Desert Mountain Homes for Sale in Scottsdale, AZ 85262

Desert Mountain is a private club community of about 8,000 acres in the high Sonoran Desert of far north Scottsdale, along the edge of the Tonto National Forest. It is the only private community with six Jack Nicklaus Signature golf courses, and its 35 villages range from lock-and-leave condominiums to custom estates and homesites. Here is my plain-language guide to buying and selling here.

Desert Mountain at a glance
  • City / ZIP: Scottsdale, AZ 85262, a few miles from Carefree and Cave Creek
  • Developer: Lyle Anderson. The club dates to 1986, and its first course, Renegade, opened in 1987.
  • Size: about 8,000 acres with 35 villages and more than 5,000 residents
  • Homes: condominiums, villas, townhomes, custom estates and custom homesites
  • Golf: seven courses, six of them Jack Nicklaus Signature designs plus a par-54 short course
  • Schools: Cave Creek Unified School District

See all Desert Mountain homes for saleCall Terry: 602-483-4665

Where Desert Mountain is

Desert Mountain sits at the far north end of Scottsdale, north of Carefree and about 4 miles from the town of Cave Creek. The main entrance is on Desert Mountain Parkway off Cave Creek Road, and the community borders the Tonto National Forest, so the views open up to mountains and saguaro-covered hills instead of rooftops. Plan on about 20 minutes to Loop 101 and about 30 minutes to Scottsdale Airport. For day-to-day errands, residents head into Carefree, Cave Creek and the shops and offices along Scottsdale Road and Pima Road to the south. My Moving to Scottsdale guide and Moving to Carefree guide cover the surrounding area.

A little history

Developer Lyle Anderson started Desert Mountain in the mid-1980s after building Desert Highlands near Pinnacle Peak. Master planning involved Taliesin Associated Architects, the firm that grew out of Frank Lloyd Wright's practice. Renegade, the first Nicklaus course, opened in 1987, and the senior tour event known as The Tradition debuted on the Cochise course in 1989. More courses followed over the next decade and a half, with Outlaw opening in 2003.

The homes

Desert Mountain is laid out as 35 separate villages, and each has its own feel. Some are clusters of villas, condominiums and townhomes that work well as a lock-and-leave home. Others are custom estates set on larger lots with long views, and there are still custom homesites for buyers who want to build. Community guidelines call for environmentally sensitive architecture, so homes are designed to blend into the desert rather than stand out from it. Because of the elevation changes and natural washes, two homes of the same size can feel very different depending on the lot, the view and how private the setting is.

Things to do

Golf is the headline. Desert Mountain Club runs seven courses: Apache, Chiricahua, Cochise, Geronimo, Outlaw, Renegade and No. 7, a par-54 short course. Beyond golf, the club lists a 42,000-square-foot Sonoran Clubhouse, several more clubhouses around the community, a fitness center and full-service spa, nine tennis courts, eight pickleball courts, about 25 miles of private trails, ten restaurants and grills, and more than 40 member-led social clubs. Outside the gates, the Tonto National Forest and the trails and town centers of Carefree and Cave Creek are close by.

Schools

Desert Mountain is in the Cave Creek Unified School District. The assigned schools are Black Mountain Elementary School, Sonoran Trails Middle School and Cactus Shadows High School. Boundaries can change, so please confirm the assigned schools for a specific address with the district.

HOA basics

Every home is part of the Desert Mountain Master Association, which has its own board, policies and rules, including leasing restrictions. Many villages also have their own village association on top of the master association. Desert Mountain Club is a separate organization from the homeowners association, with several membership categories that set which amenities you can use. When you are serious about a home, I gather the master association, village association and club information for that exact property so there are no surprises.

Buying in Desert Mountain

Start by deciding how you want to use the home. A villa or condo might fit a seasonal schedule, while a custom estate suits a full-time move. I help you compare villages, check the club rules for the property, and look closely at the lot, view and age of the home. If you are early in the process, my first steps to buying a home in Arizona is a good read. If the seller has a low-rate loan, ask about assuming it. My assumable mortgage guide explains how that works.

Selling your Desert Mountain home

Buyers here often shop several villages, and sometimes Desert Highlands, Silverleaf or Estancia too, so your pricing has to stand up to those comparisons. Village, view, lot privacy and updates all matter. Read how to price your Arizona home to sell and my north Scottsdale home values seller guide, then call me for a pricing review.

