3 Things You Must Do after Inheriting a Home

3 Things You Must Do after Inheriting a HomeThere can be a lot of excitement when it comes to the realization that you’ve inherited a home, but simply because it’s an inheritance doesn’t mean there aren’t a few strings attached. Whether you’re expecting to be gifted with a home in the future or you’re currently going through this process, here are a few things you may need to watch out for.

The State Of The Mortgage

Once a home has been effectively handed over to you, it’s important to determine the status of the mortgage with the lender and if anything is still owed. While you have the option of taking over the mortgage in a lot of cases, in the event that there’s a reversible mortgage or you’re choosing to rent it out as a second property, you may not be able to transfer the mortgage. While this can often be a rather seamless process, if money is owed there can be other factors to consider.

Determine If You Want It

If you already have a first home and don’t want to take care of your second property as a rental unit, it’s important to realize that keeping the home may not be the best decision for you. While you have the option of organizing a short sale if you’d like to get it off of your hands, you can also contact a real estate agent who will be able to provide you with advice on how to proceed if you’re unwilling (or unable) to take control of the property.

Is It In Good Condition?

Whether you want to keep the home or not, there can be cases where it’s not even a question if it’s a home that you’re going to end up investing money into without much return. In the situation that a lot of money is owed on the house or there are serious issues with its general condition, you may want to release yourself from the inheritance and move on with your financial situation still intact.

There can be an instant feeling of acquired wealth in the event that you’ve inherited a home, but a home in bad condition or that you don’t want to take care of can end up being more of a headache than anything else. If you’re currently considering your options when it comes to a home inheritance, please contact me for more information – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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134 Fay Canyon Road Sedona, AZ 86336

$3,550,000
4 Beds
6 Baths
4,458 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781130
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Experience luxury living in Sedona's prestigious Seven Canyons gated community. Located on the best lot on FaynCanyon Rd w/ panoramic views, this home was designed by PHX Architecture & built by Dorn Homes. The open floor plan boasts a greatroom w/ 23' ceiling & sliding glass doors framing stunning red rock views. Enjoy seamless indoor-outdoor living w/ 2 patios featuring a built-in barbecue, recessed TV, gas fire pits, & hot tub. This turnkey residence offers $100,000+ in landscaping upgrades, including private stairs leading directly to the clubhouse and pool. Control4 system technology enhances ease of use, integrating A/V & lighting throughout. Enjoy the private clubhouse, dining, pro-shop, fitness, and pool access, creating a complete lifestyle in Sedona's most exclusive community. Welcome to 134 Fay Canyon Rd, your own private sanctuary located in the coveted Retreat neighborhood in Seven Canyons. This impeccably designed floor plan allows for easy single story living for a couple with the ability to accommodate all of your friends and family on the lower level when they visit Sedona. This home embodies Sedona with its A+ Red Rock views, warm and cozy designer finishes, and incredible location with hiking trails, golf, and abundant outdoor activities right from your doorstep. This home is being sold mostly furnished (other than a few personal items) and is ready for you to move in! FIRST FLOOR: The first floor contains the living room, dining room, kitchen, walk-in pantry, laundry room, powder bathroom, primary bedroom/bathroom/closet, and outdoor patio. Our journey begins in the fully fenced private, lush courtyard that features a basalt water fountain, olive tree, upgraded landscaping, and shaded sitting area. The glass front door and wall of windows allow you to instantly welcome the red rock views, which this home is centered around. Upon entering the foyer, there is a powder bathroom on the left, which features a designer stone vanity and artisanal hand-crafted glass sink. The first floor has beautiful, large format travertine tile that feels delightful on the feet; it's as if you are walking in a Roman temple, but in Sedona! The home is designed around open concept living with the living room, dining room, and kitchen flowing effortlessly into one another. This room is 23 feet tall and is graced by clerestory windows, which allows gorgeous glowing light into the home at all times of day. This home is a light-lover's dream. LIVING ROOM: The living room is centered around the floor to ceiling stacked stone gas fireplace, which is not only a focal point of the home but is also highly functional and tremendously cozy on those crisp Sedona nights. The expansive first floor patio and sliding wall of windows from the living room allows for true indoor-outdoor living (see photos) with ample seating and a plumbed gas fire pit. The living room is adjacent to the dining room and offers supreme views over any restaurant in Sedona. Can you say order in? Or, perhaps whip up a meal in the state of the art kitchen... KITCHEN: The kitchen is fit for a chef with its high end, luxury appliances and an intelligent layout. Don't we all appreciate a functional kitchen? Appliances include a 36 WOLF gas range, SubZero fridge/freezer, SubZero wine fridge, SubZero beverage fridge, Miele steam oven, and built-in Miele Coffee Machine. Yes, you heard that right... you can enjoy gourmet cappuccinos (and more!) from the comforts of your own home. All of these appliances are nestled into the warm, solid wood cabinetry that are topped with creamy quartzite counters. Last but not least, there is even a walk-in pantry, wow! A true chef's dream. And did we mention the view? Of course, the kitchen is centered on the most breath GIVING views in all of Sedona. If you want to let the outdoors in even more, open the wall of kitchen windows to enjoy your kitchen with an al fresco flare. A door opens to the outdoor dining and entertainment area which features a built-in grill, retractable flat screen TV, and built-in heaters that make this an area you can enjoy year round. LAUNDRY/GARAGE: The laundry room is tucked just off the kitchen area and features built in cabinets with ample storage, a laundry sink, and a folding counter. And of course, even the laundry room has a view (see photos)! The garage is accessed from the laundry room and has epoxy floors, abundant storage space, and a dog washing station for Fido. The driveway is flat, which is somewhat rare in Sedona with our hilly topography. PRIMARY SUITE: Next on our journey, we head to the primary suite, which is on the first floor off of the living room. This suite is truly a private retreat with its cozy designer gas fireplace with backlighting (see photos), soaring red rock views, huge spacious closet, and a bathroom that is outfitted like a spa. You may never want to leave. Enjoy coffee in bed (from your Miele built-in coffee machine!) while gazing at your own private, red rock view that is all yours. And if you are a late riser, not to worry. The primary bedroom is outfitted with double blackout window treatments so you can get as much shut eye as you desire. The primary bathroom has a walk-in shower, oversized BainUltra soaking tub, double sink vanity, and not one, but two separate toilet water closets. Yes, you read that right, two toilets! That concludes our journey of the main living spaces. Next, we head to the ground floor, where all the fun happens! GROUND FLOOR: The ground floor features three en-suite bedrooms, an executive office, and an additional family room/lounge with a bistro bar. These spaces flow onto the lower level covered patio area that offers wonderful seating, a jacuzzi hot tub, and an astroturf grassy area for you or Fido to enjoy. Each guest bedroom is incredibly spacious and the en-suite bathrooms have double sink vanities, walk-in tile showers, and ample closet space. Your guests may just want to move in with you! This lower level also has built in rock steps leading out of the backyard that will take you directly to the clubhouse, pool, and fitness center. This dramatically shortens the walk to the clubhouse and this property is the only home that features these special steps in this neighborhood. Jaw-dropping views, high end, luxury living, and a cozy yet contemporary home... you truly CAN have it all at 134 Fay Canyon Rd. Don't wait long because this gem of a home will be snapped up quickly. This home is ready for its new owners, perhaps you!

