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

10611 E Tumbleweed Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$1,250,000

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

3,996 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6739419

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Through the gates past the spacious manicured grounds your almost new home awaits. Bright and open with lots of natural light. Entertain friends and family around the large kitchen (double ovens) island while others enjoy the large patio through 8'' open double sliders with remote shades. Others can congregate around the outside kitchen, relax in the spa or sit in the additional sitting area and enjoy the sound of the fountain. Enjoy the finest of finishings from one upgraded flooring throughout to a library ladder in pantry. Bedroom wing has its own sitting room, a craft room and an en-suite. Owned solar! Extra storage room in garage. Your lifestyle will include the fitness center (so get rid of the gym membership), the huge pool you don't maintain,the parks and many more amenities.

View Property

3080 W Blazingstar Road Show Low, AZ 85901

$1,250,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,315 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6749349

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled on over an acre, this gorgeous home sits on a premium gently sloping lot on the 3rd fairway of the Torreon Tower Golf Course. This single story home has an open plan with soaring ceilings and plenty of indoor and outdoor space for entertaining and relaxing alike. The chef's kitchen features Frigidaire Professional stainless steel appliances including a 5 burner gas range & built-in microwave. There is ample seating along the Quartzite center island which opens to the great room with its stylish stacked stone fireplace, vaulted tongue & groove ceilings, & large windows offering tranquil views of the majestic pines. The spacious outdoor deck has a comfortable seating area and dining area so that you can enjoy the beautiful weather and pines from the comfort of your own backyard. This home is centrally located less than half-a-mile from the Torreon family center, which has pickleball courts, basketball courts, a playground, & a catch-and-release pond, etc. The Torreon Clubhouse has a restaurant, fitness center, heated swimming pool, spa, ballroom and more. There is something fun for everyone to enjoy in Torreon.

View Property

4880 E Beehive Road San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

$1,250,000

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,420 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6753373

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning Custom home nestled on a 1.25-acre irrigated lot. **NO HOA** This Barndominium style home offers 5-bedrooms, 3.5-baths + 1200 Sq. Ft. air-conditioned detached shop with extended 2 car garage, 2 additional rooms, a bathroom which is perfect for a guest quarters or home business. This home offers a spacious open concept, new interior paint, gourmet kitchen with Knotty Alder cabinets complimented by a HUGE island, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, propane stove, dual ovens, copper farm sink, coffee bar and walk-in pantry. The WOW factor of the stone and metal fireplace is such a focal point to the home. First level primary suite provides backyard access, dual closets with stackable washer & dryer, spacious walk-in rain shower and separate vanities. Stunning barn doors at the primary bedroom and dining areas. Mudroom doubles as an office just off the garage. The garage is oversized with additional storage allowing for ample parking of larger vehicles. Travel up the custom metal staircase and enjoy the open loft with 3 additional bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2nd laundry room and additional storage area. North/South orientation adds to the enjoyment of the extended wrap around porch which is perfect for large gatherings and views of this great property. Fully fenced pasture with 40 ft. round pen, 60x20 covered shed-row barn w/4-stalls and 18x10 hay storage area. The shop is equipped with foam insulating, A/C, electrical and 30-Amp plug. Plenty of room for all your toys and animals. Don't miss out on this wonderful home!

View Property

8905 E Mountain Spring Road Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,250,000

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,431 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6764265

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Spectacular Market Street Villa at DC Ranch. This lovely Camelot built Villa offers, ungraded wood flooring, stainless steel appliances, slab granite countertops, and ungraded cabinets. 12' ceilings, a bank of french doors leading to one of two spacious patios. The back patio features flagstone decking, a private pebble-tec spa with water feature. Enjoy your private tropical oasis.This is an end unit and sides to common area. The 3rd bedroom is used as den/office can be converted to a bedroom. New Epoxy garage floor. This is the Scottsdale lifestyle you want. DC Ranch has an extraordinary clubhouse with work out room, lap pool and kids play area. Close to great eating and the 101. Memberships are available to the country club

View Property

6979 E Mighty Saguaro Way Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$1,250,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,450 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6765050

