5 Things Renters Should Know About Owning

Moving can already be one of the most stressful times in a person’s life, but it may be doubly so for a new home owner.  For renters who aspire to be home owners, transitioning from an apartment to a house requires a shift in thinking that you may or may not be prepared to make. The financial changes that come with owning, the need to consider planting longer-term roots in a neighborhood, and new neighborhood rules are things renters may not be thinking about enough.Sold House

You need to understand how your financial investment is changing. Renters may see an increase in your monthly rent every lease term, but you don’t see exactly where it goes — toward property taxes and insurance, even “luxuries” such as trash pickup. As home owners, you don’t have a landlord who handles all those details, so you need to be ready to juggle the financial responsibilities of home ownership. Be aware of the importance of budgeting to make sure you make smart financial decisions during this process.

You need to be happy with your location for the long-term. As a renter, you can bounce around from home to home every year if you want. But when you own a home, you have to stay put — unless you plan on renting it out, which most home owners don’t.  Location is going to play a much more significant role in your future, so you should think about evaluating school districts, access to amenities, and commute time now as you search for your next home.

You may need to abide by new rules. Renters don’t think about possible homeowner association rules you may be governed by, such as trash pickup rules or any curfews or rules pertaining to animals. Make sure to get all the information on neighborhood rules and associations to understand what your new obligations will be.

You’ll need to get into the mindset of an owner. Life as you know it is about to change. Once you purchases a new home, you will no longer have a landlord to tend to your many needs, including lawn care and plumbing.  I will provide you with contact information for local industry experts including certified specialists ranging from HVAC companies to carpenters to electricians. You don’t have to do everything yourself – however, you will have to pay for it yourself.

Know your neighbors can affect your home value. Renters typically don’t care who their neighbors are as long as they’re quiet (enough).  Property value comes down to curb appeal. Less-appealing neighborhoods often have more-appealing prices, which is not always good for buyers and home owners.

When you’re ready to stop renting and become a homeowner, I’d love to help.  Give me a call – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

Source: Rob Rimeris is owner of EverSafe Moving Co. in Philadelphia. EverSafe is a five-star, full-service company that offers affordable moving and storage services.  http://realtormag.realtor.org/daily-news/2016/08/11/5-things-renters-should-know-about-owning?om_rid=AAT6BZ&om_mid=_BXthPGB9RSTgPN&om_ntype=NARWeekly

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20543 E Excelsior Court Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$1,350,000
5 Beds
4 Baths
3,780 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6728874
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home! This stunning custom-built residence is situated on over an acre of land and boasts breathtaking mountain views. The property features a huge pool, perfect for entertaining or relaxing in your private oasis. Inside, you'll find 5 spacious bedrooms, 4 luxurious bathrooms, and a large loft area, ideal for a home office or additional living space. The gorgeous front courtyard is adorned with pavers and fencing, creating an inviting entrance. The kitchen is a chef's delight, equipped with white cabinets, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, under-cabinet lighting, and two pantries for ample storage. The master bedroom is a true retreat with backyard patio access, two large walk-in closets, a separate shower with double heads and a pressure/temp valve, a jetted bathtub, and double sinks with a vanity. Step outside to the backyard, where a jacuzzi and stunning water features await. The travertine decking, raised sitting area, gas fire pit, and artificial turf surround the pool, creating a luxurious outdoor living space. There's still plenty of room to design your own dream oasis, and mature orange trees line the west side of the property, adding to the charm. Don't miss the opportunity to own this exquisite home that perfectly blends luxury, comfort, and breathtaking views.

10622 E Tamarisk Way Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,350,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,922 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6751250
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this charming home nestled within the prestigious guarded gates of Desert Mountain, located in the serene village of Cochise Ridge. This residence offers two spacious primary ensuite bedrooms, perfect for comfort and privacy, along with a versatile central den/office. The updated kitchen is a chef's delight, featuring stainless steel appliances and a cozy breakfast nook that overlooks the inviting front courtyard. Step outside to the expansive wrap-around patio, where you'll find a spa, built-in BBQ, and multiple seating areas, all designed to enjoy the breathtaking views of Pinnacle Peak, McDowell Mountains, Continental Mountains, and the twinkling city lights in the distance. This home is a perfect retreat, whether you're seeking a lock-and-leave option or a full-time residence in one of Scottsdale's most sought-after communities.

