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

1240 E Kramer Circle Mesa, AZ 85203

$618,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,318 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6766889

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This spacious floor plan features a living room and dining room, along with a separate family room. The fabulous open kitchen includes an island and pantry, perfect for all your cooking needs. The large master bedroom boasts an expansive master bath with a separate shower, and there's also a dedicated laundry room. The extended cabinets in the kitchen provide ample storage space for your cookware and countertop appliances. The backyard is an entertainer's dream, complete with a Pebble Tec pool/spa, a water feature, a covered patio, and numerous upgrades. Experience resort-style living in this beautiful gated community!

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4300 W Prince Road Mcneal, AZ 85617

$617,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,150 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6721687

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream country property, nestled on 75 acres with almost 360 mountain views. With 36 acres of grandfathered irrigation rights, it's just waiting for you to grow your own hay or run livestock. The property includes a large hay barn, equipment shed, and workshop, plus fenced pastures ready for horses. This fully functioning farm features a domestic well and irrigation well which supplies water to the house, lawn, orchard and fields. The stunning three-bedroom, two-bathroom home features open-plan living. Vaulted ceilings create a bright and airy atmosphere. A spacious kitchen is at the heart of the home. French doors open onto a BBQ and entertainment area where you can host family and friends. (NRCS subsidy for 25 acres of sprinkler irrigation and certain farm implements are also available.) This is more than just a home. It's a one-of-a-kind gem that provides an unparalleled lifestyle for you and your family. Don't miss out on the opportunity to own a piece of desert paradise. Owner is Listing Agent.

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947 W Saddle Run Apache Junction, AZ 85120

$616,990

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,468 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6778925

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to Blossom Rock! The east valley's newest master planned community. With views of the Superstition Mountains and a wealth of amenities currently in the making including three community parks, dozens of neighborhood parks, a community school, miles of trails, beautiful lakes, and indoor and outdoor gathering spaces all meant to serve as the backdrop of the calendar of signature events and annual celebrations currently being created. A public report is available on the Arizona Department of Real Estate website.

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19201 W Missouri Avenue Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$616,070

5 Beds

4 Baths

3,475 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6741966

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

COMPLETED NEW HOME! This amazing 5 Bedroom, 4 bath home with a 3-car garage home is on a large lot with a large, covered patio and plenty room for a wonderful pool. It has a full bedroom & bath downstairs, with 4 bedrooms, 3 baths & loft upstairs. Gourmet Kitchen has a large island with Quartz countertops and a custom backsplash, walk in pantry & butler's pantry. Kitchen is open to a large Great Room and has a formal dining that could also serve as a den. All bedrooms are spacious and have walk in closets and connected with a wonderful upstairs loft. Master suite has his & her closets, separate tub & shower along with separate vanities. Come see us. SOME PHOTOS ARE OF THE ACTUAL HOME & SOME PHOTOS ARE OF THE MODEL HOME TO GIVE DECORATING IDEAS! SEE NOTES!

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11129 E Ulysses Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$615,995

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,907 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6780602

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

With an idyllic blend of comfort and elegance, this move-in ready home perfectly fits your lifestyle. The stunning kitchen is highlighted by a designer backsplash, modern maple Latte and white linen cabinets, and upgraded quartz countertops. The open-concept kitchen flows effortlessly into the great room and dining room, making this floor plan ideal for entertaining. The home is complete with designer curated finishes throughout. Don't miss this opportunity to own your dream home!

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5330 W Walatowa Street Laveen, AZ 85339

$615,990

5 Beds

4 Baths

2,908 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6674395

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MLS#6674395 Ready Now! The Pinnacle at Tierra Montana Encore presents a two-story layout with a generously sized primary suite downstairs. This suite boasts an expansive shower with tub, dual sink vanity, and a spacious walk-in closet suitable for all seasons. Additionally, there's a guest bedroom and full bath conveniently located towards the front of the home, ideal for overnight visitors. The open-concept gathering room connects to the dining and kitchen area. Upstairs, you'll find three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a versatile loft space, perfect for hosting game nights. Structural options include: bedroom 5/bath 4, shower in lieu of tub in two at bath 4, tub and shower at owner's bath, extended walk in closet at owner's suite, paver from porch and gourmet kitchen. 4' garage extension, garage service door, pre-plumb for future

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3804 S Buttercup -- Mesa, AZ 85212

New

$615,310

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,903 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6788196

