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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3137 E La Costa Court Gilbert, AZ 85298

$1,320,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,514 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6775639

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Experience luxury living in your dream home, nestled within an exclusive gated community in Gilbert with stunning mountain views. This elegantly designed residence boasts a split floor plan with expansive master suite, located on one side of the home, features beautiful wood floors, built-in surround sound, and access to the back patio. Indulge in the luxury of two spacious closets, an oversized bathroom with dual vanities, a soaking tub, and a separate shower. The open-concept layout includes family room, dining area, and gourmet kitchen, fully equipped with Monogram appliances, including a 72'' refrigerator, dual dishwashers, a 6-burner cooktop with griddle and chef pantry. The family room, with gas fireplace, wood mantle and surround sound, offers the perfect space for entertainment. In addition to two spacious en-suite bedrooms, the home offers a versatile third bedroom that can easily function as an office. The generous laundry room provides space for dual washers and dryers or an additional freezer. Car enthusiasts will love the 4-car garage, complete with epoxy flooring, a new water heater, and an RV gate. Outside, the backyard oasis awaits, featuring a Pebble Tec pool with a cascading waterfall, an above-ground heated spa, and a built-in pergola with built in BBQ, surrounded by mature citrus trees and artificial turf offering the ultimate relaxation with picturesque mountain views.

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13110 W Denton Street Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$1,320,000

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

5,055 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6766234

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Grand Estate Living in Barrington Estates! Gorgeous sprawling 5 bedroom, 3.5 bathroom residence offers over 5000 square feet of luxurious living space with OWNED 52 panel SOLAR on a 3/4 acre corner lot in gated community. A complete renovation in 2020 is what sets this custom apart. Step inside and be greeted by a grand 20 ft high foyer entry with lovely staircase and custom railing. The spacious open floor plan seamlessly connects the great room, kitchen, and game room, creating an ideal space and flow for entertaining. The kitchen's centerpiece is a custom quartzite slab island with seating for six, and the butler pantry allows for convenient storage and serving. The private downstairs EnSuite will be loved by guests or loved ones.Retreat to the tranquil MORE... primary suite with an adjoined private paneled office & walk-out deck overlooking the backyard oasis. The spa-like primary bath features an elegant free standing soaking tub, a separate clear glass shower, and his-and-hers walk-in closets. As stunning as the interiors of this home are, what's on the outside truly epitomizes Arizona living. Enjoy endless outdoor recreation with a private 34'x60' pickleball/basketball court, a resort-style heated pool & spa that is shaded in late afternoon by a 20x20 ramada, an expansive travertine wrap around patio, and custom outdoor kitchen. Additional features include a 19x21 bonus theater or billards room, 4-car epoxy extended length garage, and RV gate leading to your future detached out building. The sellers had drawings rendered for their future detached casita and are included in the sale. This estate is located minutes away the world-renowned Wigwam Golf Resort. Come experience!

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630 W Echo Lane Phoenix, AZ 85021

$1,319,500

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

3,442 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6649400

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Step into this gorgeous home conveniently tucked in a gated enclave of boutique semi-custom homes in an amazing location w/in the popular Phoenix Central Corridor. The open kitchen + great room concept has soaring 22ft ceilings, featuring a Chef's dream kitchen w/ full slab island, 6-burner gas cooktop & oven, dedicated ice maker, wine fridge, & spacious walk-in pantry. The luxurious master suite is on the main level w/ an expansive walk-in closet, dual vanities, & beautiful shower / tub combination. The split floor plan has an upper level w/ 3 oversized bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, generous laundry room, multi-use loft, & 2 balconies. The backyard is an entertainer's paradise w/ a large covered patio, low maintenance synthetic lawn, & sparkling heated pool & spa w/ mountain views (MORE) plenty of room to roam for both kids & pets. Additionally there is a 3-car tandem garage with builtin EV charger. The home is also conveniently positioned close to restaurants, shopping, entertainment and easy freeway access. Don't wait!

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28217 N 139th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,315,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,281 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6774444

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Living in the desert offers a unique blend of natural beauty, tranquility, and adventure. This home, with its large east-facing windows, is perfect for enjoying stunning sunrises over the Four Peaks, while sunsets can be admired from the rooftop deck. Located just 10 minutes from Tonto National Forest and numerous trailheads, it's ideal for hiking and biking enthusiasts. The yard often welcomes wildlife such as eagles, owls, and hummingbirds. Enjoy the pool for relaxation and stargazing at night. The yard features fruit trees, a raised garden, and low-maintenance irrigation. With efficient cooling systems and friendly neighbors, it's a peaceful and convenient place to live, close to great dining, shopping, and recreational spots like Scottsdale, Fountain Hills, and golf courses.

