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.

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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Sort by: Select Price, Low to High Price, High to Low Newer Listings First Older Listings First Open House Date

18822 N Grandview Drive Sun City West, AZ 85375

$575,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

2,319 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6750441

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Home is situated on the 10th fairway on the Grandview Golf Course in Sun City West. The solar lease was installed in 2011 and is paid until 2032. Giving you the luxury of sustainable energy. This property has premium upgrades in the kitchen with quartz countertops, stylish cabinets, and stainless steel appliances. Roof underlayment was replaced in 2017 and the HVAC system was updated in 2013. The Master Bath was beautifully appointed with new cabinets, tiled shower and sinks and plantation shutters in the master bedroom. Further adding to the charm are the tubular skylights adding natural light. Complementing the indoor living space is an enclosed lanai and a huge covered patio. The outside offers beautiful views of the White Tank Mountains and serene spaces to unwind.

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18118 W Golden Lane Waddell, AZ 85355

$575,000

5 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,548 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6735575

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

**ASSUMABLE LOAN ** THE SELLER IS OFFERING $5,000 TOWARDS THE BUYER'S CLOSING COST AND/OR RATE BUY DOWN, WITH A FULL-PRICE OFFER!**Nestled near the highly desirable White Tank Mountains, this wonderful home offers a perfect blend of country charm and city convenience. With over 3,500 square feet, it provides ample space for a large family. The home features a formal living room, dining room, family room, and a spacious loft. The generous-sized bedrooms include a downstairs master suite with a large walk-in closet. The expansive kitchen is a chef's delight, boasting an island and granite countertops. The backyard is primed for outdoor enjoyment, with enough space for a pool and a deck equipped with an electric movie screen, ideal for family movie nights. Additional highlights include a workshop, RV gate.and a 3 car garage.

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955 S Henry Lane Gilbert, AZ 85296

Open House

$575,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,539 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6783385

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this lovely 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath residence in Cooley Station North! Discover a charming living room with high ceilings, half-moon clerestory windows, and wood-look flooring. The inviting family room is perfect for relaxing moments with loved ones. Cook delicious meals in the gourmet kitchen, equipped with granite counters, warm wood cabinetry with crown moulding, pendant/recessed lighting, and a large serving window with a breakfast bar. You'll also find a versatile den ideal for an office or study. Upstairs, the size-able loft provides additional living space. The main bedroom offers plush new carpeting, a walk-in closet, and an ensuite with double sinks. Outdoors, you'll find a covered patio for al fresco dining and a rear-entry 3-car garage. Make it yours!

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5605 N 206th Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85396

Open House

New

$575,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,528 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6786833

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home in Victory, an exclusive age-restricted community nestled next to the White Tank Mountains in Buckeye. This stunning residence, built in 2023, offers the perfect blend of modern luxury and an active lifestyle. Step inside to discover a beautifully upgraded home. Three bedrooms including an extra flex space, perfect for remote work or hobbies, an extended garage that provides ample space including built in garage cabinets for your recreational gear. The outdoor living space is a true highlight, showcasing a cozy gas fireplace and mountain views both from the backyard and gated front courtyard. The stylish furnishings and decor can be included with a full price offer, making your move seamless and stress-free. Don't miss this opportunity for you in Victory!!

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2989 N 44th Street Unit 3028 Phoenix, AZ 85018

Open House

$575,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

1,743 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6723473

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

Sunsets and sparkling city light views frame this urban contemporary condominium in gated Arcadia Grove.Surrounded by towering pines, palms, Koi ponds and waterfalls this luxury property is 10 minutes to galleries, restaurants, Sky Harbor, Scottsdale, Biltmore, Tempe and downtown Phoenix. St. Joe's/Barrows, Phoenix Children's and AZ Heart hospitals are a dream commute.With private garages for 3 cars, this single level unit offers 1,743 square feet, 2 master bedrooms with large walk-in closets, a study (or 3rd bedroom) with custom office furniture and 3 baths. The neutral palette, great room floor plan and large private balcony with views of Camelback, provide a tranquil setting. Resort style heated pool/spa, 24 hour fitness center and clubhouse with catering kitchen complete this property

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1453 E South Fork Drive Phoenix, AZ 85048

Open House

New

$575,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,232 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6786801

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Newly remodeled beautiful 3 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath home with Loft and Den in The Foothills Community. Fresh paint makes this home Open & Bright. Fireplace in Living room. Formal Dining, warm Family room w/tile. Large upgraded kitchen, backsplash, new stainless steel appliances , new quartz kitchen island and countertop. Good sized master bedroom upstairs with great view of Mountains , walk in closet. Master bath has double sinks , separate shower and tub and private toilet room. Downstair den can be converted to a bedroom. 90% Sun Blockage black screen. New equipment on pool 2024, exterior wall painted on 2023. Excellent Kyrene School District, quiet community, easy access to 202, only 10 mins convenient to shopping plaza and south mountain trail.

