Standing as a testament to visionary development and uncompromising excellence, Estancia represents the pinnacle of luxury golf community living in North Scottsdale. Brought to life by Discovery Land Company and founder Mike Meldman, this extraordinary 640-acre community was carefully conceived as the company’s inaugural project to create something unprecedented—a “Pine Valley or Augusta National in a desert setting near an Arizona landmark.”
As an Associate Broker with West USA Realty, I’ve had the privilege of working with discerning buyers throughout North Scottsdale’s most prestigious communities, and Estancia stands alone in its combination of exclusivity, natural beauty, and world-class amenities. The development team selected the pristine desert landscape at the base of Pinnacle Peak for this exclusive enclave, creating a masterpiece that perfectly balances luxury living with the dramatic beauty of the Sonoran Desert.
Estancia’s establishment in the mid-1990s marked a significant milestone in luxury real estate development, with the Tom Fazio-designed championship golf course opening in 1995. Since then, this internationally acclaimed community has consistently held the #1 ranking in Arizona according to Golf Digest and has been named the second-best residential golf course in the country by Golfweek Magazine.
Estancia comprises just 264 total residences spread across 640 acres of spectacular Sonoran Desert landscape, ensuring an intimate and exclusive atmosphere that few communities can match. The community features 223 custom homesites and 39 semi-custom homes within the LaScala neighborhood, with a handful of homesites still occasionally available on the resale market.
The architectural vision draws inspiration from both contemporary desert modernism and traditional Southwestern design, creating a harmonious blend with the dramatic landscape. Each home in Estancia showcases thoughtful integration with the desert terrain, utilizing natural materials including natural stone facades, iron work, marble flooring, and earth-toned color palettes that complement the surrounding environment.
Custom Estate Options range from elegant villas to sprawling custom estates on generously sized lots offering spectacular golf course views, mountain vistas, and city light panoramas. The higher elevations within the community provide crystal-clear blue skies and comfortable temperatures throughout most of the year, making outdoor living a year-round pleasure.
Construction quality and attention to detail have remained paramount throughout Estancia’s development, with strict architectural guidelines ensuring consistency and preserving the community’s distinctive character. Courtyards featured in many homes provide peaceful retreats and perfect venues for outdoor entertaining throughout the year.
The community’s commitment to excellence extends to detailed landscape design guidelines that ensure the beauty and integrity of the Sonoran Desert are maintained, while 24-hour guard-gated security provides residents with complete privacy and peace of mind.
The crown jewel of Estancia is its world-renowned 18-hole championship golf course meticulously crafted by legendary architect Tom Fazio. Spanning 7,314 yards with bent grass greens, this masterpiece offers breathtaking vistas reserved exclusively for members and their guests.
The course was recognized as Golf Digest’s Best New Private Course of 1996 and has maintained its position as Arizona’s #1 golf course according to Golf Digest rankings for over a decade. The layout showcases Fazio’s signature ability to blend seamlessly with natural surroundings while offering strategic challenges and breathtaking desert views.
Course Features include broad fairways that keep desert hazards manageable while providing strategic interest, elevated tees that enhance views of the dazzling terrain, and immaculate bent grass greens that ensure consistently smooth putting surfaces. The routing provides variety through uphill and downhill shots with changes of direction on almost every hole.
The 7,314-yard layout winds artfully through 640 acres of boulders and cacti, with clever routing that minimizes forced carries while maximizing the spectacular views of Pinnacle Peak and the surrounding desert landscape. From elevated tee boxes, golfers enjoy marvelous views of the Scottsdale area, with Tom Fazio’s design wonderfully incorporating the natural rock formations and desert terrain.
The magnificent 32,000-square-foot European-style clubhouse provides dramatic views of Pinnacle Peak and serves as a stunning gathering place for members. This architectural masterpiece has been recognized for its elegant design and seamless integration with the desert landscape.
Clubhouse Amenities include formal and casual dining rooms offering exceptional culinary experiences, a state-of-the-art fitness center with comprehensive workout facilities, two tennis courts and two pickleball courts for racquet sports enthusiasts, and a swimming pool with lap lanes for year-round aquatic recreation.
