Hi renters,

Welcome to Rent Check PHX. In today’s issue, we’re talking about two new businesses I’ve added to our running list of local alternatives to online and big-box shopping.

I’ve also shared a link to our live election results blog so you can follow along, plus some rental listings in west Phoenix and a calendar of community events.

I’m about to take some time off to prepare for and enjoy my upcoming wedding, so you won’t see Rent Check PHX in your inbox next week, but we’ll be back on schedule on Nov. 18! Enjoy!

Jessica Swarner

Newsletter Editor, Rent Check PHX

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*Paywalled content noted with 🔒

🌊 Democrats continue to rack up wins in Arizona, including many candidates who campaigned on making housing more affordable. Follow our live election results here. (The Copper Courier)

🔑 Young people in the US aren’t moving as much as they used to, with high costs keeping them stagnant. (Phoenix Business Journal, 🔒)

🏠 Home sellers are having to decide between holding out longer or lowering prices and offering concessions. (Associated Press)

🥫 Thousands of Arizonans have lost access to SNAP food aid. Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego is encouraging families to apply for a new city program that can help them get their benefits back. (KTAR)

🤏 Tiny home communities in Glendale and Mesa are being supported by new grants from the Arizona Housing Fund. (Daily Independent)

💸 Need help paying rent in Phoenix? These 11 programs can help. (The Copper Courier)

🐶 Here are three methods for getting dog smell out of couches and how effective they are. (Apartment Therapy)

Sick of Amazon? 2 more Phoenix businesses where you can buy everyday items

the kitchen section of a home goods store

Items for your kitchen available at urbAna in Phoenix. (Jessica Swarner/The Copper Courier)

Due to popular demand, I’m continuing this story highlighting local businesses in Phoenix that offer everyday goods—places where people can shop in person and avoid Amazon or big box stores.

For October, I visited two connected businesses in Arcadia owned by a local couple: Arcadia Toys and urbAna.

Have ideas for other Phoenix stores I should add to the list? Email me!

Read about the newly added businesses

West Phoenix doesn’t get as much attention as other areas of the city, so here are some listings that are between Glendale and Interstate 17.

🏠 This 1,508-square-foot home near Cactus Road and 43rd Avenue has a fun exterior with brick features and red paint. The three-bed, two-bath has a fenced-in backyard and a covered porch, and tenants are allowed to have up to three pets. The total monthly payment, including maintenance and smart technology fees, is about $2,135 a month. The home is available Nov. 13.

🏠 This five-bed, three-bath near Orangewood and 43rd avenues offers a lot of space at 1,950 square feet. It’s listed for $2,275 a month and is available now. It has a fenced-in backyard with what looks to be turf, and pets are allowed.

🏠 This one has a pool! The 1,863-square-foot home near Northern and 35th avenues is listed for $2,195 a month. It has three bedrooms and two bathrooms, and it’s available now. It’s unclear if pets are allowed.

If you come across any interesting, weird, or surprisingly affordable listings that you think should be featured here, please send them my way!

Email here

Listings available as of Nov. 3. I’m not paid to share these listings, but that doesn’t mean I can personally vouch for them. Please do your research before applying and signing a lease!

This is a space to share events that are focused on connecting with community and spending time with neighbors.

If you have an event you’d like to submit, reply to this email or email me!

Here’s what’s coming up:

🗑️ Mindful Collections’ November Cleanup

When: Saturday, Nov. 7, 8 a.m.

Where: The Stewart

“Everyone is welcome. We’ll provide all the supplies, so just show up and join us. Hope to see you there!”

🎉 Grand Avenue Festival

When: Saturday, Nov. 7, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where: Grand Avenue Arts District

“Phoenix’s most creative street comes alive for a free celebration of art, music, food, local businesses and community. Free to attend. All ages.”

☕️ Willo Coffee Pop-Up

When: Saturday, Nov. 14, 8-10 a.m.

Where: Third Avenue and Cypress Street

“Join us for a neighborhood Coffee Pop-Up as we kick off the journey to the 38th Annual Willo Home Tour & Street Fair! Stop by, grab a morning coffee, catch up with neighbors, and enjoy a little Willo community spirit! Make a day of historic homes! After your coffee stop, head over to the Roosevelt Historic Neighborhood Home Tour and show some love to our fellow historic neighborhood! Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to Willo, everyone is welcome aboard!”

🗑️ Garfield Litter Lifters and Potluck

When: Saturday, Nov. 14, 9 a.m.

Where: 727 E. Portland St.

“Gloves, pickers, gloves, and hand sanitizer will be provided. Stay after for coffee and a potluck brunch! Bring a dish to share with your neighbors.”

🏠 Roosevelt Neighborhood Home Tour

When: Saturday, Nov. 14, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Where: Roosevelt Neighborhood

“The Roosevelt Action Association hosts an informative self-guided tour where guests can explore turn-of-the-century architecture and stroll the finest early streetscape in the city. Roosevelt’s tree-lined streets, sidewalks, historic street lights and expansive yards are a destination year round.”