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

Listing types.

For Sale

For Rent

Land

Multifamily

Commercial

Location Search Nearby

BedsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

BathsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

Property TypeAnyApartmentManufactured HomeSingle Family ResidenceTownhouseTwin Home

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

Home SizeAny600 ft2800 ft21,000 ft21,200 ft21,400 ft21,600 ft21,800 ft22,000 ft22,200 ft22,400 ft22,600 ft22,800 ft23,000 ft23,500 ft24,000 ft24,500 ft25,000 ft25,500 ft26,000 ft2

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

Distressed

Open House

Location Search Nearby

BedsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

BathsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

Price MinAny$500$600$700$800$900$1,000$1,100$1,200$1,300$1,500$1,600$1,700$1,800$1,900$2,000$2,250$2,500$2,750$3,000$3,250$3,500$3,750$4,000$4,500$5,000$5,500$6,000$6,500$7,000$7,500$8,000$8,500$9,000$9,500$10,000

Price MaxAny$500$600$700$800$900$1,000$1,100$1,200$1,300$1,500$1,600$1,700$1,800$1,900$2,000$2,250$2,500$2,750$3,000$3,250$3,500$3,750$4,000$4,500$5,000$5,500$6,000$6,500$7,000$7,500$8,000$8,500$9,000$9,500$10,000

Advanced Options

Property TypeAnyApartmentManufactured HomeSingle Family ResidenceTownhouseTwin Home

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

Home SizeAny600 ft2800 ft21,000 ft21,200 ft21,400 ft21,600 ft21,800 ft22,000 ft22,200 ft22,400 ft22,600 ft22,800 ft23,000 ft23,500 ft24,000 ft24,500 ft25,000 ft25,500 ft26,000 ft2

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

Location Search Nearby

Lot SizeAny1+ Acres2+ Acres3+ Acres4+ Acres5+ Acres6+ Acres7+ Acres8+ Acres9+ Acres10+ Acres20+ Acres30+ Acres40+ Acres50+ Acres

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

Neighborhood

Address, MLS# or Keyword

Location Search Nearby

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

Location Search Nearby

Lot SizeAny1+ Acres2+ Acres3+ Acres4+ Acres5+ Acres6+ Acres7+ Acres8+ Acres9+ Acres10+ Acres20+ Acres30+ Acres40+ Acres50+ Acres

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

Address, MLS# or Keyword

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

View As: Thumbnails List

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

3520 E Pearl Circle Mesa, AZ 85213

$1,700,000

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,839 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6771344

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

LUXURY LIVING AT ITS FINEST! This stunning custom-built home offers over 4,839 square feet of refined elegance in the prestigious Montana Dorada community. Nestled on a premium cul-de-sac lot, this 5-bedroom, 5.5-bath masterpiece boasts spectacular mountain and city light views from every room! Step through the impressive iron and glass entry doors into a world of sophistication, where high-end finishes and custom details abound. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring built-in fridge, double ovens, gas range, granite countertops, a vegetable sink, and exquisite cabinetry. Enjoy indoor-outdoor living with surround-sound wiring, perfect for entertaining inside or by the resort-style heated pool and spa, complete with a waterfall, built-in table, and patio fireplace. The opulent master retreat includes a cozy fireplace, sitting area with built-in desk and mini fridge, and a spa-like bath with a large Jacuzzi tub and a walk-in shower with six showerheads. Step out onto your private balcony to take in breathtaking views or unwind in your own serene space. The exterior has been freshly repainted, and the home is equipped with three new A/C units (2024), two water heaters, and an air-conditioned workroom in the garage. With luxury upgrades too numerous to list, this home truly has it all, including an inviting backyard oasis with a fireplace and lush green lawn. MOTIVATED SELLER bring all reasonable offers! Don't miss your chance to own this one-of-a-kind property in a prestigious location!

View Property

36511 N Porta Nuova Road Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,700,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,061 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6781694

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to 36511 N Porta Nuova Road, an exquisite Scottsdale retreat blending modern elegance with Southwest charm, perfect for snowbirds or anyone seeking year-round desert warmth. Nestled in a prime Scottsdale location, this luxurious home places you minutes from world-class dining, upscale shopping, championship golf, and scenic hiking. Bask in panoramic views of the Sonoran Desert, where mountains, vibrant flora, and stunning sunsets surround you. Inside, the home offers grand spaces with soaring ceilings, sophisticated finishes, and a gourmet kitchen featuring premium appliances and custom cabinetry. Resort-style amenities abound, including a sparkling pool, spa, and lush gardens that make every day feel like a vacation. The primary suite provides a private oasis with a spa-like bath and a balcony capturing breathtaking desert vistas. Escape to Scottsdale's tranquil beauty and mild wintersschedule your private tour today and experience luxury desert living at its finest.

