In our first year at the HBACA MAME Awards, Capstone Homes entered seven categories, became a finalist in six and won three. Here’s what that means—and what it means for you.
The Arizona Major Achievements in Merchandising Excellence (MAME) Awards are the premier recognition event for the state’s homebuilding industry, hosted annually by the Home Builders Association of Central Arizona (HBACA).
Now in its 40th year, the event drew more than 450 submissions across 50 categories—honoring builders, designers, sales professionals, and marketing teams at every level.
Awards matter most when they reflect a real experience. Here’s what each win translates to for homebuyers.
These wins didn’t come from one department. Our purchasing team sourced the right partners. Our construction team built the environments that impressed the judges. Our designers created spaces that stopped people in their tracks.
A special recognition goes to Ambrosia Interiors, our interior design partner in Flagstaff, who was honored as Associate Service Vendor of the Year—a testament to the collaboration that shapes every Capstone home.
Three wins. Six finalist nominations. First year competing. Against national builders and celebrated custom homebuilders.
Our design studio is open. Our sales team is ready. Come experience what the judges recognized—and find the home that’s been waiting for you.
Spring into Savings, Styled Your WayThis spring, your priorities come first.
With Capstone Homes’ Spring into Savings campaign, buyers have the rare opportunity to decide how their savings work for them. Instead of a one-size-fits-all incentive, this approach offers flexibility across three key areas of the homebuying journey. It’s less about a set incentive and more about directing savings where they matter most right now.
Love a corner lot? Dreaming of a better view? This is your chance to secure a premium homesite that elevates your everyday surroundings.
From statement kitchens to spa-inspired bathrooms, design incentives allow you to invest in the finishes and upgrades that make your home distinctly yours.
Looking for long-term peace of mind? Financing options like rate buy-down opportunities can help reduce your monthly payment and make homeownership more approachable.
Offerings like this don’t last long. With added flexibility across homesite selection, design personalization and financing options, this is a unique opportunity where value meets choice. It’s not just about saving. It’s about deciding how you save.
If homeownership is a part of your future, this is an invitation to shape it on your terms. Explore move-in ready homes and the Capstone Homes communities to find the place that fits your lifestyle.
Which incentive will you choose?
What It Actually Feels Like to Build a Home, From First Call to Final WalkthroughThere is a version of new home construction that a lot of buyers dread: missed timelines, unanswered calls, decisions made without them. That is not what building with Capstone looks like. The difference is not just in the craftsmanship. It is in the people.
Merri and John T. recently completed their new Capstone home, and their account of the process is worth sharing. Not because it is glowing, but because it is specific. They named names. They described moments. That kind of detail only comes from an experience that was genuinely good.
Building a home begins long before a foundation is poured. It starts with a single conversation, and whether that conversation builds confidence or erodes it sets the tone for everything that follows. For Merri and John, that first conversation was with Peter, their sales representative. His approach was knowledgeable and patient. He was focused on helping them take their first step, not on closing a sale. That kind of start matters more than most buyers realize.
The design studio appointment is where a lot of buyers hit a wall. There are hundreds of decisions to make, a real budget at stake, and a timeline that keeps moving. Christina’s job was to make that process manageable. By all accounts, she did.
Merri and John came out of their design appointment with selections that reflected what they had actually envisioned. That is what a design consultant who listens and guides well delivers. It is not something that happens automatically.
A home’s character is proven not in the sales office but over the months between groundbreaking and handover. Sarah and Chase handled that stretch with the kind of professionalism and care that made Merri and John feel informed and confident at every stage.
Sarah kept communication clear and consistent. Chase made sure every detail was built right. Together they gave the homeowners something that is not always easy to find in new construction: a process that felt smooth, transparent, and well-managed, all the way through.
