Living in Blackstone Country Club: An Insider Feature

by Nate Martinez 

Defining Luxury Living and Championship Golf in the Heart of North Peoria, Arizona 

 Discover an award winning, guard gated sanctuary where the Sonoran Desert meets world class architecture. Blackstone is more than a neighborhood: it is an elevated lifestyle experience designed for those who value privacy and prestige. 

The Voice of Blackstone: Nate Martinez 

As a resident of the community and a 40 year veteran of the Arizona real estate market, Nate Martinez brings an unrivaled perspective to Blackstone at Vistancia. Representing REMAX Fine Properties, Nate has dedicated his career to the North Peoria luxury market, earning a reputation built on trust, deep local knowledge, and over 200 five star reviews. 

Following the 2026 expansion of his team, Nate continues to provide the technical expertise and market clarity that only a local resident and industry leader can offer. Whether you are acquiring a custom estate or listing a premier property, his dual perspective as an owner and an agent is your greatest advantage. 

The Inside Line: A Conversation on Golf Excellence

Nate Martinez interviews Tom Wilcox, Director of Golf at Blackstone Country Club, in 2015

The jewel of Blackstone Country Club is the Golf Digest award winning, private golf course designed by Jim Engh. As discussed in the interview, this 18 hole, par 72 championship course features deep, chiseled channels with sheer rock faces and a series of black volcanic stone scaled perfectly for each hole. It was created specifically for those who are passionate about the game and the rugged beauty of the Arizona landscape. 

The Insider’s 18: A Narrated Course Tour

 Experience the Jim Engh signature design through the eyes of a resident expert. Nate Martinez, a member since 2006, walks you through the strategy and scenery of Blackstone’s premier par 72 layout. 

The Resident Edge

 "My relationship with Blackstone has been one of my most rewarding experiences. From the first time I played in 2006 to today, I have met amazing people who have become close friends. This isn't just a course: it is a community." 

 Nate Martinez: Resident, Member, and Specialist 

Course Landmarks

Hole 7 (The Volcano): An enormous green that falls off on all sides, requiring precision to find the central spine.

Hole 9 (The Amphitheater): A par 5 finishing in a natural bowl with vertical rock faces on three sides.

Hole 13 (The Gauntlet): Often cited as the toughest hole, requiring a long, accurate carry over a deep arroyo.

Technical Specs

Designer: Jim Engh
Layout: 18 Holes, Par 72
Total Yardage: 7,089 Yards
Key Features: 70 yard wide fairways, pot bunkers, and sheer volcanic rock faces.

The Blackstone Collection

A curated collection showcasing the signature Bing Hu architecture of The Hacienda and the Blackstone residences, featuring high-altitude perspectives of the exclusive guard-gated community and the lush desert fairways that define it.

The Pillars of the Blackstone Experience 

I. The Championship Golf Experience

 The jewel of Blackstone Country Club is the Golf Digest award winning, private golf course designed by Jim Engh. This is a course built for those who are truly passionate about the game. Whether you are a pro in the making or take swings for relaxation, the layout offers a technical and visual experience unlike any other in Arizona. 

 As discussed in Nate’s interview with Director of Golf Tom Wilcox, the par 72 championship course features deep, chiseled channels with sheer rock faces and a series of black volcanic stone scaled perfectly for each hole. It is a masterclass in desert golf design that respects the rugged beauty of North Peoria. 

At a Glance: The Course

  • Designer: Jim Engh
  • Accolades: Golf Digest Award Winner
  • Signature Feature: Black Volcanic Rock Channels
  • Course Type: Private, 18 Hole, Par 72
The Hacienda Amenities

  • 30,000 Square Foot Clubhouse
  • Resort Style Pool & Cabanas
  • State of the Art Fitness & Wellness
  • Fine Dining & Social Wine Cellar

II. The Hacienda: Architectural Distinction

 Architecture at Blackstone is defined by the vision of Bing Hu. The Hacienda serves as the community's social heart, blending "Desert Modern" aesthetics with resort style luxury. It has been recognized as the "Best of Our Valley" Master Planned Community two years in a row by Arizona Foothills Magazine.

 This isn't just a clubhouse; it is an extension of the home. From intimate wine tastings to vibrant holiday galas, the Hacienda offers a level of social sophistication that complements the tranquility of the guard gated desert surroundings.

