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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3126 E Wildhorse Court Gilbert, AZ 85297

$1,195,000

6 Beds

4 Baths

5,993 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6748920

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This large family home is located in the heart of Gilbert, near the San tan mall and other amenities. This great home is calling for your name. Formal dining led you too the open kitchen with granite countertop, custom cabinets and stainless-steel appliances. All large bedrooms with walk-in closet upstairs, and a great oversized loft. On a hot summer day, take a dive in the swimming pool in the backyard with water feature.

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3102 E Agritopia Loop Gilbert, AZ 85296

$1,195,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,217 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6761495

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful gem with a basement in the heart of Agritopia! You're greeted by a charming front porch, perfect for morning coffee. The spacious great room boasts high ceilings, a contemporary palette, classic plantation shutters, and durable tile flooring. Cook delicious meals in the gourmet kitchen, equipped with granite countertops, shaker cabinetry with crown moulding, recessed lighting, a subway tile backsplash, sleek stainless steel appliances, a pantry, and a two-tier peninsula with a breakfast bar for casual dining. You'll also find a versatile den ideal for an office and a workout room for staying active. The sizable primary bedroom offers a lavish ensuite with double vanities and a convenient walk-in closet. Venture into the finished basement with soft carpeting throughout and a... Venture into the finished basement with soft carpeting throughout and a functional kitchen, perfect for a family room or hosting memorable gatherings. The enchanting backyard showcases a covered deck, pristine artificial turf, and a refreshing pool for cooling down on hot summer days. Make this beautiful residence yours today!

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844 W Beechnut Drive Chandler, AZ 85248

$1,195,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,226 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6763701

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Minutes from world class golf, dining, and shopping, welcome to this outstanding TURN KEY waterfront property in Oakwood Lakes! An open layout with skylights, a spacious den, vaulted ceilings, and a 5-panel glass of sliding pocket doors that merge the indoor/outdoor living areas. Gourmet kitchen has SS appliances, a stylish backsplash, an L-shaped peninsula with a breakfast bar, a pantry, granite counters, white cabinets, and a pass-through window w/glass garage door opening to the backyard. Discover another glass garage door in the main retreat that provides plenty of natural light and a lavish ensuite for a very private space. The entertainer's backyard includes firepit area, putting green, blue pool, relaxing spa, Ramada w/built-in BBQ and pendant seats, covered patio, bocce ball court, boat dock for a trip on the water, and amazing lake views. Plus, RV gate/parking for all your toys. Biking and hiking trails border the neighborhood! Can't miss out on this incredible opportunity! Truly a wonderful property for a 2nd home and a perfect rental (VRBO & AirBnB approved) while you're away!!

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3940 Rolling Stock Way Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$1,195,000

3 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,058 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6749602

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream oasis nestled in the serene landscape of Wickenburg Ranch!! This luxurious 3000 square foot home boasts breathtaking views that will leave you in awe every day. Step inside to discover a massive kitchen, meticulously designed with numerous appliance upgrades, perfect for the culinary enthusiast. Adorned with a stunning tile backsplash and granite countertops, the kitchen exudes both elegance and functionality. As you wander through this impeccable abode, you'll be greeted by beautiful timeless tile floors that add a touch of sophistication to every room. The spa-like bathrooms are a sanctuary unto themselves, featuring a rejuvenating sauna for ultimate relaxation. The oversized laundry room serves as a multifunctional space, doubling as an office to accommodate your lifestyle needs seamlessly. Step outside to your own private paradise, where a gorgeous outdoor living space awaits. An artistic fountain sets the tone for tranquility, while the travertine tile extended length patio provides the perfect setting for al fresco dining or simply soaking up the sun. Entertain with ease in the built-in outdoor kitchen, remote controlled screens, complete with all the amenities you need to host memorable gatherings. The landscaping is meticulously curated, enhancing the beauty of your surroundings and creating a serene ambiance. Keep your utility bills low with OWNED solar panels!! The home comes with HOA approved plans for a 795 sq ft Casita plus an RV garage!

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11729 N 134th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85259

Open House

$1,195,000

3 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,787 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6759821

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Luxury Gated Community hidden from the bustle but convenient to all. Single-level SPLIT ALL ENSUITE plan with NO INTERIOR STEPS. Attached Casita option with private entrance. Entertainer's Dream Great Room concept w/soaring ceilings, bright natural light and gas fireplace. True Chef's Kitchen w/Gas dual oven Wolf Range w/ pot filler, wall ovens and warning drawer, Sub-Zero fridge and beverage drawers plus wine cooler. Formal and Informal dining spaces plus island breakfast bar. Powder Room, Private Office w/Closet. Primary Suite features fireplace, rear yard access and spacious bath and walk-in closet. All with McDowell Mountain VIEWS! Garage has charging station! Pre-Listing Insp. available upon request. All minor corrections from inspection completed! MOVE-IN READY

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29808 N 63rd Street Cave Creek, AZ 85331

Open House

$1,195,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,000 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784802

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Custom luxury home sitting on1.101 acre lot. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bath, 3.5 car garage w/ pool. Home offers beautiful wood floors through (No Carpet),Kitchen features upgraded cabinets, SS appliances (gas range), granite counters, walk-in pantry & island. Great room open to kitchen, breakfast nook & formal dining room. Large primary suite w/full bathroom (2 sinks, sep. shower and tub) & walk-in closet. Ceiling fans & blinds thru-out, fresh paint interior & exterior. Backyard offers pebble-tec play pool, fireplace, brick pavers & stairs to a viewing deck w/360 views of downtown phx & mountains. Easily add to backyard by using the extra land on North side of lot (endless possibilities) Horse facilities can be added, 3.5 CG w/cabinets, work bench & epoxy floor. Well maintained home and it shows!

