New vs. Historic Homes: What Catalina Foothills Buyers Are Choosing in 2025

New vs. Historic Homes: What Catalina Foothills Buyers Are Choosing in 2025
By Ryan Comstock, Catalina Foothills Realtor
📞 (520) 261-4669 | 🌐 www.ryancomstock.com

Tucked against the stunning Santa Catalina Mountains, Catalina Foothills remains one of Southern Arizona’s most prestigious and picturesque areas. In 2025, the local real estate market continues to attract luxury buyers, professionals, retirees, and remote workers—all of whom face one key decision: a newly built home or a distinctive older property?

With both options offering distinct advantages, Catalina Foothills is a rare market where tradition and modernity compete side by side.

The Timeless Charm of Older Foothills Homes

Catalina Foothills is known for its elegant, established neighborhoods—places like Skyline Country Club, Pima Canyon Estates, and Hacienda del Sol Estates. These communities feature custom homes built from the 1960s through the early 2000s, many with unique architectural styles including territorial, mid-century modern, and classic Southwestern.

Buyers seeking privacy, larger lots, and unmatched views often gravitate toward these homes. Many offer lush desert landscaping, high ceilings, exposed beams, and dramatic windows that frame the mountains like artwork.

There’s also a premium placed on location—with easy access to luxury shopping, fine dining, and top schools like Catalina Foothills High School.

While some properties may require updates, the payoff in character, space, and setting is huge.

The Draw of New Builds in Catalina Foothills

While new construction is less common in Catalina Foothills compared to surrounding areas, it’s still happening—often in the form of luxury infill projects and custom homes built on subdivided lots or tear-downs.

These new homes cater to high-end buyers who want contemporary architecture, cutting-edge energy efficiency, smart home systems, and high-end finishes without the need for renovation.

Many new builds feature minimalist desert-modern design, expansive indoor-outdoor living spaces, and resort-style amenities like infinity pools, chef’s kitchens, and private guest quarters.

For buyers who want the prestige of the Foothills without the maintenance of an older property, new construction offers a sleek and stylish alternative.

What Are Buyers Choosing in 2025?

In Catalina Foothills, the choice often comes down to lifestyle and design preference, not budget. Most buyers here are looking for luxury, views, and tranquility—and both new and older homes can deliver, just in different ways.

• Older homes tend to offer more land, unique architecture, and unbeatable views.

• Newer homes appeal to those who value clean lines, modern systems, and a move-in-ready experience.

Interestingly, some buyers are now renovating older properties to combine the best of both worlds—classic exteriors with fully modern interiors.

Which Is Right for You?

Ask yourself:

• Do I want a turnkey home with zero upgrades needed?

• Is outdoor space and lot size more important than new finishes?

• How much do I value historic charm or architectural uniqueness?

Explore Catalina Foothills With a Local Expert

I’m Ryan Comstock, and I specialize in the luxury and lifestyle of Catalina Foothills. Whether you're eyeing a new build with mountain views or a timeless estate with history, I’ll help you find the right fit.

📞 Call me at (520) 261-4669 or visit www.ryancomstock.com to start exploring homes in Catalina Foothills today.