View Property

5549 E Saguaro Vista Drive Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$1,700,000

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,124 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6735458

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover the Sedona, a contemporary open-concept design to be built. Car collectors and RVers will appreciate the storage, featuring an oversized 3-car tandem garage plus a 49' deep RV garage. The home includes 4 bedrooms, office, 4.5 bathrooms, island kitchen, and a guest suite with a private living room. The owner's suite boasts a free-standing tub, a walk-through shower, and an oversized walk-in closet. Enjoy quality finishes such as 90/10 smooth walls, 8' doors, quartz countertops, and 12' ceilings in the great room and kitchen. The build is enhanced by energy-efficient spray foam insulation, 2x6 framed exterior, fully sheathed construction, and a post-tension foundation. Pictures are from a model home w/ available options. Buyer to verify all facts and specs.

View Property

8642 E Camino Real -- Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,700,000

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

3,569 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767390

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Check out this amazing opportunity in the heart of Pinnacle Peak! Nestled on over 2 acres, this is one of the rare gems available in the beautiful GATED community of Pinnacle Paradise. Tucked away at the back of the neighborhood, this quiet & private property features a huge fenced backyard, just waiting for your vision. There is an abundance of space in this 5 bedrooms & 4.5 bathrooms home, 4 bedrooms equipped with its own ensuite. The split floor plan includes a spacious primary suite with a bonus room that's perfect for an office or workout space. If you're looking to live or invest in the Pinnacle Peak area, this is your chance! You'll be just minutes away from DC Ranch, Kierland, Scottsdale Quarter, & TPC Scottsdale, with plenty of shopping & dining options nearby. Don't miss out!

View Property

23430 N 84th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85255

Open House

$1,700,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,896 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784263

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Outstanding residence on a 1-acre lot with impressive mountains, sunsets, & sunrise views! You will love the natural desert landscaping & oversized courtyard with synthetic grass. The 3-car garage, extra long driveway, & RV gate allow you to bring your toys, cars, & trucks. Inside, be welcomed by a delightful living room & a family room with a fireplace. High wood beamed ceilings, clerestory windows, stone floors, neutral palette, French doors, pre-wired surround sound, & arched doorways. Architecturally & aesthetically pleasing! Chef's kitchen showcases granite counters, a plethora of cabinets w/crown moulding, tile backsplash, & stainless steel appliances, including a pot filler. The main retreat offers a lavish bathroom with a garden tub, a dual sink vanity, a floor-to-ceiling tiled shower, & a walk-in closet. Host fun gatherings in the huge backyard comprised of a built-in BBQ, outdoor pizza oven, fireplace, large covered patio, artificial turf, outdoor shower & a sparkling pool. You don't want to miss this excellent property!

View Property

15618 E Centipede Drive Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$1,699,999

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,369 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6742123

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This fully renovated 3 level modern Pueblo home boasts unique layouts, the primary bed perched atop, while kitchen & living occupy the middle level. Also available with furnishings! Dive into luxury with pool access from bottom level or side of the property. Enjoy an acre of privacy, with no HOA! Nestled against the protected McDowell Mountain Regional Park, your views remain pristine! With impressive curb appeal, pull into a private drive & experience desert landscaping. The kitchen features top-of-the-line SS KitchenAid appliances & quartz countertops, with a living/dining area perfect for entertaining & admiring views through massive windows spanning the entire width of the main-level. The primary bedroom offers the perfect spot to bask in the beauty of your surrounding the primary bathroom features dual-sinks, and a separate soaking tub to relax and unwind. Downstairs has a guest bedroom, bonus room, two private entrances off of the pool area, and a full bath offering added seclusion for your guests. Ideal as a mother-in-law suite or for a teenager looking for their own space. Step outside to the pebble tec salt water pool and hot tub where you will experience unmatched peace and serenity, along with the beautiful and unspoiled scenery. This home features a freshly epoxied 3 car garage with custom cabinetry to store all of your toys and tools. If privacy, views, curb appeal, and a beautifully renovated desert retreat are on your wish list, look no further!

View Property

12620 E Troon Vista Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

Open House

$1,699,995

3 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,580 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6663184

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Desert Contemporary style architecture! This open 3bdr/3bth floor plan offers ample space for entertaining. Views of Troon Mountain and close proximity to the Mountain House Lodge Community Amenity. The Caullins' welcoming covered entry and inviting foyer lead to the spacious great room and dining room, with views of the large covered patio beyond. The well-designed kitchen is equipped with a large center island with breakfast bar, plenty of counter and cabinet space, and ample dual pantries. The beautiful primary bedroom suite is highlighted by a huge walk-in closet and deluxe primary bath with dual-sink vanity, large soaking tub, luxe glass-enclosed shower with seat, and private water closet. Designer appointed finishes throughout.

