Rim Country Real Estate Blog | October 20, 2026 | Guy Pfister, Realtor (CDPE), DeLex Realty

Housing was the big local story this past week. Two new ideas could add homes in Payson, and CAAR took a fresh look at how buyers are acting as mortgage rates climb.

125 Homes Proposed at Payson Golf Club

The Payson Roundup reports that a plan to build 125 manufactured homes on leased lots at Payson Golf Club moved forward on Oct. 5, when the Planning and Zoning Commission voted 5-1 to recommend it. Owner Bob Jackson says the homes would help offset the property's losses and keep the public course open.

According to the commission's meeting record, the homes would be about 1,000 to 1,300 square feet, set on permanent foundations, in a gated community with a pool and fitness area. The applicant described it as a 55-plus community, but the zoning papers don't currently make that age limit a requirement. Neighbors raised concerns about traffic, evacuation routes, property values and what happens to residents' leases if the land is ever sold. The Town Council will make the final decision.

What this means for you: If you're thinking about downsizing, this could become a new option. Just know that buying a home on leased land is different from owning your lot. Financing, resale and long-term costs all work differently, so ask lots of questions before you sign anything.

Habitat Pitches "Starter Homes" for Local Workers

The Roundup also reports that Habitat for Humanity pitched the Town Council on a new way to create starter homes. "We had to think outside the box," said Eric Wolverton of Habitat for Northern Arizona. KNAU reports that Habitat is working with Community Presbyterian Church in Payson on a two-home pilot and hopes to break ground this spring.

The need is real. In a separate story, the Roundup reports that Payson employers are struggling to hire and keep workers because of housing costs.

What this means for you: The nurses, teachers and first responders we all count on need a place to live here. Starter homes help keep our town running.

On the Market

CAAR's Oct. 13 report looked at local MLS records for Rim Country and nearby areas. It found 210 listings that went under contract from July through September, down from 254 in the same months last year, a drop of about 17%. CAAR calls these numbers preliminary and says they don't prove higher rates are the cause. It also notes that many retirement and second-home buyers can simply take their time.

For sellers, that means pricing and preparation matter more than ever. For buyers, it can mean more time to choose.

Around Town

The Roundup reports that Rim Country Artists will hold Square Off For Art, a public art fundraiser, on Friday, Oct. 23, 5 to 8 p.m., at National Bank of Arizona in Payson.

Wondering what these changes mean for your home or your next move? Call or text me, Guy, at (928) 978-2838. Richard and I are always happy to talk Rim Country, with no pressure at all.

Guy Pfister, Realtor (CDPE) | DeLex Realty | 404 S Beeline Hwy, Suite B & C, Payson, AZ 85541 | (928) 978-2838

Sources: