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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W Hooper Trail Unit 3 Queen Creek, AZ 85144

$1,199,900

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,837 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6355421

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Gorgeous Premium View Lot cornering up to the San Tan Mountain Regional Park, new 4 bdrm to be built. Standard features include 4-car garage, tile roof, covered patio, granite throughout, stainless appliances, and attached RV garage. Buyer chooses flooring, cabinets, granite, paint, etc. NO HOA! Estimated completion is 7-8 months from ground-breaking. Drive by only at this time.

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3567 E Hazeltine Way Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$1,199,900

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,211 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6752610

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Situated on an interior N/S lot in a secluded gated comm. Feat. a great room split floor plan w/3 bedrooms + den & formal dining. Shutters & luxury vinyl plank flooring t/o. Surround sound w/in-ceiling speakers. The gourmet kitchen features a HUGE 10.5x7.5ft island/breakfast bar w/granite slab counters & tile backsplash, a butler's pantry, lots of cabinets w/hardware & crown molding. Stainless steel appliances incl. gas cook top, double ovens & B/I micro. Huge owners suite w/10ft ceilings & sep exit to patio. Step out the 4 panel sliding glass door to a resort backyard w/a covered patio w/2 fans, speakers & b/I bbq. Putting Green & Gas Firepit. Heated Pebble-tec pool/spa w/swim up bar w/stools, baja step & rock waterfall grotto. Step down into the amazing ramada to relax & or to entertain ...Insulated 4 car garage w/epoxy floors, cabinets, 4 dedicated electrical outlets & service door. RV Gate with pavered front for extra parking. The laundry room features cabinets, a sink & access from owners closet. Plus soft water, whole home water conditioner & r/o systems. Spacious Owners' Suite with 10ft ceilings w/crown molding. Walk-in Tiled shower in owners' bath. Guest bath features granite counters and double copper sinks. Tankless water heater and more. Pavered driveway with courtyard entry with soothing fountain. Private gated community. Spectacular San Tan Mountain Views. Stone imported from Turkey on Ramada, Outdoor Kitchen, Raised Spa & Firepit. Remote controlled shade screen at patio. City of Gilbert services, Chandler Schools.

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4839 E Crocus Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,199,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,174 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6770113

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This fully remodeled, awe-inspiring corner lot home has everything you've ever dreamed of! Sheer beauty & mesmerizing attention to details are found inside. New high-end finishes, new dry wall, fresh soft paint, LVP flooring, all new windows & doors, and recessed lighting are worth mentioning. The bright & spacious open floor plan boasts a wall-mounted fireplace that adds a touch of elegance to the space. The gourmet kitchen is equipped with mosaic tile backsplash, gleaming stainless steel appliances, sleek quartz counters, and a waterfall breakfast bar. Don't miss the breakfast nook with a clear view of the backyard. Grand owner's retreat will undoubtedly become your personal sanctuary, showcasing direct outdoor access and an elegant ensuite comprised of dual sinks, a garden tub, a large enclosed glass shower, and a walk-in closet. Oversized backyard is the perfect spot to enjoy memorable gatherings, complete with a covered patio, grassy area, and a sparkling pool. All new electrical, plumbing back to box, and redone stucco siding! Located in Popular Greenbrier East within the magic 85254 zip code. This gem has it all!

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1372 E Lovebird Court Gilbert, AZ 85297

$1,199,900

5 Beds

3 Baths

4,000 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6749965

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this beautifully maintained home, lovingly cared for by its original owners. This exceptional property is situated on a quiet cut-de-sac, that provides ample parking. There is an adjacent walking path, green space and a volleyball court. The home has been thoughtfully updated throughout, ensuring a modern aesthetic and timeless appeal. You'll feel the attention to detail that makes this house a home. There are spacious living areas that include a bonus room, perfect for a teen hangout, home gym or guest space. The highlight of the property is the resort-style backyard, that includes a diving pool, hot tub, outdoor kitchen and fire pit. It's an ideal spot for relaxation and entertaining. There are many options for additional storage, including overhead garage racks, cabinets and an outdoor shed. The property is conveniently located near shopping, restaurants and the San Tan freeway. Don't miss the opportunity to make this property your own! All tv's convey.