“From our very first conversation with Peter in sales to the final stages of construction, our experience with Capstone was nothing short of exceptional. Peter set the tone from the beginning, knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely invested in helping us take the first step toward building our dream home. Christina, our design consultant, made what could have been an overwhelming process feel exciting and seamless. Sarah, our project manager, kept everything organized and moving forward with impressive professionalism and responsiveness. Chase, our construction manager, demonstrated outstanding craftsmanship and organizational skills, ensuring every detail was completed with care and precision. Building a home can be stressful, but thanks to this incredible group, the process felt smooth, transparent, and well-managed from start to finish. We are beyond grateful for their hard work and would highly recommend Capstone to anyone looking to build a home with a team that truly cares.”
A lot of builders can walk you through their process on paper. Fewer have homeowners who describe the actual experience as smooth and well-managed without being asked. Merri and John’s story reflects something Capstone has built over decades: a team culture where sales, design, project management, and construction all take genuine ownership of the outcome.
If you are thinking about building a new home in Northern Arizona, in Prescott, Prescott Valley, or Flagstaff, the most useful question to ask any builder is not about square footage or price per foot. It is about who you will be working with when decisions get complicated and timelines shift. For Merri and John, the answer was a team that came through. That is the experience Capstone builds toward, every time.
Why You Should Retire in Prescott and Prescott Valley, ArizonaFor retirees seeking the right balance of lifestyle, safety, affordability and long-term comfort, the cities of Prescott and Prescott Valley in Arizona stand out as top retirement destinations. Set in Northern Arizona’s scenic high country, these neighboring communities appeal to active adults who want to stay engaged and connected without the congestion or high cost of living found in larger metro areas.
With nationally recognized safety ratings, a mild four-season climate and a growing selection of thoughtfully planned 55+ communities, Prescott and Prescott Valley continue to earn their place among the best places to retire in Arizona.
Prescott and Prescott Valley consistently receive national recognition for their livability, safety and financial stability. In 2025, GOBankingRates ranked Prescott, AZ No. 9 and Prescott Valley, AZ No. 17 on its list of America’s Safest and Wealthiest Retirement Towns.
For retirees planning their next chapter, these rankings reinforce what residents already know: Prescott and Prescott Valley support a secure, stable environment where retirees can feel confident putting down roots.
When considering 55+ communities in Prescott or Prescott Valley, it’s important for retirees to look beyond amenities and focus on long-term livability. The best retirement communities prioritize comfort, independence and connection for years to come. Key factors to consider include:
Prescott and Prescott Valley are served by regional hospitals and specialty providers, helping retirees access quality medical care without the need for long-distance travel.
At approximately 5,300 feet in elevation, Prescott enjoys all four seasons with fewer extreme temperatures than much of Arizona. This mild climate allows retirees to stay active throughout the year.
Well-planned retirement communities encourage connection through clubs, fitness classes and shared gathering spaces. Ongoing social engagement is consistently linked to higher satisfaction and overall well-being in retirement.
Single-story layouts, low-maintenance landscaping and energy-efficient construction make it easier for retirees to remain independent and comfortable long-term.
Gated neighborhoods, walkable streets and thoughtful community planning contribute to a greater sense of safety and stability for residents.
Prescott National Forest, Watson Lake and Goldwater Lake provide year-round access to hiking, biking, kayaking and scenic walking paths. These outdoor amenities encourage retirees to stay active without traveling far from home.
Historic downtown Prescott features museums, galleries, live theaters and annual community events. The Elks Theatre and Whiskey Row add cultural depth that appeals to retirees and visiting family alike.
Compared to popular retirement destinations such as Scottsdale, Sedona and Phoenix, Prescott and Prescott Valley often offer greater value. Retirees benefit from a lower cost of living while still enjoying modern healthcare, recreation and community amenities.
Jasper is a modern, master-planned community, featuring eco-conscious homes in Prescott Valley designed for active adults and 55+ homeowners.
At the heart of the neighborhood is the private J Club, which serves as a hub for amenities and social opportunities:
Jasper appeals to retirees seeking structure, social connection and wellness-focused amenities as well as a strong sense of community and belonging.
