3 Common Mistakes That First-time Mortgage Borrowers Make and How to Easily Avoid Them

Deciding to purchase a home will be one of the biggest investment decisions you’ll make in your life, but it can be confusing for the first-time home buyer to know all the ins and outs of buying a home. If you’re wondering what things first-time buyers often forget about before purchasing a home, here are three important things that you’ll want to keep in mind.

Ignoring Their Credit History

If you have a high debt load or you haven’t been making your minimum payments, it can be pretty frightening to consider looking at your credit report, but it’s very important to do this before applying for a mortgage. A lender will be taking a look at your credit history and reviewing it carefully before approving your application, so it’s important for you to be aware of what your credit history says about you and how it might impact your mortgage.

Buying Too Much Home

It’s easier than you might think to be swayed into purchasing your dream home, but it’s necessary to keep a cool head and make an informed decision so that your home investment can be financially beneficial for you. The amount you should be paying for a home on a monthly basis will leave you with enough that you can pay for the necessities, any existing debts and any extras while still having wiggle room in case of emergency. While you may want to spend a little more, this can end up being a mistake if things don’t go as planned.

Forgetting The Documentation

This may be among the easiest of steps, but not having the appropriate documentation can push back your home purchase, so ensure you have all the necessary paperwork for when you need it. Beyond the Verification of Rent you’ll need from your previous landlord, it’s also important to make sure that you have liquid assets not just investments and RRSPs as this will prove to the lender that you can handle a financial hurdle in the event that it arises.

There are so many things involved in obtaining a mortgage that it can be easy to forget some very important aspects of approval. By being aware of your credit history and keeping your payment price within your means, you’ll be well on your way to a sound purchase. If you’re currently looking to purchase a home, give me a call to get started on the right path – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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Sort by: Select Price, Low to High Price, High to Low Newer Listings First Older Listings First Open House Date

20630 W Grandview Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$590,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,600 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6741192

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

***$10,000.00 seller concessions for upgrades, carpet, etc***This stunning corner lot home is located directly across the street from a beautiful children's park and features a spacious open concept living area with a sizeable kitchen-perfect for entertaining. The primary bedroom includes a walk-in closet and en-suite bathroom with dual sinks, a soaking tub, and separate shower. The backyard is an empty slate that can be customized to your liking and the large front porch is ideal for relaxing and enjoying the neighborhood, complete with a porch swing for added charm. The two car garage offers plenty of storage space for all of your toys. Enjoy the small town feel of Verrado with its tree-lined streets, community events and friendly neighbors.

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504 N 297th Lane Buckeye, AZ 85396

$590,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,850 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6746288

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

New Build Dream Home! Completion date early December 2024. Large 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom, 2-car garage on a 1-acre corner lot. Open Floor plan with large great room and eat in kitchen. Custom shaker cabinets with soft close drawer and doors. Spacious master suite with double sinks, quartz counter tops, walk in closet, private entrance to the covered patio.

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2640 S Southwind Drive Gilbert, AZ 85295

$590,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,260 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6747537

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

***MOTIVATED SELLER!!!*** A beautifully maintained gem in the heart of Gilbert, AZ. This charming 4-bedroom, 2.5 bath home offers a perfect blend of comfort and style, nestled in a serene and family-friendly neighborhood. Freshly painted inside and out, the home is just waiting for you to move in! Check out the HUGE master bathroom with an oversized shower boasting 2 showerheads. Multiple living spaces and 4 bedrooms will give your family plenty of space to spread out! And don't forget the pool! With a fountain to keep it cool on these hot summer days! Added bonus... No neighbors behind you and only one directly next to you. Additional highlights of this home include a convenient 2-car garage, a dedicated laundry room, and easy access to nearby parks, shopping, and top-rated schools.

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15428 S 24th Street Phoenix, AZ 85048

$590,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,817 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6757496

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautifully REMODELED home on HUGE corner lot in Ahwatukee. Gorgeous backyard with mountain views. 3 bedrooms, 2 baths plus Den/4th bedroom. Located in the popular Mountain Park Ranch community. This home boasts all new cabinets and granite countertops throughout, new flooring, new window screens, and professionally landscaped backyard with gazebo. Home comes with a ''NEW FULL ROOF'' that is only 4 years old and ''NEW Carrier A/C'' unit installed just 2 years ago! Also included are ALL APPLIANCES including both refrigerators. Inside garage are custom built in cabinets for plenty of storage and a separate side entrance.

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1314 E Bluefield Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85022

$590,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,014 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6764348

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Move in before the Holidays! Looking for a 4 bedroom home with a pool in North Phoenix? Welcome home to this very private home on a corner lot with mountain views. The inviting curb appeal brings you into the living room where you can entertain year round. Watch the kids play in the family room while cooking up a meal in your remodeled kitchen which has an island for bar seating and stainless steel appliances. Upstairs is a spacious master suite and 3 good sized bedrooms. Outside--YES. Enjoy a drink on the covered patio. Watch your favorite pooch run around in the grass....AND enjoy a dip in the relaxing pool all while getting a view of the mountain that is next door 🙂 All this in North Phoenix in an ideal location on a private street.

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25025 S Desert Trail Court Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

$590,000

2 Beds

3 Baths

2,028 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6777486

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Seize the opportunity to own this coveted corner lot property nestled on a tranquil cul-de-sac! Great curb appeal with a well-maintained front yard, a 3-car garage, and an inviting courtyard. Discover sizable living areas featuring vaulted ceilings, a designer's palette, plantation shutters, tile/wood-style flooring, and a cozy fireplace. The kitchen is equipped with ample counter space, lovely wood cabinetry with crown molding, recessed lighting, stainless steel appliances, and a center island. The primary bedroom boasts a double-door entry, a private bathroom, and a walk-in closet for added comfort. Enjoy afternoon relaxation under the covered patio in the tranquil backyard! Excellent location! Close to golf courses, schools, shopping spots, etc. What's not to like? This gem is the one!

