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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9390 Mead Lane Snowflake, AZ 85937

$549,995

6 Beds

4 Baths

2,624 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6734119

Property Type Manufactured Home

Price Type --

Wow! Check out this opportunity! 2 homes on 40 acres fully off grid and self-sustaining. The PRIMARY HOME offers 1568 square feet of living space with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Floors recently upgraded to vinyl plank throughout. Split bedroom floor plan. Kitchen features hickory cabinets, granite counter tops, large kitchen island, farm sink and NEWER gas stove. Primary home is powered by 30 solar panels which is sustained by banks of lithium batteries. In addition to a 2 car masonry garage, the primary home also features a single car Graceland garage, a 14 X 40 carport and a 10 x 20 Graceland Lofted Barn Cabin for extra storage. The GUEST HOME offers 1056 square feet of living space with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. See additional description. The living space is bright and airy and features a split bedroom floor plan and breakfast bar. Guest home is powered by 25 solar panels and sustained by banks of 12 AGM Maintenance Free batteries. 1 private well services both homes. Power is also located nearby if you would prefer that option. This property would be perfect for multi-generational housing or could use guest home as rental income! Property is all off-grid but only 10 miles from town. Best of both worlds! Option to purchase home with 80 acres and additional private well on the upper 40 acres available. See MLS #6731913

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11432 E Quicksilver Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$549,995

5 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,096 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6736112

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Large 5-Bedroom, All Bedrooms are large, formal Dining room, Kitchen Nook plus formal Dining Room, Pantry , Living room open to the Island Kitchen, Main floor Master Bedroom plus another on upper floor, Huge Loft Rec room, No smokers or pets ever, Southern facing, Two car Garage, new Epoxy floor, 2 new Trane 4 ton AC units, 10 year warranty, These are gas for lowest cost vs electric, Brand new Tile roof, 10 year warranty, New vinyl thermopane windows and blinds, New Tile flooring throughout the home, new bath fixtures, Large 7,000 sq ft lot, Low maintenance backyard big enough for a pool, Lockable side gate, lowest HOA dues, Lowest taxes for this large a home, Great Parks, Kids play areas, Easy commute to both 202 and the 60 freeway, This is the lowest priced 5 Bedroom in 85212 New Roof Warranty

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28430 N 51st Street Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$549,995

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,710 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6758424

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Close to Dynamite and Tatum Blvd., Close to Desert Hill Shopping Center, Located on a Cul-De-Sac,Great floor plan, Large Master Bedroom with large two vanity, Shower/Tub, Bath, private water closet, large walkin Closet, Updated Kitchen with Stainless Appliances and new Refrigerator and stainless sink, Open to the Dining or Family room, Super high ceiling Living room also, Two other bedrooms are at opposite ends of the upstairs and share a full bath, Two Car garage has lots of storage shelves and brand new Epoxy floor, Large private backyard that's easy maintenance, Close to the 101 and 51 freeways, easy commute to the downtown Phoenix, Scottsdale areas, 30 minutes to the Airport, This is the lowest priced 3 bedroom, 3 bath home in Cave Creek, Has low HOA fee and low taxes

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2606 E Abe Truckle Avenue San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

$549,990

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,171 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6730768

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Located in San Tan Valley, this adorable single story, 2171 sqare foot residence boasts a meticulously designed living space. Crafted with a keen eye for both style and functionality, this home harmoniously blends modern elegance with timeless comfort. This home seamlessly integrates open-concept living, featuring a den, 8' doors, 4-panel center sliding glass door, a large kitchen adorned with quartz countertops, white cabinets and stainless steel appliances. The expansive owner's suite includes dual vanities in the bathroom and a large walk-in closet. Additional bedrooms offer ample space for family or guests, each thoughtfully designed with comfort in mind. Complete with a 4-car garage, two car tandem and a RV garage this residence represents the epitome of ideal living.