View Property

5917 E North Lane Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$1,699,935

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,250 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6706610

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Escape to your dream home, where luxury living awaits! From the moment you arrive, you'll be awe-inspired by the designer touches throughout this custom home, which has recently undergone nearly $400,000 worth of renovations. This style embraces the ideals of living with a mix of natural design elements: mixes of wood, metals, and natural stone create true modern simplicity. From the distinctive ambiance of the custom ''Polished Simplicity'' fireplace to the open-concept kitchen with waterfall quartz island that easily seats 6, dual-toned sleek cabinetry, high-end stainless-steel appliances, including a Column fridge, Induction range, Kraus workforce sink with designer two-toned faucet... you are transported into true luxury. The primary bedroom is a haven for relaxation The primary bedroom is a haven for relaxation, boasting exceptional finishes, a double entry door, an extended walk-in closet, an aesthetic designer wall, and an impressive spa-like bathroom suite: a floor-to-ceiling glass-enclosed free-standing soaker tub/a separate shower, a double-sink modern vanity with a private toilet room, and a slatted niche. The backyard is an oasis of peace and tranquility, with complete privacy as it backs a natural area of open space. The yard boasts a pebble-tech pool with a substantial paved patiothe covered patio with a tongue and groove ceiling has a dramatic concrete floor-to-ceiling fireplace. There's even a convenient outdoor bathroom! This home is truly one of a kind! Take advantage of this opportunity to own a slice of paradise..before it's gone!

View Property

1624 Gettysvue Way Prescott, AZ 86301

$1,699,900

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

5,232 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6760907

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Elegant 5232sf home in The Dells at Prescott Lakes! Grand entry foyer, open great room w/ gas fireplace, huge kitchen with double island, formal dining room and private breakfast nook. Wraparound entry porch, expansive rear deck with outdoor fireplace and built-in barbecue, and a private courtyard patio with a koi pond and water feature--and the list goes on. The entire 2nd floor is a majestic master suite! Enter from a loft/sitting area with sweeping views of the granite dells to a large parlor, grand bedroom, enormous walk-in closet, and luxurious master bathroom w/ walk-in steam shower/sauna, PLUS a den w/ wet bar and fireplace; 2 separate private decks, 2 staircases and an elevator! Large, landscaped lot, 3 car garage and more! Chandeliers in nook and dining room do not convey.

View Property

25219 S 194th Street Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$1,699,900

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,032 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6777980

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Wow! If you're searching for a new, custom-dream home, look no further! This outstanding masterpiece is the one! Nestled on a desirable corner lot, it displays a 3-car side garage, pool, built-in bbq & lounge are, RV gate, mature landscape, & a spacious front porch. Discover a sophisticated, contemporary interior boasting high-end finishes & meticulous attention to detail. Engineered hardwood floors, HUGE open floor plan adorned w/exposed ceiling beams is ready for entertaining! Magazine-cover kitchen is a chef's paradise, fully equipped w/a plethora of elegant cabinets & cupboards, recessed lighting, top-of-the-line built-in appliances, a walk-in pantry, quartz counters & backsplash, & a waterfall island w/a breakfast bar. Office and game room finishes out this remarkable home. Double doors reveal the owner's retreat, complete w/direct outdoor access & a modern ensuite comprised of dual sinks, garden tub, large enclosed glass shower, & a walk-in closet. PLUS! Versatile den offers space for an office, extra bedroom, or gym. You'll LOVE the oversized backyard, showcasing a covered patio, built-in BBQ, grassy area, & a crystal-clear pool. This gem has it all!

View Property

2223 E Tonto Place Chandler, AZ 85249

$1,699,100

7 Beds

5.5 Baths

4,809 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6730103

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

WOW! Stunning South Chandler single-level home with a 2023-new Guest House/Casita! Highest-quality construction and finishes throughout with almost 5,000 sq.ft. total, and a total of 7 bedrooms and 5.5 baths. Enormous gourmet kitchen with two islands, quartzite countertops, dual wall ovens, gas cooktop, and built-in refrigerator. Main house has a spacious primary bedroom, an en-suite mini-master, and a Jack-and-Jill bathroom; guest house has 2 bedrooms/2 baths. Resort-style background with huge sparkling pool, outdoor kitchen, and firepit for entertaining. 2023 Guest House has the finest and newest finishes and upgrades; must be seen to appreciate! Few opportunities like this with a Guest House come on the market in this extremely popular location in Chandler; simply a must-see property!

View Property

3310 S Horizon Place Chandler, AZ 85248

$1,699,000

5 Beds

4 Baths

4,039 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6736199

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home in the prestigious, gated golf and lake community of The Vistas at Ocotillo. This breathtaking 5-bedroom, 4-bathroom residence offers an unparalleled living experience with stunning waterfront views and luxurious amenities. As you step into this gorgeous home, you'll immediately be struck by the expansive, open-concept design and soaring ceilings that create a sense of grandeur and space. The heart of the home is a chef's delight, featuring a spacious kitchen with ample cabinet space, a massive island, and high-end finishes. The kitchen seamlessly flows into the large family room, where oversized windows frame picturesque views of the serene lake. Step outside to your own personal oasis, where the covered patio and built-in BBQ invite you to enjoy al fresco dining. The heated, negative edge pool with its stunning boulder waterfall is a focal point, offering a luxurious retreat right in your backyard. The home also boasts a 3-car garage with an epoxied floor and built-in cabinets, providing ample storage and organization. The owner's suite, conveniently located on the first floor, offers a private sanctuary with direct access to the picturesque outdoor space. Additionally, the first-floor also features a 5th bedroom that can be used as an office, providing flexibility for your needs. Experience the ultimate in luxury living with this exquisite home, where every detail has been thoughtfully designed for your comfort and enjoyment. Don't miss the opportunity to make this spectacular property yours.

View Property