Buying for Retirement: 3 Reasons Why You’ll Want to Buy Your Retirement Home Before You Retire

Buying for Retirement: 3 Reasons Why You'll Want to Buy Your Retirement Home Before You RetireMany people dream of buying their ideal retirement home after their career has come to a conclusion – with all that extra free time it seems like it’d be the most logical time to shop around.

However, many real estate professionals strongly recommend that their clients find a retirement property before they’re off the payroll. While it may seem like a big time commitment to find a new home while you’re still busy with your work there are several significant financial benefits to purchasing your retirement home before you actually do retire. Here are our top reasons why.

It Makes Your Mortgage Easy

When you are employed it is easier to get approved for a mortgage. If you wait until after you retire to buy your retirement home, you may not have the income require to qualify for the mortgage that you need. Don’t limit yourself! Buy while you’re still employed to keep your options open.

It Leaves You With More Spending Money

Buying a new home while you have an income provides you with more security with your expenses, such as mortgage payments and planned upgrades or renovations. Having an income can also mitigate financial stress should you run into any unexpected expenses after closing.

It Leaves You Ready For Reality

You may think you can accurately predict the expenses of your new home, but if you buy the property before retiring it gives you time to get to know the true amounts of your monthly payments. This can help ensure that you have enough saved to retire and live comfortably in your new property, with no surprises for your budget. You’ll be in a better position to create a financial plan once you know the reality of owning your new home.

An Added Bonus: It Can Be An Income Property

If you decide to purchase your retirement home before you retire you don’t have to move into it right away. You can rent it out as an income property until you’re ready to settle in, which will not only help cover mortgage payments but will also allow you to see first-hand what the monthly expenses are for the property.

This will also prevent you from having to deal with a move while working; you can wait until you do finally retire before packing up your current home and moving into your new one.

Ready to find the perfect retirement property? Contact me today for more advice to set yourself up for the future – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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2402 E Esplanade Lane Unit 601 Phoenix, AZ 85016

$2,550,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
3,000 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6790861
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
Nestled in Phoenix's most coveted location, across from the iconic Biltmore Plaza, this stunning, spacious & bright 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom, plus media room condo redefines luxury living. Totally remodeled in 2024, no detail was overlooked in creating this airy, organic-design-inspired warm yet modern masterpiece. The chef's dream kitchen was designed for the culinary enthusiast! The 48-inch Sub-Zero refrigerator, Wolf range, Cove dishwasher, 2 more refrigerator drawers, and custom European hardwood cabinetry are exceptional. European hardwood floors and quartzite features throughout. Split bedroom plan, two primary suites, spacious designer closets, 2 balconies, 2 fireplaces & LED lighting. Enjoy the area's fine dining, shops and theater! Valet parking, rooftop pool, 24hr lobby desk.

8730 E Tether Trail Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$2,550,000
5 Beds
5 Baths
4,250 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6825596
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your stunning new home, complete with a beautiful pool, nestled in a neighborhood established in 1996- Save 28 years of headaches with this brand new home! This spacious 5-bedroom, 5-bathroom home is designed for comfort and luxury, ready for its new owner in just 60 days. Key features include:Upgraded black aluminum windows,iron entry door,Durable 2x6 framed exterior,Large fireplace and a spacious kitchen with a massive island and quartz counters,Top-of-the-line upgraded appliances,All bedrooms equipped with walk-in closets and private bathrooms,Master bath featuring a large entry, steam shower, standalone tub, and double sinks,Elegant 8' doors throughout and soaring high ceilings,Energy-efficient spray foam insulation,Expansive north-facing backyard. Come take a look.

