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
Click Here to See What Your Home is Worth
15922 W Electra Lane
Surprise, AZ 85379
$570,687
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,229
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6770484
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to Escalante! New Home Ready for immediate Occupancy. This single level 2229 SF, 4 BR, 3 BA with a 3 car garage is located on an interior NS facing homesite surrounded by single level homes, NO two Stories! Exciting included features! Upgraded white cabinets, 42'' Uppers, Granite Countertops, Tile Backsplash, Plank Tile on the floors in all traffic areas! 10' ceilings, 8' interior doors,, garage service door, large extended patio, tankless water heater, front yard landscaping with drip system, PLUS so much more. Neighborhood includes tree lined streets, Parks and Aquatic Center. Energy Star & Indoor Air Plus Certified for more energy savings! 5 Star Resort Style Amenities include, hiking trails, Aquatic Center, 8 select parks, Picnic Ramada's, Basketball, 3 Pickle Ball courts, bocce ball courts, 18 hole disc golf course, and a Zip Line for the kiddos! This home is Energy Star and Indoor Air Plus qualified. Includes full Builder Warranties plus so much More..
40528 N Parisi Place
San Tan Valley, AZ 85140
$570,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
3,361
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6785524
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this meticulously cared-for and beautifully updated home. Offering easy access to all the shopping, dining, and entertainment options you could ever need, this property combines modern convenience with timeless style. Step inside to discover a spacious and open floor plan, complete with soaring vaulted ceilings that create a bright and airy atmosphere throughout. The newly renovated kitchen and bathrooms showcase beautiful finishes, including timeless countertops, white cabinetry, and modern fixtures. The luxurious primary ensuite is truly a retreat, featuring a spa-like bathroom with a breathtaking freestanding bathtub and an incredible shower with an incredible control panel. It's the perfect place to unwind after a long day. Additional upgrades include elegant crown molding, new HVAC in 2020, new paint and custom garage cabinets that offer ample storage space. The expansive three-car garage is ideal for car enthusiasts or anyone needing extra storage room. Step outside and enjoy your private oasis. The backyard has been recently landscaped with care and features an outdoor shower, a refreshing pool with custom LED lights and a relaxing water feature. The backyard misting system ensures cool comfort year-round, while the lack of rear neighbors provides added privacy. Whether you're entertaining guests or simply relaxing in your own slice of paradise, this home offers everything you could want and more. Don't miss the opportunity to make this your dream home!
11226 E Posada Avenue
Mesa, AZ 85212
$570,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,718
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6728991
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Live your best life in the lovely Sunland Springs Village (SSV) 55+ Adult Community. This cozy 2 bd/2bth plus den has all the right touches. Pride of Ownership on Display! Enjoy the Living Area with Electric Fireplace; Porcelain Tile Wall, Stunning Wall of Glass looks out to Extended Patio w/ Travertine Tile, Pergola and 2 firepits. Stellar landscape design; Lush yard with sweet orange and lemon trees. Solar Roof Panels provide energy saving benefits. Plantation shutters adorn the windows. Extended kitchen with granite countertops and energy efficient appliances. This is not just a house but a HOME! Enjoy resort like community amenities: Rec Center, Clubhouse, Ping Pong, Billiards, Golf, Tennis, Pickleball, Shuffleboard, Heated Pools, Jacuzzi, Exercize Rooms, Yoga; SSV has it all! This is a Must See! Please visit the SSV HOA website to learn about the many clubs and activities available in this active adult community:
20515 N 264th Avenue
Buckeye, AZ 85396
$570,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
2,095
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6741698
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
VALUE! PAID SOLAR LEASE, PAID CFD, NEWER HVAC AND APPLIANCES. This 2 bed/2 bath/Den Destiny model has fabulous golf course views and sets on a quiet street yet it's close to the Sage Recreation Center, the Grill and the Golf shop (location, location, location). This is a quality Del Webb built home with many upgrades. See a more complete list in the Documents tab.
4216 N 27th Street Unit 106
Phoenix, AZ 85016
$570,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,683
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6756185
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
This stunning and spacious townhouse is situated in the Biltmore area and boasts impressive 18-foot ceilings in the main living room, a cozy fireplace, and 10-foot ceilings in each of the bedrooms as well as a two-car garage with epoxy flooring. The expansive primary bedroom includes a private balcony, a generous walk-in closet, and a bathroom featuring an oversized soaking tub and recently remodeled shower. The charming courtyard has been enhanced with turf and pavers, creating a lovely outdoor retreat. Conveniently located near restaurants, shopping, the airport, and major freeways, this home is situated in an exclusive part of Phoenix, in close proximity to Arcadia, Scottsdale, and Paradise Valley.
