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

Many 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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18131 W Palo Verde Court Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$1,325,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

4,322 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6761977

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This luxury 4 bdrm + flex room 3.5 bath custom home sits on a ½ acre lot in the comfort of a gated community. Stellar features include an open concept floorplan, 12 ft coffered ceilings, travertine floors, wood shutters, spacious bedrooms, walk-in closets, gas fireplace in the greatroom, a dramatic wall of glass, & solar panels saving hundreds on summer electric bills. Stunning chef's kitchen hosts 2 pantries, custom cabinets, granite counters, large island w/prep sink & bar seating, & GE Monogram appliances w/6-burner gas range/griddle, double ovens, & oversized refrigerator. The Primary suite dons a bow window, private exit to back patio, custom built-in closet, jacuzzi tub, dual vanities, & snail shower. The backyard oasis has a lighted sports court & plenty of room to add a pool.

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3615 N 40th Street Phoenix, AZ 85018

$1,325,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,948 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6766107

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled in the heart of bustling Arcadia Lite and steps away from your favorite restaurants, shopping and parks - yet has your private, lush and quiet backyard for an oasis to get away from it all! This spacious charming home boasts a luxurious chef's kitchen, three full bathrooms, bedroom electric blackout window shades, 11ft accordion sliding doors for indoor/outdoor living, Sonos linked speakers and a bonus room in the primary currently used for a gym. The oversized primary bedroom is a retreat filled with natural light and french doors to the backyard, large walk-in closet, and a spacious en-suite bathroom. Two bedrooms each include their own beautifully renovated en-suite bathrooms; the fourth room has direct patio access and while smaller, could make for the perfect office or playroom off the living room in between guest stays. Garage is wired with 220V for electric vehicle charging and has ample storage space. Don't miss the adorable playhouse with air conditioning! You will have the Arcadia lifestyle and community at your doorstep but priced with incredible value for its new owners.

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1955 E Blackhawk Drive Gilbert, AZ 85298

$1,325,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,882 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6772431

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Fantastic farm style home with a gen-suite (casita) model including 4-bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms in Marathon Ranch! Gated community with lots of walking trails is adjacent to the San Tan mountains. Lots of curb appeal with brick veneer accents, artificial turf, 3-car garage, paver driveway, manicured front yard, and a welcoming courtyard are just the beginning. An inviting contemporary design with modern fixtures and many stylish upgrades throughout and with an open concept with over 3200 sqft in the main home, plus a gen-suite (casita) with approximately 700 sqft with two separate entrances. Discover a spacious open floor plan with elegant tile flooring, high ceilings, custom palette throughout, and and plantation shutters. The gourmet kitchen is equipped with lots of white cabinetry with crown moulding and upgraded roll-out drawers, a large walk-in pantry, double ovens, quartz counters, SS appliances, pendant lighting, and a spacious island with a breakfast bar. The living room is the perfect place for entertaining family and friends with a large sliding glass door that can be used for letting in the natural light with an indoor/outdoor concept. The formal dining room can also be used as a lounge area! The enormous main bedroom boasts private outdoor access, a walk-in closet, and an elegante ensuite bathroom with a separate tub & shower, dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. The remaining bedrooms are a nice size with soft carpeting with a shared bathroom and walk-in closets. Laundry inside with lots of storage & utility sink. The private & large casita offers a living area, laundry inside with stackable washer & dryer, a nice size bathroom with large shower, a kitchenette with a full-size refrigerator & microwave, and 2 separate entrances! Don't forget about the wonderful backyard, that includes a covered & enclosed patio, extended seating area, a putting green, and a refreshing hot tub! The home of your dreams is here. The upgrades list is available upon request. Stackable washer & dryer in gen-suite will convey. All 3 refrigerators will convey.

