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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18826 N 101st Place Unit 10
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$4,900,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,693
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6699585
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover refined elegance in this single-level residence ideally situated in Horseshoe Canyon near the prestigious Silverleaf Club. The charming front courtyard features a soothing water fountain and sitting area, setting the tone for the luxury within. Inside, the great room boasts a gorgeous tongue and groove wood ceiling and grand pocketing doors leading to the stunning outdoor living area. The gourmet kitchen is equipped with granite counters, Viking appliances, and an expansive butler's pantry with additional ovens and refrigerator drawers for seamless entertaining. The principal suite offers tranquility with a spacious bedroom, small refrigerator, dual sinks, separate shower, jetted tub, and large walk-in closet. Two additional en suite bedrooms provide comfort, while a ... sizable office with courtyard access ensures working from home is a breeze. Outside, the resort-style living area is an entertainer's dream, featuring a pool and spa, firepit, and BBQ center under a picturesque gazebo. The covered patio offers elegant dining options, complemented by roller shades and an outdoor fireplace for year-round enjoyment. A pristine synthetic turf lawn adds a touch of green luxury. The home also features travertine and hardwood floors throughout, a subzero wine chiller, a well appointed laundry room with sink, and powder bath. Experience sophisticated living in this exceptional luxury residence.
9333 E Pinnacle Vista Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$4,900,000
5
Beds
4
Baths
6,022
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6663839
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
360 views on nearly 7.5 acres in North Scottsdale overlooking Pinnacle Peak, The McDowell's and Camelback! The main home features 4 bedrooms and 3 baths. Guest casita has 1 bedroom, 1 bath at 864 sq ft with full kitchen and laundry. As you enter you are welcomed by floor to ceiling windows with breathtaking views, natural desert, and distant city lights. Store your favorite wines in the temperature controlled custom wine wall. This completely updated home includes a gorgeous kitchen complete with a white marble waterfall island, walnut bar-top counter, top of the line appliances and custom cabinetry. These views are a must see!
8788 E Branding Iron Road
Carefree, AZ 85377
$4,900,000
7
Beds
6.5
Baths
8,132
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6773339
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Exceptional Desert Contemporary w/ 360-degree mountain views. Atop nearly 15 acres of pristine land nestled within the natural desert surround, offering immense PRIVACY. Gourmet kitchen w/ WOLF, Subzero & Cove appliance package, soaring ceilings, curved walls, sauna, exercise room, office & basement, coffered ceiling details, electronic roller-shades through-out home, Detached guest house w/ full kitchen & living room, fireplace, 2 bedrooms, W&D, 1 car garage 30 x40 separate garage/workshop w/ Heat, AC & exhaust fan, gated paved driveway, Elan AAA security system, negative edge pool, spa, boulder water & slide, putting green & large synthetic grass areas, multiple covered patios. Generator, Private Well, Forest of Saguaros. Main House is 6,753 sq ft and Guest house is 1,379. NO HOA.
29672 N 77th Place
Scottsdale, AZ 85266
$4,900,000
6
Beds
6.5
Baths
6,430
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6760786
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Totally reimagined in 2023/24, this luxurious North Scottsdale estate is situated on 1.78 acres in an exclusive, gated community of 5 homes. This home captures the incredible views surrounding its peaceful & serene setting. An expansive split floor plan w 5 spacious bedrooms, 5 1/2 baths, game area & full wet-bar in the main house (AC 4 car garage) & a guest house/casita w/ 2 bedrooms (1 is an exercise room), bath, kitchenette & living area. Gourmet kitchen includes Quartzite counters, custom Alder wood cabinetry & Miele, Wolf, Sub-Zero appliances. A 1600 sf covered patio offers you sunrises over the majestic McDowells & sun sets over the Valley all while you are having coffee, gathering friends in the evening, swimming or playing tennis on your private lighted court. No expense spared on this magnificent home! You will love all the amenities of this home & the incredible outdoor/indoor living it offers. Minutes from Carefree and North Scottsdale dining, shopping and entertainment.