1150 S Karen Lane
Gilbert, AZ 85296
$570,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,593
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6767613
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautiful, and very well-maintained home in a great location! Home features big open space with vaulted ceiling. kitchen with stainless steel appliances and lots of cabinets with granite counter tops. A nice size master suite with walk-in closet and private access to backyard, and sparkling pool with waterfall feature. Three bedrooms plus an office. Easy maintenance front and backyard landscape. Home located in a nice quiet cul de sac. Move in ready with NEW roof (2021), AC unit (2022), water heater (2024), and irrigation system (2023) throughout the lot with extra new lines for future planting. Greenfield Lakes has an executive length 18-hole golf course and driving range. Located near Santan Mall, Top Ranked Restaurants, and highly desired School District!
20414 E Happy Road
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$570,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,185
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6781013
Property Type
Manufactured Home
Price Type
--
Fantastic breathtaking mountain views, over an acre of property and NO HOA!!! Size does allow for horses. Spacious floor plan! Master has two separate bathrooms! Kitchen open to family room, tons of cabinet space. Corner Lot. North South facing exposure. Entire property surrounded by no climb fence. This home boasts with updates throughout. This property provides a blank canvas for anyone to make this their dream property! Conveniently close to amenities.
11169 N Par Drive
Tucson, AZ 85737
$570,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,904
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6781986
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Spacious 5 bedroom, 3 bath home with a 3 car garage. Open floorplan with family room and formal dining room/living room. Open kitchen with breakfast nook. One large bedroom downstairs and the rest of the bedrooms upstairs. Master suite upstairs with large walk in closet and balcony overlooking the backyard and pool. Landscaped front and backyard with no backyard neighbors. Come show today.
17416 E Windstone Trail
Rio Verde, AZ 85263
$570,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,331
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6783005
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
HOME IS COMPLETE AND MOVE IN READY NEW BUILD ON AN ACRE AND A QUARTER LOT WITH BREATHTAKING MOUNTAIN VIEWS. THIS 4 BEDROOM HOME HAS 2331 SQFT, OPEN KITCHEN WITH UPGRADED CABINETS, ISLAND, GRANITE COUNTERS, STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES, DOUBLE OVENS, 36'' COOKTOP, CUSTOM EXHAUST HOOD, MICROWAVE, FARMER SINK AND A WALK IN PANTRY. GREAT ROOM WITH FIREPLACE. MASTER BEDROOM HAS A LARGE WALK IN CLOSET, 36'' HIGH VANITY WITH DUAL SINKS AND GRANITE TOPS, SEPARATE TUB/SHOWER WITH TILE SURROUNDS. EXTRA LARGE LAUNDRY ROOM WITH DEEP SINK.
1724 W Hemingway Lane
Anthem, AZ 85086
$570,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,168
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6785447
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Nestled in the heart of the desirable Anthem Parkside neighborhood, this spacious 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers a blend of comfort and convenience. Located directly across from a beautiful park, it provides serene views and easy access to outdoor recreation right at your doorstep. This home has been recently updated with a brand-new AC unit, water heater, and fresh paint throughout, ensuring energy efficiency and a fresh, modern feel. The master bathroom has also been completely renovated, providing a luxurious retreat within the home. With plenty of space for family and guests alike, this home is move-in ready and primed for memorable gatherings and everyday relaxation.
1842 N Red Cliff
Mesa, AZ 85207
$570,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,379
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6783900
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
Welcome to this exceptional 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home nestled in the exclusive, gated community of Mountain Bridge. Upgraded and fully furnished, this home is the epitome of move-in ready, offering style, elegance and convenience for modern living. As you step inside, you're greeted by an expansive great room featuring soaring ceilings and an abundance of natural light pouring in through a glass sliding door. This inviting space seamlessly blends comfort and sophistication, making it perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. From the backyard, you can enjoy sweeping views of the desert wash, offering a private & serene landscape on a premium lot! Ultimate resort-style living at this community offers swimming pools, pickle ball/tennis courts, gym, rec center and so much more
531 W Silver Creek Road
Gilbert, AZ 85233
$570,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,020
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6783620
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
ATTENTION: *Potentially* assumable 2.25% VA loan, restrictions apply, must qualify. Nestled in the desirable Madera Park neighborhood, this beautifully remodeled 2 story home offers style and space. This residence offers a thoughtful floorplan including a charming coffee bar and private space under the stairs for littles or pets. Samsung washer/dryer set conveys and features a deep folding shelf of stylish granite. Kitchen equipped with LG fridge, Samsung electric cooktop/oven and built-in micro. Backyard will welcome you all year round with a majestic ficus tree, sandbox play area, a sun-sail over the pebble-tec pool, and there are even producing grape vines! MUST SEE this one ASAP!