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.

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3862 E Narrowleaf Drive Gilbert, AZ 85298

$564,900

4 Beds

3 Baths

1,940 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6747524

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This charming home, located in the highly sought-after Bridges at Gilbert, is brimming with character and ready for its next owner. Meticulously maintained and turn-key ready, this residence features an open-concept floor plan that seamlessly combines a spacious living area with upgraded plank tile flooring, soaring vaulted ceilings, granite countertops, and modern cabinetry. The generously sized primary bedroom, tucked away at the rear of the home, offers privacy and direct access to the backyard. A Jack and Jill bathroom serves an oversized secondary bedroom, providing convenience and functionality. The split and open floor plan enhances the home's cozy yet private atmosphere. The RO system and Water softener are owned and convey with the property. With professional low-maintenance landscaping, impressive curb appeal, practical updates, community amenities, and an unrivaled location, this property is the perfect place to call home.

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1020 N Blue Marlin Drive Gilbert, AZ 85234

$564,900

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,610 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6760750

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

BRING ALL OFFERS! Assume Loan 2.75%, No HOA, 5-bed 3-bath directly across from community park. 2 new HVAC systems installed in 2021, vaulted ceilings, and abundant natural light throughout. Formal living & dining areas, wood-look floors & modern neutral tones, creating a warm & inviting atmosphere. Cozy family room just off spacious eat-in kitchen, granite countertops, stylish white cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, a center island & convenient pantry. Primary bedroom retreat w/ double doors, bay window, space for sitting area. Ensuite bathroom has dual sinks, walk-in closet & separate soaking tub & shower. Versatile downstairs bedroom and full bathroom provides comfort & flexibility, perfect for guests or multi-generational living. Great backyard for outdoor dining & entertaining.

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11840 N 59th Lane Glendale, AZ 85304

$564,850

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,523 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6673649

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautifully Designed Single Level Multi-Generational Home with Split Floorplan located in The Gated Community of Cholla Cove. Two Master Bedrooms, Two Additional Bedrooms, Spacious Den/Office, Wide Hallways, and comes with Plenty of Storage. Relax out by the Saltwater Play Pool or Enjoy the Plush Grass. *Solar Panels are Owned* Home is monitored by ADT, Vacuflo Central Vac, Envirotec Water Softner System, Large Tile, Granite Countertops, Epoxy Garage Floors, Professionally Landscaped, and many more upgrades included with this property. Home is located across the street from the Mailbox and Green Belt with Ramada where it sits on an Interior Lot in a Quite Sought-After Community,

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10539 E Corbin Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

New

$564,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,788 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6786971

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Experience luxury in this gorgeous 3-bedroom home in the highly sought after community of Eastmark! Minutes away from grocery stores, restaurants, and shopping. The elegant stone-accented exterior and 3-car tandem garage with workshop set the stage for sophistication. Inside, you'll find wood porcelain tile, shutters, and a neutral palette complementing the great room's charm, all enhanced by pre-wired surround sound. The sleek kitchen is a chef's delight, featuring stainless-steel appliances, wall ovens, granite counters, a mosaic backsplash, a pantry, and an island with a breakfast bar.The main suite offers a spa-like retreat with dual sinks, a soaking tub, and a walk-in closet. Relax in the tranquil backyard with a covered patio and cozy fire pit. This is an amazing home-don't miss it!

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1972 W Olive Way Chandler, AZ 85248

$564,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,910 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6744573

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this captivating 3-bedroom, 2-bath residence in Montefino Village! Discover a welcoming living/dining room with high ceilings, a soothing palette, classic plantation shutters on the new Low E windows, and contemporary wood-look flooring. The inviting family room is perfect for gathering loved ones, featuring sliding doors leading to the backyard for seamless indoor-outdoor living. The gourmet kitchen comes with durable tile counters, ample wood cabinetry with crown moulding, recessed lighting, SS appliances, a pantry, and a two-tier island/breakfast bar. The main bedroom offers plush carpeting, an ensuite with dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. The backyard oasis showcases a covered patio and a refreshing pool for cooling down on hot days. This gem will sell fast!

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886 S Avenida Escuela -- Sierra Vista, AZ 85635

$564,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

3,060 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6745314

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

LARGE PRICE REDUCTION!!! Fully remodeled 4 BR 4 BA and 2 car garage. Home is on a large .88 acre lot with landscaping & pecan trees. Large fully covered front porch with beautiful metal door imported from Mexico has serious curb appeal. The back yard is fully enclosed with block walls & large covered patio. interior of the home features new custom tile floors, modern light and plumbing fixtures, fully remodeled kitchen & bathrooms. The windows are new and dual paned. The living room has a see through wood burning fireplace connecting to the dining area. The kitchen has new cabinets with granite countertops, new dishwasher & stove. The master bedroom is good size with two closets and large corner shower. Each bedroom has it's own private bathroom. .