60 Pinon Shadows Circle Sedona, AZ 86336

$2,550,000
3 Beds
4 Baths
3,922 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6807009
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Step into a masterpiece of European charm and modern sophistication nestled in Sedona's coveted Soldiers Pass corridor. Surrounded by the stunning embrace of National Forest and red rock splendor, this private gated estate redefines luxury living. A grand quartz stone motor court sets the stage for this ''Old Sedona'' classic transformed by a top-to-bottom remodel blending timeless architecture with A grade finishes: venetian plaster walls, exposed wood beamed ceilings. caeserstone countertops in kitchen, Crema Marfil Marble counters in both suite baths, travertine tile walls in 2ndary bath, Rohl sinks in kitchen, & Iron Works Custom Chandeliers. Perched on an expansive lot, the property offers panoramic views that stretch to the Mogollon Rim and deliver jaw-dropping close-ups of iconic red rock formations.This prestigious enclave places you in the heart of Sedona while maintaining a serene escape from the bustle, with National Forest as your backdrop. The home is a true entertainer's dream, with seamless indoor and outdoor spaces designed for hosting in style. Whether it's a quiet evening under the stars or a lively gathering, this residence delivers the perfect balance of privacy, elegance, and proximity to Sedona's most spectacular natural beauty. Other A grade finishes include: Cantera Stone Fireplace in LR, Onyx Skylights, onyx sink at powder bath, Saltillo Tile floors in LR/DR/Entry Foyer/ Bdrm 3/Den, Travertine floors in kitchen/laundry/powder bth/ primary and secondary suites and spa baths, Subzero refrigerator and Wolf Gas Range in kitchen, Rysso-Peters Custom Cabinetry and Shelving in kitchen, Villeroy & Boch tubs at Primary and Secondary Spa Baths, Custom cherry and frosted closets at Primary and Secondary suites, Linsky Natural Linen Draperies frame the Primary Suite Windows. Exterior low maintenance landscaping adorned by flagstone slab pavers to enjoy multiple open and covered patios, gazebo for outdoor dining, and 2 exterior fireplaces to warm up for star gazing.

8530 E Via Montoya -- Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$2,550,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
3,478 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6764435
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream residence in the prestigious gated community of Los Gatos in North Scottsdale. This rare gem spans 1.4 acres, offering unparalleled luxury combined with outstanding equestrian facilities. This Santa Barbara estate promises privacy and elegance with its own gated entrance. The heart of this property is found in the expansive resort style backyard designed with expertise with a blend of lush desert landscaping,artificial turf, a modern-style pool, a charming treehouse, a ramada and spacious covered patio for alfresco entertaining under the star filled skies. The property also features a roof deck with stunning views of Pinnacle Peak and the McDowell Mountain range. The quaint side courtyard has landscaping with uplighting and turf

10040 E Happy Valley Road Unit 2001 Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$2,550,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
3,658 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6799029
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
IMMEDIATE GOLF MEMBERSHIP AT CLOSE OF ESCROW. Remodeled soft contemporary spectacle surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. Open concept floor plan with formal living and dining, family room and adjacent kitchen. Large expanses of glass bring the outside in. Master suite with separate backyard access + opulent bath. 2 guest bedrooms, 2 guest baths + office/den. Private and inviting backyard with Pinnacle Peak as a backdrop includes a large covered patio, separate conversation patios, lush landscaping, and built-in bbq. Desert Highlands, ranked as a top 100 club by Platinum Clubs of the World, offers world class amenities include a Jack Nicklaus championship golf course, 18-hole putting course, award winning clubhouse featuring Jack's Gastropub and Jack's Backyard, Highlands Racquet Club offering grass and clay tennis courts + pickleball courts, state of the art fitness center & more. A $190,000 membership fee is due from buyer at close of escrow

7363 E Lower Wash Pass Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$2,550,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,283 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6820752
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to North Scottsdale's coveted guard gated community of Whisper Rock Estates * This ranch inspired estate features a masterful floor plan with chef's kitchen opening to great room with wet bar seamlessly connecting to the dining room * Warm and inviting finishes include wood encased doors & windows, stone & hardwood floors, and alder doors & cabinetry * Split primary retreat boasts a cozy fireplace, french doors, and a luxurious bathroom with walk-in shower and jetted tub * Backyard amenities include a heated pool/ spa, expansive covered patio, and built in bbq area * 2 ensuite bedrooms, a dedicated office with separate entrance, and 3 car garage with plentiful storage complete the residence *

