Major North Phoenix Parcel Up for Auction – A Prime Opportunity for Investors

The Arizona State Land Department is putting a valuable 217-acre parcel—once slated for an Arizona Coyotes arena—up for auction this June. Here’s what real estate investors need to know:

📍 Location & Background

  • The site is located west of North Scottsdale Road and north of Loop 101, straddling North Phoenix and Scottsdale.
  • Previously targeted by the Coyotes for an arena and entertainment complex, the plan was scrapped after the franchise sold and relocated to Utah.

💰 Auction Details

  • Date: June 20, 2025
  • Opening Bid: $110 million
  • Immediate Payment Required: $14.3 million (includes 10% of appraised value + fees)
  • Development Requirements:
    • Phase I infrastructure planning must begin within 10 months
    • Construction must start within a year
    • Project must be completed within 3 years

🏗️ Developer Interest

  • Mortenson, a Minnesota-based developer, filed the application to acquire the land.
  • They envision long-term mixed-use development but have not disclosed specific plans.

🏘️ Why It Matters for Arizona Investors

  • This large infill parcel near Loop 101 offers rare scale and visibility.
  • The site is zoned for low-density uses but could be upzoned, making it a potential goldmine for residential, commercial, or mixed-use development.
  • Proximity to Scottsdale and key transportation routes boosts its value.
  • Adds to trend of state land auctions fueling development booms in Maricopa County.

🔍 Investor Insight

  • With rising land values and high construction demand in North Phoenix, this site is poised to attract aggressive bids.
  • Winning bidder must be ready to move fast—ideal for capitalized investors with development expertise.