Hi renters,

Welcome to Rent Check PHX. In today’s issue we’re talking about a really cool new event I went to this weekend.

Not only is the Valley Alley Swap a fun way to meet new people, it’s also an easy way for people to exchange basic necessities without having to worry about money. I donated a few bags of stuff and came home with some gems!

The monthly event was hosted by the Downtown Core Community, a neighborhood group I profiled back in March.

We’re also talking about new houses getting smaller over time, and some apartments currently offering specials in Phoenix.

Hope you enjoy! I’ll be back in your inbox next Wednesday. If you know another renter who may benefit from this newsletter, please forward it their way! 📧

Jessica Swarner

Newsletter Editor, Rent Check PHX

*Paywalled content noted with 🔒

🏠 New single-family homes built in the US over the past decade are about 12% smaller—even though price per square foot has risen by about 72%. (Phoenix Business Journal, 🔒)

❎ The Trump administration’s actions against immigrants include excluding undocumented immigrants from subsidized housing, even if their families include citizens. (Arizona Mirror)

🧑‍💻 Cities are turning to AI to help speed up housing permitting, by using the technology to flag incomplete applications. (Arizona Mirror)

🧑‍⚖️ Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes accused Zillow and Redfin of entering an illegal agreement that got rid of competition. Now, in a settlement, the companies must go back to doing business as before. (12 News)

⛳️ The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa in Scottsdale is trying to turn a golf course into housing—but it’s meeting community pushback. (ABC 15)

👚 Here are seven picks that can help get a messy closet organized, from $18 to $40. (Apartment Therapy)

🐱 Ever wanted to turn your balcony into a catio? Here are some renter-friendly tips for making the dream come true. (Instagram)

Donate, swap, hang out: Inside Phoenix’s new monthly mutual aid event

a table full of books with a sign that says Valley Alley Swap pocket library

The pocket library at the Valley Swap on Aug. 30, 2026, in downtown Phoenix. (Jessica Swarner/The Copper Courier)

The Valley Alley Swap is a new monthly event in downtown Phoenix that allows residents to donate items, take what they need, and connect with their community.

The first iteration of the event, which was back-to-school themed, was held Aug. 30 at the Heard Building office space and The Thread coffee and thrift shop. Centrico, a restaurant, hosted donation-based yoga.

I showed up to the event—organized by the neighborhood group Downtown Core Community (DCC)—at 9 a.m. with bags in hand. I first dropped off clothes I no longer wanted at the community clothing rack outside of The Thread and scored a shirt for a friend and a dress for myself. Then I put a couple of items on the trinket table, which was full of stickers, coasters, bracelets, charms, and other fun things.

Outside of the Heard Building, I dropped off books at the What’s Your Story? pocket library, and I picked up a Stephen King novel that’s been on my reading list. At the overflow pantry, I added some Swiffer pads I don’t need anymore.

Read more about the Valley Alley Swap

I typically focus on houses in this section, so today I’m bringing you some apartments that have special offers to save you some cash.

🔑 Market & Main: This apartment complex near Seventh Street and Bethany Home Road is offering eight weeks of base rent free. The building has studios to two-beds available for $1,524 a month to $2,423. Amenities include a pool, a sauna, a fitness center, and a sundeck. Cats and dogs are allowed.

🔑 ASA Midtown: These apartments near Highland Avenue and 12th Street are offering a move-in special of up to 10 weeks of rent free. With their look and lease special, tenants can receive six months of free parking and a $500 gift card. The one- to two-bed units range from $1,495 a month to $2,299. Amenities include a pool and spa, a fitness center, an outdoor lounge, smart home features, and electric vehicle chargers. Cats and dogs are allowed.

🔑 Aspire Pinnacle Peak: This complex near 23rd Avenue and Happy Valley Road is offering $500 off move-in costs for select apartments. Its one- to three-beds range from $1,245 to $2,225. Amenities include a pool and spa, a fitness center, fire pits, a pet park, a clubhouse, and a 26-seat movie theater. Cats and dogs 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 Aug. 31. 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:

🤝 Coronado Neighborhood Association General Meeting

When: Thursday, Sept. 3, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Where: Authentic EthioAfrican

“Join us for the September Coronado Neighborhood Association general meeting. Meet your neighbors, get community updates, hear from guest speakers, and enjoy some treats at a local business!”

🌸 Garden Nights at Casa Caracol

When: Friday, Sept. 4, 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Where: Palabras Bilingual Bookstore

“Get your hands in the soil under moonlight! A Monthly Community Gardening Event Listen to our lunar gardening playlist while, watering, weeding and pruning, and take breaks for food and lunar gazing.”

🚨 Know Your Rights Zine Making & Whistle Kit Making

When: Saturday, Sept. 5, 1-4 p.m.

Where: Palabras Bilingual Bookstore

“Be in solidarity with your community and join us for a whistle kit making session.”

🚮 South Coronado Cleanup

When: Saturday, Sept. 12, 7-9 a.m.

Where: Brill and 14th streets

“Meet at Brill and 14th Street for coffee and donuts before getting to work!”