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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8613 W Morten Avenue Glendale, AZ 85305

$650,000

5 Beds

4 Baths

4,252 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6733555

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful 5-bedroom, 4-bathroom, three-level home situated on a large lot in a fantastic community! Boasting a generous 4,252 sqft of living space, this residence offers ample room for everyone. The home features a den and a spacious basement with a full bath, providing versatile living options. Enjoy the airy and elegant ambiance created by vaulted 9+ flat ceilings and dual-pane windows. The family room includes a cozy gas fireplace, while the large rooms feature walk-in closets. The kitchen is equipped with multiple ovens, a pantry, and a kitchen island, complemented by formal dining, an eat-in kitchen, and a breakfast bar. Step outside to a covered patio overlooking a vast, beautifully landscaped yard with grass, shrubs, and trees. Additional highlights include a 3-car garage with an RV gate. Conveniently located near parks, Westgate, stadiums, and Tanger Outlets, this home also features owned solar panels to be paid in full at closing, ensuring energy efficiency and cost savings!

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10629 E Sebring Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$650,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,731 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6735189

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Now available! This turnkey home is the epitome of easy living. Inside, you'll find a spacious open layout with thoughtful upgrades, modern fixtures, and a neutral color scheme. The formal front living and dining areas open to the great room with a gourmet kitchen. A large slider off the family room leads to the backyard oasis, featuring a covered patio, sparkling pool, and easy-to-maintain turf and pavers. Upstairs, you'll find a large loft, a balcony with mountain views, and generously sized bedrooms perfect for relaxing. This home is conveniently located near many of the Eastmark community features, including a quick walk to Benton Park, with it's private splash-pad, and a short drive to the AZ-202 for easy commutes. See the full list of features!

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7409 E Pleasant Run Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$650,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,688 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6735895

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover your perfect gem! This townhome in the desirable McCormick Ranch community, ideal for investors and offered as a short sale. This home boasts a rare main-floor master suite, large windows that flood the space with natural light, and a private patio for serene outdoor living. With only one shared wall, this corner lot offers extra privacy and easy access to the lush greenbelt. The spacious upstairs loft and two additional bedrooms provide flexible living areas. Located in the Pleasant Run subdivision, you'll enjoy top-rated schools, shopping, dining, and recreation nearby. This property is ready for your personal touches to transform it into your dream residence. Don't miss this incredible opportunity at an unbeatable price!

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4801 E Peak View Road Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$650,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,987 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6761544

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Spacious corner lot with breathtaking mountain views! This expansive 3-bedroom, 2-bath residence offers a large Great Room, perfect for gathering and entertaining, and features two fireplaces — one in the cozy family room and another firepit outdoor for those starlit evenings. The bright and airy atmosphere enhances the open feel of the home, while the split primary suite provides privacy and a luxurious full bath. Enjoy the convenience of a 3-car garage, RV gate and a storage shed. The beautifully fenced backyard is an entertainer's paradise, complete with a covered patio and a private play pool. With a generous 18,654 sqft lot, your backyard is awaiting your personal touch. This property offers endless possibilities to create your perfect outdoor oasis.

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14367 W Ventura Street Surprise, AZ 85379

$650,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,391 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6743761

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

**NOW ACCEPTING BACK UP OFFERS** Welcome to this exceptional RV garage home in the gated community of W Ranch. This open floorplan offers 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, featuring a versatile flex space den and a split floor plan for ultimate privacy. This home is designed for both comfort and functionality. The chef's kitchen stands out with its stainless-steel gas stove, double ovens, and quartz countertops, complemented by a stylish backsplash and tall cabinets that provide an abundance of storage, including a walk-in pantry and a Reverse osmosis system to keep your water fresh. Enjoy the elegance of luxury vinyl flooring throughout, along with vaulted ceilings that enhance the spacious feel of the home. Step outside to your private oasis, complete with a built-in BBQ and a brick patio featuring a ceiling fan and exterior sunshade for added comfort. The easy-to-maintain yard is enhanced with artificial grass, mature trees, and a cozy fire pit, making relaxation effortless. With electrical hookups ready for a hot tub, this outdoor space is perfect for both entertaining and unwinding. Car enthusiasts and RV owners will appreciate the RV garage, featuring epoxy flooring, an additional 220 line for additional refrigerators, Freezers, or tools, a 50-amp plug for RVs, and an RV dump connected directly to the sewer. The driveway is beautifully paved with bricks, extending behind the RV gate for added convenience. The expansive master suite is a true retreat, boasting a luxurious tiled walk-in shower, dual sinks, and a spacious walk-in closet. Additional features of this exceptional home include owned solar panels and numerous other upgrades like a water softener system and more. This property is a rare find, offering a perfect blend of luxury, and modern amenities conveniently located in the heart of SURPRISE. Don't miss the opportunity to make this your new home!

