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

25645 W Blue Sky Drive Wittmann, AZ 85361

$649,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,139 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6650375

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Easy To Show, Over 1 Acre Horse Property on this beautiful 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom single family home located in Wittmann, AZ. Comes with a Separate Fenced Pool Area to cool off in the summer heat! A Split Floor Plan 2 40 foot Cargo Containers. 2 Horse Stalls, Covered RV Parking. and a 50 ft portable round Horse Exercise Ring. Beautiful backyard with trees to provide shade perfect for a family event. Has an open garage with lots of available space to leave your vehicles in, 2 RV Hook-ups and 2 Container Storage units, Leased Solar Panels to reduce Electric Bills, and Additional Storage Shed.

View Property

1511 E Luminous Lane Queen Creek, AZ 85140

$649,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,282 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6716533

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

$$ ALERT $$ This exact model just went pending on golf & asking $1,249,000. What a bargain at this price. Add your own updates and be well under value with a one-of-a-kind just over 12,000 sq. ft. Step outside past the double rolling walls of glass and enjoy the private backyard with mature trees. You'll find stone pavers, built in BBQ, fire pit and turf grass. Inside the home you will find the perfect space to entertain. Step into the primary suite and relax in the sitting room with a good book and glass of wine. Front guest bedroom allows privacy for anyone visiting. The home also offers a ''smart space'' in the laundry room for additional work space and cabinets. The golf cart garage provides more storage as well.

View Property

4226 E Everett Drive Phoenix, AZ 85032

$649,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,267 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6750491

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this tastefully remodeled and well cared for home in a desirable neighborhood. The flooring in the great room ties together the living room, dining area and a kitchen that features quartz counters and a brand new complete appliance package. Both the primary and hall bathrooms have been completely remodeled with upscale finishes. The 2-car garage has epoxy flooring, and the walls and attic rafters have been foam insulated for improved energy efficiency. The front yard is nicely landscaped and the walled-in backyard has a large natural grass area with plenty of room for the future addition of a swimming pool. The neighborhood is located less than 2.5-miles from the reimagined PV dining, entertainment, and retail experiences. Come discover your new home.

View Property

345 E Palomino Court Gilbert, AZ 85296

$649,000

5 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,376 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6727415

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Move-in-ready Home in prime location, Gym & pool amenities across the street & walking distance to downtown Gilbert for dining & entertainment. Extensively remodeled with $150,000 in recent upgrades, featuring a luxurious master bathroom with large walk-in shower and freestanding 70'' soaking tub. All 2.5 bathrooms showcase quality tiled floors and walls. Elegant plantation shutters throughout, custom wood floors, crown molding, stairway, and fireplace enhance the home's appeal. The 5 bedroom and 3 car garage provide ample space for all. The kitchen boasts contemporary features: oversized sink, granite countertops, peninsula with a breakfast bar, high quality soft-close cabinets with lazy susan corners, new pantry with frosted glass doors and under-cabinet lighting. Recessed lighting and new fixtures illuminate the home beautifully.Outside find new sunscreens and an energy efficient A/C replaced in 2018. Enjoy the quiet cul-de-sac setting with easy access to the community park, basketball/pickleball court, and playground. This rare 5 bedroom find combines comfort, style, and location! A MUST SEE!

View Property

22706 N 17th Street Phoenix, AZ 85024

$649,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,181 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6738561

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Spacious 2-Story Home: 4 Bbds, 2.5 Bths, Office and Enormous Loft! This stunning home has space for everything you need! Step inside to discover a versatile office or flex space, perfect for a home office or playroom w/ beautiful laminate flooring. The open-concept kitchen and dining area create an inviting atmosphere for both everyday living and entertaining. The primary bedroom is conveniently situated on the main level, featuring laminate flooring, an en-suite with a shower and tub, and a huge walk-in closet. New carpeting throughout! Upstairs, you'll be amazed with The Giant Loft! Option to build a 5th bedroom. A sizable laundry room with shelving storage. Three Large Bedrooms, all with walk-in closets. Backyard has a view fence and no neighbors behind, giving you ultimate privacy! Living in the Eagle Bluff community means you have access to top-notch education just a short walk or bike ride away to the nearby schools. The location is unbeatable. Enjoy outdoor activities at the Reach 11 Park or the Cave Buttes Recreation Area. Shopping proximity to Desert Ridge and the Shops at Norterra. You're also moments away from major highways like Loop 101, the 51, and I-17, making commuting a breeze. Plus, Costco is just a few minutes south! Don't miss your chance to make this dream home your reality!

View Property

7007 S Sipapu Court Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$649,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,839 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6742466

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Your patience has paid off! This is the one! This beautiful 2,839 sq/ft home is located in the coveted subdivision of Hermosa Hills in the prestigious Gold Canyon! Tucked away on a massive1/3 acre lot in a very quiet culdesac and backs to State Trust Land so no backyard neighbors! HOA only $54 A YEAR! Talk about pride of ownership...The current homeowners left no stone unturned! 2 brand new 55 gallon water heaters. Enjoy the 5 bedroom PLUS loft. Downstairs bedroom off the garage entrance. The primary bedroom has an outdoor patio that overlooks the mesmerizing and priceless views of the beautiful Superstition Mountains. Tranquility and Peace at its finest! Just minutes away from local shopping, entertainment, multiple award winning golf courses and so much more! This home is true gem!