Questions buyers ask about Desert Mountain

Is Desert Mountain in Scottsdale or Carefree?
Desert Mountain has a Scottsdale address, ZIP 85262. It sits just north of Carefree and a few miles from Cave Creek.

How many golf courses are there?
Seven. Six are Jack Nicklaus Signature courses, and No. 7 is a par-54 short course.

Do I have to join the club to buy a home?
Desert Mountain Club is separate from the homeowners association and offers several membership categories. I confirm the current club rules for the specific home before you write an offer.

How far is Desert Mountain from the freeway?
Plan on about 20 minutes to Loop 101 and about 30 minutes to Scottsdale Airport.

Nearby communities to compare

Desert Highlands · Estancia · Silverleaf · Mirabel · Troon · DeLex Realty listings in Scottsdale · All Scottsdale homes for sale

Thinking about Desert Mountain?
I can set up tours, help you sort through the 35 villages, and get the club and HOA details for the homes you like. Call or text Terry Day, REALTOR®, DeLex Realty: 602-483-4665.

Community details come from public sources and can change. Confirm HOA, school, club and builder information for a specific home before you buy.

Newest Desert Mountain Homes for Sale

37200 N Cave Creek Road Unit 1033, Scottsdale
$5,487,330
4 Beds ⋅ 5 Baths ⋅ 7106167 MLS ⋅ 4,916 SqFt.
COMING SOON | The Opulent Escape a custom, turnkey, fully furnished new build by award-winning Cullum Homes, where soft neutral palettes, organic stone accents, rich dark and wood tones create a beautiful balance of understated luxury and tranquility. Located within the exclusive, guard-gated Village at Seven Desert Mountain, this exceptional residence offers access to world-class golf, spa and fitness, tennis, scenic trails, and premier dining--all within a coveted lock-and-leave community. The Opulent Escape welcomes you into an expansive, open-concept living space where thoughtfully designed sightlines connect the great room, kitchen, dining areas, and outdoor surroundings. A dramatic floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace anchors the great room, while a glass-enclosed office offers a beautiful and versatile space for work. The chef's kitchen makes a statement with its sophisticated two-tone cabinetry, custom glass-front upper cabinets, and premium Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove appliances. A custom wine wall adds an elegant focal point, while a picture window frames views through the backyard toward the golf course. Just beyond, the dining room is truly exceptional, surrounded by glass walls that capture the picturesque setting and open to seamlessly bring the outdoors in. The generously sized main-level primary suite offers direct access to a private outdoor sitting area, creating a peaceful extension of the retreat. The spa-inspired ensuite is equally impressive, featuring dual vanities, a striking freestanding soaking tub, and an oversized, dual-entry walk-in shower. A beautifully appointed walk-in closet provides exceptional storage and convenient direct access to the laundry room. Ascend to the upper level by the elegant staircase or private elevator, where a thoughtfully positioned loft creates a welcoming gathering space between the guest suites. Complete with a full wet bar, this area is ideal for entertaining or relaxing. Beyond, a viewing deck offers sweeping golf course views from both sides of the home, providing a remarkable setting to take in the surrounding landscape. Designed for effortless living and exceptional entertaining, The Opulent Escape brings together refined craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and an extraordinary golf course setting in one of Desert Mountain's most desirable communities.

37200 N Cave Creek Road Unit 1033, Scottsdale

9753 E Sundance Trail, Scottsdale
$2,595,000
3 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 7103975 MLS ⋅ 3,885 SqFt.
Lifestyle Membership Available- Enjoy the sublime Arizona indoor-outdoor lifestyle in this quintessential Southwest-style residence, privately sited at the end of a lengthy driveway surrounded by lush Sonoran Desert landscape with golf course, mountain and sunset views. A welcoming courtyard entry introduces the warmth and distinctive character found throughout. Thoughtfully designed, the floor plan places generous living spaces at the center, with private bedroom wings on either side. The spacious great room offers inviting conversation areas, fireside gatherings and dramatic picture windows with a mitered corner, seamlessly connecting to the outdoors. A formal dining room overlooks the courtyard, while the open kitchen, centered prep island, abundant counter space, adjacent casual dining and wine cellar create the perfect hub for everyday living and entertaining. A private office with double-door entry and Kiva-style fireplace resides in one wing. Nearby, the impressive primary retreat features its own Kiva fireplace, patio access and a spa-inspired bath with dual vanities, soaking tub, snail shower and spacious walk-in closet. Two additional guest ensuites are privately situated on the opposite side. An ideal layout for intimate living or hosting family and friends. The Southwest facing, resort-inspired backyard is an entertainer's delight, featuring an expansive pool, raised stacked-stone spa with cascading waterfall, generous sunning areas, covered outdoor living and dining, built-in grill and a boulder-accented firepit for star-filled evenings beneath the desert sky. Authentic Southwestern details include stucco and wood-beam accents, softly curved walls, illuminated arched art niches, three interior Kiva-style fireplaces, Saltillo and slate floors, and beautiful stone and granite surfaces. 4 car garage with storage closet for all your outdoor adventure needs! Located in coveted Sunrise Village, just minutes from Desert Mountain's main gate, Scottsdale shopping and dining, and Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport. Enjoy access to seven world-class golf courses, seven distinctive clubhouses, the Sonoran Fitness Center & Spa, and The Ranch with 24 miles of scenic hiking trails bordering the Tonto National Forest. A wonderful expression of the Desert Mountain lifestyle!