5635 E Lincoln Drive Unit 13 Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$3,550,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,000 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6793601
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Meticulously crafted home on a fabulous lot in highly coveted Mountain Shadows. Offering the highest quality finishes and superior construction throughout. Completely remodeled and expanded-new framing and new roof offer higher ceilings. Featuring an open great room floor plan and 3 spacious en suite bedrooms, this home is perfect for low maintenance year-round living or as a lock and leave 2nd home. Gourmet kitchen is equipped with Hestan appliances, high-end cabinetry, and a large walk-in pantry. Seamless Indoor/outdoor living from dining to courtyard and from great room to patio with strategically placed doors. Covered patio, outdoor fireplace, mountain views, low maintenance turf, built in BBQ, and grandfathered golf cart garage for storage--move in and enjoy stress free living!

11841 N 65th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$3,510,750
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
5,071 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6719609
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
NEW from Thomas James Homes with an opportunity to select some interior finishes during early stages of construction! This house has a great address, great schools and great views. Sitting in the highly desirable Scottsdale neighborhood, this beautiful 5 bedroom, 5.5 bathroom is the definition of exceptional design. Wide plank wood flooring, decorative ceiling and wall treatments, including beams and wood paneling, impressive custom lighting, outstanding millwork, stone and tile accents, a gorgeous floor to ceiling fireplace, shaker cabinetry and a 4-car garage are just a sampling of the outstanding finishes going into the home. The large single story open concept floorplan is expertly crafted with a large interior courtyard leading to the home's entrance. Inside you'll find a large great room and luxury kitchen joined by a large quartz countertop island. The grand suite hosts a large his and hers walk-in closet and a spa like bathroom with a freestanding soaking tub and walk-in shower. The secondary bedrooms throughout the home have en-suite bathrooms. In addition to the bedrooms, you'll find ample added living space with a private office and a kitchen prep area adjoining a bonus room and a game room. Home will feature fully landscaped front and back yards with a pool and spa, providing great Arizona outdoor living space. Expected completion in Summer of 2025.