5442 E Saint John Road Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,350,000
5 Beds
4 Baths
3,845 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6719935
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Major Price Improvement on this profitable STR Investment or create the perfect primary residence in a highly desirable neighborhood. Updated TW Lewis Home in Arabian Crest! There's no HOA, and it's conveniently located near Copper Canyon Elementary located in the popular 85254 ''Magic Zip code.'' This property is within 10 minutes from TPC Scottsdale, The Westin Kierland Golf Club, the Mayo Clinic Hospital, Kierland Commons, Scottsdale Quarter, and Desert Ridge Marketplace. The home has a downstairs primary suite with direct access to the patio and pool area. The large owner's bathroom includes a separate tub and shower, and plenty of closet space. The big family room has high ceilings, a gas fireplace, patio access, and an open layout connecting to the kitchen and breakfast room. The kitchen features beautiful Bali veined Calacutta quartz countertops with a full backsplash and Samsung black-stainless appliances, including a double wall oven. Upstairs, there's a very large bedroom with its own bathroom, accessible through double doors, which can be used as a bedroom suite or a second family room, plus three additional bedrooms. The home has plantation shutters throughout. The well-kept backyard features lush landscaping, newer turf, and a pebble-finished pool, all perfectly oriented with north/south exposure.

2342 N Lemon Circle Mesa, AZ 85215

$1,350,000
7 Beds
4 Baths
3,807 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6715925
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
BACK ON THE MARKET with over $60,000 worth in upgrades/improvements!!! NEW resurfaced pool, NEW roof on main house and gazebo, NEW AC!!! This is a move in ready and gorgeous custom home located in the highly sought after Spyglass Estates! On almost a full acre this property is one of a kind. Lush private backyard on flood irrigation with a heated pool, putting green, ramada, RV pad with all hook-ups and a variety of citrus trees. The gourmet kitchen is open and bright and offers gorgeous granite counters, tons of custom built cabinets and high end appliances. Split floorplan with the primary suite and 3 bedrooms on one side and a private guest retreat on the other side. Surround sound throughout the house! And then the hidden gem of the property...the newly built casita with a completely private and separate backyard. Custom attic space above the garage with stable flooring provides quite a bit of additional storage. All sheds on property convey as well. CAT 6 ethernet wiring throughout main house and casita. Most furniture and game tables available on separate bill of sale. Come see this one of a kind Mesa gem for yourselves!

16623 E Emerald Drive Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$1,350,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,749 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6752009
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Contemporary Southwest Retreat sitting on 1.013 acre offers sweeping views of Redrock Mtn, the Superstitions looking down a peaceful arroyo. Gracious courtyard entry welcomes guests and opens to an elegant great room. Gorgeously updated features vaulted ceilings, walls of massive windows with tons of space for friends and family. Chef's kitchen is designed for a crowd, offers granite island w/ breakfast seating, top-of-the-line appliances, tons of cabinetry, is dine-in, and allows the chef to be part of the celebration. Space for a dining room. Large primary suite plus 2 additional bedrooms, which one is ensuite, plus a den or 4th bedroom. Nice big 3-car garage with a separated bay that can also be a ''private space.'' Heated pool and Spa!

