$756,360Average Value$419Average Price per Sq Ft30Homes For Sale
Willo is a place whose classic character fits into the present day
From 1920s Craftsman bungalows to 1940s Spanish Colonials, Willo is an area where buyers can find classic homes that have been reimagined. This central Phoenix neighborhood is full of houses built in the early to mid-20th century, most with upgrades and modern touches. “Willo has the most remodeled, up-to-date homes out of the historic neighborhoods,” says Realtor Mike Snitz of eXp Realty, who has roughly a dozen years of experience selling real estate and a background in real estate investments. These homes, which are organized on a series of palm-lined streets, are close to amenity-packed Central Avenue and the array of attractions in downtown Phoenix.
Beautifully constructed townhomes add to the historic feel of the Encanto neighborhood.
In Willo, single-family homes stand as a testament to Phoenix's rich architectural heritage.
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Established housing stock attracts people from other areas
Willo was among Phoenix's first planned suburbs, and most homes were constructed from the 1920s to the '50s. Styles vary from Tudor to ranch, and floor plans average around 2,000 square feet. Snitz estimates that fewer than 10% of the houses in Willo still need a complete renovation. They are turnkey homes that even attract buyers from other parts of the region who are ready for a smaller but more conveniently located property. “A lot of people from North Scottsdale and North Phoenix who are downsizing from bigger homes and want to be in the downtown area are coming to Willo because the homes have already been remodeled,” Snitz says. Houses sell for $600,000 to $1.6 million. The neighborhood has some limited, modern condos for $280,000 to $500,000 and townhouses for $390,000 to $2.5 million.
Step into Willo's ready-to-move-in homes, where vintage aesthetics meet contemporary living.
The palm-lined streets of Willo create a picturesque canopy that defines the neighborhood's historic charm.
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Central Avenue is a center of commercial activity
The lengthy Central Avenue places a mixture of stores and restaurants within a walk or a short drive. Forno 301 is among them. “A fantastic pizzeria,” Snitz says. Besides pizza, Forno 301's ravioli is a favorite dish. The Wild Thaiger is a Thai spot on Central Avenue known for its dragon eggs dumplings, and CC’s on Central brings Cajun flavor to the area with po’boys, jambalaya and more. Locals can also catch a show in the neighborhood at Playhouse On The Park or hop across Central Avenue to view the 20,000 items at the Phoenix Art Museum. There’s also a Safeway grocery store just down the street from the museum along McDowell Road.
Indulge in authentic Cajun flavors at CC's on Central, a culinary gem in Willo.
Forno301 offers fine Italian dining in the Alvarado Historic District near Wilo.
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An active neighborhood association with a popular Historic Willo Home tour
Willo has a neighborhood association that organizes events, including a monthly happy hour and a spring yard sale. The association publishes the monthly Inside Willo Magazine, featuring neighborhood news. “Willo is one of the most active neighborhood associations in the downtown community,” Snitz says. “From a political standpoint, I believe something like 90% of the people vote in that neighborhood, which is outstanding. So people [there] are engaged.” The neighborhood’s biggest event is the annual Willo Home Tour and Street Fair, which draws thousands and includes dozens of vendors, food trucks and a classic car show. “In the Willo neighborhood, that’s a very big draw,” Snitz says. “Not only for that neighborhood but also for anybody in the Phoenix Metro area who wants to come down and look at the neighborhood and historic homes and how they’ve been remodeled.”
Kenilworth partners with the YMCA for after-school activities
Phoenix Elementary School District No. 1 has a C-plus grade on Niche. Most students in Willo can start at the C-rated Kenilworth Elementary for preschool through eighth grade. Offerings at Kenilworth include a free after-school program in partnership with Valley of the Sun YMCA that features homework help and physical activities. The area’s B-minus-rated Central High has a Global Studies magnet program that allows students to travel to places including China, Costa Rica, France, Japan and Mexico. The A-rated Arizona School for the Arts is a tuition-free charter school close by with dedicated dance, music and theater programs.
Kenilworth Elementary School stands as a historic landmark in Willo, showcasing Neo-Classical architecture since its opening in 1920.
Central High School, established in 1957, stands as a beacon of education just north of Willo.
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Relaxation at Walton Park or amusement at Encanto Park
Willo residents have Walton Park, a pocket park in the middle of the neighborhood. Though small, Walton features multiple benches and trees and can be a spot to enjoy lunch or read a book. The neighborhood is also next to the 222-acre Encanto Park, which includes a playground, a sports complex with basketball, tennis and volleyball courts, and 18- and nine-hole golf courses. There’s a built-in amusement park here as well, Enchanted Island, with a parachute drop tower, a climbing wall, bumper boats and a carousel.
Commuting is possible by foot, bike, bus or car
Much of Willo is walkable to Walton Park or to grab a bite on Central Avenue. Locals can also hop on two wheels to get around more quickly. “It’s a very [big] biking area,” Snitz says. “A lot of families and people start from home and bike around the downtown area.” Bus stops in the Valley Metro system also dot the area. Drivers have quick access to Interstate 10, just south, which travelers can use to get to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, a 6-mile trip. Residents can get to the 576-bed St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, located just outside the neighborhood off Thomas Road.
Cycling enthusiasts appreciate Willo's bike-friendly streets and nearby trails.
Willo's proximity to multiple bus routes ensures seamless commutes throughout the city.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
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Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Willo
US
Homicide
4
4
Sexual Assault
5
4
Assault with Weapon
5
4
Robbery
4
4
Burglary
7
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
7
4
Larceny
6
4
Crime Score
5
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Willo Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Willo, Phoenix sell after 72 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Willo, Phoenix over the last 12 months is $785,000, up 18% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
WELCOME TO WILLO! Historically known as the 'Harvey Lester House' this Modified French Provincial home offers classic curb appeal with beautiful front landscaping. Inside the home retains its fantastic original floor plan with beautiful archways, crown molding, solid wood doors, and so many charming features. Designer fixtures and finishes have been added throughout to elevate this home's style
New pictures coming. This charming 1942 ranch home with a modified English garden wall bond brick pattern, was designed by Jake Knapp and built by JR Womack in the heart of the Willo Historic District and located on one of its most sought-after streets. One thing you won't find in a home like this is a gigantic garage/workshop. If you are a car hobbyist, this may be the best deal downtown! Move
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