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26990 W Burnett Road Buckeye, AZ 85396

$564,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,961 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6760185

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Delightful 2-bedroom residence on a golf course lot! Be greeted by a 3-car garage, an impeccably designed front yard, & courtyard entry. The inviting family room boasts high ceilings, recessed lighting, a built-in media center, & surround sound speakers. Enjoy gourmet meals in the eat-in kitchen featuring granite counters, staggered cabinets w/crown moulding, stylish backsplash, pendant lighting, built-in appliances, a pantry, built in wine rack & an island w/breakfast bar. The primary bedroom offers an ensuite w/double sinks & walk-in closet. Den with French doors. Spend quiet afternoons in the enchanting backyard boasting a covered patio w/travertine tiles, a built-in BBQ w/dry bar, a warm firepit w/sitting areas, low-maintenance artificial turf & serene golf course views.

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1642 E Monte Vista Road Unit 11 Phoenix, AZ 85006

$564,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,493 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6722277

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

BRAND NEW CONSTRUCTION. This ENERGY STAR® Home is Perfect for the busy professional. Lock & Leave, Maintenance Free, 11 Single-Family Attached 2-story Townhomes. Nestled between Downtown Phoenix & Arcadia, this home is in close proximity to the best restaurants, coffee shops, medical centers, and so much more! Featuring an impressive open layout with abundant natural light and showcasing designer-selected finishes including hard surface flooring, upgraded fixtures and lighting, and a great attention to the details that matter most. The primary bedroom features an immaculate ensuite with quartz dual sinks and walk-in closet. Ask for end of year Incentives!

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17463 N 66th Avenue Glendale, AZ 85308

$563,980

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,832 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6645957

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

FINAL OPPORTUNITY! ** LAST HOME REMAINING * * Mid-Dec 2024 completion. Our last available home in the community, nestled along the scenic Skunk Creek Trail near Arrowhead. Priced affordably with builder incentives for financing. Price includes front yard landscaping. This 3-Bedroom, 2.5 baths and 1832sq ft has no stairs or steps, with a bright, open Great Room and features a wall of sliding doors to the covered patio; Be the envy of your friends and family with this amazing Gourmet kitchen, with oversized island, walk in pantry, 42'' upper cabinets—all open to the Great Room with lots of light!

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10959 E Tupelo Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$563,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,150 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6694537

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Singe level pool home in Bella Via! Neutral paint and flooring in soothing tones is waiting for personal touches! Chef's kitchen with gourmet SS appliances including gas cooktop and wall oven, Expansive quartz island with extended staggered cabinetry Split floorplan is perfect for hosting guests. The spacious backyard with stunning pool is perfect for hosting BBQ's and enjoying the AZ sun! Prime East Mesa location near the 24, shopping and dining! Don't miss out on this one today!

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4886 W Hunter Trail San Tan Valley, AZ 85144

$563,090

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,926 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6780940

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

The perfect blend of functionality comes to life. This stunning home boasts 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, home office, bonus space and walk-in closets, ensuring that there's room for everyone! The island takes center stage, serving as a workspace or a social hub where family and friends can gather. Whether you're preparing a gourmet meal or enjoying a family breakfast, the kitchen is designed to be a culinary haven. Dark Umber cabinets, granite counter tops with a generous amount of wood look tile! Stepping outside, the 3-panel sliding glass door offers an additional living space that seamlessly extends the indoor experience. Each of our homes is built with innovative, energy-efficient features designed to help you enjoy more savings, better health, real comfort and peace of mind

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41355 N Eliana Drive San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

$563,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,880 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6765240

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Seller may consider buyer concessions if made in an offer. Welcome to this beautifully updated home! The interior boasts a neutral color paint scheme and fresh paint. The kitchen is a chef's dream with an accent backsplash, convenient kitchen island and a walk in pantry for ample space. The primary bathroom is a sanctuary featuring double sinks, a separate tub, and shower. The primary bedroom is complete with a walk-in closet. Outside, enjoy the low maintenance landscaping, a covered patio perfect for entertaining, and a fenced-in backyard for added privacy. The home also features partial flooring replacement. This home is a must-see!e!

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