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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1384 N Alexis Drive
Gilbert, AZ 85234
$625,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,108
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6787092
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Modern Elegance Meets Relaxing Retreat in Superstition Meadows! Discover your dream home in the heart of Gilbert's coveted Superstition Meadows subdivision! This beautifully remodeled single-family home boasts 3 spacious bedrooms, 2 luxurious bathrooms, and a versatile den perfect for a home office or playroom. Step inside to an open floorplan bathed in natural light, featuring modern finishes throughout. The newly remodeled kitchen gleams with sleek cabinetry, quartz countertops, and stainless steel appliances, seamlessly connecting to a welcoming living space designed for entertaining or quiet evenings at home. Outside, the tranquil backyard is an entertainer's paradise. Enjoy Arizona living under the expansive covered patio or custom pergola, gather around the cozy fire pit, or relax on the lush turf surrounded by established, low-maintenance landscaping. The new roof provides peace of mind, ensuring this home is move-in ready. Located near top-rated schools, shopping, dining, and easy freeway access, this stunning home offers the perfect blend of style, comfort, and convenience.
15225 N 6th Circle
Phoenix, AZ 85023
$625,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,684
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6777789
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Amazing Moon Valley location! Well-cared for 3 Bedroom/3 Bath tucked in a cul-de-sac. Huge bonus room could be craft room, storage, home business or workshop! Enter into formal living room with double-sided fireplace. Family room leading to updated kitchen. Formal dining room. Primary bedroom with French doors. 2 spacious secondary bedrooms, one with office built-ins. E-facing patio with view fencing. Beautiful HOA-maintained grounds with community pools. Solar Lease has been PAID forward! No neighbors behind! Walking distance to Moon Valley Park, convenient to shopping, freeways, schools and more!
48039 N Kelley Road
New River, AZ 85087
$625,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,954
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6776384
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this single-level home with breathtaking mountain views on a vast 5-acre lot! Enjoy carport parking and a large front porch, perfect for sipping morning coffee while soaking in the scenery. Inside, the spacious Arizona room is ideal for gatherings or relaxation. The open living and dining area is filled with natural light and cozy carpet. The kitchen offers storage shelves for easy organization. Each bedroom provides a peaceful retreat, with the primary bedroom featuring exposed ceiling beams, tile flooring, and a private bathroom. Plus, a fabulous casita awaits as a fantastic bonus! Massive backyard displays a covered patio, gazebo, and storage shed. Don't miss this gem!
925 W Heatherbrae Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85013
$625,000
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,284
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6779789
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to a rare find in the heart of the Woodlea Historic District—a classic English Tudor on one of the most iconic streets, complete with a charming guest house and nestled on a lush, irrigated lot. From the moment you arrive, this storybook home enchants with its curb appeal: mature shade trees, a paver walkway, and a sunny front porch that invites you to step inside. Enter through the beautiful paned glass front door and fall in love with the spacious living room, where original wood floors, coved ceilings, built-in bookshelves, and a stunning plaster fireplace create a timeless ambiance that's both cozy and elegant. The kitchen has been thoughtfully updated with quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, ample shaker cabinets, and stylish tile flooring, seamlessly blending modern convenience with historic charm. The primary suite is a luxurious retreat, featuring a sitting area, an updated ensuite bath, walk-in closet, and a private exit to the lush backyard. The home's second bedroom (currently used as a dining room) and the fully updated guest bath make hosting a delight, while the dedicated indoor laundry space adds extra ease to daily life. Step into the backyard and discover the charming guest house with a half bath, perfect for visitors, a home office, art studio, or anything your heart desires. Surrounding outdoor spaces provide private, tranquil areas to unwind and enjoy Arizona's beautiful weather. Located just a short stroll from the vibrant shops and restaurants of Melrose, this home is as ideal as its neighborhood. Don't miss your chance to own this classic Tudor- rarely does a home this special come to the market. (Main home is 1080 sqft with 2 bed/2bath, guest is 204 sqft with 1/2 bath)
22769 E Orion Way
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$625,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,635
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6727430
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Wait for the Builder? No need with this upgraded ready to go beauty! 4 bedroom 3 bath home with tandem 3 car garage, finished backyard with artificial turf and great landscape. Home is highly upgraded and move in ready now! 12x8 sliding glass door that leads out to the extended covered patio. Pavers at drive, walk and entry, garage service door and an 8' garage door. Stainless steel gas appliance package with a 30'' cooktop/canopy hood. Tahoe Cherry slate cabinets through out with 42'' upper kitchen cabinets with 4-1/4'' crown. AZT Della Terra Quartz ''Linen-Off white'' quartz countertops. Upgrade floor includes Aura Cream 20x20 tile and Neutral color carpet. White Matte 4x12 ceramic tile at the shower/tub surrounds in owner's bath. Water softener and gas stub finish off the perfect home.