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2945 W Trail Drive Phoenix, AZ 85086

$1,315,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

3,107 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6693685

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This fantastic, 3100+ SF, single story custom home in North Phoenix is a must see! Acre lot at the end of a cul-de-sac, NO HOA, great views & loads of fabulous upgrades, including travertine flooring, 10 ft. ceilings, gourmet kitchen w/ double ovens, Wolf induction cooktop, granite countertops, wine fridge, island w/ sink & lots of storage space! Gas fireplaces in both the spacious family room featuring soaring 14 ft. beamed ceiling, and the primary suite boasting of a snail shower, spa tub, dual sinks & walk-in closet! 2 new AC units, 3-car garage and a separate 1100 SF RV garage/shop with AC & 1/2 bath! Fully landscaped desert front & back yards with w/ oasis like custom pool, putting green, huge covered patio w/ grill area and more to see including the amazing mountain views!! Just minutes to Tramonto, Anthem, EZ freeway access and less than 30 minutes to Lake Pleasant!

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10445 W Navigator Lane Peoria, AZ 85383

$1,310,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,231 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6660063

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Estimated completion 14 months from contract. New community by Canavest Group with each lot having the ability to be fully customizable to your liking and finishes to your selection. Ironwood Estates in Peoria, AZ offers a luxurious living experience in a serene desert setting. This fully improved exclusive 6 lot community features spacious single-family homes with modern amenities and high-end finishes. With 4 lots ½ acre and 2 lots ¾ acres residents can enjoy stunning mountain views, beautifully landscaped yards, and access to community parks and walking trails. With its convenient location near shopping, dining, and entertainment options, Ironwood Estates provides the perfect blend of comfort and convenience for those seeking a sophisticated lifestyle in the heart of Peoria

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32278 N 168th Avenue Surprise, AZ 85387

$1,300,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

3,630 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6741875

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This custom Modern Farmhouse features 4 bedrooms and 3 ½ baths, including an office, and boasts a 2-car garage along with a large RV garage on a lot exceeding 1 acre. The home includes a massive great room with a fireplace, a large chef's kitchen equipped with upgraded energy-efficient appliances, electric and propane gas hookups, and custom cabinets with a large island. The kitchen also features a walk-in pantry with cabinets and a water hookup for a portable ice machine. A separate laundry room with a sink and space for an additional refrigerator with a water hookup. The primary bathroom includes a fireplace, a separate walk-in shower with custom tile, a luxury sit-in tub, his and her vanities, and a large walk-in closet. Each bedroom has a walk-in closet, with one bedroom featuring a Jack & Jill bathroom and the others having a separate bathroom. Custom tile is laid throughout the home, including the bathroom tub and shower surrounds, which also feature upgraded faucets. The home also features an electric tankless water heater with the option to switch to gas/propane. The entry door is a large, custom-iron secure door. Additionally, the home has a full-back covered patio with bifold doors. This home is adorned with upgraded light fixtures throughout, including a large chandelier at the entry. The lot is enclosed with block wall fencing surrounding the premises.

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145 S Bonito Ranch Loop Cornville, AZ 86325

$1,300,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,599 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6757670

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Step into a world of charm with this stunning NEW CONSTRUCTION residence. A grand covered porch invites you to experience modern farmhouse living, accentuated by porcelain tile white oak flooring throughout. The 30-ft-high peaked metal roofline and clerestory windows fill the open-concept great room and entertainer's kitchen with an abundance of natural light. The kitchen is a culinary masterpiece, featuring a WOLF induction cooktop, double ovens, a coffee bar, and a quartz island seating 8. White cabinets with illuminated uppers and a farmhouse sink create a space where functionality meets elegance. Off the great room, discover an enclosed patio with a floor-to-ceiling fireplace, perfect for cozy evenings. A spiral staircase leads to a loft with sweeping views. The true magic lies in the subdivision amenities. Rio Bonito Ranch is a gated community with paved roads and provides owners private access to Oak Creek, a stocked community pond and Mason Lane Ditch that wanders around the whole subdivision like a mountain stream. The community has well established water rights, incredible sunset, mountain and valley views as well as dark sky and Jerome lights at night. It's location is minutes from Page Springs Cellars and other local wineries and only 20 minutes from West Sedona.