The Granite Dells Estates provides gated 55+ living with a more traditional community feel, seamlessly integrated into Prescott’s natural landscape.
Amenities include:
Granite Dells Estates suits retirees who value privacy, outdoor access and community amenities without a resort-scale environment.
Choosing between Prescott and Prescott Valley is one of the most common decisions retirees face when moving to Northern Arizona. Both communities offer strong lifestyle benefits, but appeal to slightly different preferences.
Both towns are nationally ranked for retirement suitability and are located close enough that residents can easily enjoy the benefits of each.
Retirement today is about staying active, connected and prepared for the future. Prescott and Prescott Valley, Arizona combine nationally recognized safety, abundant outdoor access and well-designed 55+ communities that support long-term living. For those exploring Northern Arizona retirement options, these towns continue to deliver on what matters most.
Capstone Homes can help guide you through communities like Jasper and Granite Dells Estates to find a home that aligns with your lifestyle and retirement goals. Retirement should be planned with intention, and Prescott and Prescott Valley make that easier.
Capstone Homes Named Best Homebuilder in Flagstaff for 2025Capstone Homes has been named Best Homebuilder in Flagstaff for 2025 by the Arizona Daily Sun as part of its annual Best of Flag Awards. Because winners are selected entirely by reader vote, this recognition reflects the trust of the Flagstaff community.
For homebuyers searching for a trusted homebuilder in Flagstaff or new and custom homes in Northern Arizona, this award reinforces what homeowners already know. Capstone Homes is known for quality craftsmanship, accountability and long-term value.
According to the Arizona Daily Sun Best of Flag 2025 results, Capstone Homes earned the top spot based on public voting, placing us among the most trusted homebuilders in Northern Arizona.
Capstone Homes specializes in:
Learn more about us our building philosophy here.
This recognition reflects years of consistent performance, not a single project. Capstone Homes succeeds by combining local expertise with proven construction practices.
Our team brings deep knowledge of Flagstaff zoning requirements, regional climate conditions and building standards unique to Northern Arizona. Strong referral relationships and repeat clients further reinforce our commitment to homeowner satisfaction.
For buyers considering custom or new homes in Flagstaff and Northern Arizona, experience and reliability matter. This award confirms both.
Quality homes are never built by one company alone. Capstone Homes extends sincere thanks to our trusted trade partners and subcontractors, who play a critical role in every home we build.
From foundation and framing to mechanical systems and finish work, our partners bring skill, professionalism and pride to each project. Their craftsmanship, reliability and shared commitment to excellence help us deliver homes that meet our standards and earn the trust of homeowners throughout Northern Arizona.
This recognition belongs to them as much as it does to us.
Capstone Homes takes a quality-first approach to homebuilding, focusing on doing things right rather than doing them quickly. We integrate modern standards such as energy-efficient design, functional layouts and long-term livability into every home.
Whether you are relocating, building your first home or planning a forever home, Capstone Homes remains a trusted choice for home construction in Flagstaff, Prescott, and Prescott Valley.
Explore our communities to learn more about our process and see why we were voted Best Homebuilder in Flagstaff for 2025.
We thank everyone who voted for Capstone Homes in the Arizona Daily Sun Best of Flag 2025. Your support strengthens our commitment to quality homebuilding throughout Northern Arizona.
We look forward to serving Flagstaff families with the same standards and care that earned this recognition.
What to Expect at Your Design Studio AppointmentDesigning your new home should be one of the most exciting, not overwhelming, parts of your homebuilding journey. At Capstone Homes, your Design Studio appointment is where your vision starts to come to life. It is where your style, lifestyle and preferences begin shaping every detail of your new home.
Whether you’re building in one of our communities in Flagstaff, Prescott or Prescott Valley, here’s what to expect when you step into one of our Capstone Design Studios and how we make the process fun, easy and uniquely yours.