Dining Excellence features multiple dining options within the clubhouse, from casual grill fare to fine dining experiences that rival Scottsdale’s best restaurants. The club’s commitment to culinary excellence ensures that members enjoy world-class dining without leaving the community.
Estancia’s location at the northern slope of Pinnacle Peak provides residents with direct access to some of Arizona’s most spectacular hiking and outdoor recreation opportunities. The community features its own “Bark Park” for four-legged residents and maintains security patrol services for additional peace of mind.
The rolling landscape and spacious homesites offer not just spectacular golf course views but also dramatic mountain vistas and city light panoramas. The higher elevations provide comfortable temperatures and crystal-clear skies that make outdoor activities enjoyable throughout most of the year.
Pinnacle Peak Park, located adjacent to the community, offers additional hiking opportunities and has welcomed over one million visitors, making it one of Arizona’s most popular outdoor destinations. The park provides residents with 150 acres of pristine desert landscape and well-maintained hiking trails.
Estancia residents are served by the highly-rated Cave Creek Unified School District, which consistently ranks among Arizona’s top educational systems and provides comprehensive K-12 education with strong academic performance across all grade levels.
Elementary Education: Students begin their educational journey at Desert Sun Academy, a well-regarded elementary school that serves students in grades K-6 with a favorable student-teacher ratio and comprehensive programming.
Middle School: Sonoran Trails Middle School provides excellent middle school education with strong academic programs and diverse extracurricular opportunities that prepare students for high school success.
High School: Cactus Shadows High School serves as the capstone of the educational experience, consistently ranking among Arizona’s top high schools. This A+ School of Excellence offers extensive Advanced Placement programming, with students receiving millions of dollars in scholarship offers annually.
The Cave Creek Unified School District serves approximately 4,499 students with a student-teacher ratio of 18 to 1. According to state test scores, 58% of students are at least proficient in math and 62% in reading, demonstrating the district’s commitment to academic excellence.
Additional Educational Options in the area provide families with choices for specialized educational approaches, including private schools and charter options that serve the North Scottsdale area.
Estancia’s prime location in North Scottsdale provides residents with convenient access to the area’s finest shopping, dining, and entertainment venues while maintaining the privacy and exclusivity that defines luxury community living.
Convenient Access includes being just 15 minutes from The Scottsdale Quarter, one of Arizona’s premier outdoor shopping and dining destinations, and 45 minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport for convenient travel connections.
Nearby Luxury Amenities encompass the charming areas of Cave Creek and Carefree, each offering unique shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. The proximity to Old Town Scottsdale ensures easy access to world-class galleries, fine dining establishments, and entertainment venues.
World-Class Golf Access extends beyond the community’s own championship course, with renowned facilities like Troon North Golf Club, Desert Highlands, and Pinnacle Peak Country Club all located nearby, providing additional golf experiences for enthusiasts.
Estancia represents more than just a place to live—it embodies a complete lifestyle experience designed around family, recreation, and luxury. As the first project from Discovery Land Company, Estancia established the template for family-friendly luxury that the company has become famous for worldwide.
Membership Structure: Homeowners are not required to join the golf club, though the option provides access to world-class amenities. Non-residents are eligible to join the club, though membership is selective and by invitation only.
Community Atmosphere: The limited number of residences (264 total) ensures that Estancia maintains an intimate, exclusive atmosphere where residents form genuine friendships and enjoy a strong sense of community. The 640-acre setting provides ample space and privacy while fostering meaningful connections among neighbors.
Discovery Land Company Heritage: As the inaugural property in Mike Meldman’s portfolio, Estancia established many of the principles that would define luxury resort community development, including the integration of family-friendly amenities with world-class golf and the creation of casual elegance that welcomes all ages.
Estancia stands as proof that visionary development can create something truly extraordinary. From its origins as Discovery Land Company’s first project to its current status as Arizona’s #1-ranked golf course, this remarkable community continues to set the standard for luxury desert living.