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12641 N 18th Place Phoenix, AZ 85022

$650,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,778 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6764990

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Spectacular hillside home perfectly situated on one of the best view lots in the Gated community of Sweetwater Vistas. From the moment you walk in the home you are greeted by the City light views of Downtown Phoenix, Scottsdale, PV, all the way up to Cave Creek/Carefree plus Four Peaks, McDowell Mountains, and countless other mountain peak views. Thoughtful great room floor plan that maximizes the view corridor while providing functional living with the primary bedroom on the main level. The kitchen has been tastefully remodeled with stunning white quartz countertops and backsplash, all new GE appliances, on trend gold faucet and cabinet hardware. The great room seamlessly transitions to the back patio where you can really appreciate everything the view has to offer with stunning 180 degree views. Brand new flooring throughout, hard surfaces are a waterproof Luxury Vinyl Plank and DreamWeaver Carpet. Large primary suite features stunning views, remodeled bathroom with separate shower and soaking tub plus generous walk-in closet. Conveniently located next to countless outdoor activities and restaurants, easy access to FWY and HWY 51, 101, and 17.

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6822 E Portia Street Mesa, AZ 85207

$650,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,475 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6753509

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Located in the sought-after Las Sendas Community, this corner-lot home offers unparalleled privacy with only one neighbor, 4 spacious bedrooms & 3 modern baths. Enjoy breathtaking views of Red Mountain & easy access to Usery & Salt River natural areas, teeming w/ wildlife & stunning Sonoran desert landscaping. The heart of the home - the kitchen, is a highlight with it's 2024 appliances including a refrigerator, dishwasher, range & microwave. Enhanced w/ modern sink faucets, the space is both functional & stylish. Adjacent to the kitchen, the open layout seamlessly connects to the living areas, featuring a cozy fireplace & ceiling fans for added comfort. The home also boasts recent upgrades like engineered hardwood floors, carpet & an R/O system, providing a blend of luxury & convenience. Experience the serene desert lifestyle w/ beautiful sunrises & sunsets from your balcony. Conveniently walk to Las Sendas Elementary, parks, a splash pad & a community pool. This residence offers a perfect balance of tranquility & accessibility.

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3741 E Catalina Drive Phoenix, AZ 85018

$650,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,134 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6737385

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

END UNIT I PREMIUM LOT I 3 bedroom + Den, 2.5-bath in Arcadia Lite! This contemporary home is situated at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac within a gated featuring a community pool! Enter into a spacious layout featuring 10' ceilings on both levels, modern kitchen with 8' indigo island, granite countertops, ample cabinet space, walk in pantry, + Frigidaire Gallery matching appliance package! Main level offers a den/flex space, powder room, and open living space. 2nd level opens to a flex/loft space, laundry, primary + 2 secondary bedrooms, 2 full baths. Sliding glass to back patio w/paved seating space + synthetic grass are perfect for entertaining. End unit offers extra privacy and no neighbors to the East! EV charging station included!

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5386 S Mariposa Drive Gilbert, AZ 85298

$650,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,643 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6762642

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful SHEA home in the highly desirable community of The Bridges at Gilbert. The Reflection is a flexible 2-story plan w/ 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths and a loft. Flex space between the foyer and kitchen can be a formal living room or office. Downstairs bedroom complete with full bathroom. Upstairs you will find a spacious master, 2 additional bedrooms, a den, and loft. The kitchen is gorgeous with expresso cabinets, stainless steel appliances, and an oversized granite island. Premium lot includes a 3 car garage with no homes behind you, enjoy the beautiful sunsets from your covered patio. Near Gilbert Regional Park!