487 Loy Lane Sedona, AZ 86336

$3,500,000
3 Beds
4 Baths
3,828 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6647459
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Imagine the best forever views of the most spectacular and most photographed Red Rock Vistas in all of Sedona! Enjoy glowing sunsets of Cathedral Rock Vista and expansive Forest Service views to the East from this top of the hill location, and gorgeous greenbelt views of Oak Creek to the West. Hear sounds of the meandering creek from your front patio. New luxury construction home with modern open floor plan, 3828 SF, 3 bedrooms/4 baths plus recreation room located in the prestigious gated subdivision of Sedona Ranch on Oak Creek. Private estate size parcel of 2.54 acres adjacent to Forest Service land. Hike out from your doorstep to 100s of miles of trails in Turkey Creek area, Red Rock State Park, Crescent Moon Ranch and Cathedral Rock. Home to be completed around August 1, 2024.

11970 S Blue Bell Road Mayer, AZ 86333

$3,500,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,406 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6628769
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
There are four wells located on the property The site has one main house and four smaller homes. (1400sqft Main House) Over 60,000sqft of covered horse facilities. Includes an enormous indoor covered show ring 36,000sqft, an outdoorshow/roping ring, two paddocks for horses, a hot walker and open land available for growing feed for crops In Mayer, the summers are hot, dry, and mostly clear and the winters are cold and partly cloudy. Over the course of the year, temperatures vary from 31°F to 92°F and are rarely below 23°F or above 99°F. 70 miles north of Phoenix

20445 E Sunset Court Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$3,500,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
5,737 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6771442
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
20445 E Sunset Ct, Queen Creek, AZ 85142 - The Pecans' Finest Gem Step into unparalleled luxury at this 5,737 sqft masterpiece, nestled in The Pecans—a premier, gated community in the East Valley, renowned for its grand estate homes and lush pecan groves. Remodeled by a top-tier custom home builder celebrated for impeccable craftsmanship in Paradise Valley and Arcadia, this residence offers an elevated living experience. This 4-bedroom, 4.5-bath estate is a flawless blend of sophistication and innovation. The heart of the home is its newly reimagined kitchen, a chef's dream with custom in-set cabinetry, Wolf and Subzero appliances, and designer lighting that enhances the airy, neutral palette throughout. Every room exudes refined elegance, and the layout is meticulously crafted to balance open living spaces with private retreats. The reimagined backyard is a showstopper. The pool was thoughtfully relocated to align with expansive glass sliders in the living room, offering breathtaking views and seamless indoor-outdoor living. The outdoor space now feels like a private resort, complete with modernized landscaping, and luxurious entertainment areas perfect for any gathering. No detail was overlooked; no expense spared. This is a must-see for discerning buyers looking to own a piece of luxury in one of Queen Creek's most exclusive enclaves.

1187 S Val Vista Drive Gilbert, AZ 85296

$3,500,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,685 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6729558
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Rare Acreage in Gilbert. Nearly 5 acres. Existing home is approximately 2700 sqft. Or build your own dream home in the heart of Gilbert on this irrigated horse property. Looking for an investment property - Many Development Opportunities are available on these 3 parcels currently zoned R43. Adjoining nearly 5 acre parcel may also be available for those seeking larger acreage. Don't miss this rare opportunity to live on or develop roughly 5-10 acres in a highly desired Gilbert location - just 1.5 miles to Loop 202 or 4 miles to US 60.

3702 E Brown Road Mesa, AZ 85205

$3,500,000
9 Beds
11 Baths
10,522 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6794359
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
**Welcome to Your Dream Home!** By adding your TLC. Discover the perfect blend of luxury and functionality in this stunning 10,500 sq. ft. single-level residence, nestled on a sprawling 5-acre lot. This exceptional property offers an expansive layout with a finished basement, providing ample space for both relaxation and entertainment. Enjoy the convenience of a separate guest house, apartment, ideal for visitors or as a private retreat. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the incredible amenities, including a soccer field, batting cage, and tennis courts—perfect for active families and entertaining guests. With RV garages for your recreational vehicles, you'll have plenty of space to store your toys and enjoy the great outdoors. This property truly has it all, and with No HOA. You can enjoy the freedom to personalize your space to your liking. Don't miss this rare opportunity to own a piece of paradise. Schedule your private tour today and experience everything this remarkable home has to offer!