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819 N Alison Way Chandler, AZ 85226

$590,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,328 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6731749

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

Say Hello to relaxation and convenience awaits in this updated turn-key East coast vibe townhome. Moments from shopping and dining and less than a mile from I-10, this contemporary, 3-bedroom, 3-bath home with no pool or yard to maintain, offers hassle-free living. Entertainment options abound in the kitchen & great room, where floor-to-ceiling glass doors opening onto the balcony offer breathtaking sunset views. Adjoining the living area are two guest bedrooms and a hall bath. The third-floor primary suite boasts a spacious private balcony & resort-style bathroom with a luxurious spa-like shower. A ground-floor bonus room with walk-out patio features a ping pong table and patio seating, ideal for game night or entertaining. Fully updated and most furniture available on separate B.O.S

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10114 W Cashman Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$590,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,682 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6687084

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

10114 W Cashman Dr, Peoria, AZ 85383 - REDUCED!! Pride of ownership in The Meadows, do not miss this beautiful home built in 2019 with all of the upgrades, 4 bedrooms all upstairs (1 is guest suite with private bath), Granite countertops, Gourmet stainless steel appliances with gas cooktop, large island and nice size pantry, tile backsplash, extensive wood plank tile flooring, custom window coverings, extended master shower with rain showerhead, oversized garage, water softener, Alarm system, low maintenance backyard, kids playset, nice corner lot, Community pool & hot tub, Pickle Ball Court, clubhouse, volleyball & basketball courts and other features. Easy access to Loop 303, less than 20 minutes to new Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Plant.

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18624 W Lawrence Lane Waddell, AZ 85355

$590,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,722 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6709554

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Better than new! Start enjoying your own private resort the day you take possession rather than waiting to find landscapers and pool companies, then suffer months through the noise, dust, and dirt of a new build... Just step right out into your own private oasis with pool, waterfall, fire pit, and a spacious, covered travertine patio. Facing north, there's no intense Arizona sunlight directly shining on you during the day, making for very pleasant occasions for coffee in the morning, or dinner with family or friends in the evening. The home is loaded with luxury-level finishes, giving you the sense of ease and sophistication, with 5 generous sized Bedrooms/3 Full Baths. Also $10K Seller Concessions available towards Buyer's Closing Costs, Rate Buy-Down with Full Price Offer.

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19606 W Grant Street Buckeye, AZ 85326

Open House

New

$590,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,259 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6786961

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautifully upgraded 3 bed/2.5 bath home in the very desirable Blue Horizon subdivision. This home has a very spacious great room with a formal dining room and an eat-in kitchen. Upgrades include: beautiful wood plank ceramic tile, stainless appliances, quartz countertops, designer lighting, herringbone tile backsplash, oven/microwave wall combo, 42'' cherry cabinets, LED under cabinet lighting, recessed lighting throughout, ceiling fans throughout, vinyl plank in bedrooms, barn door, & soft water loop. Front entrance includes a paved courtyard with a rod iron gate and driveway is upgraded with pavers. Backyard features a covered patio, automatic sprinkler system, private pool with water feature. This home is also BnB ready with a separate entrance or can be used as a single family home.

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9410 W Meadowbrook Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85037

$589,999

4 Beds

4 Baths

2,585 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6729781

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

**Don't miss out on this beautiful single-level home with a certified Energy Star rating of 5!** This newer property boasts delightful curb appeal with an easy-care landscape and a tandem 3-car garage, situated in a gated community. **Step inside to find:** - An inviting hallway leading to a perfectly flowing great room with high ceilings, recessed lighting, and sliding glass doors that open to the backyard. - Gorgeous wood-look porcelain flooring and a neutral palette throughout, creating a warm and modern atmosphere. **Chef's Kitchen:** - Handsome wood cabinets with crown molding - Stainless steel appliances - Pantry and Quartz counters - Stylish tile backsplash - Large island with a breakfast bar, perfect for casual dining and entertaining **Main Retreat:** - Sun-filled room with an immaculate ensuite featuring two vanities, his and hers walk-in closets, a private toilet room, and engineered flooring. **Additional Features:** - Second ensuite with a walk-in closet and private living area, ideal for guest privacy. - Each bedroom has its own dedicated bathroom, ensuring comfort and convenience for all. **Outdoor Living:** - Relax in the vast backyard with a covered patio, pavers, and low-maintenance turf, perfect for outdoor gatherings and relaxation. **Prime Location:** - Minutes away from Westgate, Glendale Stadium, and the soon-to-be-built water parks and hotels, making it an ideal property for Airbnb. **This home is the perfect blend of luxury and convenience. Own the home meant for you!** Come view today!

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17668 W Blue Sky Drive Surprise, AZ 85387

$589,995

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,840 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6742948

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Explore this impressive Darius home, ready for quick move-in. Included features: an inviting covered entry; a spacious great room; a quiet study; an open dining area; a gourmet kitchen offering a double oven, quartz countertops, 42'' cabinets, a center island and a pantry; a lavish primary suite showcasing a generous walk-in closet and a private bath with double sinks and cultured marble countertops; a convenient laundry; a large living room; a covered patio and a 3-car garage. This home also offers additional windows, ceiling fan prewiring and stone tile flooring in select rooms as well as airy 10' ceilings throughout.

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