9753 E Sundance Trail, Scottsdale

41731 N Stone Cutter Drive, Scottsdale
$4,500,000
4 Beds ⋅ 7 Baths ⋅ 7101829 MLS ⋅ 7,321 SqFt.
Golf Membership Available- Authenticity. Artistry. Timeless Santa Fe Elegance. A truly distinctive hillside estate where custom craftsmanship, artful architecture, and breathtaking panoramic views converge to create an extraordinary Sonoran Desert retreat. Sweeping vistas encompass the surrounding desert landscape, majestic mountain ranges, pristine golf courses, and blazing Arizona sunsets. A composition of multiple tiled and flat rooflines, dry-stack stone walls, and beautifully curved and angled architectural details establishes the home's unmistakable character. A long, winding driveway leads to this privately tucked-away sanctuary, where authenticity and handcrafted artistry are evident at every turn. The thoughtfully curated finishes celebrate natural materials and time-honored craftsmanship, including antique Saltillo tile, reclaimed wormy oak plank flooring, hand-carved viga poles, curved beams, richly colored plaster walls with integrated sconces, stone slab and tiled countertops, hand-forged metal railings, and exquisite leaded glass. Every element contributes to an atmosphere of warmth, individuality, and enduring Southwestern elegance. The ideal split floor plan unfolds from a grand, gated entry courtyard to a prominent arched front door framed in leaded glass. Inside, a circular foyer introduces the home's distinctive architectural flow, leading to an intimate gathering space anchored by a stately fireplace and expansive panes of glass that frame the captivating views. The adjacent chef's kitchen is designed for both culinary inspiration and effortless entertaining, featuring a generous island, bar and table seating, and high-end appliances. Seamlessly connected, the spacious great room offers a welcoming setting for gathering around the fireplace, enjoying movie nights, or opening to the spectacular outdoor living areas. From the foyer, a curved half-flight staircase ascends to an exceptional game room featuring a pool table, comfortable den area, fireplace, wet bar, and full bath. Two patios on opposite sides of the room invite you to take in the surrounding scenery from different perspectives, with one featuring its own fireplace for memorable evenings beneath the Arizona sky. This versatile level offers an ideal setting for entertaining, recreation, or simply enjoying the ever-changing desert vistas. Descending a half-flight of stairs reveals the secluded primary sanctuary, an inviting haven designed for peace and relaxation. The generously proportioned, curved bedroom features a fireplace, sitting area, and direct outdoor access. The spa-inspired bath offers dual vanities, a luxurious soaking tub, and a steam shower, complemented by a designer walk-in closet. Thoughtfully positioned apart from the main gathering spaces, this private retreat provides an exceptional sense of tranquility. The attached casita, accessible from both the front courtyard and the interior of the home, offers a welcoming experience for extended-stay guests or multigenerational living. A comfortable living area with fireplace and kitchenette creates a sense of independence, while the spacious bedroom and full bath provide all the comforts of a private retreat. A gracefully curved corridor leads to two beautifully appointed ensuite guest bedrooms, each with its own outdoor patio, creating private retreats for family and friends. A spacious laundry room, conveniently located powder room, and direct garage access add everyday functionality without compromising the home's thoughtful design. Outdoors, the artistry continues with expansive, curved patio spaces designed for grilling, dining, lounging, and entertaining against a spectacular desert backdrop. A dry-stack stone wall incorporates a fireplace and television, creating an inviting outdoor living room for year-round enjoyment. The sparkling pool, accented by a dramatic water feature and natural boulders, is complemented by a striking seven-foot bronze sculpture by Dave McGary and an adjacent spa, transforming the setting into a private resort experience. A rare expression of authentic Southwestern design, handcrafted detail, and exceptional livability, this remarkable estate offers a lifestyle as extraordinary as its setting. Conveniently located just minutes from the Desert Mountain gates, the property provides access to Scottsdale's renowned shopping and dining destinations and convenient travel to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Desert Mountain membership offers access to seven world-class golf courses, seven distinctive luxury clubhouses, the renowned Sonoran Fitness Center & Spa, and The Ranch, with 24 miles of scenic hiking trails bordering the Tonto National Forest. Here, the beauty of the Sonoran Desert becomes part of everyday life, with panoramic views, spectacular sunsets, and an effortless indoor-outdoor lifestyle to be enjoyed throughout the year. A truly special Arizona retreat where authenticity, artistry, and luxury exist in perfect harmony