III. The Resident Expert Advantage

 When navigating a market as nuanced as Blackstone, the difference is in the data . With **more than 85 homes closed within Blackstone alone**, Nate Martinez provides a level of historical perspective and transactional experience that is unmatched in the northwest Valley. Following the 2026 merger of REMAX Professionals into REMAX Fine Properties, Nate Martinez has expanded the resources available to his clients, ensuring they have access to the most accurate, real-time market data. 

 As a 40-year real estate veteran and a Blackstone resident himself, Nate doesn't just sell the community, he lives it. This dual perspective allows him to guide buyers and sellers through the specific intricacies of Vistancia luxury real estate with over 200 five-star reviews as a testament to his expertise. 

Why Work with Nate?

**85+ Blackstone Homes Closed**
40 Years of Industry Leadership
Circle of Legends Award Recipient
Blackstone Resident & Specialist

Connect with Nate

Blackstone Community Intelligence

Q: What makes the Jim Engh course at Blackstone unique?

A: The course is renowned for its use of the native landscape, specifically the black volcanic rock and sheer rock faces. It is a par 72 championship layout that combines dramatic elevation changes with a private club atmosphere that Golf Digest has recognized for its excellence. 

Q: What are the membership tiers at Blackstone Country Club?

A: The club offers various membership opportunities, including full Golf Memberships and Social Memberships. Social members enjoy access to The Hacienda clubhouse, fine dining, and fitness facilities, while golf members enjoy priority access to the Jim Engh course. 

Q: How does Blackstone fit within the Vistancia master plan?

A: Blackstone is the premier luxury offering within the Vistancia master planned community. While it enjoys its own private amenities and gates, it also benefits from the broader Vistancia infrastructure, including parks, trails, and highly rated local schools. 

Q: Is Blackstone a guard gated community?

A: Yes, Blackstone at Vistancia is an exclusive, guard gated enclave. This provides residents with a high level of privacy and security, which is a primary reason it remains one of the most sought after addresses in North Peoria. 

Q: What are the mandatory membership requirements for Blackstone residents in 2026?

A: There are no mandatory membership requirements for Blackstone residents. Homeowners are not required to join Blackstone Country Club or maintain any level of club membership. Participation in club memberships is entirely optional. Additionally, individuals do not need to own a home in Blackstone to be eligible for membership. The club offers Equity Golf and Social memberships to non-residents, allowing access to its amenities without purchasing property.

Q: Who manages the HOA at Blackstone at Vistancia?

A: The Blackstone at Vistancia HOA is managed by Trestle Management, while the private club facilities are operated by Invited (formerly ClubCorp). Understanding the distinction between the two is vital for managing architectural approvals and membership transfers.

Q: Who manages Blackstone Country Club in Peoria, Arizona?

A: Blackstone Country Club is managed by Troon, a leading golf and club management company, through its private club division, Troon Privé. While the club is member-owned, Troon oversees the day-to-day operations and management.

Q: Are all custom homes in Blackstone subject to architectural review?

A: Yes. To maintain the high aesthetic standards and the "Desert Modern" architectural integrity inspired by Bing Hu, any exterior modifications or custom builds must be approved by the Blackstone architectural review committee. Navigating this process is something I regularly assist my clients with.

Q: How does the "Blackstone Community" impact my property taxes?

A: Unlike other parts of Peoria, Blackstone is part of a Community Facilities District (CFD). This helps fund the premium infrastructure of the area but results in a different tax assessment structure that I help my clients calculate before they buy or sell.

Where can I find current market updates for Blackstone homes?

A: Nate Martinez provides regular market updates specifically for Blackstone residents. Given the recent merger into REMAX Fine Properties, his team offers the most current data on luxury home values and community trends.

Demand for guard-gated privacy and move-in ready luxury continues to drive the Blackstone market. We are seeing a strong premium placed on custom estates with direct golf course views and modern, open-concept renovations. Inventory remains exclusive, making strategic timing vital for both buyers and sellers.

Q: How does proximity to the new TSMC semiconductor plant affect Blackstone property values?

A: The massive economic development in North Phoenix and the TSMC plant have brought a wave of high-earning executives and professionals to the northwest Valley. Blackstone stands out as the premier luxury gated community within an easy commute of that corridor, providing strong long-term support for property values in the area.

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Experience Blackstone with a Resident Expert

 Photos and videos only tell part of the story. To truly understand the Blackstone lifestyle, you must experience the community firsthand. Schedule a private tour or a luxury market consultation with Nate Martinez today.