9436 E Thunder Pass Drive Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$1,350,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,486 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6668556
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MOUNTAIN VIEWS, CONTEMPORARY STYLE, SPACIOUS LAYOUT, DESERT BEAUTY all available now in ONE OF THE LOWEST PRICED custom homes in the community. Enjoy the supreme Arizona lifestyle in SUPERSTITION MOUNTAIN in this 3 bed/ 3.5 bath beautiful home with a solar heated pool and views from 3 outdoor patios. Contemporary split floor plan includes large open concept great room, master suite with large luxurious bathroom and huge walk-in closet, a 3-car extended and over-height garage with epoxy floors and storage cabinets, two large en suite guest rooms, large bonus room/game room or office with wet bar, formal dining room, sewing/craft room and beautiful kitchen with custom cabinetry, large kitchen island with counter seating, quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances. Outdoor entertaining space includes a solar heated pool to extend your swimming season by several months, new gas BBQ grill station, easy care artificial turf and plenty of covered patio space to enjoy the quiet surroundings and views. Updates include NEW water heater, NEW water softener, NEW solar pool heating system, NEW pool pump, NEW built-in BBQ, NEW garage cabinetry and NEW artificial turf in backyard. Home is in excellent condition and ready for you now! Superstition Mountain Golf & Country Club is a fabulous guard gated community, home to two private 18 hole Jack Nicklaus golf courses, a 50,000 sf remodeled clubhouse with fine dining, bar, patio dining and outdoor seating areas, fitness center with a beautiful heated pool, bocce ball, pickleball courts, tennis courts, walking trails and plenty of events and activities. Membership is optional and under separate agreement. Join in on the fun, you'll love the community atmosphere here!