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16037 W Orangewood Avenue Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$650,000

5 Beds

2 Baths

2,016 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6774268

Property Type Manufactured Home

Price Type --

Charming Farmhouse Retreat on 1+ Acre This beautifully remodeled farmhouse features 5 spacious bedrooms and 2 baths, including a master bathroom with an upgraded walk-in shower with a rainfall showerhead, a jetted tub, and wall jets for a luxurious experience. The master bedroom also includes its own private mini-split AC and heater for optimal comfort. Enjoy brand new ceiling fans throughout the home, enhancing airflow and efficiency. The fully fenced property features a five-stall barn equipped with electricity and water, ideal for equestrian enthusiasts. Additional amenities include brand new AC and appliances, front and back porches equipped with misters, and an above-ground pool with a deck. The workshop also has electricity, along with a large chicken coop and a tack shed. The irrigated land is adorned with mature fruit trees and pines, enhancing the property's appeal. Experience country living with modern amenities!

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5222 W Buckskin Trail Phoenix, AZ 85083

$650,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,294 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6772837

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning 4BR/2BA home in STETSON VALLEY! You will be impressed the moment you walk through the front door. Spacious formal living /dining room, kitchen includes granite countertops, SS appliances , Maple cabinets, and large island. Kitchen is open to large family room which is perfect for entertaining. Neutral colors, plank tile flooring throughout home, including the 4 spacious bedrooms. Extended 2 -car garage w/cabineets. Covered patio, firepit with cozy seating, mountain views & mature landscaping. Excellent schools and close to everything.

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18065 W Wolf Street Goodyear, AZ 85395

$650,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,343 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6776765

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover this practically new residence nestled on oversized corner lot, offering unparalleled upgrades. Modern Open Floor Plan to embrace contemporary living. Stylish touches & conveniences that make everyday life a breeze. Stunning kitchen features oversized island, ideal for meal prep & social gatherings.Seamless Indoor/Outdoor Living to your backyard oasis including NEW California Salt pool & Baja step. Relax on the massive travertine deck enjoying the lush turf—all with minimal upkeep! Dine alfresco in the inviting patio space soaking in the breathtaking vistas of the White Tank Mountains. 3rd car space & 12ft gate for RV/boat, providing ample room & flexibility for your active lifestyle. This exceptional home combines modern luxury with the peace of mind of gated community living! UPGRADES & FEATURES: -Front yard white marble rock with double river stream -3rd car driveway paved 12x37 in front of gate -Garage floor epoxy flooring + side walls of foundation, installed by V.I.P smart storage -Garage cabinets - floor to ceiling with a built in workbench with built in peg board and V.I.P smart storage installation -Hanging roof rack 8x4 V.I.P smart storage, Wall shelves around perimeter of garage -Lift master garage opener upgrade at time of home purchase -Upgraded to a 12 ft RV gate -16x51 reinforced RV slab concrete behind RV gate -50 AMP plug in for RV -Inner exterior brick wall perimeter painted -White sensor spotlights perimeter of home -90% U.V reflective black window screens with upgraded strength cross bars by Desert sunscreens -Upgraded heavy duty slider with the fixed panel -Backyard premium white rock landscape fabric under all rock areas -Custom pendant color matched light poles perimeter of backyard -Top of the line synthetic grass 108oz/face weight, travertine border surrounding grass -California pools saltwater pool with baja step and travertine deck -Custom pool pump cage color matched -2 extra water spouts in backyard -Travertine back patio -Premium interior eggshell whole house one color paint, in garage semi gloss white -3 brand new whirlpool Memoirs toilets - Premium new dishwasher -New premium whirlpool fridge -New Allen Roth 30inch vanity with sink in laundry room -Upgraded Dual wall cabinets in laundry room -Upgraded white gourmet kitchen -Highest exterior elevation

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