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

1180 E Marlin Drive Chandler, AZ 85286

$599,000

3 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,239 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6743951

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This residence, built in 2020 in Chandler, exemplifies modern living with a smart design tailored to contemporary lifestyles. The Great Room seamlessly connects to the dining area and an upscale kitchen, making it perfect for stylish entertaining. Additionally, a covered patio offers a delightful space for outdoor living. Upstairs, a spacious loft awaits your family's needs, whether it be a media room or a study area for the kids. The home also features two secondary bedrooms with convenient access to a shared bathroom. The luxurious owner's suite includes a spa-inspired bathroom, providing a touch of sophistication. Recent upgrades include garage storage and vinyl flooring throughout the home. The property is equipped with an 8.5KW solar system.

View Property

17572 W Polaris Drive Goodyear, AZ 85338

$599,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,011 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6750396

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

RARE 4 CAR GARAGE. Nestled at the base of the Estrella Mountains is the highly desired community of Estrella Mountain Ranch. This is where you'll find this rare 5 bedroom, 3 bath home with a 4 car garage, and pool. As you enter, you'll love the vaulted ceilings that provide ample natural light that fills the rooms, not to mention the plantations shutters. This will lead into the open concept kitchen - family room that features lovely views to the backyard that boasts a sparking pool, grass areas, large covered patio, tasteful landscaping and, your very own: two 30+ foot palm trees. The kitchen features stainless appliances, Corian counter tops along with 42'' cabinetry. You'll also love that there's a bedroom and adjacent bathroom on the main floor which is perfect for guests: see more Or multi-general living. Upstairs is where you'll find a large loft space along with 3 nice sized bedrooms serviced by a full bathroom with shower and dual sinks. The primary bedroom sports terrific views and a large en suite bathroom featuring separate tub and shower, dual vanities, private toilet room, and a large walk-in closet. You're just a short walk or bike ride to the lakes here in Estrella. This amazing home is just a couple minutes drive to Mountain Ranch Marketplace which is home to Safeway, Starbucks, Subway, medical and dental care and a list of many more services. By the way, you can cancel your gym membership as Estrella offers two residence clubs both with state-of-the-art workout facilities. These clubs also feature swimming pools, banquet facilities, restaurants and more. The community boasts two elementary schools and a highly touted high school. This home is a rare find in a vibrant community, offering the perfect combination of convenience, comfort, and style. Don't miss the opportunity to make this your dream home!

View Property

10051 E Pampa Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$599,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,458 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6747970

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

AMAZING PRICE FOR YOUR NEW DREAM HOME! 3 walk-in closets! Immaculate single-level 4-bedroom, 2-bath home with an open floor plan and split bedroom design. The spacious living areas feature vaulted ceilings and neutral colors, with new carpet in the family room for added comfort. The eat-in kitchen, complete with a breakfast bar, flows seamlessly into the living room, creating an inviting space for gatherings. Relax in your primary suite, complete with an updated ensuite bathroom and a large walk-in closet. The additional three bedrooms are generously sized, 2 with walk-in closets, providing ample space for family, guests, or a home office. Step outside to your backyard oasis, featuring a sparkling heated pool, a large covered patio area—perfect for entertaining and relaxation. Close freeway access and shopping.

View Property

1326 N Central Avenue Unit 413 Phoenix, AZ 85004

$599,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,491 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6756296

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

Prepare to be blown away as you step inside this incredible, multi-level loft that encompasses a chic modern/industrial charm around every corner. Polished concrete floors, open-concept living, soaring ceilings and a bold black metal staircase are just a few of the standout features in this property. The living area includes a built-in Sonos system as well as a beautiful custom art piece that truly accentuates the space. The European style kitchen has Gaggenau stainless steel appliances (with a built-in grill) and sleek red cabinetry. The adjacent dining area, with its modern lighting from Crate and Barrel, offers expansive west-facing views—perfect for watching breathtaking sunsets. Just steps from the primary bedroom, you can find a private rooftop balcony with panoramic views of the city. Plenty of room to entertain or cozy up and watch the sun go down. This urban oasis is a rare find, offering unique design, modern finishes, and unforgettable sunsets.

View Property

1941 E Ellis Drive Tempe, AZ 85282

$599,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,456 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6753630

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home! This beautifully updated property features 4 spacious bedrooms and 2 modern bathrooms, offering a perfect blend of style and comfort. Key Features: New Kitchen: Enjoy cooking in a sleek kitchen with soft-closing white shaker cabinets, elegant quartz countertops, and a chic white backsplash. Elegant Finishes: The home boasts new LVP flooring, 5-inch modern baseboards, and contemporary light fixtures throughout. Luxurious Bathrooms: Both bathrooms have been newly tiled and feature stylish vanities. Master Suite: Relax in the master bedroom with a spacious walk-in closet. Cozy Living Spaces: The family room is complete with a charming fireplace, perfect for cozy gatherings. Additional Amenities: The garage comes equipped with plenty of cabinets for Location: Conveniently situated between the 101, 60, and 10 freeways, this home is close to shopping, dining, and entertainment options, offering both comfort and accessibility. Don't miss out on this move-in-ready gem!

