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.
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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316xx N 171st Avenue
Surprise, AZ 85387
$649,999
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,708
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6780196
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
WOW!! Coming soon is a 1708 sf 3 BR 2 BA with 2 car garage and a RV garage on 1 acre property. No HOA, Pavement access is under 1000 feet attached to maintained dirt road with recycled asphalt. Builder plans to break ground January 2025, completion May 2025. 3 homes to choose from. Enjoy the included front yard landscaping as you walk up to your new home. This desert contemporary homes entry has a large, covered patio perfect for watching those fall and spring sunsets on your porch swing. When entering the home, you will be greeted by a huge great room with vaulted ceilings that showcase the open concept living area to the kitchen and dining room. Spacious covered rear patio, great for relaxing or entertaining. Nice sized bedrooms for kids or office space. Cozy laundry room with utility closet. Carefully selected materials have been chosen to match the exterior theme of the homes and flow with the interior design. Boasting wood plank style tile flooring, marble tiled showers, soft close shaker cabinetry, quartz countertops, satin nickel plumbing and lighting fixtures. Included GE appliances. Washer and dryer will be included with a full price offer. The building features include fully sheared plywood exterior, spray foam insulation, cathedralized attic insulation, Low E vinyl windows, Lenox 5 Ton 14 seer HVAC unit. Qualify for your own new construction loan and take $20,000 off the price or get $20,000 in upgrades. This home won't last long once built and completed. Get in now and pick your finishes.
316xx N 171st Avenue
Surprise, AZ 85387
$649,999
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,708
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6780213
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
WOW!! Coming soon is a 1708 sf 3 BR 2 BA with 2 car garage and a RV garage on 1 acre property. No HOA, Pavement access is under 1000 feet attached to maintained dirt road with recycled asphalt. Builder plans to break ground January 2025, completion May 2025. 3 homes to choose from. Enjoy the included front yard landscaping as you walk up to your new home. This desert contemporary homes entry has a large, covered patio perfect for watching those fall and spring sunsets on your porch swing. When entering the home, you will be greeted by a huge great room with vaulted ceilings that showcase the open concept living area to the kitchen and dining room. Spacious covered rear patio, great for relaxing or entertaining. Nice sized bedrooms for kids or office space. Cozy laundry room with utility closet. Carefully selected materials have been chosen to match the exterior theme of the homes and flow with the interior design. Boasting wood plank style tile flooring, marble tiled showers, soft close shaker cabinetry, quartz countertops, satin nickel plumbing and lighting fixtures. Included GE appliances. Washer and dryer will be included with a full price offer. The building features include fully sheared plywood exterior, spray foam insulation, cathedralized attic insulation, Low E vinyl windows, Lenox 5 Ton 14 seer HVAC unit. Qualify for your own new construction loan and take $20,000 off the price or get $20,000 in upgrades. This home won't last long once built and completed. Get in now and pick your finishes.
316xx N 171st Avenue
Surprise, AZ 85387
$649,999
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,708
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6778344
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
WOW!! Don't miss this opportunity!! Being contructed soon is a 1700sqft, 3 Bed, 2 bath home with 2 car garage and an RV garage on 1 acre. No HOA! Pavement access is under 1000 feet attached to maintained dirt road with recycled asphalt. Builder plans to break ground January 2025, completion May 2025. 3 homes to choose from! Enjoy the included front yard landscaping as you walk up to your new home. This desert contemporary home's entry has a large, covered patio perfect for watching those beautiful Arizona sunsets on your porch swing. Upon entry, you will be greeted by a huge great room with vaulted ceilings which showcases open concept living to the kitchen and dining room. A spacious covered rear patio is great for relaxing or entertaining. Nice sized bedrooms for kids or office space. Practical laundry room with utility closet. Carefully selected materials have been chosen to match the exterior theme of the homes and flow with the interior design. Boasting tile wood plank flooring, marble tiled showers, soft close shaker cabinetry, quartz countertops, satin nickel plumbing and lighting fixtures. Included GE appliances. Washer and dryer will be included with a full price offer. The building features include fully sheared plywood exterior, spray foam insulation, cathedralized attic insulation, Low E vinyl windows, Lenox 5 Ton 14 seer HVAC unit. Qualify for your own new construction loan and take $20,000 off the price or get $20,000 in upgrades. This home won't last long once built and completed. Get in now and pick your finishes!