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20535 E Excelsior Court Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$1,199,900

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,000 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6756482

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Amazing 4,000 sqft Custom Home on 1acre Irrigated Citrus Lot. This Home Offers 5 Bedrooms and 3.5 Bath in the Main House with Basement for 'Multi-Generational Living. A Studio Suite is above the Garage and a Office in the Garage as well. Wonderful Patio Area with 'water misters' for Entertaining and Relaxing - with retractable TV! It also has a Home Automation System. New Carpet in Main House. Close to Schools, Shopping and Entertainment. A Must See!

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Scottsdale AZ 85262

$1,199,800

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,828 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6781821

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Introducing you a fantastic property with pool & spa combo in the Gated Preserve Summit! Desert landscaping, sweet curb appeal, and 2-car garage. Split floor plan thoughtfully laid out with formal dining room, 3 bedrooms in the main house plus guest, 3.5 bathrooms, and an ample living room. Media niche, fireplace, pre-wired surround sound speakers complete the living area! Plantation shutters and fire sprinklers throughout the home. The eat-in kitchen showcases walk-in pantry, granite counters, center island w/breakfast bar, built-in appliances, pot filler, plenty of cabinets, tile backsplash, and backyard access. Spacious main bedroom provides French doors to the backyard and an ensuite with a jetted tub, two vanities, large shower, and walk-in closet. There's a Jack and Jill bathroom for convenience. One of the bedrooms features its own entrance/exit, which makes it perfect for an office! Serene backyard offers two fireplaces, a built-in BBQ, a covered patio, and a heated pool and spa combination for taking a dip all year round. You don't want to miss this home!

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1916 E Primrose Path Phoenix, AZ 85086

$1,199,500

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,308 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784250

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Seller will carry! Nestled on a HUGE 1-acre lot, this gorgeous horse property is a dream come true. The home exudes elegance throughout with tall ceilings, recessed lighting, a neutral palette, abundant natural light, and wood-look tile flooring w/plush carpet in bedrooms. You'll love the semi-open layout, which perfectly balances privacy and connectivity! The large living area is paired with a stone accent wall and multi-sliding doors merging the inside/outside activities. The gourmet kitchen boasts sleek SS appliances w/cooktop elec, granite tile counters, ample wood cabinetry, a walk-in pantry, and a breakfast bar. Enter the primary bedroom to find outdoor access and an ensuite with dual sinks, a separate tub/shower, & a walk-in closet. One secondary bedroom has a double-door entr PLUS! Horse back ride from your home with nearby trails! This gem includes a spacious multi-purpose room with its own separate entrance, making it ideal for a guest quarter, game room, or workshop. Laundry room with a sink & cabinetry. But the true highlight is the oversized backyard that has been tastefully divided! Designed for year-round enjoyment, you'll have a covered patio, well-laid pavers, built-in BBQ, fireplace, firepit, hot tub, and a heated pool & spa. Beyond the fence are the stables, arena, and a storage shed. Want MORE? With a 4-car garage, RV port, RV gates, and ample room for your trucks & toys, this home is designed for convenience and functionality. Escape the typical subdivision feel, enjoy larger lot space, and still benefit from easy access to suburban amenities! Wow, just WOW!

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29091 N 139th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,199,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

4,034 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6748671

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover the 4034 floor plan & all it has to offer. The kitchen boasts luxurious finishes, such as, stainless steel WOLF appliances, upgraded 42'' upper cabinets w/ crown molding, ample countertop space & a large center island. The adjacent informal dining area provides a comfortable & convenient space. The great room is filled with natural light & a sliding glass door lets in even more. The homes boasts plenty of room for everyone w/ a GUEST LIVING area w/ separate entry & a BONUS/GAME ROOM. The spa-like primary bathroom includes a BEACH ENTRY shower, dual-sink vanity, a soaking tub, & a spacious walk-in closet. Enjoy outdoor living, dining, and entertaining on the covered patio, and take advantage of the 4-car garage on 1.25 ACRES w/ NO HOA. Home to be completed in December.