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2930 W Laredo Lane Phoenix, AZ 85085

Open House

$575,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,788 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784835

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Meticulously maintained home with extensive builder updates in a gated community. The owner selected timeless, soft-grey custom upgraded cabinetry (48'' in upper cabinets) with gorgeous granite and coordinating glass back splash, charming farm sink, range (ALSO PLUMBED FOR GAS) and stainless steel appliances. The open floor plan flows perfectly and has a living room/den positioned toward the front which is perfect flex space. Split master floorpan with a spacious walk-in closet, dual sinks and natural light. Upgraded flooring, window coverings, custom paint, crown molding. The backyard has a covered patio and artificial turf for the ultimate in low maintenance. Newest home in the subdivision and more current finishes. This home is spectacular.

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7179 W Surrey Avenue Peoria, AZ 85381

Open House

New

$575,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,081 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6785618

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this stunning 5 bedroom, 3 bath home in the heart of Peoria. Featuring a 3-car garage and a sparkling pool, this residence offers luxurious living with an open floor plan that invites natural light through high ceilings and large windows. The modern kitchen is equipped with ample counter and cabinet space, perfect for meal preparation along with a huge island. The master suite is a retreat with its private bath featuring double sinks, a separate walk-in shower, and a soaking tub. The backyard is huge with lots of space and a sparkling pool, ideal for outdoor activities and entertaining. Conveniently located near schools, parks, shopping, and dining, this home is perfect for comfortable living.

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5929 N 189th Glen Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

Open House

$575,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,617 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6771789

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

BETTER THAN NEW!! This gorgeous home built in 2021 sits on a corner lot and is perfect for entertaining! Open and spacious floor plan with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, 10 ft ceilings, and a separate den/office. The gourmet kitchen features a massive island (just shy of 11 ft), quartz countertops, double wall oven, gas cooktop, built in microwave, deep farmhouse sink, walk in panty, and stainless-steel appliances. Stunning sunset mountain views from the front of the home. Primary suite has its own zone for AC and heat and a large walk-in closet. Owners have installed a water softener and epoxied the garage floor. The back yard is complete with a covered patio, pavers, palm and fruit trees, and turf. Walking distance to Canyon View High School

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780 E Kapasi Lane San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

$574,999

5 Beds

4 Baths

4,141 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6753650

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

SELLER CURRENTLY OFFERING 2-1 BUYDOWN COSTS FOR BUYER'S INTEREST RATE! The space here has been maximally utilized with not only 5 bedrooms but a loft, bonus room, 2 living rooms, a dining room, 3-car garage, split primaries (separate downstairs with a full bathroom), and all walk-in closets. The open floor plan flows seamlessly into the kitchen: a chef's dream. Granite counters that elegantly contrast the wood cabinets, double ovens, breakfast bar, complete with an oversized walk-in pantry. Interior has been recently painted white. Spend evenings in the low-maintenance, backyard relaxing under the pergola. Within walking distance you'll find the community park (reach out for neighborhood amenities). Close to HWY 24, great schools, shopping, dining, groceries, gas, etc.

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17932 W Jojoba Road Goodyear, AZ 85338

$574,999

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,294 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6757606

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This beautifully upgraded and spacious home located in the master planned lake community of Estrella is a must see! Located less than a mile from just one of the community's amazing clubhouses, with inclusive 2 story gym and impressive pools, you do not want to miss out on this opportunity that is priced incomparably! This home is truly in immaculate, like new condition and has been upgraded with no expenses spared. The 1st floor primary bedroom is a massive retreat with a spa like ensuite and huge walk-in closet! High end upgrades throughout the home such as new plush carpet, custom shelving/storage, fresh paint, new ss appliances, wood plank flooring are just a few to name and that doesn't even begin to describe what's been done to the huge backyard oasis! The artificial turf, garden and fruit trees, make you feel like you are living more in a resort than the desert...all the greenery and no mowing! What's the best part of owning this enormous home full of upgrades and turn key? The solar savings will make you feel like you can have all the space, without the high electric bills!

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4501 E Grovers Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85032

$574,999

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,812 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6723893

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Huge price drop! Corner lot! NO HOA! This fantastic 4 bedroom, 2 bath home is located in a quiet North Phoenix neighborhood off Tatum & Bell. The home features vaulted ceilings and tile and engineered wood floors. The kitchen features espresso cabinets, granite counters, and a large island with a breakfast bar. It also features a gas stove and a stainless steel refrigerator. The master bath features a beautiful master shower with tile, glass door, and 3 showerheads, a vanity with dual sinks and granite countertop, and a walk-in closet. You will love the pebble tech pool, covered patio, and misting system. The garage is large with attached cabinets. The home has an easy to maintain desert landscape with a drip system. It has been freshly painted and is ready for you to move in

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