There are communities in Scottsdale that are famous, and then there are communities that are legendary. Desert Highlands falls firmly into the latter category. When I take clients through the gates for the first time, there is a palpable sense of history and prestige. This is not just another golf community; it is the one that set the standard for what North Scottsdale luxury living could be.
I will never forget the first time I stood on the clubhouse patio, looking out over the emerald green fairways with Pinnacle Peak standing sentinel in the background. It was then I understood that this place was more than just real estate; it was a masterpiece. For my clients who appreciate heritage, who seek an uncompromising golf experience, and who value a strong, established community, Desert Highlands is often the perfect fit.
In this guide, I want to give you an insider’s tour of Desert Highlands real estate. We will delve into the lifestyle that made it famous, explore its distinctive architectural character, and discuss why this iconic community remains one of the most sought-after addresses in Arizona.
The Lifestyle: The Original Desert Golf Experience
Life in Desert Highlands is steeped in a legacy of golf. This community was the original home of the Skins Game, where legends like Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, and Tom Watson christened the course. The Jack Nicklaus Signature course is the heart and soul of the community, revered for its challenging design that weaves artfully through the natural desert terrain. The club is private and member-owned, fostering a tight-knit community of passionate golfers.
But the lifestyle extends far beyond the 18th hole. The clubhouse is a vibrant social hub, offering fine dining, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a spectacular 18-hole putting course designed by Gary Panks. What truly sets Desert Highlands apart, in my opinion, is the Racquet Club. It features 13 tennis courts with grass, clay, and hard surfaces, a rare offering that attracts serious tennis players from all over.
Living here feels both exclusive and incredibly friendly. It is about morning hikes in the shadow of Pinnacle Peak, afternoon tennis matches with neighbors, and evening cocktails watching the sunset from the clubhouse. It is an active, sophisticated lifestyle that has been perfected over decades.
Architectural Character: A Showcase of Custom Desert Homes
The homes in Desert Highlands are a testament to timeless desert design. As one of the first luxury communities in the area, you will find a stunning collection of custom homes built by some of the finest architects and builders in Arizona. There is a deep respect for the land here, with homes designed to complement the boulder outcroppings and saguaro forests, not overpower them.
When exploring luxury homes in Desert Highlands, you will encounter a rich tapestry of styles:
- Timeless Desert Contemporary: Many of the homes feature a style that has aged beautifully. Characterized by strong lines, organic materials like wood and stone, and large windows that frame the landscape, these homes feel both modern and deeply connected to their surroundings.
- Santa Barbara and Pueblo Influences: You will also find magnificent estates with a softer, more traditional aesthetic. These homes often have classic courtyards, hand-plastered walls, and rustic wood beams that create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
- Elevated Custom Estates: The topography of Desert Highlands, with its hills and elevation changes, has given rise to some incredible custom estates. These homes are often perched on hillsides, offering breathtaking, panoramic views of the city lights below and the surrounding mountains.
The Off-Market Pulse: The Insider Advantage
Desert Highlands is a community where people put down roots. With just over 500 homesites, inventory is always scarce. Prime properties, especially those with premium golf course or city views, are highly coveted and rarely stay on the market for long.
Because of this, a substantial portion of sales happen privately, away from public real estate websites. This is the “whisper network,” where homeowners discreetly let a small circle of trusted real estate professionals know they are considering a move. They value privacy and often prefer a seamless transaction with a pre-vetted buyer.
To find the best opportunities in Desert Highlands, you cannot be a passive observer. You need an advocate who is deeply immersed in the North Scottsdale luxury market. I am constantly networking with club members and other top agents to learn about this “ghost inventory.” This proactive approach is critical to securing your place in a community this exclusive.
Indoor-Outdoor Living: Framed by Pinnacle Peak
The promise of the Arizona lifestyle is fully realized in Desert Highlands. The homes are brilliantly designed to merge the elegant interiors with the rugged beauty of the high Sonoran Desert. The iconic shape of Pinnacle Peak serves as the ultimate backdrop for this seamless experience.
Key features of the indoor-outdoor lifestyle here include:
- View-Oriented Design: The best homes are sited with surgical precision. Windows and patios are oriented to capture the most dramatic views, whether it is the peak itself, the lush fairways, or the sparkling city lights at night.
- Resort-Style Patios: Backyards are not an afterthought; they are central to the home’s design. It is common to find sprawling patios with negative-edge pools that seem to float above the desert floor, outdoor kitchens, and intimate fire pit areas for enjoying the cool desert evenings.
- Mature Landscaping: Because the community is so well-established, the landscaping is mature and lush. This provides not only beauty but also a wonderful sense of privacy and seclusion, even when you are on the golf course.
Lock-and-Leave Viability
For seasonal residents, Desert Highlands offers an ideal combination of luxury, security, and convenience. The community is guard-gated 24/7, with roving patrols providing an exceptional level of security and peace of mind.
While the properties are custom estates, the “lock-and-leave” lifestyle is very manageable. The community’s homeowners association maintains all common areas to an impeccable standard. A robust network of local property managers is available to handle everything from pool service to landscape maintenance while you are away. This allows you to enjoy your winter home without worry and travel freely knowing your investment is secure.
Why Choose Desert Highlands?
You choose Desert Highlands for its pedigree. You choose it for the authentic, challenging golf experience and the unmatched racquet club facilities. You choose it because you value being part of a stable, prestigious community with a rich history and a vibrant social life.
This is a place for people who have an appreciation for the finer things but also love the rugged beauty of the desert. It represents a timeless vision of North Scottsdale luxury living.
Navigating the nuances of this celebrated community requires a guide with deep market knowledge and personal connections. I would be honored to show you what makes Desert Highlands a true Arizona legend. Let’s find your legacy home together.
Ready to Explore Scottsdale Luxury Living?
If you’re considering buying or relocating to Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, or Arcadia, and want expert insight into the local real estate market, luxury homes, and lifestyle offerings, I would welcome the opportunity to connect. As a relentlessly local advisor, I’ll help you discover a home that aligns seamlessly with your career, lifestyle, and long-term goals. From off market properties, lock-and-leave residences to distinctive luxury properties.
📞 Schedule a Consultation with Anne Sostman
Call/text: 480-999-9945