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4213 E Edgemont Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85008

Open House

$1,195,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,170 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6737412

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautifully remodeled home in lower arcadia. This rare custom basement home has a fabulous floor plan with 4 bedrooms and 3.5 baths. No HOA. New flooring, stunning quartz countertops throughout, marble fireplace...this is a must see! Just under 3200 sq ft that includes two living spaces, a walk in pantry and more... Do not miss out on this home!

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15943 E Mark Lane Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,190,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,107 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6746266

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

New construction in North Scottsdale! Recently completed home located along the Rio Verde Drive/Dynamite corridor just 10 minutes east of Troon North. This 3107 sf single level home captures sweeping views of the Tonto National Forest & Four Peaks. Situated on one acre with ample water available via newly built private well, this property features paved roads and will be surrounded by new homes. Creative split floorplan and open great room/kitchen concept. Layout also includes generous primary suite, 3 guest bedrooms, office and 3 car garage. High level interior finishes featuring white oak hardwood flooring, Quartz countertops, Monogram appliances, 48' linear fireplace, and large wrought iron lighting fixtures. Room for expansion on the lot for guest house/RV. NO HOA ! Home is situated on a paved road with easy access to Rio Verde Dr. Backyard is left open for buyer to create their outdoor living (not included in the price). Only minutes from McDowell Mountain Parks and 22,000 acres of exploration. Highly rated hiking and biking trails within minutes. Preview this beautiful property that combines the clean sophistication of new construction with the relaxed setting of this Scottsdale neighborhood.

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14124 W Christy Drive Surprise, AZ 85379

$1,190,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

4,255 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6757336

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This property is a dream come true for anyone seeking luxurious living in the gated subdivision of Mountain Gate in Surprise, AZ! Solar efficient home alllows for ultimate in low utility costs! This large 1 acre lot, 4255 sq ft ranch-style home features an open, great room floor plan, formal living room and dining room, gourmet kitchen with stainless appliances, huge walk in pantry, large laundry room w/brand new washer + dryer, 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, a den/office, a game room, 3 car garage, salt water HEATED POOL plus outdoor bar allowing for a combination of elegance and sophisticated ambiance right from the moment you arrive! The sport court is perfect for outdoor activities pared with wonderful outdoor living makes this an ideal home for gatherings! RV parking allowed.

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7207 N 175th Avenue Waddell, AZ 85355

$1,190,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,657 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6770376

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Remodeled Farm house (Furnished) and property 2022-2023. This well maintained home has been completely updated to encompass modern farm feel top to bottom. Inclusive of entertainment courtyard; bar and grill ramada, fire seating area, fountain and much more. The property has a large barn that will accommodate horses and or small animals. Situated at the back of the property there is a newly added practice breakaway/sand riding arena including shoot and shaded cattle pen. You will also find a pasture with a small enchanting orchard that is accompanied with two wooden tree swings. Furnishings included with a few exception Note: All Smart appliances in kitchen and laundry Kitchen; GE Profile induction cooktop/range with air fry, convection oven, Microwave does as well.

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7528 E Corrine Road Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$1,190,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,550 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6779074

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled in Scottsdale's desirable 85260, this former model block-built home features 4 spacious bedrooms & 2 baths on a 1/3-acre lot with no HOA! Located in a quiet double culdesac, it's a short walk to Cactus Park, JCC, & Sonoran Sky. The expansive backyard offers a 60-yard golf hole with 3 sand bunkers, citrus trees, multiple seating areas, & mature landscaping w/ cooler summer evenings creating a natural habitat for bunnies & quail. Inside, the kitchen boasts ample cabinetry and SS appliances, with solar tubes bringing in natural light. All bedrooms & formal rooms feature beautiful hardwood flooring, with tile t/o the rest of home. This home combines location, space, & the opportunity to personalize at a great price, with Scottsdale's top shopping, dining, schools, & parks nearby!

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3641 E Fountain Street Mesa, AZ 85205

$1,190,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,294 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6786425

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Trovita Norte Stunner! Nestled within the Gated Community, this Split Aurora Plan is what you've been waiting for. Imagine coming home to a Spacious 4 Car Garage, an Inviting Pool & Spa(both heated), an Enviable Backyard Kitchen with Built-In BBQ & Bar Seating under a Shaded Ramada surrounded by Low Maintenance Turf, with a Large Covered Patio overlooking it all & a Double Wide RV Gate/Parking. This backyard is a True Entertainer's Dream! Inside you're greeted by a Large Great Room and a Gorgeous Island Kitchen featuring Quartz Counters, Staggered Cabinets, Stainless Steel Appliances, Under-Cabinet Lighting & a Walk-In Pantry. The Expansive Master Suite features a Walk-In Shower, a Freestanding Tub, Dual Vanities and a Massive Walk-In Closet. The Secondary Bedrooms feature Walk-in Closets & the 4th is currently set up as a versatile flex room without a closet. Additional Highlights include a Cozy Backyard Gas Fire Pit, an Ample Front Courtyard Perfect for Entertaining, Extended Pavers leading to the RV Gate, a Water Softener Loop, Huge Laundry Room with Sink, Remote Controlled Roller Blinds on the Back Patio Sliding Doors and Recently Painted too. This Home is not just a place to Live; it's a Lifestyle waiting for you to Enjoy! What are you waiting for?

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