8982 E Rusty Spur Place Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,350,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,062 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6733023
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
What an incredible opportunity to live in one of the most desired master planned communities in the entire valley of the sun, where active lifestyles meet modern day convenience. Welcome to DC Ranch, a magnificent 4,400 acre upscale master planned community consisting of 4 incredible villages featuring 26 unique neighborhoods with over 28,000 homes and 7000 plus DC Ranch residents. DC Ranch offers a diverse collection of architecture, resident amenities and outdoor experiences including 47 parks and over 50 miles of lush scenic paths and trails that safely guide you through this incredible community. The McDowell Sonoran Preserve surrounds much of DC Ranch and is considered by many residents as the ''backyard'' to the community. The McDowell Sonoran Preserve is the *(Click More)* nation's largest urban land preserve, encompassing 36,000 acres, one-third of the City of Scottsdale totaling 57 square miles. Enjoy hiking and biking? You'll enjoy exhilarating hikes, along with miles and miles of mountain and road biking with endless opportunities to truly enjoy the beautiful Sonoran Desert. The scenic paths and tranquil trails are truly breathtaking! They safely and conveniently connect neighborhoods and guide residents through a collection of exceptional interactive and scenic walkways linking the neighborhoods to the incredible parks, enchanting gardens, grassy play areas, playgrounds, wildlife viewpoints, community pools, recreation areas, award winning schools and Market Street! Market Street is right around the corner, just a minutes' drive, a short walk or bike ride. Market Street at DC Ranch is an upscale, mixed-use lifestyle center nestled within the DC Ranch community. Spanning approximately 37 acres, this vibrant destination boasts a main street theme, characterized by 15 architecturally unique buildings. Visitors can explore a diverse array of distinctive shops and boutiques, savor culinary delights at various restaurants, and enjoy neighborhood conveniences along with live music, all within this charming setting. Additionally, Market Street features office spaces, making it an ideal location for both leisure and business activities. A few of the amazing eateries and numerous local hot spots include Vic & Ola's, Flemings, Grimaldi's, All American Modern Sports Grill, Jalapeno Inferno, Eggstacy, Liberty Station, The Living Room, and Pescada. Residents of The DC Ranch have access to two recreation centers, offering year-round activities to get fit, stay fit and enjoy a healthy lifestyle. The Homestead Community Center and the Desert Camp Community Center blend nicely with community parks providing a ton of amenities including vine covered ramadas, BBQ grills, fire pits, seat walls, shade canopies, adventure playground, grassy play areas perfect for picnics, a heated pool open year-round, splash pad and lighted tennis, pickleball, softball, baseball and basketball courts. The Homestead Playhouse community theatre includes Indoor and outdoor event facilities complete with a commercial kitchen. The opportunities to have fun in the parks, playgrounds and open spaces are truly endless. The perfect place for an evening stroll, bike ride, hike or jog with your friends, family and neighbors. DC Ranch offers a wide variety of classes to help you meet your fitness goals and help you connect with other residents including all levels of yoga, strength and balance, health and wellness and aqua fitness classes. Just a short 30 minute drive to Barlett Lake Recreation Reservoir. It's an outdoor enthusiast's dream destination for action and adventure. With more than 2,815 acres of open water and beautiful, unblemished lush desert landscape. Enjoy kayaking, fishing, scuba diving, camping, stargazing and some awesome off roading. Catch a D-backs spring training game, the stadium is a quick and easy 20 minute drive. DC Ranch is perfectly placed in North Scottsdale with quick and convenient access to the loop 101 freeway. Just 15 minutes to Scottsdale Airpark and 30 minutes to Sky Harbor and downtown Phoenix. This home is carefully set on one of the most amazing lots in the DC Ranch Villas! It's private, with only one neighbor. It's perfect, with incredible orientation for mountain views with no other homes directly in front or behind you. It's oversized, with a big backyard and side yard built for entertaining and surrounded with spectacular scenery and gorgeous views of the McDowell Mountains. This popular single level split floor plan is versatile and currently set up as a 2 bedroom with the Master Suite split to one side and the guest bedroom and den, office or bonus room on the other side. The inviting courtyard welcomes you to a dramatic entry that's light, bright and open featuring soaring ceilings with gorgeous hand scraped Hickory wood flooring, beautiful solid wood Alder doors, rounded corners, art niches, custom window covers, ceiling fans, designer two tone paint and upgraded lighting, hardware and fixtures with decorator touches throughout. The architectural detail is sincerely remarkable and incorporates attention to detail along with wonderful lighting and beautiful lines that create a modern and warm feel and flow. The great room is expansive, cheery, airy and warm with abundant natural lighting, soaring ceilings, a magnificent marble fireplace, custom built in media niche all surrounded by walls of scenic glass inviting the outside in creating an incredible extension of living space to this fabulous floor plan.Like to cook? Enjoy preparing lavish meals and memories in your wonderful open concept chefs kitchen featuring upgraded raised panel maple cabinets with gorgeous beveled edge granite slab countertops surrounded by a decorative backsplash. The kitchen includes a huge breakfast bar, double under mount sink, nice walk-in pantry, scenic picture windows and upgraded appliances complete with a KitchenAid stainless steel refrigerator, 5 burner gas cook top, custom stainless vent hood and built in microwave. The kitchen features a ton of great counter and cabinet space along with a wonderful private patio featuring a Dutch door that allows you to enjoy Arizona's wonderful weather inviting in a cool breeze and some AZ sunshine into your home. Formal dining offers a wonderful seating area showcasing floor to ceiling windows overlooking the scenic natural wash area full of lush desert plantings and stunning views of the McDowell Mountain Preserve. The dining area features an impressive chandelier and offers plenty of space to accommodate large dinner parties as well as intimate gatherings for a wonderful dining experience. Enjoy good food, great friends and memorable dinner parties. You will love this floor plan, it is spacious, yet efficient and combines quality and elegance, perfect for entertaining or a quiet night at home. Just off the hallway is a custom built media niche, perfect for a home office, hobby area or just surfing on the web. It includes rich maple cabinets with ample storage and natural wood countertops, a built-in desk and scenic picture window of the courtyard. The secondary bedroom is good sized with oil rubbed Hickory flooring, nice closet space, a remote ceiling fan, custom window covers and abundant natural lighting. The den, office or bonus room is truly a flex space, just perfect for that extra room or space that you're always looking for. It includes double entry doors, a private patio with mountain views, gorgeous Hickory wood floors, remote ceiling fan and custom built-in Alder cabinets featuring a work station with additional storage, display shelving and a built-in Murphy bed for an additional overnight guest, if ever needed. The hall bath has been meticulously remodeled with beautiful marble flooring, solid maple hardwood cabinetry, upgraded undermount sink and gorgeous marble slab countertops. It includes upgraded lighting, hardware and fixtures and a large and oversized marble finished shower with glass enclosure. The laundry room is perfectly placed within the floor plan for convenience and includes custom cabinets, rich marble flooring and a farmhouse sink complete with an decorative marble backsplash. The Seller is also including the existing front load washer and dryer. Now relax and retreat to the spacious master suite complete with high plate ceilings, warm wood Hickory flooring, custom window covers, remote ceiling fan, scenic mountain view windows and glass doors leading to your private patio for those late night dips in the hot tub. The spa inspired master bath update is fabulous including gorgeous maple cabinets, elegant marble flooring, an oversized double vanity with makeup station, dual sinks and a large wall to wall mirror. Enjoy the soothing garden soaking tub, walk-in closet, private toilet room and upgraded lighting, hardware and fixtures. The expansive marble shower features a rainbird head, shaving bench and custom glass enclosure. Want to get away...Grab a good book and glass of wine and head out to the cozy covered patio and enjoy Arizona's outdoor living at its finest. This backyard is ABSOLUTELY AMAZING and laid out perfectly for efficiency, relaxation, fun and entertaining. Turn on the water feature and step inside to soothing spa and let the stress just melt away. This is truly the place to relax, exhale and unwind while soaking up the incredible Arizona weather and the mesmerizing mountain views. Here you'll spend countless hours enjoying the classic southwest Saltillo tiled patio surrounded by towering trees, flowering bushes and shrubs all secured by rod iron view fencing. The patio includes a nice BBQ island along with ample seating areas for entertaining and family gatherings. The indoor & outdoor living spaces blend seamlessly to create an entertainment masterpiece perfect for large parties, intimate gatherings and outdoor living. Truly an entertainer's paradise and absolutely breathtaking! Both the front and backyard landscape watering systems are on a timer with auto watering. The home includes a soft water and R/O drinking water and security system. The spacious 2 car garage includes a garage keypad for convenient access. All of this and award winning DC Ranch schools, two world class country clubs and multiple recreation centers. DC Ranch is truly the number one the place to be for active lifestyles! Looking for a peaceful and tranquil place to unwind, relax, exhale and escape the daily pressures of our daily lives, this is it! This quality crafted move in ready home includes an impeccable selection of luxurious appointments and fine finishes that blend quality and attention to detail throughout this spectacular one of a kind opportunity. Better Hurry on this one!