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41198 Us 180 -- Nutrioso, AZ 85932

$1,300,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,914 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6758430

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome home to the ''Hollywood House''. Beautiful, one of a king, custom-built log cabin features glue lam beams and pressurized wood throughout. Nestled on the top of the hill with panoramic views of Escudilla Mountain. Grab a coffee, step outside on the huge front deck and enjoy the wildlife. Three levels, large loft with half bath. Main floor is the great room, primary bdrm, kitchen and formal dining room. Basement includes a two car garage with brand new living quarters to include, living area, bdrm and full bath. All floor to ceiling windows in great room have been beautifully remodeled with wood and Milgard windows. Make an appt with me to see this home before it's gone.

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901 Torreon Drive Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$1,300,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,439 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6786456

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to a one-of-a-kind STUNNER in old Litchfield Park! This gem was built from the ground up in 2013. In 2023 it was extensively remodeled with a curated design and high-end finishes! The travertine path separating the lush green lawn guides you to your front courtyards. The grand foyer sets the stage for the open floorplan and bright views thru the 12' multi-slide. Tall ceilings and 8' custom doors accent the luxurious feel. Your dream kitchen boasts top-of-the-line Sub Zero, Wolf & Cove appliances consisting of 30''column refrigerator/freezer, 48'' range, hood liner, microwave, ice machine, 42 wine bottle refrigerator and dishwasher. Warm rift white oak custom cabinetry and paneled appliances enhance your cooking experience. The kitchen island is proportioned perfectly in the room and allows for 4 guests comfortably as well as ample working space while entertaining. The exquisite honed marble countertops compliment the vision. The dining room offers a spectacular 80 wine bottle glass lit display. The laundry room has an integrated dog crate, lockers for extra storage as well as drawers for shoes. The primary wing consists of a spacious bedroom, a luxurious bathroom, custom closet system as well as an adjacent den with fireplace. The secondary bedrooms are spacious as well with walk-in closets. The secondary bathroom is light, bright and has a creative tile design! The pool bath adjacent to the kitchen has direct access to the pool. 9 ½ French oak wood flooring adorns all the living areas for extra warmth. In the backyard you will find a 4 hole putting green, huge diving pool, lawn for playing, fruit trees & raised garden bed. The 3 car garage will accommodate your cars & toys perfectly. The additional storage cabinets are a bonus. Enjoy the benefits of a newer constructed home in this mature sought after community. This home blends elegance and modern convenience for a truly exceptional living experience! Seize this opportunity!

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Flagstaff AZ 86004

$1,300,000

6 Beds

3 Baths

3,515 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6742413

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Incredible home in Continental Country Club and is NOT in the HOA, currently a turnkey, 5 Star, successful vacation rental. Furnishings negotiable. Spectacular Mountain views, soaring ceilings, multiple fireplaces, expansive gourmet kitchen w/ Subzero fridge, wine cooler, walk in pantry. Solid Oak flooring in Dining and Living rooms, exterior paint in 2021, new roof in 2020, premium tankless hot water heater, updated primary bathroom plus other updates. Ceiling fans throughout. AC upstairs. Corner lot, 2 long paved driveways, with lots of onsite parking spaces. Enjoy 2 spacious decks. Bonus upstairs bunkroom and loft. Entertainer's dream with pool table, 2 bars, game tables, kid's hideaway playroom and plenty of room to sleep family & friends. Ask about Bear Paw amenities to purchase.

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26761 S 181st Place Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$1,300,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,000 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6702570

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

NEW BUILD-Complete and move-in ready! Enjoy the priceless views of the San Tan Mountains, 957 sq/ft detached casita with full kitchen, irrigated lot and NO HOA, YES PLEASE! Located on just over an acre in the desirable Chandler Heights District of Queen Creek. This open floor plan offers plenty of space for indoor/outdoor entertaining and also includes a den. 5 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms. Oversized 4 car garage and abundant space finishes off this dream home. Home is currently under construction and builder is offering an allowance for the following: appliances, cabinets, counter tops, flooring, electrical and the front door. Minutes from local shopping, hiking, entertainment, Horseshoe Park & Equestrian Center and the newly build Pecan Lake Entertainment Center!

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