3 Questions to Ask If You Want to Buy Your Dream Home

If you are debating purchasing a home right now, you are probably getting a lot of advice. Though your friends and family will have your best interest at heart, they may not be fully aware of your needs and what is currently happening in the real estate market.

Ask yourself the following 3 questions to help determine if now is a good time for you to buy in today’s market.

1. Why am I buying a home in the first place? 

This is truly the most important question to answer. Forget the finances for a minute. Why did you even begin to consider purchasing a home? For most, the reason has nothing to do with money.

For example, a survey by Braun showed that over 75% of parents say “their child’s education is an important part of the search for a new home.”

This survey supports a study by the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University which revealed that the top four reasons Americans buy a home have nothing to do with money. They are:

• A good place to raise children and for them to get a good education
• A place where you and your family feel safe
• More space for you and your family
• Control of that space

What does owning a home mean to you? What non-financial benefits will you and your family gain from owning a home? The answer to that question should be the biggest reason you decide to purchase or not.

2. Where are home values headed?

According to the latest Existing Home Sales Report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the median price of homes sold in December (the latest data available) was $232,200, up 4.0% from last year. This increase also marks the 58th consecutive month with year-over-year gains.

If we look at the numbers year over year, CoreLogic forecasted a rise by 4.7% from December 2016 to December 2017. On a home that costs $250,000 today, that same home will cost you an additional $11,750 if you wait until next year.

What does that mean to you?

Simply put, with prices increasing each month, it might cost you more if you wait until next year to buy. Your down payment will also need to be higher in order to account for the higher price of the home you wish to buy.

3. Where are mortgage interest rates headed?

A buyer must be concerned about more than just prices. The ‘long-term cost’ of a home can be dramatically impacted by even a small increase in mortgage rates.

The Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), the National Association of Realtors, and Fannie Mae have all projected that mortgage interest rates will increase over the next twelve months, as you can see in the chart below:

Bottom Line

Only you and your family will know for certain if now is the right time to purchase a home. Answering these questions will help you make that decision.  Give me a call for some professional advice – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

What’s Your Home Worth?

Search for Your New Home

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

11118 W Cumberland Drive Sun City, AZ 85351

$675,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,136 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6749404

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Large home on an acre lot in Sun City. This area is a favorite of car collectors and home workshop enthusiasts. Solar is owned, owner just paid it off. The home features vaulted ceilings, a formal living room, spacious family and dining rooms. Three large bedrooms. The free standing garage measures 38'X25' and features a work sink and half bath. Perfect man or lady cave! The extra long attached garage measures 29'X24'. Best investment in the area!

View Property

15044 N Calle Del Prado -- Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$675,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,653 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767549

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This modern home has a split floor plan with fireplace, tile floors, large great room with vaulted ceilings, modern kitchen, counter seating, large built-in pantry and separate laundry room. The primary bedroom has a separate office space/sitting room with large window. The primary bath ensuite has been updated with free standing luxury tub, round glass shower and vanity with double sinks. Located on one of the largest lots in the area, it is about 1/3 acre, completely walled in with a 12' wide RV gate, a stucco storage building 12x12, with additional covered area for boat storage or RV parking. The expansive back yard has a back gate to wash/greenbelt behind property which provides privacy and no homes directly behind you. Room to build private backyard oasis. Owner related to agent.

View Property

4350 E Abraham Lane Phoenix, AZ 85050

$675,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,661 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6758239

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

PRICED TO SELL.... Perfect home in Desert Ridge. This well maintained home has open concept kitchen living room space, vaulted ceilings, updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances, backyard features low maintenance artificial turf and kids play ground that conveys with the home. If you want location then this is the home for you.

View Property

6814 Golden Tree Drive Prescott, AZ 86305

$675,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,146 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6785971

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Experience modern elegance in this better-than-new ''Silverton'' floorplan home, ideally situated on a cul-de-sac in the sought-after Deep Well Ranch neighborhood. Built in 2021, this property boasts the highest-level upgrades offered by the builder, from stylish cabinetry to premium flooring to the highly upgraded great room with built-in gas fireplace. Its outstanding curb appeal is enhanced by professionally landscaped front and backyards, setting it apart from neighboring homes. Step inside and be greeted by stunning wood-look tile floors that flow seamlessly throughout the open and inviting living spaces. The expansive, extended great room is a true showstopper, filled with natural light from the 3-panel sliding glass doors providing views of the backyard. The heart of the home, the kitchen, has been thoughtfully designed for both functionality and entertaining. A large granite island takes center stage, complemented by an Energy-Star stainless steel appliance suite featuring a 5-burner gas range, built-in microwave, and dishwasher. A glass tile backsplash, walk-in pantry, and upgraded finishes create a chef's dream kitchen. The luxurious owner's suite offers a private retreat with its own backyard access. The ensuite bathroom rivals a spa, featuring a walk-in shower, a separate soaking tub, dual vanities, and a spacious walk-in closet. A versatile office/den, easily convertible into a fourth bedroom, adds flexibility to the floorplan. Two additional bedrooms share a beautifully appointed full bathroom along a private hallway. The upgraded laundry room includes a utility sink and matching high-end cabinetry for added convenience. The 3-car tandem garage provides ample storage and workshop space, perfect for hobbies or projects. Step outside to your private backyard oasis, complete with a covered patio, a pergola-shaded seating area, artificial turf, and a block wall for added privacy. This home is within walking distance of community amenities, including a park and a dog park, making it an ideal location for all lifestyles. Don't miss your chance to own this nearly new, impeccably upgraded home. Welcome to the perfect blend of style, comfort, and convenience.