9565 E Mountain Spring Road Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$2,550,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,851 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6825960
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Located in the gated community of DC Ranch, this stunning Camelot home offers breathtaking mountain views and a thoughtfully designed split master floor plan. With a no-expense-spared gourmet kitchen, featuring a La Cournue French-imported range, Miele refrigerator, quartz counters, center island, butler's pantry, and custom backsplash, the home provides an unparalleled culinary experience. The kitchen seamlessly flows into the cozy family room, complete with a charming fireplace. Gorgeous hardwood floors are found throughout the living spaces of the home. The three-car garage is split into two areas, one of which is climate-controlled, offering a perfect space for a home gym or additional storage. The elevated backyard ensures ultimate privacy while showcasing spectacular views, and backing to natural open space. The sparkling pool with water feature, paver patios, fire pit, and artificial turf create a luxurious outdoor oasis. This home includes three beautifully appointed bedrooms, each with an ensuite bath, as well as a private office overlooking the front courtyard. The primary suite includes a generous bathroom with separate shower and soaking tub, as well as a customized walk-in closet for ample storage. The formal living room also has its own fireplace, and the formal dining room is perfect for entertaining. A bonus room connects the two guest bedrooms, offering a private den or play area. Tastefully updated with added beams in the kitchen, recently remodeled guest bathrooms, this home exudes both sophistication and comfort. The smooth stucco finish, Spanish tile roof, new landscaping and stone accents enhance its curb appeal, while plantation shutters and custom blinds throughout ensure privacy. The large laundry room, complete with a sink, further adds to the home's functionality. Exterior was painted in 2022. As part of the DC Ranch community, residents enjoy access to two community centers. The Desert Camp Community Center, just a short walk from the property, was recently remodeled and offers a 15,000 sq. ft. space with state-of-the-art fitness facilities, studio space, a lap pool, pickleball and tennis courts, and a kids' pool. The Homestead Community Center features a sports court, splash pad, and Playhouse theater. Additionally, this home is ideally located near Market Street, providing easy access to dining, shopping, and essential services.

9424 E Hidden Spur Trail Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$2,550,000
6 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,562 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6796049
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled within the exclusive gated community of DC Ranch in North Scottsdale, this stunning residence epitomizes luxury living. Upon entering the front courtyard, you are greeted with timeless Santa Barbara charm that sets the tone for this exquisite home. The Great Room is a masterpiece, featuring soaring ceilings, a cozy fireplace, and an open, airy ambiance that flows seamlessly into the gourmet kitchen. Equipped with custom cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, a butler's pantry, and an expansive island, the kitchen is a dream for culinary enthusiasts and entertainers alike. Boasting 6 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, and a spacious upstairs loft, this home offers both versatility and space for modern living. The primary suite, conveniently located on the main level, is a tranquil retreat with patio access and a spa-like bathroom featuring dual sinks, a soaking tub, and a generous walk-in shower. Two additional bedrooms and an office/bonus room complete the downstairs. Upstairs, you'll find three large bedrooms and a loft with French doors leading to a private patio overlooking the charming courtyard. Step outside into a meticulously designed backyard oasis, perfect for hosting or quiet relaxation. The sparkling pool serves as the centerpiece, surrounded by lush landscaping, inviting patio areas, a built-in BBQ, and a fireplace for cozy evenings under the stars. This home is just minutes from the highly sought-after Market Street, offering premier luxury shopping, dining, and entertainment. Residents also enjoy access to the newly renovated Desert Camp Community Center, which boasts an expanded fitness center and studio with locker rooms, pool and spa, basketball, tennis, and pickleball courts, indoor and outdoor event spaces, scenic walking paths, and more! Don't miss this incredible opportunity to experience luxury livingcome see this gem for yourself!