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Show Low AZ 85901

$1,199,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

3,372 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6739787

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

''Lux Cabin'' with stunning fairway views & water feature on #15 Tower Course. Torreon is a Troon Development with amenities that are second to none! Conveying beautifully furnished, new high-end hot tub on expansive back deck, 20ft handcrafted juniper wood bar, 2 Master Suites, wall of windows & more!

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8420 N 15th Street Phoenix, AZ 85020

$1,199,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,272 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6758735

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled at the base of the south side of the Phoenix Mountain preserve lies this timeless contemporary retreat. Imagine being in Laurel Canyon or Hollywood Hills. Have a glass of wine or a cup of coffee on the balcony & enjoy magnificent 360 degree city &mountain views. Relax on the tranquil desert landscaped patio with an outdoor kitchen. Gather and entertain in the light & airy living room, dining room, remodeled gourmet kitchen with pantry & island, that open to the great room and office. The 1st level includes an attached guest suite with mini kitchenette, oversized primary bedroom with sitting area & bath, large laundry room & 2 additional bedrooms with a Jack/Jill bath. The 2-Car Garage is the perfect man cave. Steps away from some of the best hiking trails in Arizona.

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18425 W Santa Irene Drive Goodyear, AZ 85338

$1,199,000

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

3,802 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6749352

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

BEAUTIFUL LUXURIOUS TUSCAN CUSTOM HOME, LOCATED IN THE BEAUTIFUL ESTRELLA MOUNTAIN RANCH.THIS HOME HAS CANTERA STONE PILLARS, TRAVERTINE TILE THROUGH OUT, WOOD FLOORS IN ALL THE RIGHT PLACES.SURROUND SOUND IN MASTER AND GREAT ROOM, SPEAKER SYSTEM THROUGHOUT THE HOME,3 FIREPLACES,CUSTOM KNOTY ALDER CABINETS,GRANITE COUNTERS, ELEVATOR GOING FROM THE GARAGE TO THE KITCHEN,THE KIDS QUARTERS INCLUDE 2 LARGE BEDROOMS WITH JACK AND JILL BATHS,EPOXY IN THE GARAGE, BASEMENT WITH WETBAR AND FULL BATH, JACUZZI TUB AND BIDET IN MASTER , HOT TUB OUTSIDE.,OUTDOOR BUILD IN SMOKER,GREAT PRIVATE BACK YARD OVER LOOKING A MOUNTAIN AND GREAT VIEWS 360 DEGREE,PRIVATE MINI GOLF,CUSTOM GAZEBO WITH BAR AND TV, WATER FOUNTAINS FOR YOUR RELAXATION. OUT DOOR KITCHEN WITH WINE FRIDGE AND GAS STOVE.GARAGE CABINETS THROUGH OUT THE GARAGE. THIS HOME IS WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE TO THE PARK AND LAKE.

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3669 E Morrison Ranch Parkway Gilbert, AZ 85296

$1,199,000

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,361 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6771689

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

* Beautiful 5 Bedroom 3.5 bath plus Den and Loft home in Highly Desirable community of Morrison Ranch * Wonderful Gourmet Kitchen with Thermador appliances including Refrigerator/Freezer combo, Dual ovens, Gas oven and cooktop, warming drawer, double center Islands, dual pantry's and new quartz countertops in 8/2024 * Main level also includes a formal living room, formal dining room with coffered ceiling, office/ exercise room & half bath. 2nd level features very spacious master suite with large bath and walk in closet, 4 additional bedrooms, one with private bath, game/ media room * Enjoy a resort style backyard w/ large pebble-tec pool, real rock waterfall, water slide and grotto, Travertine brick deck around the pool, extended covered patio, misting/fog system and built in gas grill. Exterior freshly painted in 7/2024 * new 75 Gallon Gas hot water heater in 5/2024 * New pool pump in 3/2024 * Surround sound throughout most of the home, including patio and pool area * And so much more...

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