Gilbert

Gilbert, AZ homes for sale

Sources: Realtor.com & Zillow.com (May 2024)

 

Once known as the “Hay Shipping Capital of the World,” Gilbert, AZ is one of the fastest-growing communities, not just in Arizona but in the entire country. With a rising population of more than 275,000 residents (2023 US Census), the former agricultural town has transitioned into a flourishing suburban area with excellent schools, a diverse economy, and a family-friendly environment.

Despite its remarkable progress, Gilbert remains true to its farming and ranching roots, making it a fascinating cornerstone of the Southwest.

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WELCOME TO GILBERT, AZ!

While technically a municipality, Gilbert, AZ boasts a sizable population, making it a major hub within the Greater Phoenix metropolitan area. It’s located in Maricopa County and is approximately 25 miles southeast of Phoenix. Covering a total area of 68.86 square miles, Gilbert is bordered by Mesa to the north and Chandler to the southwest.

Named one of the best suburbs to live in the Phoenix area, Gilbert is, in many ways, the quintessential family town. Although large in size, Gilbert cultivates a small-town atmosphere that fosters a strong sense of community. On top of that, its schools are constantly praised for their quality of education. It’s no surprise that Gilbert’s population is younger than in many other areas as it attracts many families looking to raise their children in a secure and nourishing environment.

But this isn’t all that makes Gilbert unique. The town is dedicated to preserving its ranching heritage and is famous for hosting one of the largest rodeos in the United States: the Gilbert Days Rodeo. You’ll also find plenty of equestrian properties and ranch properties here.

Moreover, Gilbert boasts dining, entertainment, and shopping options that rival those of more urban locales, making it a popular choice for young professionals, as well.

GILBERT, AZ HOMES FOR SALE

If you’re after single-family homes with spacious lots, then Gilbert should be at the top of your list. Homes for sale in Gilbert, AZ are predominantly single-family types, although there are also several apartments and row houses on the market. The average Gilbert home has three to four bedrooms and is owner-occupied. In fact, nearly 75% of homes in Gilbert are owned, not rented. This high homeownership rate points to the area’s stability and desirability; residents are the kind who invest in the community and stay here for long periods.

Property age and architecture

Although Gilbert has a rich history as an agricultural town, most of its housing stock is relatively new. Nearly 58% of the homes were built in the 2000s or later, giving several neighborhoods a contemporary look and feel. However, if you prefer more established properties with some historic appeal and classic architectural styles, you’ll find that about 41% of the housing stock dates back to the 1970s at the earliest. The architecture in Gilbert is diverse, with styles ranging from Farmhouse and Spanish Colonial to Desert Contemporary and Desert Prairie.

Property features

Given Gilbert’s size and the number of distinct neighborhoods, it’s hard to make a definitive list of the most common property features – this largely depends on the specific area you’re looking at. Some properties offer expansive grounds and proximity to nature trails while others are more compact and closer to the downtown area. In other neighborhoods, you’ll find custom homes overlooking a local golf course. This wide range of options makes Gilbert an ideal place to find a home that’s tailored to your lifestyle.

Most popular neighborhoods in Gilbert, AZ

Gilbert is divided into more than 50 neighborhoods, each with its respective character and charm. Here’s a brief look at some of the most popular places to buy a home.

• SILVER CREEK – A small and tight-knit neighborhood, Silver Creek is perfect for those who seek a peaceful environment without sacrificing accessibility to the rest of the town. As a Silver Creek resident, you’re located close to both Freedom Park Lake and Gilbert Regional Park, two of the major community parks in Gilbert. Homes for sale in this area are typically single-family homes.
• SEVILLE – Are you a retiree looking for a tranquil community or someone who wants to make golf a part of their lifestyle? Seville may just be the place for you. This neighborhood is home to the Seville Golf & Country Club which features a beautiful golf course designed by architect Gary Panks. Wide green spaces and recreational activities abound. What’s more, you’ll have access to several top-rated schools. Custom estates, condos, and townhouses make up the housing inventory.
• VAL VISTA LAKES – Val Vista Lakes is an upscale community composed of 24 distinct subdivisions. Many gated communities are found in this neighborhood, as well as a wide range of housing options ranging from single-family homes to townhouses. One of its major draws is the scenery: It’s named after the surrounding lakes that add a picturesque touch to the neighborhood.
• LAYTON LAKES – Layton Lakes is another scenic residential neighborhood located in Western Gilbert. In addition to its lakes and waterfalls, Layton Lakes offers several nearby equestrian trails, baseball fields, and children’s playgrounds. It also has a newer housing stock, as most properties here were built after 1999.
• FINLEY FARMS – One of the most family-friendly neighborhoods in Gilbert is Finley Farms. The abundance of local events held here makes it an excellent choice for homeowners who want to be part of a tight-knit community. Nearby amenities include Columbus Park, Greenfield Lakes Golf Course, and Mesquite Aquatic Center. As for real estate, homes for sale are typically single-family homes that range in size from smaller properties to six-bedroom homes.