48336 N 27 Avenue
New River, AZ 85087
$649,999
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,126
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6751295
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautiful 3 BD. plus Den, 2.5 BR. home with 2 car garage. Large open kitchen/great room with 10 foot ceiling. Premium cabinets, granite counter tops, huge kitchen island, stainless steel appliances, pantry, large master suite with a walk-in shower, dual vanities, access to the laundry room. Additional upgrades include, tile plank flooring, 8 foot doors, upgraded hardware/lighting, large laundry room, energy efficient 14 Seer HVAC, dual pane low-E windows and R-38 cathedral attic insulation. Upgrades made by the current owner: fence and side gates around backyard, landscape rock in front of the back yard, installing pavers, turf, security gate, epoxy in garage, solar panels, back splash in kitchen, cabinets and tool storage in the garage, storage shelves in laundry. No HOA.
12854 S 189th Avenue
Buckeye, AZ 85326
$649,999
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,250
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6761627
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
MOUNTAIN VIEWS! This 2024-built home with a HUGE 3-car garage nestled on a SPACIOUS 1.26 acres is the one for you! Enter through the custom double doors to discover a roomy open floor plan that promotes a modern feel. Wood-look tile flooring, neutral palette, and stylish light fixtures are worth mentioning. Spotless kitchen is equipped with abundant white cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, a walk-in pantry, sleek quartz counters, and a center island with a breakfast bar. In the large main retreat, you will have an ensuite with dual sinks, garden tub, and a walk-in closet. Massive backyard with a covered patio and views that go on and on has enough room for a pool, a shop, or whatever you can imagine! Hurry! Your forever haven is ready to welcome you!
6285 E Broadway Avenue
Apache Junction, AZ 85119
$649,999
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,186
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6772527
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Want to spend your nights looking at the sunset & city lights and your days gazing at the Superstition Mountains? Well then this is your place! Updated 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath single-level home, sitting on 1.1 acres at the base of the Superstition Mountains. And if you're looking for your own workshop and garage space for your toys --you won't be disappointed! An oversized, 6-car detached garage awaits with mini-split, ducted Torit Industrial Dust Collecting System, Extra LED lighting, 7 X 240 outlets, 2 X 50 amp & RV plugs. TONS of storage! Then, step inside to relax and be delighted by the lovely interior showcasing a great room with soaring vaulted ceilings, a soothing palette, attractive wood-look flooring, & cozy two-way fireplace. The family room has double French doors that lead to the backyard for seamless indoor-outdoor living. Cook delicious meals in the kitchen, equipped with granite counters, knotty alder cabinetry, SS appliances, a walk-in pantry, and a peninsula with a breakfast bar for casual dining. You'll also find a versatile bonus room, perfect for an office or study. Huge covered patio in the back makes for great viewing. Make this yours today!
1957 W Fawn Way
San Tan Valley, AZ 85144
$649,999
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,252
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6763536
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your dream oasis at 1957 W Fawn Way. This beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers the perfect blend of comfort and style. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by a spacious open floor plan filled with natural light, ideal for both family gatherings and entertaining friends. The modern kitchen features stainless steel appliances, ample counter space, and a convenient breakfast bar. Retreat to the luxurious primary suite, complete with an en-suite bathroom and walk-in closet, while the additional three bedrooms provide plenty of space for family or guests. Outside, you'll find your very own private swimming pool, perfect for cooling off during hot summer days or hosting weekend barbecues. The beautifully landscaped yard offers a serene atmosphere and ample room for outdoor activities. Located in a friendly neighborhood with easy access to local amenities, parks, and schools, this home seamlessly combines convenience and tranquility. Don't miss your chance to make this slice of paradise your own!