41731 N Stone Cutter Drive, Scottsdale

9707 E Madera Drive, Scottsdale
$5,300,000
5 Beds ⋅ 8 Baths ⋅ 7101301 MLS ⋅ 7,366 SqFt.
Golf Membership Available-Hilltop Desert Sophistication with Craftsman-Inspired Architecture - Designed to capture the magnificent Arizona landscape, this extraordinary residence embraces sweeping mountain vistas, beautiful Desert Mountain views, brilliant sunsets, and captivating nighttime skies--from the front of the home through to the back, and throughout the living spaces in between. Created for the art of living well, the home centers around a grand great room anchored by a fireplace and framed by walls of glass overlooking the surrounding landscape. An open, elevated ceiling showcases substantial trusses, wood beams, and wood-planked detailing, while a dedicated dining area and sophisticated wet bar/butler's pantry create an effortless connection to the gourmet kitchen. Casual dining enjoys a front-row seat to the elevated resort-style backyard. The West wing is devoted to an exceptional Primary Suite, offering a two-way fireplace, two full baths, and two separate, generously sized designer closets. Direct outdoor access extends the suite into the private resort setting beyond. A beautifully appointed ensuite bedroom and efficient laundry room complete this wing. The East wing offers an ideal guest experience, beginning with a comfortable den tucked behind double pocket doors and flanked by two luxurious ensuite bedrooms, creating an exceptional sense of privacy for family and guests alike. An additional spacious ensuite bedroom and beautifully finished powder room--with direct access to an outdoor patio--complete this wing. A private staircase leads upstairs to a remarkable retreat, upon entering, overlooking the great room below. Extending from front to back, this expansive space features a soaring vaulted ceiling with exposed trusses, beams, and wood-planked detailing, complemented by rich wood paneling throughout. A comfortable den with fireplace, comprehensive wet bar, full bath, and dedicated office with substantial desk and built-in shelving create a versatile private haven. Multiple windows open to the North balcony, where magnificent views span the golf courses, mountains, and the distinctive beauty of Desert Mountain. The elevated resort-style backyard is nothing short of spectacular. A long, expansive covered patio provides shaded outdoor living and dining, while meandering poolside terraces invite endless hours of sunshine and relaxation. A dramatic stacked-stone circular column incorporates a built-in fireplace at the raised spa, while an inset television brings entertainment to the sunken outdoor kitchen. The massive pool, complete with diving board and swim-up stools, is designed for enjoyment from morning through evening. Above it all, the panoramic elevated setting delivers an unforgettable backdrop. The architecture beautifully unites the residence with its natural surroundings through a distinctive palette of dry-stack stone, stone slabs, stucco, substantial wood beams and trusses, and abundant glass. Walls of windows and glass doors dissolve the boundaries between indoors and out, while the expansive body of water becomes an integral part of the landscape and architectural experience. Truly a dream home--where thoughtful architecture, resort-style living, and the majesty of the Sonoran Desert come together in remarkable harmony. Located within the world-renowned community of Desert Mountain, where the art of living has been elevated to its highest form, residents enjoy access to seven championship golf courses, seven architecturally distinctive clubhouses, world-class dining, and more than 20 miles of private trails bordering the Tonto National Forest. This coveted mid-mountain setting offers an exceptional balance of privacy and convenience, with easy access to Scottsdale's celebrated cultural scene, upscale shopping, and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. This is more than a residence--it is an invitation to live exceptionally, where architectural integrity meets natural majesty in one of Arizona's most coveted communities.

9707 E Madera Drive, Scottsdale

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