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3102 N 81st Place Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,325,000

5 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,211 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6772581

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

COMING SOON! Discover your dream home in Scottsdale's most desirable neighborhood! This beautifully remodeled and rebuilt 5-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom luxury residence includes the most modern elegance and sophisticated finishes throughout. The open-concept layout offers spacious living areas, a gourmet kitchen with high-end appliances, and a luxurious primary suite. Step outside to your own private oasis, featuring a sparkling pool, lush landscaping, and an expansive backyard perfect for entertaining. Nestled in a sought-after area close to top dining, shopping, and golf, this home offers the ultimate Scottsdale lifestyle. Don't miss out on this 1 of 1 coming soon home

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8544 E Heatherbrae Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85251

New

$1,325,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,500 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6789188

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning Remodel with Pool in Old Town Scottsdale Welcome to your dream home in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale! This beautifully remodeled 4 bedroom, 3 bath residence, boasts two luxurious owner suites, perfect for hosting guests or accommodating multi-generational living. Step inside to discover an open-concept layout, featuring a spacious great room, seamlessly flowing into a chef's dream kitchen. The kitchen is equipped with a large island, ideal for entertaining, and high-end appliances that will inspire your inner gourmet. Every detail has been meticulously curated, from the modern finishes to the designer touches throughout. The great room is perfect for gatherings, with plenty of space for family and friends to relax and enjoy. Step outside to your private oasis. The backyard features a sparkling pool, perfect for cooling off on warm Arizona days. The front courtyard offers a serene space to relax and unwind, surrounded by beautifully landscaped grounds. Located in the vibrant Old Town Scottsdale, you are just moments away from premier dining, shopping, and entertainment. Enjoy the best of what Scottsdale has to offer right at your doorstep. This home is a must-see for anyone seeking luxury, comfort, and convenience in one of Arizona's most sought-after neighborhoods.

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27820 N Lucero Drive Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$1,325,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

3,492 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6775544

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Southwest Territorial home built in1998 on one of the largest lots in Tonto Verde. Two or three Bedrooms, 3 Baths, Open Kitchen with Great room. Formal & Causal Dining, Split Floorplan, Game Room with bar area. Saltillo Tile thru out, high ceilings, gas fireplace. Interior doors are 6'8''Wood doors. Located on the 6th fairway of the Peaks golf course. Private Patio with heated spool, water feature, fire-pit, built-in BBQ & mechanical sun shade. Large 3 car garage plus golf cart garage. Owner has a Pass Thru Golf Membership available. Two Championship Golf Courses and 18 hole all grass Putting Course. New Pickle Ball courts to open in the Fall, 2024.

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21357 E Stacey Road Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$1,325,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

2,704 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6773743

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning Queen Creek Home at Pegasus Airpark - A Must-See! Now is the perfect time to make this gorgeous home yours! Located in the prestigious Pegasus Airpark (5AZ3), this incredible property offers the ultimate blend of luxury and functionality. Key Features: Lot Size: Over 1 acre with breathtaking mountain views and mature fruit trees. Outdoor Oasis: Enjoy a heated pool and spa, ideal for relaxation and entertaining while taking in spectacular Arizona sunsets. Equestrian Potential: Equestrian lot with access to trails—just install a gate! While there are no current horse facilities, there's plenty of space to add your dream setup. Spacious Living: This stunning home boasts 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, plus an additional half bath in the RV garage. Each bedroom features its own private bathroom for added convenience. Generous Garage Space: A 3-car garage and an expansive 16'4'' x 54'1'' RV garage provide ample room for all your vehicles and projects. Gourmet Kitchen: The beautiful kitchen showcases granite countertops, a stylish tile backsplash, and large bottom drawers for easy accessno more bending down to reach the back of your cupboards! Views: Experience stunning vistas of the San Tan Mountains from the comfort of your backyard. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to own a slice of paradise in Queen Creek. Schedule your showing today and make this dream home yours!

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2072 E Blackhawk Court Gilbert, AZ 85298

