3 Key Reasons Why Buying Your First Home Is Like Planning a Wedding

You may not see the connection right away, but buying a home and planning a wedding are two experiences that require certain skills and challenge you in similar ways. Check out the three key similarities below!

1. Budget

Whether you’re buying your first home or planning a wedding, you are likely facing one of the biggest financial obligations of your life. That’s why, in both cases, it is essential that you pick a realistic budget and stay within it.

Sounds simple, but in either case it can be difficult! Unexpected obstacles may force you to spend more than you planned, or you may find yourself wanting to overspend as you find things that would be “just perfect” additions even though they don’t fit your budget. These temptations can be expected, but it’s important to remember the big picture. When it comes to your budget, pick it and stick it.

2. Details

When it comes to a home purchase or a wedding, there are countless details to consider. It’s not a simple, pre-packaged purchase, there will always be big decisions that you have to make and if you overlook something you may regret it later on.

Some decisions that you face will be similar in both experiences: Does the location work for you? Does it work for your friends and family? What is the parking situation? Is it appropriate for the climate? Will you be satisfied with your decision in the long-term?

Other details will be more unique to the situation: Do you need a cocktail hour? Do you need a walk-in closet? What style of photography would you like? Is there too much traffic noise?

Either way you’ll have lots to think about, and you’ll become acutely aware of ‘the little things.’

3. You’ve Got Style

Both your wedding and your home say something about you, they’re a reflection of your personal style. When being presented with so many choices that are particularly catered towards your personal taste, you’ll learn what you like and what you don’t. However, you’ll also learn what it is that you absolutely need, and what you’re willing to budge on.

Whether you’re choosing a wedding dress that is both gorgeous and functional for your ceremony or deciding whether or not you need an extra bedroom in your home, you’ll learn what it is that you’d want in a perfect world, and what is absolutely necessary for your current situation.

If you’re ready to start looking for your first home, make sure you do so with a trusted real estate professional. Give me a call today – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

Click Here to See What Your Home is Worth

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1426 W Royal Palm Road Phoenix, AZ 85021

$1,999,000

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,588 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6754084

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This stunning home is the epitome of sophisticated living. With its grand vaulted ceilings, expansive living area, and five spacious bedrooms, this property offers over 4,588 square feet of living space. The home sits on a magnificent 27,408 square foot lot, which includes a pool and pool house, spanning over 260 square feet. The property is being sold as-is making it a perfect opportunity to customize your dream home. Located in the coveted Royal Palm area, this home provides unparalleled convenience with its central location. The entertainer's backyard offers the perfect space to host gatherings with no neighbors to the side or behind. It is a rare find that offers the perfect blend of modern design and style, making it the perfect place to call home. COURT APPROVAL NEEDED. BRING OFFER

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10282 N 103rd Place Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$1,999,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,277 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6708188

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This exquisite truly one of a kind residence situated on a premium corner lot in the privately gated Lake Serena Estates community. With great views of Camelback Mountain, easy access to the Loop 101, dining, hiking/biking trails, Scottsdale Ranch Park & more. While Scottsdale has its share of waterfront homes with docks and pontoon boats, this home has a pneumatic elevator to the second floor, steel shutters for sun and safety, and a large dog pen. Primary bedroom on the main floor with a jetted tub. Built-in barbecue, 20 foot high ceilings and 8 foot doors. There is no home on the market like it! MUST SEE!!!

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30600 N Pima Road Unit 58 Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$1,998,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,595 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6754414

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

SELLER FINANCING AVAILABLE conditional upon lender approval! Immerse yourself in desert tranquility at this Luxurious desert estate on over an acre lot. Bright & open SPLIT floorplan w/2nd master creates seamless flow between the living, dining & kitchen spaces, creating the perfect ambiance to relax or entertain guests. Gorgeous Chef's kitchen features pro-grade stainless appliances, quartz counters, ample cabinetry, walk in pantry, built in dining & gorgeous large island w/seating. Elegant primary suite features spa-like bath w/designer finishes & private patio w/fireplace creating a tranquil escape. Enjoy the beautiful outdoors in one of the many exterior seating areas, or by the sparkling pool w/ fireplace for those chilly desert nights.