The combination of the Tom Fazio championship golf course, 32,000-square-foot clubhouse, 24-hour guard-gated security, and exclusive residential options creates a lifestyle that few communities can match. Whether you’re drawn to the world-class golf, the spectacular natural setting, or the intimate community atmosphere, Estancia offers an unparalleled living experience.
Future Development continues to focus on preserving the community’s intimate atmosphere while enhancing existing amenities and services. The community’s commitment to environmental stewardship ensures that the natural beauty of Pinnacle Peak and the surrounding Sonoran Desert will be preserved for future generations.
For those seeking the ultimate in luxury golf community living, with access to Arizona’s #1-ranked golf course, world-class amenities, and an exclusive community atmosphere, Estancia represents the absolute pinnacle of North Scottsdale real estate. The combination of Discovery Land Company’s proven development expertise, Tom Fazio’s architectural mastery, and the spectacular natural setting creates a community that transcends typical luxury living.
Ready to explore luxury homes in Estancia? Contact Carl Chapman, Associate Broker with West USA Realty, at 602-617-4440 to discover the exceptional lifestyle opportunities in this world-renowned community. With extensive knowledge of North Scottsdale’s most exclusive golf communities and a commitment to exceptional client service, I’m here to help you find your perfect home in Arizona’s most prestigious golf community.
Estancia's homes represent the pinnacle of desert luxury real estate, with properties typically ranging from $2 million to over $10 million. Custom home builders like Desert Star Construction and Schultz Development have established sterling reputations for their work in Estancia. The community has demonstrated remarkable resilience in property values, showing consistent appreciation even during market fluctuations over the years. Currently, homes in Estancia command premium prices, averaging between $500 and $800 per square foot for existing properties. The community primarily features custom single-family homes, each uniquely designed to complement the desert landscape and golf course views. Recent market trends indicate strong demand for Estancia properties, with homes typically selling within three to four months. The limited inventory of available properties has created a competitive market for buyers seeking entrance to this prestigious community. Most homes range from 4,000 to 10,000 square feet, offering expansive living spaces that capitalize on indoor-outdoor desert living. The current market dynamics suggest continued strong appreciation potential, making Estancia an attractive option for luxury home investors.
Estancia residents have access to the highly-rated Paradise Valley Unified School District, known for its exceptional academic programs. Nearby private education options include Notre Dame Preparatory High School and El Dorado Private School, both offering rigorous curricula. The community's location provides convenient access to several specialized STEM and arts programs within the greater Scottsdale area. Local schools consistently rank among Arizona's top performers in standardized testing and college preparation programs, attracting families. Educational resources in the area include premier tutoring centers, enrichment programs, and specialized learning facilities for gifted students. The proximity to Arizona State University's satellite campus offers additional educational opportunities for continuing education and professional development.
The crown jewel of Estancia is its Tom Fazio-designed championship golf course, consistently ranked among Arizona's finest private courses. The 32,000-square-foot clubhouse serves as the community's social heart, offering fine dining, wellness facilities, and event spaces. Tennis enthusiasts enjoy access to professional-grade courts, complete with instruction programs and regular tournament play opportunities. The community features an extensive network of private walking trails that wind through pristine desert landscape preserves. State-of-the-art fitness facilities offer personal training, group classes, and the latest in exercise equipment for residents. The club's swimming complex includes both lap pools and resort-style recreational areas for year-round enjoyment. Members benefit from exclusive access to private dining venues, featuring both casual and formal options with seasonal menus. The sophisticated spa facilities provide a full range of treatments, focusing on wellness and relaxation for community members.
Estancia's location offers convenient access to the upscale Kierland Commons and Scottsdale Quarter shopping destinations within minutes. The nearby Market Street at DC Ranch provides an intimate collection of boutiques and restaurants perfect for casual outings. World-class dining options surround the community, from celebrity chef restaurants to charming local establishments featuring diverse cuisines. Cultural attractions include the nearby Musical Instrument Museum and the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, offering enriching experiences. The vibrant Old Town Scottsdale area, just a short drive away, provides endless entertainment options throughout the year. Local wine bars and upscale lounges offer sophisticated evening entertainment options for discriminating residents and their guests. The community's proximity to Phoenix provides easy access to professional sports venues and major concert facilities.