Your Design Studio appointment typically lasts a few hours, giving you plenty of time to explore your options without feeling rushed. You’ll meet one-on-one with a professional design consultant at either our Flagstaff or Prescott Valley studio, who will guide you through the entire process and help you make confident, informed decisions.
During your consultation, we’ll walk through:
If you’re looking to move in sooner, Capstone also offers Quick Move-In Homes. Many of these are Design Appointment Ready Homes, meaning the home is already built or nearing completion but waiting for your finishing selections. Once you’ve made those selections, these homes can often be ready in as little as 30 to 60 days.
Your appointment isn’t just about looking at catalogs—it’s a hands-on experience. You’ll see and touch real samples of flooring, cabinetry, countertops, fixtures and more, helping you visualize how everything will come together in your new home.
Don’t worry about feeling overwhelmed. Our professional design team has created a range of curated design packages to make the process simple and stress-free. These pre-selected collections feature coordinated finishes, colors and materials that work beautifully together. They are ideal if you want to narrow things down and make just a few key decisions. You can choose a package as-is, customize elements or use it as a starting point for your own selections.
Bring inspiration photos, Pinterest boards or saved design ideas to your appointment. The more we understand your vision, the easier it is to align your selections with your style.
It’s completely normal, and encouraged, to start with more ideas than you’ll end up using. During your appointment, you’ll work with your design consultant to create a “wish list” of must-haves and nice-to-haves. Then, we’ll help you refine it into a realistic plan that fits both your vision and your budget.
Think of it like a funnel: dream big, then focus in on the features that matter most.
“How much should I expect to spend on upgrades?” is one of the most common questions we hear. The answer depends on your goals, but our design team will help you prioritize features that add the most value and long-term comfort. This might include chef-inspired kitchens, spa-worthy bathrooms or energy-efficient upgrades designed for Northern Arizona’s unique climate.
Having a budget range in mind before your appointment can make decisions easier and keep your selections aligned with your financial comfort zone.
If you’re looking for a more budget-conscious or expedited solution, consider one of our Quick Move-In Homes. These homes often come with designer-selected finishes and are available at a set price. This gives you a beautiful, brand-new home with less decision-making and a shorter timeline.
At Capstone Homes, we want you to feel prepared and confident, not stressed. That’s why we provide a variety of tools and resources to support your decision-making, including:
These resources make it easier to picture your finished home before construction even begins.
After your initial appointment, you’ll usually have time to review your design decisions and make any final adjustments before locking them in. Once everything is confirmed, our team documents your selections, so your home is built exactly the way you envisioned.
Your Design Studio appointment isn’t just about finishes—it’s about crafting a home that reflects your story, your priorities and your personality.
With Quick Move-In Homes and Design Appointment Ready Homes, you can even enjoy a personalized design experience without the long wait. Many homeowners move into their dream home in as little as 30 to 60 days.
At Capstone Homes, we believe your Design Studio appointment should be one of the most exciting steps in your new home journey. With expert guidance, curated options and the flexibility to personalize as much (or as little) as you want, we make the process easy, enjoyable and tailored to you.
Schedule your Design Studio appointment today or explore our available Quick Move-In Homes to see how soon your dream home in Flagstaff, Prescott or Prescott Valley could be ready.
Benefits of Buying a Quick Move-In or Design-Ready Home in Northern ArizonaAt Capstone Homes, we know that timing is everything when it comes to finding your dream home. Many buyers simply can’t wait 8 to 12 months for a new construction build, and they shouldn’t have to.
That’s where Quick Move-In Homes and our unique Design Appointment Ready Homes come in. These homes are either already completed or nearly finished and waiting for you to make the final design selections. It’s the perfect balance between speed and personalization—and many can be ready for move-in in as little as 30 to 60 days.
Here’s why buyers across Flagstaff, Prescott, Prescott Valley and all of Northern Arizona are choosing these homes over traditional builds:
The #1 advantage is right in the name: speed.