18223 W Rancho Court Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$1,350,000
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,244 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6740239
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning Home with Modern Luxuries and Entertainer's Dream Spaces! Discover this exquisite 5 bedroom, 3.5 bath home nestled in the beautiful gated community of Russell Ranch, on a premium cul-de-sac lot. The property features an oversized 3 car garage, perfect for all your storage needs. Enjoy the flexibility of RV or casita potential with pre-installed plumbing. Inside, custom shutters adorn every window, enhancing both privacy and elegance. The expansive great room offers a perfect setting for gatherings and holiday celebrations. The home also boasts impressive front & back patios, ideal for entertaining or simply relaxing. Front & back landscape lighting, with customizable color options, adds a touch of sophistication to your outdoor spaces. Don't miss out on this exceptional property.

8974 E Rusty Spur Place Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,350,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,390 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6746787
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Complete renovation from top to bottom on this beautiful DC Ranch patio home! Nestled in a gated, grassy community, this home features all new hardwood flooring, bathroom flooring, plumbing fixtures, countertops, appliances, hardware, paint, and lighting. Kitchen walls have been opened up into dining room to offer a fresh new layout that is bright and inviting. Kitchen island reconfigured and extended a to beautiful & large waterfall island covered in stunning marble. Brand new refrigerator and custom & functional sink! 3rd bedroom is the casita; separate but connected to main home. Casita has small refrigerator, microwave, and sink and lovely bathroom. New artificial grass and plants in backyard.Views of McDowells & walking distance to Market Street shops & dining.