View Property

50704 N 292nd Avenue Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$675,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,792 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6760426

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

5 ACRES with 360-degree view property! Breathtaking! Recently renovated Beautifully done! This is a uniquely constructed home that has been built on the top of the mountain. It has 2bdrm 2 baths with a loft, and a detached 2 car garage with carport and additional bedroom/guest room. The home has been completely updated with new kitchen cabinets, appliances windows split units new paint & fixtures. Internet tower connection to home comes with FREE internet. Has geo-thermal cooling! Along / solar panels (owned) for hot water. Wood burning fireplace and water filtration system also included. Light & Bright with windows for those incredible views, and quiet evenings star gazing. Call now to set up appointment to preview. Enjoy a True Arizona Lifestyle!

View Property

229 E Alcatara Avenue San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

$675,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,928 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6761734

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to Trilogy at Encanterra, a stunning Resort Community that offers a Lifestyle of Luxury and Leisure. Enjoy Exclusive Amenities such as 4 Pools and Spas, an 18-hole Private Golf Course, Pickleball, Tennis, Bocci Ball and so much more! Indulge in the On-Site Restaurant, Spa, Salon and Fitness Center. This Beautiful 3 bedroom/ 2 bath home features a Gourmet Kitchen, Spacious Bedrooms and Private Backyard Oasis. DON'T Miss the Opportunity to Experience true Resort-Style Living at its Finest. Come view this home today to witness the perfect blend of comfort and elegance in this immaculate home!! You will not be disappointed!

View Property

19700 N 76th Street Unit 2169 Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$675,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,843 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6765007

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

Gorgeous Village unit on a fantastic interior lot w/fresh new floors, fireplace surround, master bath, & interior paint. Spacious 2 beds plus den floor plan w/cinnamon cabinets, ss appliances, granite counters, newer ceiling fans, & large covered patio. South facing exposure and backing up to open space vs other condos make this a premium unit for your prospective buyers. The Village boasts a gated community w/3 pools, workout facility, lots of guest parking, and is extremely well managed. Location within Grayhawk means access to world class golf, shopping, dining, & easy freeway access. This unit is pristine so show it first as it may not last very long.

View Property

805 E La Palta Street Queen Creek, AZ 85140

$675,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,927 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6759693

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Resort Living in gorgeous Encanterra at the base of the San Tan Mountains. A Lifestyle that offers it all. Pickleball courts, tennis courts, bocce ball, 4 pools, spa, fitness center, restaurants, not one but two beautiful clubhouses. Last, but not least the stellar Tom Lehman designed golf course. Or you can also just sit back, relax in your own backyard or the many peaceful park like settings in the community. Now...here is the best part...how about an amazing home to go with the lifestyle? So many fun details! Sought after ''Nice'' floorplan with a rare third bedroom. South facing backyard floods the house with natural light. Desert landscape buffer between you and your neighbor for additional privacy. Covered patio, a multiple purpose room used for office and utility space. Split bedroom floor plan. Open concept living at its best. Come see this well-maintained home, you won't be disappointed.

View Property

21320 N 56th Street Unit 1085 Phoenix, AZ 85054

$675,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,884 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6761032

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

Spectacular 2 bedroom + office/den condo in the gated community of Bella Monte! Maple cabinets, slab granite and custom tile backsplashmake this kitchen pop! Gas & electric, enjoy premium cooking and a fireplace. Extra ordinary features include raised ceilings, walk in master shower, 2 cargarage, & covered patio.

View Property

7639 W Mauna Loa Lane Peoria, AZ 85381

$675,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,327 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6762331

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Step inside to find a beautifully designed interior featuring vaulted ceilings, granite countertops, and an open-concept kitchen with high-top bar seating—ideal for easy entertaining and gatherings. The family room flows seamlessly from the kitchen, providing a bright, inviting space for relaxation. Two charming bay windows fill the home with natural light, while French doors lead to a covered patio where you can enjoy the outdoors year-round. Outside, your personal oasis awaits, complete with a sparkling pool and mature landscaping, perfect for entertaining or simply relaxing. The mature landscaping offers both privacy and beauty, creating the ideal setting for summer barbecues or quiet evenings under the stars. With its vaulted ceilings, blinds throughout, and thoughtful touches like double sinks in both bathrooms and wood flooring in high-traffic areas, this home is move-in ready. Plus, its unbeatable prime location puts you just minutes from the 101 Freeway, Peoria Sports Complex, Arrowhead Mall, and an array of dining and shopping options. Whether you're hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night in, this home offers it all. Don't miss this rare opportunity to own a home in one of Peoria's most sought-after communities. Inquire within today its a must see!

View Property

15802 N 71st Street Unit 256 Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$675,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,540 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6770000

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

Welcome to the Landmark's supreme location flanking the Acacia Golf Course & walking distance to Kierland Commons! True resort-like living w/concierge, guard gate, porters, swimming pool, wine storage, BBQ, pizza ovens, aps, fitness w/lockers, pet are. Freshly painted spacious 2bed/2bath roomy dining, living, kitchen w/elevated finishes, appliances, travertine, granite. Large laundry room. Large covered patio w/views of McDowell Mountains. Two storage & Two parking spaces. Price includes most furnishings!

View Property

22235 E Munoz Court Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$675,000

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,549 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6782485

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to 22235 E. Munoz Ct, a beautifully designed 3,549 sq/ft home built in 2017, nestled in a cul-de-sac in Queen Creek. This spacious 5-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom residence features an open floorplan, ideal for both family living and entertaining. The large backyard offers plenty of space for outdoor activities, while the 3-car tandem garage, with an additional separate storage area, provides ample room for your vehicles and belongings. Located next to the distinguished Queen Creek High School, and just minutes from local shopping, dining, entertainment, and freeway access. This home combines modern comfort with an unbeatable location. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity!

View Property