7801 N Sherri Lane Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$3,500,000
4 Beds
5.5 Baths
6,173 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781385
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled in the desirable Tatum Canyon of Paradise Valley, this exceptional home spans over 6,174 square feet on a private acre corner lot, offering sweeping mountain views in every direction. Designed for sophisticated living, this residence blends elegance with practicality.On entering, one is greeted by a light-filled great room with soaring ceilings, glass walls, and sliding doors that create a seamless flow between the indoor and outdoor spaces. A meticulously landscaped backyard offers the ultimate retreat with a stunning pool, water features, spa, outdoor BBQ, ramada, a sport court ideal for pickleball, and beautiful lawns — all set against the backdrop of the canyon's natural beauty. The home boasts four spacious bedrooms, a dedicated office The primary suite, positioned in its own wing, is a luxurious sanctuary with a lavish bath, a 360-degree mirrored dressing room, and a cozy sitting area complete with fireplace. Designed with entertaining in mind, the chef's kitchen is a culinary masterpiece, equipped with Viking appliances, concrete countertops, and a professional-grade wine cellar. An 8-foot butcher-block island, floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, and open-concept design make the kitchen and family room perfect for both intimate and grand gatherings. Additional spaces include a formal dining room with a dry bar, family room, and a 25-foot game room with a wet bar. Each of the four bedrooms is en-suite, with a guest suite for ultimate privacy. An elegant living room along with a library/office with a loft, complement the living areas. Previously owned by a sports star's family, this one-of-a-kind home offers an unparalleled opportunity to own a private, gated resort with dramatic views, luxurious amenities, and the perfect blend of comfort and elegance. Conveniently located with easy access to premier shopping, dining, hiking, and biking trails, this home is just a short drive from Phoenix Sky Harbor and Scottsdale airports, making it the ideal combination of luxury and convenience.

13202 E Poinsettia Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$3,500,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
5,075 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781920
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Built in 2016, this single level stunner is located at the end of a beautiful private cul-de-sac lot in the gated community of Rancho Terrasina, with only 15 custom estates. Privacy abounds with an enclosed entry courtyard and incredible resort yard, blending seamlessly with unobstructed mountain views. Three ensuites, an office and a bonus room in the main house, plus the casita with a bonus room off the courtyard! Chefs kitchen open to the north exposure backyard with sliding doors across the back bringing the outside in and allowing for endless hours of fun with the resort style heated spa, large lap pool, swim up bar, sunken ramada, BBQ area, Bocce court, and water slide! Plenty of grass for playing and down-valley city views from your owner's retreat hot tub off the primary bedroom! Available fully furnished separate bill of sale!

7552 E Whisper Rock Trail Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$3,500,000
4 Beds
5 Baths
6,227 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6788251
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning 4 Bed+Den, 5 Bath,Custom Home Located on Premium Acre Lot,Crafted By Architect Lee Hutchinson & Home Builder Phil Smith,Located in Guard & Gated Community of Whisper Rock Estates, Elegant Kitchen w/Alder Wood Cabinets & Granite Countertops,Gas Cook Top, Double Wall Oven, Built-In Refrigerator, Kitchen Island w/Breakfast Bar,Walk-In Pantry,Family Room w/Gas Fireplace,Separate Formal Dining Room,Formal Living Room w/High Vault & Hand-Hewn Beams Throughout,Master Bedroom w/Massive Walk-In Closet,Master Bathroom w/Dual Sinks,Dual Toilets & Bidet,Walk-In Shower & Soaking Bath Tub,Fully Equipped Theater Room, Entertainers Backyard w/Dining & Living Room w/Fireplace,Built-In Grill,Elevated Terrance w/Views of Wash & Golf Course,Heated Swimming Pool & Spa, Gated Driveway w/3 Car Garage.

3800 E Lincoln Drive Unit 5 Phoenix, AZ 85018

$3,500,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
4,712 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6787976
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Fully renovated and well-executed to the studs plus panoramic 180 degree views! This expansive townhome, which sits at the end of a cul-de-sac within an exclusive, 24 hour guard-gated community (with two pools plus tennis & pickleball) is a lock & leave dream. Wood flooring throughout, Sub-Zero/Wolf appliances, quartz countertops, eat-in kitchen, three primary suites (one upstairs, two downstairs), high ceilings and two living rooms make this a must see. There is abundant natural light in every room, as well as jaw-dropping views. You'll live in the heart of Paradise Valley - just minutes from the area's top resorts, golf & dining - with unparalleled privacy. Additional upgrades include new electrical, new plumbing and a second laundry room so there's one on each floor.