LIFE IN GILBERT, AZ

Gilbert’s excellent living environment is, undoubtedly, the driving force behind its growth as a community. For those looking to experience the most desirable aspects of living in the Southwest, look no further than Gilbert.

Climate

Enjoying a prime location near the Valley of the Sun, Gilbert experiences 300 days of sunshine a year. The warm weather allows residents to engage in various outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to golf. Although summers can get quite hot – temperatures in July could go as high as 97°F – the rest of the year sees mild weather, even during winters.

Attractions

Gilbert’s top attractions provide more than just entertainment – they’re a glimpse into the town’s storied past.

GILBERT HISTORICAL MUSEUM

Located within the Gilbert Heritage District, the Gilbert Historical Museum is a fine way to learn about the town’s unique roots and culture. Visitors may explore exhibits relating to farming, trains, and the lifestyles of their ancestors which are chronicled through photographs, artifacts, and even oral histories.

HALE CENTRE THEATRE ARIZONA

Originating from Glendale, California, the Hale Centre Theatre in Gilbert is one of the theater’s two main branches, the other one being in Sandy, Utah. Established by Ruth and Nathan Hale, the Theatre is an iconic part of Gilbert’s cultural fabric, staging several classic productions like Beauty and the Beast and A Christmas Carol. The Theatre also hosts multiple live performances and music concerts throughout the year.

GILBERT WATER TOWER

Standing as the centerpiece of Gilbert’s Heritage District, the Gilbert Water Tower is the most iconic landmark in the municipality. Towering over the locale at 130 feet, it served as Gilbert’s water storage facility for firefighting and drinking purposes from 1927 to 1985. While it has long been retired, the water tower remained a landmark and a plaza was built around it.

Now, with efforts underway to revitalize much of East Valley, the Water Tower Plaza was closed for a major makeover. A new and improved plaza is set to reopen by fall of 2024.

Shopping

To hit two birds with one stone, start your Gilbert shopping experience at Downtown Gilbert – more commonly referred to by locals as the Heritage District. This area is great for exploring both the town’s cultural heritage and retail offerings which include clothing shops, arts and crafts stores, and antique shops selling one-of-a-kind vintage items. As you go from store to store, you’ll come across several murals and public art installations.

Another staple is the Gilbert Farmers Market. Unlike other markets that are only open seasonally, the Gilbert Farmers Market is available year-round and takes place every Saturday morning. Featuring more than 100 vendors, the market is conveniently located in Downtown Gilbert. Visitors flock to sample a variety of fresh produce, meat and dairy products, and artisan products, as well as bread, coffee, tea, and baked goods.

The market is open from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. during the summer, and 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. during the winter. It’s only closed for certain holidays at the end of the year.

Dining

From casual eats to refined dining spots, Gilbert boasts a selection of restaurants catering to nearly every palate. Here’s a sampling of what the town has to offer.

• Clever Koi has been described as a culinary trendsetter. Located in the Heritage District, this restaurant offers both classic and contemporary Pan-Asian cuisine, with bestsellers like house-made dumplings and noodle dishes. Their bar is also notable, offering a variety of bespoke drinks such as Little Tokyo (Tenjaku Japanese whisky and Matsui Umeshu plum brandy) and Eye of the Chai-ger (chai rum, coconut rum, and ginger liqueur).
• The Farmhouse is one of Gilbert’s original restaurants, fittingly located in the Heritage District. It’s the perfect dining spot if you’re looking for classic comfort food that is both scrumptious and filling. The kitchen serves breakfast, brunch, and lunch, with must-tries like their tacos and omelets. Be sure to sample their baked goods, too.
• Liberty Market is a casual all-day cafe, famous for its incredible Café Cubano and relaxed atmosphere. The menu primarily features American cuisine, with delightful staples like wood-fired pizzas and breakfast plates.
• Joe’s Real BBQ is, without a doubt, Gilbert’s top barbecue joint. It opened its doors in 1998 and has become a neighborhood institution since. The cafeteria-style setting invites guests to relax and enjoy the real star of the restaurant: the food. Bestsellers include barbecue pit beans and mac ‘n’ cheese.