Perfect for:
Unlike resale homes, every Quick Move-In and Design-Ready Home is brand new, has never been lived in and is built to the latest building codes and energy standards. You’ll enjoy all the perks of new construction, from energy efficiency to modern layouts, without the wait.
Think Quick Move-In means “cookie-cutter”? Think again.
Our Design Appointment Ready Homes let you choose flooring, cabinetry, countertops, paint colors and more—and since the home is already built, you skip months of construction time. It’s the ideal solution for buyers who want personalization without paralysis.
Prefer a completely turnkey option? Many of our Quick Move-In Homes are professionally designed by our award-winning team, featuring curated finishes and layouts that reflect today’s most popular styles.
New homes are more energy-efficient than ever, which means lower utility bills month after month. And because everything is brand new, you’ll spend far less on maintenance and repairs compared to an older resale property.
Plus, pricing on these homes is typically set upfront, so you’ll know exactly what you’re paying before you sign. And every Capstone home comes with a builder warranty for added peace of mind.
One of the biggest frustrations of a traditional build is having to “imagine” your future home from floor plans and renderings. With a Quick Move-In or Design Appointment Ready Home, you can tour the actual property, feel the layout, visualize your furniture and explore the community before you make a decision.
Whether you’re relocating to Northern Arizona, searching for a second home in Flagstaff or ready to stop renting and start building equity, our Quick Move-In and Design Appointment Ready Homes give you:
Explore our available homes today and discover how easy it is to step into a brand-new Capstone home sooner than you think.
Old House vs. New Construction: Which Should You Choose?Chances are, if you’re ready to buy a home in Flagstaff, Prescott or Prescott Valley, Arizona, one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to invest in an older home, build a new place from scratch or purchase a select quick move-in home that’s closer to completion within a Capstone neighborhood. Each option has its own perks—but which is right for you?
The Case for an Older House
Tried-and-true older homes, especially in historic Flagstaff or Prescott, often come with established neighborhoods and an existing network of amenities, plus mature landscaping with unique and historic charm. Buyers may even benefit from a lower upfront price tag.
However, an older home, even one with good bones, can mean more maintenance and repair costs. It could be as simple as updating outdated features that hit your budget where it hurts. Or you may have to face hidden issues that need immediate attention, such as older wiring, a roof that needs replacing or an HVAC begging for a serious upgrade. All of these eventualities may lead to unforeseen repair costs sooner than you expected them.
Older homes present other challenges too. Along with limited floor plan options and layouts that don’t reflect contemporary tastes, many older homes have poor insulation and old appliances. As a result, higher energy bills tend to be part and parcel of living in older homes.
Why More Buyers Are Choosing New
Every family’s story is one of a kind. Our residences reflect this principle. At Capstone Homes, we design and build homes that match today’s lifestyles, offering customizable layouts with premium finishes and a distinct selection of floor plans. Whether it’s your first home, a second home or your forever home in the mountains, you can expect custom quality with every detail refined to perfection.
Our homes check every box from the ground up, but if you’ve got something specific in mind, we can make it happen with our build-on-your-lot option in select locations. Whether you need an extra bedroom, a dedicated workspace or next-generation smart home tech—we’ll work with you to ensure your home is done your way. Or you can select from well-designed floor plans and stylized exterior elevations within our exciting new communities.
From the get-go, our quality materials and advanced building techniques ensure a home built to the highest standards. If you’re looking for a little finesse, our design specialists are on it, helping you pick out finishes and fixtures to make your dream home come true.
We offer hassle-free home buying, which means providing regular build updates, design consultations, photo updates, construction progress tracking and dedicated support from contract to close so that you’re never left guessing.
