Areas we build · Scottsdale
Desert Mountain
High-desert homesites among boulders and saguaro, a private golf club and some of the most challenging — and rewarding — lots in the Valley.
Desert Mountain sits at the far north edge of Scottsdale, higher and cooler than the Valley floor. Lots here are dramatic and rarely simple: rock, slope and views decide where the house goes, and the community's review process protects that setting.
Desert Mountain is high desert at the far north edge of Scottsdale, higher and cooler than the Valley floor, with homesites among boulders and saguaro around a private golf club. Most lots run from about 0.58 to 1.02 acres. Desert contemporary and mountain-lodge homes in stone, wood and earth-toned stucco suit the setting, often stepped into the slope rather than built on a flat pad.
What's typical here
- Typical lot size
- 0.58 to 1.02 acres
Based on recorded single-family sales, Maricopa County records.
Typical lots and setting
Many homesites are around an acre or more, often with slope and rock outcroppings. Elevation is noticeably higher than the Valley floor.
Rock excavation, retaining walls and long utility runs are common budget items here.
Hillside and environmental rules
Desert Mountain is within Scottsdale's Environmentally Sensitive Lands (ESL) overlay. How ESL works
Check the lot's plat and community guidelines for a defined building envelope, which limits where the home can sit.
Native plant salvage and revegetation are part of almost every project.
HOA and design review
Desert Mountain has its own design review, and new homes need both community and City approval. Expect the community review to take multiple stages.
Homes that fit Desert Mountain
Desert contemporary and mountain-lodge styles in stone, wood and earth-toned stucco suit the setting. Homes are often stepped into the slope rather than built on a flat pad.
This page covers custom homes and remodels for homeowners. For land, teardown and development opportunities in this area, see Scottsdale Development.
More areas
Other areas in Scottsdale
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