For solid brews, some of the best local cafes to visit are The Coffee Shop in Agritopia;
Mythical Coffee, which features creative drinks; and Sweetz Cold Brew Coffee Co., which is famous for its blended coffee beverages.

Outdoor activities

Gilbert’s prime location and sunny weather offer several amazing opportunities for enjoying the Great Outdoors.

BIKING

Gilbert is not only pedestrian-friendly – it’s also bicycle-friendly. Its expertly planned Central Trail System offers 135 miles of trails that weave throughout the town, including 54 miles of designated bike trails. Running east to west is the Western Powerline Trail, while running north to south are the Heritage, San Tan Vista, and Marathon Trails. Navigating these trails, you’ll find small parks with shade, drinking fountains, and picnic areas.

GOLFING

Gilbert’s desert landscapes make for interesting golf courses with breathtaking views. They’re among the many reasons why Arizona is a top golf destination, and Gilbert lays claim to several facilities that can put one’s skills to the test.

• One of the top public golf courses is Trilogy Golf Club in Power Ranch. With a USGA rating of 71.5, this 18-hole championship course features four different sets of tees to suit different skill levels. On top of its panoramic desert views, the meticulously designed layout by architect Dick Bailey is a thing of beauty.
• The Kokopelli Golf Course is another one that shouldn’t be missed. Designed by Phillips Associates in 1992, the par-72 course measures 6,716 yards and boasts a USGA rating of 72.2. Nicknamed “Koko” by locals and players, the golf club is known for providing an enjoyable golfing experience that is neither too formal nor too casual.
• Other golf courses worth visiting include the Western Skies Golf Club, Greenfield Lakes Golf Course, and Seville Golf and Country Club which is famous for its views of the San Tan Mountains.

NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS

Families spend time outdoors in any of Gilbert’s numerous parks and green spaces which include six major facilities and several specialty parks.

Freestone Park is one of the largest and most popular parks in Gilbert. It opened in June 1988 as the town’s first District Park with only 65 acres. Now, it has expanded to include the Freestone Recreation Center, Freestone Skate Park, and multiple picnic areas and playgrounds. The skate park alone is over 22,000 square feet and offers plenty of ramps and features for skaters to navigate. Another attraction is the Freestone Railroad which has a mini Ferris wheel, a miniature train, and batting cages.

Bring your furry friends to Cosmo Dog Park, Gilbert’s premier 17-acre dog park that opened in 2006. Named and inspired by Cosmo, Gilbert’s first police dog, this park is a tribute to loyal canine companions. Among its many well-maintained amenities are four fenced areas for dogs, multiple drinking fountains for pets, and two dog-washing stations. Separate zones for active dogs and timid dogs ensure a safe and comfortable environment for every pup. Additionally, the park features a dog beach and a dog dock.

During the summer months, you can head to any of Gilbert’s public pool facilities. The Greenfield Municipal Pool, Williams Field Pool, Perry Pool, and Mesquite Aquatic Center offer top-notch facilities and swim lessons for different age groups. Aquacise classes are available at the Greenfield and Perry Pools.

THE RIPARIAN PRESERVE

The Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch is a 110-acre wetland and wildlife sanctuary. Visitors may camp at one of three overnight campsites, while children have a dedicated play area.
The preserve features multi-use trails that are ideal for biking and trekking, allowing visitors to explore the local scenery at their own pace. Among the amenities are seven ponds along the hiking trails, a recreational urban fishing lake (fishing requires a license), and a Dino Dig for children. Additionally, the Gilbert Rotary Centennial Observatory and an ethnobotanical garden provide unique educational opportunities.

OWN YOUR DREAM HOME IN GILBERT, AZ

Ready to discover your new home in Arizona? Let Alexis Enright guide you in navigating the home-buying process to get you the best Gilbert, AZ homes for sale. As a top-producing Realtor® and partner of the S4 Real Estate Group, Alexis provides white-glove service to hundreds of clients, ensuring a rewarding and stress-free experience in their real estate transactions.

Learn more about how you can find your dream Gilbert, AZ property. Get in touch with Alexis Enright at 209.298.7692 or via email.

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