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

You want character? Come see this timeless home in the Guard gated community of Terravita! This home is stunning with its concrete floors, concrete countertops and much more. The many unique updates to this home: the artistic stained glass panels of (Oak Creek, Sedona) at the entrance, solid wood doors, complete kitchen remodel with SS appliances -Viking 4 burner stove, beverage/wine fridge, Reverse osmosis, sitting bench with storage in primary bedroom, complete remodel of primary bathroom incudes walk-in shower. The family room is light & bright with tall windows looking out to the view fence & natural area, the den has a double sided fireplace with an attached wall library - great for adding your personal touch of decor. Newer roof, Hunter Douglas blinds with shutters in some of the home, lots of updates to come see. The garage has plenty of cabinet storage, epoxy flooring, water softener & recirculation pump on water heater & Tesla Solar. Out back you will enjoy the view fence against the natural area adding privacy. Citrus trees ( Fig, lemon & grapefruit) with just the right amount of gardening area are perfect for spending time outdoors.

View Property

10859 E Tierra Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$1,250,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,758 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6726803

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Rare opportunity to own an oasis unlike any other!! Welcome to your dream home, nestled on a large, 14,733 sq. ft. cul-de-sac lot within the prestigious community of Scottsdale Ranch. The Mountainview Place neighborhood, built by Golden Heritage boasts all single level homes for the ultimate in privacy. This exquisitely remodeled split floor plan; offers unparalleled luxury for living and entertainment. NO interior steps, and wide doorways make for safer seamless living. Step inside to be greeted by some of the finest luxury vinyl wood flooring available. This home was designed for a great lifestyle & entertainment. The primary suite is a private retreat situated on one side of the home, featuring a 198 square foot, custom built ''Closmahall'' walk-in closet you must see to believe! This room could also be perfect for a home office, gym, or nursery. Every detail of this home has been meticulously crafted for you. The heart of this home extends to an extraordinary, huge outdoor living space designed for the finest Arizona lifestyle. Enjoy an extra-large covered patio, 5 fruit trees, an outdoor chef's kitchen complete with a gas BBQ and built-in smoker, and a gorgeous, fenced sparkling pool with a travertine surround and brand new pebble tec finish. Multiple outdoor patios, a custom raised garden, and a large jacuzzi tub provide endless opportunities for relaxation and entertainment. There's nothing left to do but move in and start living the epitome of Arizona living. Luxury. Privacy. Perfection. Welcome Home!

View Property

1358 E Mclellan Boulevard Phoenix, AZ 85014

$1,250,000

6 Beds

4.5 Baths

3,314 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767163

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

A rare chance to reside in a perfectly crafted home built in 2021 by Newmark Homes. Located in the exclusive Kensington, a gated enclave with only six homes, this residence offers a blend of privacy and convenience in the North Central neighborhood. The exterior showcases a distinctive sand stucco finish complemented by brick and stone veneer, setting the stage for the modern elegance within. Step inside to find an open-concept floor plan with soaring 20-foot ceilings and refined touches throughout. The main level features hardwood floors, excluding the convenient laundry area and powder room. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, boasting custom leather granite counters, 42-inch maple cabinets, stainless steel appliances including a gas cooktop and double wall ovens, an oversized island, and a spacious walk-in pantry. This space flows into the dining and family areas, complete with custom shutters and a welcoming atmosphere. The home is pre-wired for smart home technology for added convenience. On the main floor, you'll find an extraordinary primary suite and a versatile room that can serve as an additional bedroom or a home office. A half-turn staircase leads to a spacious loft, four well-appointed bedrooms, and two bathrooms. The private backyard offers plenty of green space, ideal for a pool, and is enclosed by a block wall. The property also includes a beautifully paved driveway and walkway, and a three-car tandem garage. The tile roof adds a touch of durability and style. Enjoy easy access to all parts of town from this prime location.

View Property

8281 E Buteo Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,250,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,672 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769512

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled in the guard-gated community of Grayhawk this is a rare property for someone to make it their own! Perfectly positioned at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, this step free property provides soaring ceilings and a convenient split floorpan. The open kitchen is a true delight with granite countertops and ample cabinetry. Enjoy the open living and dining rooms lined with windows to amplify the beauty of your Sonoran surroundings. The massive primary bedroom is complete with private backyard access, plenty of natural lighting, sitting area, and massive en-suite with fantastic walk-in closet. Two additional bedrooms, full bath, powder room, & thoughtful Laundry complete the interior. Additional features include a cabinet line 3 car garage, NEW HVAC units replaced in 2023, and more! Located in one of the most desirable areas, this Greyhawk property is a unique opportunity for those seeking a secure, tranquil, and customizable retreat.