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4042 S 177th Avenue Goodyear, AZ 85338

$549,990

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,530 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6780520

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover this exceptional single-story home in Goodyear, designed with 2,530 square feet of spacious elegance. With five bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a three-car tandem garage, this home offers both style and functionality. The grand foyer leads to a large open-concept kitchen featuring 36-inch umber slate cabinets, pristine white quartz countertops, a generous island, and a walk-in pantry, perfect for cooking and gatherings. Each bedroom includes a walk-in closet, with the primary suite boasting a huge walk-in closet and a luxurious en-suite bathroom complete with dual vanities, a soaking tub, and a walk-in shower. Thoughtfully selected finishes like Dal Vicinity white wood-like tile flooring, cozy beige carpet, and black pendant lighting add a modern touch. Enjoy a large covered patio ideal for outdoor relaxation. This home includes all appliances, from the kitchen to the washer, dryer, and window treatments, offering convenience and value. Please note, this property is currently under construction and will be ready in approximately six weeks. Located in a desirable neighborhood near schools, parks, shopping, and dining, this home will soon be the perfect blend of comfort, style, and convenience, waiting for its first residents.

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5606 W Thurman Drive Laveen, AZ 85339

$549,990

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,623 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6693133

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this brand-new construction home! You drive up to a Farmhouse exterior with front desert landscaping, with the interior boasting 2623 sq ft on all one level offering a comfortable and spacious living space. The well-designed open concept floor plan features 9ft ceilings, 4 bedrooms and 3 and a half bathrooms with a 3-car tandem garage. Bedrooms 3 and 4 share a Jack-N-Jill bathroom in the front of the home, along with an additional bedroom and bathroom, while the primary suite is tucked away in the back of the home creating the ideal split floorplan. All bathrooms provide a clean quartz countertop with square modern sinks. The primary bedroom in the back of the home offers a spacious and private retreat with double square sinks, quartz countertops for the vanity and primary shower surrounds, extra linen closet for storage, and private water closet. The 3-car tandem garage allows for ample storage and additional parking. The design promotes seamless flow between the living, dining, and kitchen areas making it ideal for entertaining. Additionally, the formal dining space has a butler pantry are that connects into the kitchen creating an elegant space with additional cabinetry. The kitchen boasts a large island with beautiful granite countertops, contemporary shaker style white 42 upper cabinets, and subway style backsplash in the kitchen. The large great room offers ample entertaining space with a 8ft 4-Panel Slider for easy access to the covered patio. This home is fully move-in ready with all your appliances installed! You'll find stainless-steel kitchen appliances including dishwasher, gas range, and refrigerator. The plank tile floors throughout the home offer durability and easy maintenance, while creating a cohesive and stylish look. Plush carpeting with an enhanced carpet pad in the bedrooms adds a touch of comfort and coziness. In the laundry room, located off the garage entry, the matching washer and dryer ensure your home is equipped to take on whatever your family throws at it! Estimated to be complete in June. Located right off the new Loop 202 and Dobbins. Great location close to dining, freeways, parks, and entertainment.

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685 E Aurora Drive San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

$549,990

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,970 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6721226

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Move into a New Home Now!!! Est Completion Nov. 2024!!!! - Welcome to Edgewood Villas in the Queen Creek Corridor. Step into this exquisite home designed with Loft ''Looks'' interior selections. Cooking is effortless with premium Bosch gourmet appliances, elegant white kitchen cabinets complemented by open shelving and an expansive island, perfect for hosting memorable family gatherings. The open floor plan fosters togetherness while providing serene personal space. Indulge in the Primary Suite with a spa-like bath including a soaking tub and showcased by a barn door. This home is certified as Dept. of Energy ''Zero Energy Ready Home'' equipped with solar prewire and an EV charger outlet. ^^^Homes have been significantly discounted and have the option of short/long term interest rate buydowns when choosing our preferred Lender. Additional eligibility and limited time restrictions apply.

