Desert Highlands

Desert Highlands Homes for Sale in Scottsdale

Homes for sale in Desert Highlands come with something most Scottsdale golf communities can't offer: membership in the club conveys with the property itself. Set at the base of Pinnacle Peak in North Scottsdale, this guard-gated community pairs a renowned Jack Nicklaus signature course with one of the most complete amenity packages in the Valley. I've known this community since its early years, it's one of the originals of North Scottsdale luxury, and it remains a favorite for buyers who want everything handled from day one.

Living in Desert Highlands

Life here revolves around the club without feeling like it has to. The Jack Nicklaus signature course, one of the country's most celebrated desert designs, anchors the community, alongside 13 tennis courts spanning all three Grand Slam surfaces, dedicated pickleball courts, a pool, a dog park, and miles of walking trails against the Pinnacle Peak backdrop. What sets Desert Highlands apart day to day is the service culture: a residential services team that handles the small things, which matters enormously if you're only here part of the year.

Homes in Desert Highlands

The community holds roughly 850 properties ranging from patio homes and villas, well suited to lock-and-leave seasonal ownership, up to large custom estates on view lots along the mountain. Housing stock spans several decades of construction, so renovation level drives price as much as size does. The live ARMLS listings below show what's actually available right now.

The Membership Advantage

In most private golf communities, buying the home and joining the club are separate negotiations, sometimes with waitlists. At Desert Highlands, membership transfers with the property, subject to a one-time transfer fee, so the day you close, you belong. For relocating and second-home buyers managing a purchase from out of state, that simplicity is a genuine advantage. I'll confirm the current transfer fee and dues for any property you're considering.

Is Desert Highlands Right for You?

Seasonal buyers are the community's natural fit: instant membership, full-service culture, and lock-and-leave options. Golfers get one of the most respected courses in the desert Southwest without a membership chase. Luxury relocations who want an established, quieter alternative to the newer master-planned giants should shortlist it, then compare against Troon and The Boulders, which serve a similar buyer differently. Ask me for the side-by-side.

Where Desert Highlands Is

Desert Highlands sits at the base of Pinnacle Peak in North Scottsdale (85255), beside the Pinnacle Peak Park trailhead. Expect roughly 35 to 40 minutes to Phoenix Sky Harbor and about 15 minutes to the shops and restaurants at Kierland and Scottsdale Quarter.

Current Homes for Sale in Desert Highlands

Desert Highlands FAQ

Do I have to join the club if I buy in Desert Highlands?

Membership conveys with home ownership, it's part of buying here, covered by a one-time transfer fee plus ongoing dues. I'll walk you through current numbers before you offer.

Is Desert Highlands good for part-time residents?

Among the best in North Scottsdale. The residential services team, guard gate, and villa options make part-time ownership straightforward.

How does Desert Highlands compare to Troon or The Boulders?

All three serve the golf-and-views buyer, but membership structure, home styles, and price behavior differ meaningfully. I've helped clients choose between them and I'm happy to share the data.

What's the golf course like?

A Jack Nicklaus signature design regularly ranked among the top desert courses in the country, playable for all levels while challenging from the tips.

Buying or Selling in Desert Highlands?

Four decades in this market means I know how Desert Highlands trades, what conveys, what to verify, and how to position a listing here. Contact me or call 480.861.6624, browse more communities or start with the buyer's roadmap.