22006 E Alyssa Road Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$1,350,000
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,601 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6753398
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Impressive custom home on a 1-acre cul-de-sac lot with NO HOA! Enter this modern farmhouse to charming living/dining room with soaring ceiling. The family room offers surround sound, a fireplace and a media niche. Immaculate eat-in kitchen is updated with newer SS appliances, 2 walk-in pantries, granite counters, an island with a breakfast bar and a custom backsplash. The owners retreat includes a walk-in closet with custom closet system, a private balcony, and a lavish en-suite including dual sinks, a soaking tub and dual shower heads in the spacious shower. Continue downstairs in the oversized basement featuring plush carpet, storage closet and full bathroom. The secondary bedrooms are bright and spacious and secondary baths are recently remodeled. You will love the oversized backyard which includes fenced 10' deep diving pool with slide and pool shower, extended patio, pergola, built-in trampoline, shade trees, fruit trees, 2 storage sheds, garden beds and so much room to play and grow. The garage is so deep it could almost be a 6 car tandem and will fit all your vehicles and storage. This home is well built with 2x6 construction with upgraded insulation, so energy costs are very low. The automatic electrical transfer switch in the Electrical panel in garage means the home is set up for a whole home generator if desired. Acre properties in such a prime Queen Creek location don't come available often. Don't let this one pass you by!

11336 E Diamond Cholla Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,350,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,248 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6759739
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Located in TROON, an area known for its exquisite golf & beautiful mountain views is the community of Four Peaks at Troon Village. Enter & you are greeted by a wall of glass that paints Pinnacle Peak. This COMPLETE DESIGNER REMODEL has an open floor plan that lets in plenty of natural light. The kitchen offers a massive quartz island w/ plenty of seating & professional grade appliances. The family room & dining room are across from the kitchen so everyone can be together. The owner's suite features a large soaking tub, glass shower & large walk-in closet. On the other side of this split floor plan home are 3 additional bedrooms & an additional bath. Exit through the 18' sliding glass door to reveal your own pool & majestic mountain views. Perfect vacation home or your forever home.

2709 E Janelle Way Gilbert, AZ 85298

$1,350,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,680 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6760858
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This exquisite 4680 sqft home complete with an expansive mother-in-law suite, with kitchenette, is sure to exceed your expectations! Nestled on a sprawling .85-acre lot, one of the largest in the subdivision, this property offers 5 bedrooms, 4.5 baths & dual 3-car garages on either side of the home. The outdoor oasis features lush tropical landscaping in both the front & back yards, extended driveways, stone façade, courtyard, & a stunning 30,000-gallon saltwater pool with stone accents, waterfall, waterslide & underwater seating adding to the resort-like feel. Inside you will find elegant wood & tile flooring, recessed lighting, soaring ceilings & large picture windows. The grand living area includes a great room, formal dining & remodeled kitchen boasting granite counters, SS appliances chic pendant lighting, gas cooking, large center island, butler's & walk-in pantries, breakfast nook & rich wood cabinetry with crown molding. The luxurious master suite offers new carpeting, bay windows & a spa-like bath complete with dual vanities, grand Roman tub, a walk-in tiled shower with a drying area & His & Her walk-in closets. 2 guest bedrooms come with ensuite baths, while a 4th bedroom, equipped with a Murphy bed & large walk-in closet, is perfect as a home office. The attached 731 sqft. Casita is a gem, featuring an oversized bedroom with sitting area, large walk-in closet, spacious bathroom with dual sinks & walk-in shower, living room with a kitchenette & a private yard. It also includes a 30 x 30 garage with a workshop & drive-through door, providing extra parking space in the back. Additional upgrades include 3 HVAC units, 100-amp service in the casita garage, extra insulation, cobblestone pavers, firepit & RV gate. Ideally located in Gilbert, near shopping, dining, and scenic views of the San Tan Mountains, this home offers everyday living that feels like a vacation in paradise!

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