$1,325,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

3,897 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6771468

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning and meticulous home in the exclusive gated, one-story community of Marathon Ranch. Situated on a 12,600 square foot cul-de-sac lot, this highly upgraded home has room for everyone with 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and 4 car garage plus a formal dining room, separate office, and game room. You will love the majestic views of the San Tan Mountains and the community exercise trail along the canal just steps away. Enjoy privacy with mature trees and shrubs around the property creating a serene connection with nature and the outdoors. Upon entering the foyer, you will be greeted with a dramatic view of the pool and backyard. The great room with coffered ceilings, surround speakers, and 20' sliding glass door offers the ultimate in relaxation and entertainment. Adding to the great room ambience is the floor to ceiling stone fireplace with electric heat, on or off, and flame with changeable colors. The rear covered patio, fire pit, heated pool, and artificial turf show off the backyard with clean and crisp perfection. The kitchen is any chef's dream with under cabinet lighting, 5 burner gas cook top, double ovens, large pantry, and cabinets galore. All bedrooms have walk-in closets and the primary has his and hers closets. One of the garages is tandem providing extra depth with a 220V 50amp outlet and both garages have epoxy floors and overhead storage racks. What a perfect space for the entire family all on one level with a fully wired security system and too many perks to mention. Gilbert is continually ranked as one of the safest towns, and this area has a charming rural feel but is still in close proximity to highly rated schools, retail, parks, and the AZ-202.

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6228 E Ocupado Drive Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$1,325,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

3,036 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6778371

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Wonderful location in North Scottsdale in the coveted Lone Mountain Community. This well appointed four bedroom three bathroom home is now available for you to call home!. The home features upgraded appliances and finishes along with one of the best views in the neighborhood. Adjacent to the wash, you will enjoy the professional designed backyard without obstructions. The heated pool is surrounded by recently installed travertine tile and features a bubbling spa complete with custom fire features. Additionally in the backyard there is a built-in gas pebble accent fire pit, expansive covered patio complete with a heater.. and YES! even a built-in BBQ. The open floorpan offers amazing space to entertain and relax until your heart is content. The soaring ceilings and abundance of windows creates a light and bright space. The Entertainer's Kitchen features a complete suite of GE Monogram appliances (including wine fridge), gas six burner stove complete with griddle, granite countertops, center island and more storage then you will know how to fill! The expansive Master Suite was recently upgraded with custom shelving in the TWO walk in closets and features access to the backyard. The three other bedrooms are split from the the Master Suite; two bedrooms adjoined by a Jack and Jill bath while the fourth bedroom is adjacent to the third bathroom. All secondary bedrooms are spacious with ample closet space and cozy carpet. The neighborhood is within walking distance to top rated schools, daily conveniences are near by and is located within close proximity to major thoroughfares to get you anywhere in the Valley you wish to go! This home truly has all that you are looking for in the delightful and gated neighborhood of Lone Mountain, Welcome Home!

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16030 E Cholla Drive Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$1,325,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,856 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6775334

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome home! This property sits on a spacious 1.3-acre elevated corner lot in Fountain Hills, offering breathtaking views in every direction. Don't miss this incredible opportunity with huge potential and no HOA. It's rare to find views like these at this price point. The home features 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, a large kitchen with stainless steel appliances, a negative edge pool, a 2-car garage, a circular driveway, and a wraparound view deck for endless enjoyment.

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7805 E North Lane Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$1,325,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,576 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6779858

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Did someone ask for a beautifully remodeled home with great curb appeal in Scottsdale? Here's a 1 story home on a corner lot that will take your breath away. You'll fall in love with the soaring ceilings covered in beachwood and exposed beams, skylights and the central fireplace in this Great Room. The kitchen is beautifully remodeled, providing plenty of seating for family and entertaining with breakfast bar, breakfast room, and dining area. The Primary Bedroom is thoughtfully designed with a tray ceiling, beehive fireplace, and ample space. The Primary Bathroom has a floating double sink vanity, walk-in closet, and custom tile/glass showerdirect, along with private entry to the backyard/pool area. The backyard/pool space has a 40'x12' covered patio, built in BBQ, and pool shower

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18714 E Ironwood Circle Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$1,325,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,172 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6779258

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Quality home, meticulously cared for in gated Tonto Verde. Starting with the beautiful white exterior, a gated front courtyard with mountain views, then enter this warm designer home with gorgeous wood floors and elegant smooth skim coating on the cream colored walls. The kitchen has all new appliances. The dining room has a custom light fixture to illuminate the magnificent round table that will be included with the purchase. The primary bedroom is oversized with and extra bonus room for exercise, craft, sewing or a private office.The 2nd bedroom is so large it could be considered a second primary suite. The 3rd bedroom is set up as an office with could be a bedroom with a nice walk-in closet.The backyard is a resort with a private pool & spa and the 3 1/2 car garage with epoxy surface.

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