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5330 W Jackalope Lane Laveen, AZ 85339

$549,990

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,214 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6732836

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MLS#6732836 January 2025 Completion! Experience modern luxury in the all-new Hudson model at Tierra Montana Encore. This stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bath home with a 2-car garage welcomes you with an elegant paver front porch. Step inside to discover a spacious open floor plan that seamlessly integrates the heart of the home. The kitchen, featuring pristine white quartz countertops and a gas cooktop with a single oven, caters to both culinary enthusiasts and everyday convenience. Relax in the generously designed living space, which offers both style and functionality. Retreat to the primary suite, complete with an ensuite bath and ample closet space for a peaceful escape. Three additional bedrooms and well-appointed bathrooms ensure comfort for both family and guests. Design options include: Signature Canvas Collection - Manuscript.

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16707 W Whispering Wind Drive Surprise, AZ 85387

$549,990

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,432 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6761168

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Up to 3% of Base Price or total purchase price, whichever is less, is available through preferred lender.'' The Avelino AllGen floorplan offers 4 bedrooms, a second kitchen, 3 baths, a soft water plumbing loop, a no-step shower, a 2' garage extension, and 8' interior doors. Highlights include granite kitchen countertops, a gas range, and upgraded flooring.

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22865 E Roundup Way Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$549,990

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,949 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6782621

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

'' Step into the Larkspur floorplan, with 1949 Sqft this home that offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, a den, and a spacious backyard, providing ample space for comfortable living and outdoor enjoyment. The kitchen boasts 42'''' Sarsaparilla shaker cabinets, Carrara breeze quartz countertops, and a 3 x12 white white tile backsplash. Natural 6 x36 plank tile floors in the main living areas offer durability and sophistication, neutral plush carpeting in the bedrooms and den adds comfort. This home comes fully equipped with stainless steel appliances including a gas range, microwave, dishwasher, refrigerator, white washer/dryer, blinds, and a garage door opener ensuring convenience from day one. Experience seamless indoor-outdoor living with a 4-panel center slider glass door in the greatroom leading to the covered patio. Additionally, enjoy the elegance and spaciousness of 8' doors throughout the home. Don't miss the opportunity to tour our homes and experience the exceptional living experience awaiting you at Madera.

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20240 W Catalina Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$549,990

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,456 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6655730

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MOVE-IN BEFORE THE HOLIDAYS! Amethyst floor plan with 3 bedrooms, 3 baths and a 3 car garage. This home is stunning and has plenty of storage space including all bedrooms have walk in closets. Multi slide door at the extended covered patio. Pavers at drive, walk and entry. Gas appliance package in stainless steel, 30'' cooktop, microwave & canopy hood. Tahoe Maple Painted Boulder ''Gray'' cabinets throughout. Bianco Typhoon Polished granite tops in kitchen and owner's bath. Stainless steel under mount single bowl kitchen sink. Flooring includes EMS Riverside Yaris 20x24 in all areas of the home except Bedrooms & closets. Dual sinks at bath 2. Gas stub for future BBQ. Garage service door and so much more. BELOW MARKET FINANCING INCLUDED WITH THIS HOME!!! BELOW MARKET INTEREST RATE SPECIALS AVAILABLE! INCLUDED MOVE-IN READY PACKAGES AVAILABLE! Please verify all information with onsite agent . Thank you!

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20245 W Catalina Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$549,990

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,510 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6686329

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MOVE-IN THIS YEAR! It's the beautiful Jade floor plan in the Arroyo Seco community. 4 bedrooms, 3 baths and a 2 car garage plus a large storage area. Pavers at the drive, walk and entry, Stainless steel gas appliance package with 30'' cooktop, wall oven and canopy hood. Tahoe maple slate - (gray) cabinets throughout. AZT Della Terra Quartz Linen countertops in kitchen and restrooms. Upgrade flooring includes EMS Riverside Firenza 20x20 tile in all areas of the home except bedrooms and closets. 5'' baseboards with 3 1/4'' door casings throughout. Dual sinks at bath 3. Interior two tone paint in ''Whiskers''. 8' tall garage door with two remotes, Garage service door for easy access into the back yard and so much more. BELOW MARKET FINANCING INCLUDED WITH THIS HOME!!! BELOW MARKET INTEREST RATE SPECIALS AVAILABLE! INCLUDED MOVE-IN READY PACKAGES AVAILABLE! Please verify all information with onsite agent . Thank you!

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