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9007 N 83rd Street Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$1,998,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,456 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6730910

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

WOW! Rarely available large BASEMENT home in McCormick Ranch has just been meticulously remodeled with elegant, modern stunning finishes! Open floor plan with 2 bed 2 bath up and 3 bed/1 bath down. Custom cabinets with high-end GE CAFE appliances, beautiful quartz countertop, 10' statement kitchen island, luxury vinyl plank flooring, amazing accent walls, elegant modern bathrooms with large format tiles and beautiful vanities, luxury LED lights, primary lavish walk-in shower with freestanding tub, and 2 laundry rooms! New tile roof and new roof coating! 2 AC units (2021&2022). 3-car garage w/ New Epoxy garage floor! Large backyard features mature trees, NEW BUILT pebble pool with travertine deck, new turf /rock landscaping, RV gate, and a large cover patio! Excellent 3-C schools nearby. Basement home is rare in the valley, and comparing to 2 story home, basement is naturally cool during the hot summer maintaining about 78 degree without AC kicking on often which saves a lot of energy cost. It's the perfect home for empty nesters living upstairs while having basement for kids or grandkids to visit or a growing family with privacy and space for teenagers. Below is the improvement list: - New built pebble pool built by Thunderbird Pool, featuring travertine deck, self-cleaning system, baja steps and umbrella stand - New luxury turf front and back by AZ Luxury Turf - new tile roof and new roof coating by Irish roofing - 2 Trane AC units 2021 and 2022 - new sump pump motor and lid in the basement - new water heater - new windows in the basement - new kitchen with high-end quartz - new luxury GE CAFE appliances and Sharp pull-out microwave - new Pot filler in the kitchen - luxury vinyl plank flooring and high end carpet - large format marble look tile in all bathrooms - LED recessed deco lights for stairs and shower niches - luxury steam fireplace in the basement - luxury 3-side fireplace on main level - Unique and luxury lightings and ceiling fans throughout - 3 car garage with new epoxy flooring - New paint inside and outside - Interior new smooth texture finish and all new trims

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20717 E Pummelos Road Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$1,997,000

5 Beds

4 Baths

3,964 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6764160

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to the prestigious community of Bridle Ranch, a gated enclave offering unparalleled luxury. This stunning 2021 built Modern Farmhouse-style home boasts 3964 sq ft of meticulously designed living space, featuring a functional split floor plan and an expansive open great room with 16' pocket sliding glass doors, seamlessly blending indoor/outdoor entertaining spaces. The gourmet kitchen is equipped with a lrg island, 6 burner gas cooktop, dbl ovens, 2 dishwashers, and an oversized walk-in pantry. Featuring 5 beds and 4 baths, w/ an attached - separate entrance casita, ideal for guests or multi-gen living. Situated on nearly a 1/2 acre, enjoy a private sport court, 6-hole mini golf course, and a cabana with a built in BBQ. Walking distance to new QC entertainment and restaurants.

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100 W Northern Avenue Unit 15 Phoenix, AZ 85021

New

$1,996,214

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,715 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6787540

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Don't blink...Your craving for 'unique' has just been satisfied! Located in the intimate new community of '100 Northern,' this impressive new home will be complete 12/30/24, and truly defines 'one of a kind' in every way. One of only 17 homesites, and situated on the best view lot in the community, this spectacular, spacious 'C' plan features owner's suite, large den, and all primary living on the ground floor with second ensuite, 2 additional bedrooms , and large flex loft upstairs. Trane AC's, and tankless hot water heaters, Subzero-Wolf deluxe appliance package, including coffee maker, wine fridge and icemaker all set the standard for the list of included features, alongside the energy efficiency of 2x6 construction and spray foam insulation. Heated community pool, dog park.... (cont. and parcourse walking path provide the outdoor enjoyment without the hassle and cost of maintaining your own. There is nothing quite like this, come and see why! (Additional photos coming soon) Supplement Remarks (10,000 characters max)

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6120 N 31st Court Phoenix, AZ 85016

$1,995,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,735 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6760379

