Discover the Charm of Old Town Cottonwood and the Verde Valley

Top tier photography by Emmy Award winner Greg Bernstein

A Hidden Gem in Northern Arizona, and the Original Gal Behind the Real Estate Scene of OTC

Nestled amidst the stunning landscapes of Northern Arizona, Old Town Cottonwood and the Verde Valley are emerging as sought-after destinations for travelers and those seeking a new place to call home. With a rich history, vibrant community, and breathtaking scenery, this region offers a unique blend of small-town charm and modern convenience that’s hard to find elsewhere. https://www.visitcottonwoodaz.org/

A Legacy of Leadership and Community Naomi McKeever 

Owner and Designated Broker of Arizona Adobe Group Realty, Mrs. McKeever has been a fixture in the Verde Valley since 1983. Originally from Phoenix, Naomi raised her family in the Valley, where her journey into real estate began through her work with local agencies like Village Realty and Realty Executives. Encouraged by her daughter— a CPA who suggested Naomi pursue her own business— Naomi took the leap, founding Arizona Adobe Group Realty in 2008.

Her career has been anything but ordinary. From bookkeeping and secretarial work to managing Alaskan Oil Gas Station bulk fuel and delivery in Yavapai County, Naomi’s diverse background has shaped her resilient entrepreneurial spirit. Her love for community and family is evident; she is proud grandmother to 17 grandchildren, a great-grandmother to five, and has four fur-babies. Naomi’s dedication to her clients, community, and her family exemplifies the true heart of Old Town Cottonwood. Naomi is actively involved in the community regularly supporting numerous charities and her local church.

For me, Naomi is one of the OGs of OTC – the Original Gals of Old Town Cottonwood, an a complete charm to be with. If you see a sweet red convertible Mercedes SLC kicking the gas and swooping off with an ‘Adobe One’ (kinobi) license plate – you have found your Gal.

Why Old Town Cottonwood?

Naomi first discovered this charming town through her daughter, who saw its potential as a hub of activity and culture. In the early days, the town was modest, with only a few establishments like Nic’s and a local bar. Today, Old Town has transformed into a vibrant corridor filled with restaurants, shops, wine tasting rooms, and year-round festivals that draw visitors from all over.

Real Estate and Growth Real estate in the Verde Valley has seen remarkable growth, riding the national market rollercoaster, and reflecting its rising popularity. Naomi’s own real estate journey mirrors this trend: buying and selling properties, witnessing condo values move and overall rise from $150K in 2004, to $50K in 2008, to over $330K today. Her insights into the market— from commercial properties to quaint homes— highlight the diverse opportunities for buyers and investors.

The growth isn’t limited to real estate. Old Town’s reputation as a premier tourist destination blossomed around 2011-2012, attracting visitors who come for its wineries, art galleries, and outdoor adventures. Naomi notes that the town’s transformation has been fueled by passionate residents and entrepreneurs who saw its potential early on.

A Vibrant Community and Future Opportunities 

Naomi’s family plays a vital role in her business and community endeavors. Her grandson Justin, previously a construction supervisor and sales expert, is actively involved in evaluating properties, purchases and sales, and managing the family’s business interests. The town’s welcoming atmosphere is evident in her stories— from friendly interactions with neighbors to family outings at beloved local eateries like Old Town Cafe, where she enjoys their strawberry salad with cheese and chicken. https://www.theoldtowncafeaz.com/

For Naomi, Old Town Cottonwood is more than just a place to live—it’s a community that fosters growth, connection, and opportunity. Living and working in the Verde Valley for almost 40 years, Naomi maintains an outstanding ethical and honest reputation within the real estate community and lending institutions, and is respected and well known throughout the area to genuinely care about the best interests and well being of others.

Real Estate Photographer Greg Bernstein, who has worked over the past few years with McKeever states, “She is something else. She has shown up to real estate shoots with her own bucket and mop, ready to make the house photo-perfect herself in case it hasn’t been done well. And then she hops in that sporty convertible and blasts off to her next project.” One would never know this OG is well into her 80s. https://worldwidedronesolutions.com

Whether you’re considering a visit or seeking your forever home, the Verde Valley promises a quality of life enriched by stunning landscapes, cultural experiences, and a warm, inviting community.

Visit on the 1st Saturday of December for the Annual Chocolate Walk, a Cottonwood Old Town Association event, and discover my favorite chocolate on the Walk:  Adobe’s famous chocolate mice. This delightful treat, invented by her mother-in-law, is a playful tradition symbolizing the town’s resilience and sense of playfulness. https://www.oldtown.org/chocolate.html

Get Ready to Explore 

Come see what makes this region one of Arizona’s best-kept secrets—beautiful, welcoming, and full of promise. Adobe Realty is Serving: Ash Fork, Bellemont, Camp Verde, Chino Valley, Clarkdale, Cornville, Cottonwood, Dewey, Flagstaff, Happy Jack, Humboldt, Jerome, Mayer, Munds Park, Out of Area, Parks, Paulden, Prescott, Prescott Valley, Rimrock, Sedona, Seligman, Skull Valley, Stoneman Lake, Williams… now that should get you dreaming.

Whether you’re drawn by the scenic beauty, outdoor adventures, or the vibrant local scene, Old Town Cottonwood and the Verde Valley are waiting to welcome you. Discover a new way of life where history, community, and natural splendor converge. Your adventure begins here—are you ready to make it your own?

Contact Naomi McKeever and the Arizona Adobe Group Realty team at 928-634-1099 or visit www.adobegr.com to learn more about living and investing in the Verde Valley. Drop ins are always welcome when you are strolling Old Town: Arizona Adobe Group Realty 918 North Main Street, Suite A Cottonwood, AZ 86326.