View Property

206 S Sunset Pass Payson, AZ 85541

$649,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

2,736 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6747764

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Charming 4-Bedroom Home with Breathtaking Views of the Mogollon Rim & Granite Dells Welcome to your dream home in the prestigious Highlands at the Rim subdivision, ideally located just outside the gates of the Rim Golf Club. This stunning 2,736 sq. ft. residence offers 4 spacious bedrooms and 4 beautifully appointed bathrooms, providing ample space for family and guests. Step inside to discover an open floor plan with soaring ceilings and abundant natural light, highlighting the breathtaking views of the Mogollon Rim and Granite Dells. The main living area seamlessly flows into a well-equipped kitchen, perfect for entertaining or enjoying quiet family meals. A versatile loft area adds a unique touch, offering the perfect space for a home office, media room, or additional living space. The potential in-law quarters, featuring a private entrance, provide an ideal setup for multi-generational living or guests seeking privacy. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the home's proximity to the Rim Golf Club, where world-class golf and outdoor adventures await. Whether you're enjoying the serene landscape from your deck or exploring the nearby trails, this home offers a lifestyle of tranquility and natural beauty. Don't miss this rare opportunity to own a piece of paradise with unmatched views and exceptional living spaces. Schedule your private tour today!

View Property

7710 E Gainey Ranch Road Unit 133 Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$649,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

978 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6747694

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Updated ground floor unit with fantastic patio and no steps! This 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom townhouse boasts an oversized patio perfect for entertaining or relaxation. Located on the first level with a garage, this home is situated in the serene community of The Courts at Gainey Ranch. Just steps away from the newly renovated Estate Club at Gainey Ranch, enjoy the lifestyle of tennis, pickleball, a workout facility, two heated pools and spas, and an events center. HOA includes almost everything!

View Property

902 E Goldenrod Street Phoenix, AZ 85048

$649,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,927 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6748472

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Don't miss your chance to own in this highly sought after community. This freshly polished gem is nestled at the base of South Mountain, offering resort-like views and a private backyard perfect for sunsets and stargazing. Recent upgrades include a refreshed pool, kitchen and bathroom updates and new flooring throughout. Located in the top-ranked Kyrene School District, this home is just steps from playgrounds and park concerts. This home checks all the boxes.

View Property

12603 W Blackstone Lane Peoria, AZ 85383

$649,000

5 Beds

4 Baths

2,943 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6762420

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautifully Upgraded 5 Bed 4 Bath home with attached Casita with a separate entry door. This move in ready home has 2943 Sqft. of total living space. There is one bedroom on the main floor, along with a separate bathroom that has a shower/tub combo. The Casita has an additional bedroom. The kitchen includes Granite Countertops, Stainless Steel kitchen appliances, upgraded kitchen cabinets, a spacious pantry, and kitchen island with separate breakfast bar. and a separate formal dining room. There is a large Great room for family enjoyment too. Upstairs has 3 bedrooms and a good sized loft with a separate small workspace/craftroom . The laundry room comes with extra storage cabinets. The backyard provides an extended covered patio with paver flooring. Next to it is a built -in, gated, private pool with water feature. The garage has built-in cabinets and a water softener connected to the main waterline. Located in the sought-after Vistancia community, residents enjoy access to a plethora of amenities including parks, trails, a gym, 3 pools, waterslides, tennis & pickleball courts!

View Property

20364 N 52nd Avenue Glendale, AZ 85308

$649,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,532 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6762638

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream retreat! This stunning single-level home features an inviting open concept design, highlighted by new paint, new light fixtures, new carpeting in the great room and elegant bamboo flooring in the bedrooms. The expansive 15-foot sliding glass doors effortlessly blend indoor and outdoor living, leading to a sparkling heated self-cleaning pool with breathtaking views of the tranquil lake and majestic mountains.Nestled in a serene cul-de-sac, this home offers direct trail access for outdoor enthusiasts and a brand new dock perfect for canoeing, kayaking, catch and release fishing and relaxing by the water. The spacious primary bedroom boasts a huge closet, providing ample storage, while the beautifully remodeled bathrooms feature luxurious finishes, including seamless glass showers and a jetted tub for ultimate relaxation. Additional highlights include exquisite marble flooring, plantation shutters throughout for added privacy, and a recently replaced HVAC system ensuring comfort year-round. With easy freeway access and proximity to Scottsdale and Westgate, this home truly embodies the perfect oasis for those seeking both convenience and tranquility. Don't miss your chance to make this remarkable property your own!

View Property

11214 W Sunflower Place Avondale, AZ 85392

$649,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,382 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6763884

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

GARDEN LAKES! Do you want a house with some character on the lake? Enjoy the comforts of this single story, lake front home with low Maintenace landscape and private deck to dock the peddle boat along with outdoor furniture (INCLUDED) to enjoy the outdoor wildlife and or catch and release fishing. Large spacious rooms with vaulted ceilings with wood beams and lots of natural light and expansive lake views. New A/C unit 2yrs old, with a Nest Thermostat, Newer Roof 4yrs old, updated kitchen, updated main bedroom bath, and other custom features. New carpet to be installed or credit to buyer for flooring. Motivated Sellers so all respectable offers considered. Owners relocating so they are selling personal items also. (separate transaction) This is a must see!

View Property