View Property

5426 E Sandra Terrace Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,250,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,328 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6711664

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

ASSUMABLE VA LOAN 4.5%! (To be verified by buyer & lender) FULLY REMODELED designer home in Scottsdale MAGIC zip code! Fantastic home w/ NO HOA--property is currently used as cash flowing STR. Tons of possibilities for homeowners & investors alike! $30k like new pool equipment(pool heater, pump, automation) Pebble tec, pool decking. Newer HVAC + water heater. $40k worth of OWNED solar panels! High ceilings & desirable open floor plan featuring an impressive 5x10 kitchen island w/ quartz countertops & stainless steel appliances. Enjoy your backyard year round: HEATED pool, built-in BBQ, jacuzzi, low maintenance turf, & more.

View Property

3662 E Sunnydale Drive Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$1,250,000

5 Beds

4 Baths

3,216 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6744707

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning Custom Home with Amazing Mountain Views on a Huge Custom Lot with No HOA. This Split & Open Floorplan with High Ceilings features 5 Bedrooms, and 4 Bathrooms. Beautiful Wood and Travertine Flooring T/O. The Kitchen has an Oversized Granite Island and a separate breakfast bar, Custom Cabinets, Large Walk-In Pantry , Built-in Refrigerator, Beverage Refrigerator , and Tons of Counter and Cabinet Space, Open to your family room. Formal Living and Formal Dining Area have Coffered Ceilings. Oversized Inside Laundry with Sink also a Second Laundry in Garage. Enjoy your large Primary with Coffered Ceilings, Private Exit at the Backyard. Beautiful en-suite featuring a large vanity with 2 sinks, and a separate shower and tub with a walk-in closet. Custom window coverings T/O. Casita with separate entrance features bedroom 5 and bathroom 4. Oversized 3 Car Side entry Garage with Epoxy Floors, Whole House Filtration system. Long Paver Driveway and Paver Circular Driveway. Oversized Rv Gate for Ample Parking. The Back Yard Oasis has a Large Salt Water Pool, Rock Waterfall/Slide/Grato. Extended Covered Patio With Ceiling Fans. Covered Built In BBQ, outdoor kitchen, TV and sound system, Lighting, Sink and Beverage Refrigerator, Primo BBQ Grill, Custom Concrete Countertops. Sand Vollyball Court, Large Grass Area and is Surrounded by Many Citrus Trees and Spectacular Mountain Views. Queen Creek address with Gilbert services and Chandler Schools. Come see all this home has to offer.

View Property

7635 E Camino Vivaz -- Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,250,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,220 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6752515

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Newest home built in this private gated North Scottsdale community. No expense was spared on upgrades for this 3 bed, +den, 3 bath home with open floor plan. From the soaring 12 ft ceilings, to the gourmet Custom Chefs kitchen which has top of line GE Monogram appliances, double stacked custom cabinets, and waterfall countertops! Your spacious great room has natural light flooding in, along with gorgeous mountain views in the back yard. It is the perfect place to entertain guests! All of the bathrooms throughout the home have floor to ceiling upgraded tile showers, cabinets and granite counters to match! This smart home comes equipped with a Ring doorbell, alarm system, smart front door lock, thermostats, water flow monitoring system and you can open your garage door all from a simple app on your phone anywhere. Plus, your 2-car garage is epoxy coated and has an existing outlet for Electric Vehicle charging! Your new home also features beautiful front and backyard landscaping with automatic drip system and synthetic grass in the backyard. Close to the high end shopping, dining & events that North Scottsdale has to offer and only a short distance to numerous golf courses and easy access to hiking trails.Don't miss out on this fantastic home!

View Property

5243 E Grandview Road Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,250,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,414 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6769660

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover the ultimate Scottsdale lifestyle in this beautifully designed 4-bedroom, 2-bath home, situated on over 1/3 acre. Crafted for both comfort and entertainment, this property features an open-concept kitchen with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a large island with seating for four. Enjoy versatile living spaces, including living, family and formal dining room accented by vaulted ceilings and recessed lighting. The primary suite is remodeled with 2 vanities, walk in shower, 2 walk in closets and private exit to pool. Relax by the large heated pool, dine under the covered pergola, and enjoy the lush surroundings of palm/fruit trees and large grassy areas. Located just minutes from Kierland Commons, Scottsdale Quarter, premier golf courses, and hiking trail

View Property