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MLS #6788196 March Completion! Welcome to the Redwood at Hawes Crossing Encore! Step into the inviting foyer, where a secondary bedroom and full bathroom are thoughtfully positioned on the right, while a hobby room and garage entry are conveniently located on the left. The heart of the home features an open dining area that seamlessly connects to the kitchen and gathering room, all overlooking the outdoor patio. Upstairs, the spacious primary suite provides a serene retreat with an en-suite bathroom and dual walk-in closets. The second floor also includes two additional bedrooms, a full bathroom, a versatile loft, and a centrally located laundry room. Structural options added include; garage service door, 8' interior doors, super shower at owner's bath and shower in bath 3

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2825 W Pinto Place Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$615,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,061 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6748925

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Enjoy gorgeous views from both north & south covered patios of this lovely 2061 sqft 3 bdrm, 1.75 bath home which features a bonus room that could be used as a den/office/other, living room, spacious kitchen w/ breakfast bar, sizable dining area & stainless steel appliances, split floorplan, large master bdrm, master bath w/ double sinks & walk-in closet, tankless hot water heater installed 1/2023, energy star windows, ceiling fans, cooling/heating installed 1/2023, Platinum water softener installed 1/2023, 9' ceilings, additional attic insulation 3/2023, oversized 2-car garage, private back courtyard, mature landscape w/ front & back yard watering system, no HOA, & leased solar ($124.68/month, no yearly increase). All this on a 46,730 sq ft parcel in the popular Saddle Ridge subdivision

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2431 W Eagle Feather Road Phoenix, AZ 85085

$615,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,309 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6747132

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

As you enter this meticulously maintained 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home, you are greeted by a bright and elegant atmosphere, from the front room's charming shutters to the gleaming tile flooring that guides you toward the dining and living areas. Just off the entrance, classic glass French doors open to a versatile den/office. The kitchen has been tastefully updated with pendant lights, freshly painted cabinets, a coordinating tile backsplash, and granite countertops. The spacious primary bedroom offers a personal retreat, featuring an updated en-suite bathroom w/ a walk-in shower, a private toilet room, and a generous walk-in closet. Step outside to enjoy the extended covered patio that overlooks a sparkling pool. Additional features of the home include two AC units & garage cabinetry Living off the I-17 and Carefree Highway fantastic due to its proximity to a variety of shopping centers (Norterra & Anthem) and diverse dining options that cater to every tastebud. The area offers a blend of convenience and vibrant local culture, perfect for a place to make home.

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35518 N 30th Drive Phoenix, AZ 85086

$615,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,191 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767894

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this beautiful old-world Italian style single-story home in the quiet, family-friendly Tramonto community. With 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, & ample garage space for 3 cars, this residence is a must-see. This one-owner home features an open atmosphere with a spacious kitchen containing black appliances and ample storage space. The great room features a cozy gas fireplace & large newly-updated picture windows. Enjoy the spacious primary bedroom with en suite bathroom complete with a separate tub and shower, as well as a generous walk-in closet. Step outside into your own personal oasis with a calming water feature and eye-catching light layout. Tramonto residents enjoy pools, sport courts, & many green spaces. Furnishings are available as well, reach out now to arrange a tour!

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1529 E Edgewater Drive Tempe, AZ 85283

$615,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,144 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6766284

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This 4 bedroom residence w/loft is situated just down the street from the lake that you can enjoy boating and kayaking in the private community The Lakes. Enjoy 4 generously sized bedrooms on the second floor plus a versatile loft that overlooks the living room with vaulted ceiling. Relax by the large wood burning fireplace in the family room. Nestled in a tranquil neighborhood that offers a rec center with a Health and Fitness club ,Olympic size pool, spa, Pickel ball courts ,Tennis , Sand Volleyball, Basketball, Children's playground, and more. Conveniently located near lakeside restaurants and a short walk to Tempe Union Elementary/Middle schools and Marcos De Niza High. There is easy freeway access to 60 and 101 and to Sky Harbor Airport and ASU campus

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8818 W Quail Avenue Peoria, AZ 85382

$615,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,790 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769179

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome Home! This recently updated 3 bed/2 bath home invites you to come and make it your own! Located in a desired neighborhood and is on large corner lot! Just minutes from shopping, entertainment and restaurants! This home portrays pride of ownership with recently updated: tile flooring, updated bathrooms, heating and cooling unit, tankless water heater, sunscreens, custom baseboards, door trims and exterior/interior paint! It also has owned solar with grandfathered in rates! The backyard is perfect for entertaining with the pool and the newly added cabana! This home really speaks for itself, come check it out!

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