when it comes to buying a home. And when you’re looking at Scottsdale, AZ, understanding the rhythm of the community—especially during the high-energy months of January and February—will play a big role in determining if the area fits your needs. Be sure to consider how these major events like the Barrett-Jackson Auction and the Waste Management Phoenix Open impact traffic, noise, and your overall lifestyle.
Your ideal home is waiting, but before you sign that contract, think carefully about how location—and the surrounding events—will shape your living experience in Scottsdale. Whether you want to be in the heart of the action or prefer a quieter escape, Scottsdale offers something for everyone, so make sure your home aligns with your personal vision of the good life.