Residents enjoy quick access to Loop 101 Freeway, facilitating efficient travel throughout the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. The drive to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport typically takes less than forty minutes via convenient freeway access. Private aviation needs are served by nearby Scottsdale Airport, offering executive travel options just minutes from Estancia. The community's location provides easy access to major business districts in both Scottsdale and Phoenix. Multiple Tesla charging stations and other electric vehicle infrastructure support the community's environmentally conscious residents. Professional car services and luxury transportation options are readily available for residents requiring chauffeur services.
Estancia maintains a 24-hour secured entrance with professional staff monitoring all community access points around the clock. The Scottsdale Police Department's response times to the area consistently rank among the fastest in the metropolitan region. Regular security patrols throughout the community provide additional peace of mind for residents and their families. The community employs state-of-the-art surveillance systems and emergency response protocols for resident safety and security. Local emergency services, including fire and medical response teams, maintain facilities within minutes of Estancia. The community's dedicated security team works closely with local law enforcement to ensure comprehensive protection measures.
HonorHealth Scottsdale Thompson Peak Medical Center, a full-service hospital, is located just minutes from the community. Mayo Clinic's renowned Scottsdale campus provides world-class medical care within a convenient fifteen-minute drive from Estancia. The area features numerous specialty medical practices, including dermatology, orthopedics, and wellness centers for resident convenience. Emergency response times to Estancia average under five minutes, ensuring rapid assistance when needed. Several urgent care facilities operate in close proximity, offering extended hours for non-emergency medical needs. The community's location provides quick access to Life Flight services when necessary for medical emergencies.
Beyond golf, Estancia offers numerous outdoor recreational opportunities through its network of private desert hiking trails. The proximity to Pinnacle Peak Park provides additional hiking options with breathtaking views of the Sonoran Desert. Residents enjoy access to nearby mountain biking trails, ranging from beginner to advanced skill levels. The community's design incorporates numerous meditation gardens and peaceful outdoor spaces for relaxation and reflection. Local guided nature tours offer opportunities to learn about the unique desert ecosystem surrounding Estancia. The mild winter climate allows for year-round outdoor activities and al fresco dining opportunities.
Scottsdale's desert climate provides over 300 days of sunshine annually, perfect for outdoor activities and golf. Winter temperatures typically range from the mid-60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit, creating ideal conditions for outdoor enjoyment. Summer months bring warm temperatures, balanced by low humidity levels and consistent morning and evening comfort. The community's elevation provides slightly cooler temperatures than central Phoenix, enhancing comfort during warmer months. Rainfall averages just eight inches annually, contributing to the pristine conditions of the golf course year-round. The climate supports a variety of desert flora, creating a stunning backdrop for the community's homes.
Property taxes in Estancia remain competitive compared to similar luxury communities in the Scottsdale area. Club membership involves a one-time initiation fee and annual dues that cover access to all premium amenities. Utility costs reflect the desert climate, with higher summer cooling expenses offset by minimal winter heating requirements. The community's HOA fees cover extensive services including security, landscape maintenance, and common area upkeep. Property insurance rates benefit from the area's low risk of natural disasters and strong emergency services. Investment in solar technology and energy-efficient systems can provide significant long-term utility savings for residents.
The City of Scottsdale provides exceptional municipal services, maintaining high standards for infrastructure and community development. Regular communication between community leadership and city officials ensures Estancia's needs receive proper attention and response. The local government's commitment to preserving natural desert areas aligns perfectly with Estancia's environmental values. City planning initiatives continue to enhance the area's appeal through thoughtful development and infrastructure improvements. The community benefits from Scottsdale's efficient waste management and recycling programs, supporting environmental sustainability. Professional management of public services contributes to the overall quality of life residents enjoy in Estancia.