210 E Georgia Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85012

$2,550,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,738 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6723103
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover unparalleled luxury in North Central's newest custom gated enclave, The Georgia Three. This exquisite residence, crafted by Bolte Custom Homes, boasts meticulous attention to detail with every fit and finish hand-selected by Katie Bowe Design. Nestled on a gated, pavered street, The Georgia Three features three homes. This particular home exudes single-level charm while incorporating a versatile basement, enhancing the floor plan and adding valuable square footage. Abundant natural light fills the basement through an expansive walk-out, creating a bright and inviting space.The kitchen and main living areas are designed for effortless entertaining and family gatherings, complemented by two additional living spaces offering superb flexibility. The home is bathed in natural light.

8345 N Via Rosa -- Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$2,549,975
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,030 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6796777
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This one-of-a-kind reimagined home, located in the exclusive enclave of Palo Viento, is just steps from the Palm Golf Course at McCormick Ranch! Over 700 sq ft has been added to this already fantastic home, creating an excellent floor plan with 4 bedrooms plus an office. 2 ensuites split for privacy; excellent for a mother-in-law setup. A study was added with dramatic lines, a vaulted ceiling with transom windows, and a fireplace! Three additional bedrooms are located on the West wing of the home. No expense was spared to create this elegantly designed kitchen... indeed, the heart of this home. From the new professional-grade Wolf Appliances, including double ovens, microwave, dishwasher, and Monogram column refrigerator to the new quartz counters, stunning backsplashes, two-toned modern cabinetry with bar area, showcase shelves and a Krause workforce sink. A dramatic floor-to-ceiling fireplace serves as a focal point in this open concept floor plan and a German 12-foot bi-fold door brings the outdoors in; allowing guests to enjoy the fantastic backyard boasting an extended covered patio, built-in barbeque, newly installed pool with water features & specialty lighting plus easy care turfed/concrete stepping pad area for lounging by the pool... don't miss the outdoor half bath off the patio for easy access! This home combines luxury and practicality, making it the perfect choice for any buyer. ***Too many upgrades to list. See the attached upgrade sheet in the document section of the MLS

10931 E Whitehorn Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$2,545,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,825 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6655790
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Serene is a new gated enclave of 21 cutting edge single level contemporary homes designed by Swayback Architects and built by Sonora West Development. Each Serene home brings a new definition to the ''Lock and Leave'' lifestyle with open Great Room floor plans perfect for entertaining and everyday living. Four different models to choose from with lavish interior finishes created by renown interior designers Est Est. This Model D comes with 3 bedrooms plus an office, a 25k pool allowance, 25k landscape allowance, Sub-Zero & Wolf Appliances & BBQ. Base Price shown upgrades are additional cost. Backing to the North side of Pinnacle Peak Mountain, Serene is close to shopping, restaurants and over two dozen private and public golf courses.

4515 N 36th Way Phoenix, AZ 85018

$2,515,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,027 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6809625
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Timeless design meets superior build quality in this Arcadia Lite modern masterpiece. Developed by Two Hawks with architecture from David Dick, this privately gated enclave of only four homes lends itself to an array of elevated lifestyles. As you enter the home you'll be greeted by a custom pivot door, and lead into the great room with 23' ceilings and two-story walls of glass that flood the home with natural light. The first level features a chef's kitchen with marble & quartz surfaces, an intimate dining room, and a pool suite with built-in bar & direct access to the backyard. Upstairs you'll find four bedrooms, with framed views of Camelback Mountain from the exquisitely appointed primary suite. The backyard is ideal for entertaining with its heated pool, covered patio, built-in BBQ, and outdoor shower. Enjoy the convenience of walking & biking to all of the Arcadia hotspots.