View Property

1326 N Central Avenue Unit 411 Phoenix, AZ 85004

$599,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,655 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6758669

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

Highly sought after 3-level loft, 2 bed/2 bath plus office/den in an award-winning building with the perks of urban living. Refined minimalist design with industrial touches throughout the unit. Must be seen to be fully appreciated. Take in amazing views of the North and West Valley through the expansive picturesque windows, and enjoy sunsets from the private rooftop deck with a spectacular downtown view. Located within walking distance to the light rail, Margaret T. Hance Park, and Central Library. Situated directly south of the Phoenix Art Museum and north of Downtown. Art, recreation, sports, music, and the incredible city dining scene just outside your doorstep!

View Property

44449 W Canyon Creek Drive Maricopa, AZ 85139

$599,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,930 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6759318

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home in the highly desirable Cobblestone subdivision of Maricopa! This stunning 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom residence spans 3,929 sq.ft. of nicely upgraded living space. The modern kitchen boasts sleek stainless steel appliances, beautiful quartz countertops, kitchen island and lots of storage. Upstairs you'll find spacious loft and oversized bedrooms for all the guests or family. Step outside into your expansive backyard oasis, complete with a built-in grill, Blackstone griddle and PIZZA OVEN, with a large SPARKLING HEATED POOL AND SPA —ideal for Arizona's sunny days and cool evenings. With ample space, luxurious features, and a prime location, this home offers everything you need for comfort and style. Don't miss the chance to make this your forever home

View Property

1014 S 2nd Street Phoenix, AZ 85004

$599,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

1,897 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6759017

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This property features two separate homes, each with its own private ingress and egress, making it ideal for rental income or living in one and renting out the other. Both homes are enclosed with block wall privacy. The front home offers 2 bedrooms and 2 bath. While cozy, it has been updated with tile flooring, a fully tiled tub surround, and an all-tile shower in the second bath. Dual-pane windows throughout improve energy efficiency. The rear house is newer, with 2 bedrooms, 1 bath and 1,008 sqft of living space. Together, the two homes provide almost 2,000 sqft of total living area. Conveniently located very close to Chase Field, Footprint Center, major freeways and all of what downtown Phoenix has to offer!

View Property

3267 Huckleberry Way Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$599,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,700 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6759265

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Magnificent view of 13th Green on the Championship Course! Step thru the front door into this highly upgraded Beacon Floor Plan. From tile throughout the home to the stunning kitchen granite counters this home has everything. SS appliances, large center island, pull out shelving for the soft close cabinet doors, elegant pendant lights for entertaining guests. Primary w/same granite counters, dual sinks & Walk-in closet. Great room with multi-sliding glass door leads you out to the amazing extended patio and views. This floor plan comes with a separate Den and Guest Suite w/Hall Bathroom. Stop by today to make this once in a lifetime your next home!

View Property

26205 S Beech Creek Drive Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

$599,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,971 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6763105

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Step into a home where sophistication meets comfort. The custom-designed fireplace sets the tone in the expansive great room—perfect for both intimate gatherings and grand entertaining. This home is better than new, boasting brand-new floors and windows throughout, with meticulous attention to detail at every turn! The heart of the home, the gourmet kitchen, is a chef's dream. Featuring top-of-the-line KitchenAid and Bosch appliances, drawer microwave, dual ovens, induction cooktop, custom drawer organization for all your kitchen utensils, stunning custom quartz countertops, and a massive island that provides ample seating. The flat-panel European-style cabinets are sleek and modern, beautifully complemented by designer lighting. Retreat to the luxurious master suite, where relaxation awaits. The master bathroom boasts a bespoke vanity with a dedicated makeup area, a spacious walk-in shower with a bench, and no-step entry for ultimate convenience. The serene bedroom offers a peaceful view of the private backyard, perfect for unwinding after a long day. The open-concept living area flows seamlessly into a formal dining space, ideal for hosting dinner parties or family meals. Step outside to a backyard that's made for Arizona living. The newly epoxied patio is ready for you to enjoy cool winter evenings under the stars. This stunning home is an entertainer's dream and a peaceful retreat all in one. NEW ROOF AND AC! Don't miss your chance to own this beautifully reimagined property!

View Property

1524 E Dublin Street Gilbert, AZ 85295

$599,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,410 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6768551

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This gorgeous 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath home in the heart of Gilbert is truly a gem! From the moment you walk in, you'll be captivated by the elegance and thoughtful upgrades throughout. The executive kitchen is a chef's dream, complete with high-end appliances, sleek countertops, and plenty of cabinet space for all your culinary needs. The spacious primary suite has been extended and upgraded, featuring two generous walk-in closets and a luxurious soaking tub, perfect for unwinding after a long day. A private casita offers a perfect retreat for guests, in-laws, or a home office. Enjoy indoor-outdoor living with the expansive extended patio slider doors, allowing for seamless flow to the backyard, ideal for entertaining. Enjoy the beautiful sparkling community pool and local parks. Come view!

View Property

4734 E Verbena Drive Phoenix, AZ 85044

$599,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,890 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6761591

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful home in Ahwatukee Foothills Community. Amazing 4 bed single level home 3 car garage, pool/spa. With a granite kitchen island, extensive custom cabinets with pull-outs, an eating nook with a big picture window. Kitchen overlooks the family room & beautiful travertine tiles & freshly painted throughout. Enjoy private pool with spa in this great entertainers backyard. Mature trees and lovely landscape to this yard giving a feeling of the outside peacefulness. Home also has a soft water loop. It's conveniently located near I-10 for access to anywhere but also within the bounds of Ahwatukee and all it has to offer. It's also just a few miles from Pecos Park, which has pools, water slides, 16 pickleball courts, basketball, soccer, volleyball, walking paths and more!

View Property