3535 E Covina Street
Mesa, AZ 85213
$625,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,584
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6769474
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
**AMAZING TRI-LEVEL with GORGEOUS CURB APPEAL** Be impressed with the lush lawn and fragrant roses as you step into this updated Mesa home. Sunlight, vaulted ceilings & neutral paint give this home an airy feel. The main level features a large great room & formal dining area with views of the spacious backyard filled with grass, trees & garden! The updated eat-in kitchen boasts 2 large pantries, granite counters, gas range, stainless appliances & French door refrigerator. Upstairs you'll find the owners suite with double vanity, tile shower, garden tub & walk-in closet. There are two more bedrooms & bath upstairs. The downstairs family room makes a perfect game room, play room or media space. Two bedrooms & bath complete the downstairs. You'll love.... ...the storage of the spacious 3 car garage. There is a soft water system, R/O system too. Located across the street from green space, its like having your own park! Come and see this beautiful home today!
2920 S 96th Street
Mesa, AZ 85212
$625,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,334
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6780421
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Check out this gorgeous home in the highly sought after Mesquite Canyon Community. Plenty of parks, play areas & Gilbert Schools! This home has 4 bedrooms 2 baths and a large office space that can be converted into a 5th bedroom. The updates are breathtaking! Quartz countertops, a large kitchen island, tile in every room, recess lighting and fresh custom paint are just some of things you will love. The gorgeous master and guest bathrooms are a must see! The master bedroom has a private backyard entrance for a convenient access to the new pebble tech pool! New AC was just installed. Close to shopping, dining, freeways and entertainment!
4046 E Del Rio Street
Gilbert, AZ 85295
$625,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,268
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6766936
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this stunning single-level home built by Shea Homes, featuring a desirable split floor plan with 4 spacious bedrooms and a versatile bonus room perfect for a home office, workout space, or even a mother-in-law suite. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, boasting custom cabinetry, sleek quartz countertops, and top-of-the-line appliances. With tile flooring throughout, a recently replaced roof, AC and a brand-new water heater, this home is move-in ready.. Step outside to your serene, private backyard complete with flagstone walkways, and enjoy the convenience of an RV gate. Located near the 202 freeway and close to local favorites like Joe's Farm Grill, you'll never be far from great dining and shopping. This home offers the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and convenience!
9618 E Monterey Avenue
Mesa, AZ 85209
$625,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
3,389
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6787044
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This gorgeous two story home with 4 beds & 2.5 baths offers mature landscaping and 3 car garage. Inside a bright foyer welcomes you upon entry; formal living room, dining, and large family room are some attributes that can't be left unsaid. Lovely kitchen includes stainless steel appliances, large 42' oak cabinets, solid surface counters, island, breakfast bar, pantry, and breakfast room. Office/Den space & powder room on 1st level. Upstairs you will find a loft & a large bonus room ideal for an entertainment area. Master suite has vaulted ceiling that add to the spacious feel, full bath with dual vanity, separate tub/shower, and walk-in closet. Stunning backyard boasts covered patio and fabulous pool.
2132 Quail Court
Page, AZ 86040
$625,000
4
Beds
4
Baths
2,358
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6699099
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your dream home! This charming Santa Fe-style abode boasts 4 beds and 4 baths, perfect for your family's comfort. With a spacious two-story layout, every corner exudes warmth and character. Hard flooring throughout ensures easy maintenance, while granite countertops elevate the kitchen and bathrooms with timeless elegance. Embrace the Southwest vibes and make cherished memories in this inviting sanctuary.
1873 E Mcnair Drive
Tempe, AZ 85283
$625,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,138
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6663148
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Amazing location in Tempe! Welcome home by Oasis Anozira lake subdivision, with community walking path around the nearby lake. This home features 4 bed. , 2.5 baths, Family room opens to the kitchen w/ island & dining area , Formal Living Room & Dining Room w/ Vaulted Ceiling , From Master Bed. you can exit to the beautiful, huge balcony & enjoy the outdoors. The Master bath features double sinks, separate shower, bath tub, toilet room & walking closet. Garage includes built in cabinets, front entrance with tile & lash landscaping, the extended back patio has newer ceiling, neutral tile, the walkway along the house. Enjoy the beautiful landscaped yard with large grassy area. House has new A/C (installed Jan. 2024) and great location, close to major freeway, shopping, dining..
17750 W Pershing Street
Surprise, AZ 85388
$625,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,526
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6696333
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Gorgeous Single Level 3 bedroom plus an Office/Den or 4th Bedroom One full bathroom and one full deluxe bathroom. Kitchen plus Nook Lot Size: Almost 1/4 acre. ''Huge back yard'' Extra driveway added with 2 RV Gates. Open floor Plan. Lrg Family Room. Formal Living & Dining Room. Lrg Laundry Room. Large private pool (10k Gal) and Hot tub. Cobble stone driveway & 2nd RV gate added. 5+ Parking Spaces, plus Security/Motion lighting added,(Front and Back). Minutes to golfing, Walmart and more. Easy access to 303 hwy. New Recreation Center coming in 2025, three mins away.