Each year, AZRE magazine’s RED Awards commemorates the meticulous work accomplished by the teams of companies who shepherd projects of all kinds from initial concept to final delivery. Each category represents the finest the industry has to offer — state-of-the-art education buildings, chic offices spaces, lavish hotels, modern apartments and so much more. Today, take a deeper look at the build-to-rent project of the year finalists.
The 2026 RED Awards will honor finalists and announce winners in 18 categories on Thursday, March 19 at the Embassy Suites Scottsdale. The year’s top developer, general contractor, architecture firm and subcontractor will also be celebrated.
The RED Awards VIP sponsor is Haydon Companies, the spotlight sponsor is Core Construction, the beverage sponsor is DP Electric, the dessert sponsor is Layton Construction, the step and repeat sponsor is Suntec Concrete, the valet sponsor is Stevens-Leinweber Construction, the giveaway sponsor is Willmeng Construction, the 360 photo booth sponsor is Ironmark Building Company and the floral sponsor is Arizona Escrow.
Tickets for the 2026 RED Awards can be found here.
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Here are the finalists for the Build-to-rent project category:
Canopy at Sundance
- Developer: Hancock Builders
- General contractor: Hancock Builders
- Architect: Barduson Architects
- Owner: Blueprint White Tanks
- Subcontractors: Umbria Builders, Etico, Universal Group, JG Block, Sierra Verde Construction
- City: Buckeye
- Size: 36.92 acres
Canopy at Sundance in Buckeye is a thoughtfully designed 394-unit build-to-rent community that elevates modern living through high-quality construction, smart-home technology and a strong focus on resident comfort. The community offers spacious one- and two-bedroom homes with nine-foot ceilings, stainless steel energy-efficient appliances, quartz countertops, subway tile finishes and private backyards with built-in dog doors. Each residence delivers the feel of a single-family home with the flexibility and convenience of renting. The layout of the community integrates open green spaces and gathering areas that encourage connection while preserving a sense of personal space.
Canopy at Sundance plays an important role in Buckeye’s growth by offering a modern housing option that meets rising demand for high-quality, low-maintenance living. The project successfully balances density with comfort by creating a neighborhood atmosphere that feels cohesive and inviting. Its emphasis on energy-efficient appliances, smart thermostats and thoughtful landscape planning further strengthens its long-term value to both residents and the region.
Marketside Villas at Verrado
- Developers: P.B. Bell Companies, Everest Holdings
- General contractor: P.B. Bell Companies
- Owner: P.B. Bell Companies
- City: Buckeye
- Size: 150 units
Marketside Villas at Verrado offers standalone and duplex style one-, two- and three-bedroom floor plans that feature all the high-end luxuries of modern living, including gourmet kitchen cabinets and counters, stainless steel appliances, direct access garages on select homes and smart door locks. The projects provides a robust amenity package, including a larger-than-usual clubhouse and an array of leisure areas, such as a 24-hour fitness center, resort-style pool and spa, and pet park
The community allows residents to exploring the unique and dynamic culture of the Verrado area, including Verrado Mainstreet District, Verrado Golf Club and the White Tank Mountains. Marketside Villas at Verrado is conveniently located near the I-10 and Verrado Way, providing a direct path to the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and other destinations across the Valley.
The Village at Carver Mountain
- Developer: The Empire Group of Companies
- General contractor: Lifestyle Homes Construction
- Architect: Felten Group
- Subcontractors: Coppernail Construction, McGough Group, Coe & Van Loo, Wright Engineering, Studio Dwell
- City: Laveen Village
- Size: 267,788 square feet
The Village at Carver Mountain, conveniently located in Laveen, is a 25-acre gated build-to-rent community offering 286 homes, each with its own private yard and patio. All homes are single-story and offer one-, two- and three-bedroom open floor plans designed with high vaulted ceilings that invite abundant natural light. The centrally located amenity area includes a resort-style pool and ample space that includes a fire pit and barbecue shaded areas. The adjacent community center includes a robust fitness facility, pet spa, and kitchen/lounge for community and small group gatherings.
Throughout the community there are trails, benches, swings, and a dog park with pet agility structures and turf. The open spaces are conceived for both active and passive opportunities — allowing residents to connect with the environment and enjoy the beautiful Arizona weather. The Village at Carver Mountain luxury homes are a unique product that allows residents to enjoy the best qualities of both single-family living coupled with multifamily development amenities in a community that promotes an active, engaging and maintenance-free lifestyle.
Canopy at Cottonwood
- Developer: Hancock Builders
- General contractor: Hancock Builders
- Architect: Barduson Architects
- Owner: Blueprint Cottonwood
- Subcontractors: Umbria Builders, Etico, Lodi Garage Doors, Nikola Roofing, Sierra Verde Construction
- City: Casa Grande
- Size: 135,109,231 square feet
The Canopy at Cottonwood is a 331-unit build-to-rent community that elevates residential living in Casa Grande through thoughtful design, high-quality construction and a resident-first approach. Featuring single-story detached homes with private backyards and attached garages, each residence includes smart-home technology, energy-efficient appliances, quartz countertops, wood-inspired flooring and modern finishes that reflect a high standard of craftsmanship.
This project has made a significant impact on Casa Grande by introducing a modern, design-forward housing product that fills the gap between multifamily living and single-family homeownership. The development successfully balances density and livability, overcoming the challenge of creating a neighborhood-like feel within a rental community.
Verge
- Developer: 29th Street Capital
- General contractor: Mosaic Construction Services
- Architect: Felten Group
- City: Apache Junction
- Size: 201 residences
Located in Apache Junction, Verge is a 201-unit build-to-rent community designed to meet the growing demand for attainable, high-quality rental housing in Greater Phoenix. The community delivers modern single-family homes, intentional design and a resident-first experience, without pushing rents beyond reach.
What sets Verge apart is its deep commitment to pet-friendly living. The community is the only property in its competitive set not charging pet rent, reinforcing its belief that pets are family, not an add-on. Nearly all homes feature doggy doors (leading to a private backyard), complemented by an expansive dog park, walkable green spaces throughout the community and convenient access to nearby walking paths.