Modern homes mean modern tech and up-to-date features. Our new builds at Capstone Homes boast cutting-edge technology and the latest in energy-efficient fixtures. With elements like solar-readiness, double-pane windows, high-performing insulation and energy-saving appliances, you’ll save on repairs and utilities—and enjoy peace of mind with a home warranty. From winter-ready insulation in Flagstaff to sun-smart materials in Prescott Valley, our homes are engineered to thrive in high-altitude Arizona climates.
As the community comes together, our planned neighborhood amenities will continue to take shape, bringing to life community centers, parks, and trails designed to promote neighborly connections. Learn more about the Capstone difference here.
Customer Satisfaction, Perfected
Whether you’re investing in a new home or an older home, homebuying is no small undertaking. That’s why, at Capstone Homes, we take pride in offering unparalleled customer service throughout the process. From selecting your ideal lot to receiving regular construction updates and progress photos along the way, your home is in good hands. Don’t just take our word for it—our customers love to rave about our personalized approach.
Long-Term Value
While older homes may seem more affordable upfront, the long-term savings of a new build can quickly outweigh the difference—especially when you factor in fewer repairs, better insulation and lower monthly costs. Capstone Homes are designed to hold value, reduce operating costs, and deliver peace of mind—with a home warranty to back it up.
A new Capstone home provides modern living and long-term value—without the headaches of repairs and retrofitting. We build where you want to live, with the quality and care you expect from Northern Arizona’s premier homebuilder. At Capstone Homes, we know that home is more than just a place to hang your hat—it’s where your life comes together. That’s why we’re committed to building high-quality, energy-efficient homes designed for modern living, emphasizing dedicated customer service at every step.
When you’re ready to make a sound investment in your future, we’re ready to help. Explore our communities and start your journey. Your dream home is waiting—let Capstone bring it to life.
Built with Integrity: Our Commitment to Customer SatisfactionIf you’re in the market for a new home in Arizona, look no further than Capstone Homes. Our core philosophy is built on a simple yet powerful premise: delivering quality craftsmanship and exceptional homebuying experiences that exceed our customers’ wildest dreams. But don’t take our word for it—our homeowners are raving about their experience! Here’s what it means to buy a home with us, as told through the experience of Liz and Denny Granquist, our newest homeowners in Flagstaff.
Let’s start with Ernie Roselle, our CDR Superintendent, whose professionalism, approachability and helpfulness made quite an impact:
“Ernie has been professional and accommodating, from answering questions to providing information about our new home. Given such a demanding environment and the enormous number of construction sites, we don’t know how he does it…He is always aware of the details and attention required for each homesite.”
Touting Ernie’s dedication to going the extra mile, the Granquists had plenty of positive instances, recalling a time when Ernie coordinated with a local vendor to lay fiber optic cable to their residence to ensure they experienced minimal disruption. The happy homeowners added, “Ernie went above and beyond to provide us with a replacement paint kit after WE ruined the initial one by letting it sit out in the cold weather.”
As construction on their home progressed, Liz and Denny Granquist worked closely with Jana Robles, our Custom Options Coordinator. Her initiative-taking and can-do approach left the couple thoroughly impressed:
“Ms. Robles routinely monitored the construction of our home by conducting weekly ‘walk-throughs’. It was not unusual to receive an email, phone call or text from Ms. Robles after hours—her primary objective was for us to LOVE our new Capstone home.”
Crediting Jana’s guidance, trustworthiness, and eagerness to curate their dream home, the Granquists have found themselves in a home they are “proud to own and enjoy.”
Dedication and a staff that knows their stuff is built into our business’ DNA. It’s something we hear consistently about the Capstone Homes team and take immense pride in.
Helping our customers experience a seamless homebuying journey and craft the perfect foundation for their lifelong memories is personal to us, and it shows. In the world of homebuilding, we know you’ve got options. Come discover the Capstone Homes difference in Arizona, where a team of dedicated professionals put their focus on customer satisfaction above all else!
Check out our communities in Flagstaff and Prescott here, or keep up with us on Facebook and Instagram.