11865 N 143rd Avenue
Surprise, AZ 85379
$649,999
5
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,886
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6770462
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
MAGNIFICENT 5 BED/3.5 BATH/4 CAR DRIVE-THROUGH GARAGE LOCATED IN A GATED COMMUNITY: COPPER CANYON RANCH. Furniture can convey. Includes an additional den/office and bonus room. Situated on an oversized lot this home is loaded with custom features. Gently lived in, tastefully decorated, looks and shows like a model home. Custom cherry kitchen cabinets. Granite counter tops,double ovens,butlers pantry. Huge open floor plan with real wood flooring, 20 inch tile and plush thick carpeting. Outdoors is an entertainers featuring a large grass area and beautiful pool with custom water features. Heated negative edge spa with soothing therapy jets. This home is a 10....don't wait !!
1941 E Medlock Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85016
$649,999
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,438
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6785564
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
Discover this beautifully maintained mid-century gem at 1941 E. Medlock Dr., located in the highly desirable Camelback Corridor of Central Phoenix. This 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom townhome exudes character and charm, offering a perfect blend of classic details set in a spacious and open floor plan. The inviting living room space boasts vaulted ceilings, fireplace, and large windows that let in abundant natural light while the kitchen features granite countertops, beautiful appliances, and plenty of cabinet space. Whether you are looking to entertain friends and family or spend a quiet night in, this space is perfect for any occasion. Situated in a quiet, established neighborhood just minutes from Biltmore Fashion Park, top restaurants, and easy freeway access. Enjoy the best of urban living with quick access to downtown Phoenix and the Camelback Corridor.
630 E Laguna Drive
Tempe, AZ 85282
$649,999
5
Beds
2
Baths
2,112
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6783954
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
A stunning single-family home located in the heart of Phoenix has 5-bed, 2-bath with 2112 sqft, 2-carport, and covered patio. Brand new windows throughout. You will be greeted by a bright & airy floor plan that is perfect for entertaining. The kitchen comes with stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops & brand-new white & black shaker cabinets. Brand new vinyl wood & carpet flooring throughout the home. Enjoy the fully upgraded, spa like bathrooms with high end shower system, framed mirrors, shower niche, & custom vanities. No HOA. Walking distance to parks and bike paths. Do not miss out!
1413 E Windsor Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85006
$649,999
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,734
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6778809
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Step into the charm and modern comfort of this renovated 3-bed, 2-bath midtown gem! Just steps from the Coronado Historic District, this classic bungalow features a bright open layout, a stunning chef's kitchen, plus a cozy family room with a white brick fireplace. The laundry room/pantry is located next to kitchen. Renovations throughout include Quartz countertops, shaker cabinetry, stylish vanities, flooring, modern lighting, neutral paint, and ceiling fans. Relax in the spa-inspired primary suite with a large walk-in shower, soaking tub, beautifully tiled walls, and walk-in closet. Step outside to enjoy the large private yard, covered patio, and shaded gazebo area surrounded by artificial turf and horseshoe court. Gravel walkways, block fencing and mature shade trees make this low maintenance yard the perfect spot for relaxing, playtime, and entertaining!
1628 E Magellan Drive
New River, AZ 85087
$649,999
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,978
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6683844
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Motivated Seller! Will look at all offers. LIKE NEW home. Voted BEST VALUE by Desert Hills New River tour agents! All the updated features. Large kithchen, with center counter. White cabinets and granite countertops. Open great room with lots of windows for the mountain views. 3 bedrooms 2 bath spllit floorplan. The garage is a large oversized 2 car with a space for your tools. Full one acre for your enjoyment. Shared newer well, 2 party. Plus a new rear yard fence to be sure your animals are safe. Central vac. You won't want to miss this well maintained home!