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful, remodeled house with NO INSIDE STEPS, in guard gated Biltmore Greens that Boasts: decorative front gate, custom front doors, gorgeous eucalyptus wood floors throughout, tile flooring in the bathrooms & closets, quartz countertops on the kitchen perimeter cabinets while the island & bathroom countertops are a beautiful matching granite, large kitchen that has Thermador & Sub Zero appliances, built in ice maker, enlarged primary bathroom and closet, All new, cabinetry throughout, crown molding, custom closets, lighting & plumbing fixtures. Outside fire pit, pool, and a great covered back patio with automatic sunscreens, built-in BBQ and a view that looks out to the desert through the wrought Iron fence. The garage has tile flooring and extra storage behind a locking door.

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6166 N Scottsdale Road Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$1,995,000

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,353 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6745430

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

Fully furnished highly upgraded corner unit at the Enclave at Borgata with spectacular mountain views of the McDowell Mountains & Pinnacle Peak. Beautifully finished with hardwood flooring, custom cabinetry, rich marble countertops, Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, designer wall coverings, great light fixtures and Crestron home automation. The primary bedroom is also large with a sitting area, spacious bathroom and walk-in closet. The den features beautiful custom millwork and built-in desks and bookcases. The Enclave is a gated luxury community with fantastic amenities including heated community pool & spa, well equipped fitness center, 24 HR security, owners club room and maintained dog park. Walking distance to AJs, Trader Joes and many top tier retail & restaurants.

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3812 E Camelback Road Phoenix, AZ 85018

$1,995,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

3,671 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6746292

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Located at the end of a cul-de-sac at Biltmore Sanctuary, this is a must see home! Beautiful and immaculate this 3671 sf, 4 bedroom, 4 bath home has clean lines and high ceilings which create a light and open atmosphere drawing you into the home. The kitchen is well appointed with walk in pantry and gas stove. The large primary bedroom is accentuated with spa-like bath. Two of the additional berdrooms are ensuite as well. One of 3 garages is pre-wired and plumbed allowing for easy conversion to a Casita. Convenient to Scottsdale, Paradise Valley and downtown, you will be walking/biking distance to some of the finest dining in Phoenix like The Global Ambassador, Postinos, Tarbell and The Henry.

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6908 E Mariposa Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,995,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

2,756 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6777726

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, 6908 E Mariposa Dr offers a captivating blend of classic allure and modern luxury. This ''Old Hollywood'' inspired retreat boasts spacious, beautifully designed interiors that echo a timeless aesthetic, perfect for those seeking a stylish escape. Home features, 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, all new interior and exterior finishes, and heated pool! Each room is meticulously curated, balancing luxury and comfort, creating an inviting atmosphere for relaxation and entertainment alike. Located just moments away from Scottsdale's world-renowned shopping, dining, and cultural hotspots, this property offers unparalleled access to Scottsdale's best! Don't miss your chance to own a piece of Scottsdale's iconic charm!

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308 Calle Linda -- Sedona, AZ 86336

$1,995,000

3 Beds

4 Baths

3,473 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6779632

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled in the prestigious gated community of Casa Contenta in the heart of Sedona, this elegant Southwest-style home offers breathtaking red rock views and seamless indoor-outdoor living. Featuring 3 bedrooms and 4 baths, the main level boasts an open-concept great room, a combined living and dining area, and a beautifully designed kitchen with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a spacious center island. The primary suite and a guest suite are also located on this level for convenient, single-level living. Downstairs, you'll find a generous family room, a kitchenette, and an additional guest suite, all with scenic views and access to a covered patio. The home is adorned with Pella windows, rich hardwood floors, tile, and cozy carpet in the bedrooms. Located near Sedo

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11430 N 54th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,995,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,091 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6781964

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This beautifully upgraded 4-bed, 3.5-bath home blends classic elegance with modern comfort. Features include a spacious guest house, RV garage, sparkling pool, and tranquil backyard—perfect for relaxation and entertaining. Inside, enjoy granite countertops throughout, stainless steel appliances, and a cozy fireplace. Located in the sought-after Las Haciendas, this home offers luxury living with character and history. Don't miss this rare opportunity!

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