11475 E Paradise Lane
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$4,899,000
5
Beds
5.5
Baths
6,782
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6690112
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
If you love to ENTERTAIN, this REMODELED custom estate with mountain views from almost every window is for you! Located on a 1.2 acre hillside lot on a cul-de-sac in the guard gated community of the Retreat at 100 Hills in McDowell Mountain Ranch. Drive up the new, winding exposed aggregate driveway with plenty of onsite parking for guests leading to the auto court situated adjacent to the 4+ car/2400 square foot garage. Next, enter this Modern Mediterranean home through the gated courtyard which includes a cozy gas fireplace and serene fountain. Enter the home through the custom iron and glass entry door into the domed foyer. Architectural details throughout the home include new engineered oak wood flooring, knotty alder doors and cabinets, coffered ceilings, expansive rooms with ceiling heights ranging from 18 to 11 feet, re-textured walls and ceilings with a 90/10 drywall finish painted bright white. The Chef's kitchen equipped with a large island with waterfall quartz counters is the ideal place to prepare a gourmet meal or host friends and family. The dining room with adjacent butler's pantry with secondary prep area, bar, dishwasher, warming drawer and microwave is just steps from the kitchen. After dinner relax and entertain in the expansive game room with wet bar, family room and home theatre. The property includes 4 bedrooms plus an office/den on the main level and an attached casita with a kitchenette and ensuite bedroom. The primary bedroom has a separate patio overlooking the mountain preserve. The primary bathroom includes a large walk-in shower, his and hers vanities and a free standing tub. The outdoor spaces include numerous patios, extensive hardscape, a large negative edge playpool with swim up bar, firepots, spa, fire pit, outdoor kitchen and room for a play area or putting green. Interior remodel includes new wood and tile flooring, quartz countertops, plumbing fixtures, lighting fixtures, ceiling fans and more. The 100 Hills community is conveniently located near freeway access, golf courses, dining, shopping, schools, hiking trails and much more. 100 Hills has a private tennis courts and a community pool and spa. McDowell Mountain Ranch offers access to recreational amenities including pickleball courts, tennis courts, pools, parks, hiking trails and community activities for all. Nearby is the McDowell Mountain Aquatic Complex with multiple pools, a lazy river and waterslide, fitness facilities and skate park. Owner/agent
8901 N 58th Place
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
$4,895,000
5
Beds
7
Baths
5,841
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6764671
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Located in the prestigious sought-after neighborhood of Camelback Country Estates in the 3 C's school district, this charming newly updated property with large grassy area and sport court boasts a perfect floor plan with five ensuite bedrooms, including an attached guest house, plus a separate paneled library. The luxurious primary suite features two new his and her bathrooms, custom closets, an exercise room and sauna. Set on a full acre, the expansive grounds offer a fire pit, multiple patios and a brand new pool (owners dug out and moved the location of the new pool). Recent upgrades include fabulous 3,000 sq. ft. of hardwood floors, a lovely remodeled kitchen with quartz counters, new landscaping and a new roof (2021) with a 15-year transferable warranty!
5567 E Mcdonald Drive
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
$4,895,000
5
Beds
5.5
Baths
3,148
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6738950
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to Your Dream Retreat in Paradise Valley! Access to the amenities of The Sanctuary including security, gym, maid service, pools, food service & more. This exquisite home was torn down to the foundation in 2012, and 3m was spent on the re-build. Enjoy Stunning views of Camelback Mountain and city light views. The main house boasts elegant living areas and a gourmet kitchen perfect for entertaining. Step outside to enjoy the sparkling pool, or engage in friendly competition on the private tennis and basketball courts. 3 separate guest casitas are perfect for friends and family. Experience extraordinary living with luxurious amenities, stunning views, and unrivaled tranquility in this exceptional Paradise Valley estate. Your perfect oasis awaits
25763 N 116th Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$4,875,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,785
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6683896
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Experience the pinnacle of luxury living on this elevated lot in Troon North, offering unforgettable views and an unmatched lifestyle. This property boasts one of the finest lots in North Scottsdale, situated in a private cul-de-sac. Your arrival is marked by a private entry gate, leading you up a long, secluded driveway to your own three-plus-acre estate. Every inch of this property is a destination in itself, with spectacular views in every direction. Designed by a visionary woman in collaboration with Graffin Design, this estate is a testament to meticulous planning and love for every square foot. The result is a sophisticated custom home that exudes warmth and functionality. The unique design blends timeless appeal with resort-style living, elevating your lifestyle to new heights. At this elevation, you can enjoy the outdoors all year round. Choose from warm winter days, cool summer evenings, or relax under expansive covered patios. Whether you're sunbathing in complete privacy or enjoying the dramatic entry behind the massive custom iron door, every outdoor space invites you to linger and take in the breathtaking mountain views. The main living areas redefine open-concept living, featuring large sliding doors that open to a zero-edge pool, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor spaces. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, equipped with high-end appliances, a huge center island, granite slab countertops, and a spacious walk-in pantry equipped with a build in Popcorn machine. The kitchen's sleek design is complemented by sweeping views and abundant natural light, making it perfect for entertaining. The romantic owner's suite offers unobstructed mountain views, sliding doors to the patio, a fireplace, and a spacious walk-in closet. The spa-like owner's bath features a luxurious soaking tub, a large walk-in shower with a bench, dual vanities, and a makeup vanity. Just outside, a private hot tub and tranquil outdoor shower await your relaxation. Two generously sized secondary bedrooms come with en suite bathrooms, walk-in closets, and stunning mountain views. Each room is designed to maximize the views from every window. The huge office is beautifully presented with custom built-in cabinetry and desk, French doors opening to the courtyard, and a fireplace, making it a serene workplace sanctuary. This creative space includes a craft/painter's sink, a built-in sewing machine, and ample storage. A fourth room, currently used as an executive office/library, can easily convert to a fourth bedroom. It features custom built-in cabinetry and French doors leading to the expansive courtyard. The seamless flow of indoor and outdoor spaces creates a living sanctuary. The lush, park-like backyard features a built-in BBQ with a prep sink, poolside firepots, pool deck jets, a water feature, outdoor showers, a large observation deck, and a raised dog wash with hot and cold water. The huge upper deck is perfect for watching monsoon lightning shows, meteor showers, and full harvest moons, while enjoying the fresh desert air after a rainstorm. The sparkling infinity pool, framed by mountains, offers spectacular night skies, sunrises, and sunsets, along with twinkling town lights. This estate is more than a house; it's a lifestyle. The romance of the property, the sounds of birds and wildlife, the wind rustling through hundreds of mature trees, midnight swims, and courtyard conversations all contribute to a unique living experience. The 4.5-car garage, with lofty ceilings, a lift for additional parking, custom cabinets, a workbench with a sink, and over 200 square feet of enclosed storage, provides ample space for vehicles and hobbies. Minutes from two world-famous golf courses in the Troon North portfolio, Monument and Pinnacle, consistently ranking among the top must-play courses. You're also minutes from the renowned Four Seasons Resort & Spa, and perfectly situated near amazing shopping and dining at Kierland Commons, The Quarter, and the charming events in Downtown Carefree. Come take a look at your new lifestyle and experience the splendor, new memories, and joy this property offers. This home is a private and tranquil Arizona resort, with no detail left out, blending architectural design and indoor-outdoor spaces to create a timeless splendor. Your private oasis is ready for you to move in and enjoy.
9957 E Larkspur Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
$4,850,000
4
Beds
4
Baths
4,014
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6754138
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
The unexpected home of your dreams ... with the cool of steel combined with the warmth of wood, walls of glass and lush grass- This is Estate 48. Just like Arizona, the 48th State , Kent Architects and Argue Custom Homes built a strong , unique and warm home that rebels against the expected architecture. Brilliant floor plan featuring wide open entertaining spaces, temperature controlled garages with lounge area with sauna. Oversized storage room with hvac easily can be another bedroom or workout room! Serene pool and sun deck , monster spa , bocce ball and deep covered patios. For a couple or a family, this is PARADISE.
39494 N 105th Street Unit 74
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$4,850,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
5,620
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6757276
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover the epitome of luxury living in this stunning 4-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom new custom home by Black Stone Custom Homes and Graffin Design. This exceptional new build offers a perfect blend of modern design, craftsmanship, and attention to detail. Spanning an open and airy floor plan, the home features a spacious great room with vaulted ceilings, large windows for natural light, and a sleek fireplace as the centerpiece. The gourmet kitchen will include top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances, custom cabinetry, a large island, and a walk-in pantry—perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. Each bedroom is designed as a private retreat, with its own en-suite bathroom. The primary suite will serve as a luxurious haven, complete with a spa-like bath featuring a freestanding tub, walk-in shower, double vanities, and an expansive walk-in closet. The additional bedrooms are equally spacious, offering comfort and privacy for family members or guests. With a second story, The second story of this custom home offers a versatile space that can easily be adapted to meet your needs. Currently designed as a large bonus room, it provides endless possibilitiesa perfect setting for a home office, media room, or game room. For those seeking additional guest accommodations, this space can be seamlessly converted into a spacious guest bedroom offering comfort and privacy for overnight visitors. Outside, the home is set to feature a covered patio ideal for outdoor dining and relaxing. With high-end finishes and customizable options still available, this home by Black Stone Custom Homes and Graffin Design offers a unique opportunity to create your dream living space. A golf membership is available with approval from the membership committee, allowing you to enjoy exclusive access to the community's world-class golf course and amenities. Additionally, a rental home is available for up to two years during the construction of your new custom home, providing a comfortable and convenient living arrangement while your dream home is being built.
10671 E Hedgehog Place
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$4,850,000
5
Beds
5.5
Baths
6,422
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6660987
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover the epitome of luxury living with this shovel-ready, permitted masterpiece—an unparalleled custom home nestled atop a mesmerizing south-facing 2+ acre view lot in Pinnacle Canyon at Troon North. Boasting an expansive 6400 sqft of living space and an additional 1300 sqft of covered patio, this unique residence encompasses 4 bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms, and a generously sized 3-car garage—all poised and ready for your enjoyment. Seize the opportunity to personalize your haven by selecting finishes and incorporating bespoke customizations. Designed by the esteemed Urban Design Group, this residence not only exemplifies sophistication but also expedites the construction timeline, saving you over a year in build time compared to starting from scratch. Don't miss the chance to call this extraordinary dwelling your own. It's more than a home; it's a lifestyle waiting to unfold. Act now and make this exclusive dream home yours.
5156 N 45th Place
Phoenix, AZ 85018
$4,850,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,496
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6753530
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this exquisite 5-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom estate, boasting 4,496 square feet of luxurious living space on a sprawling 0.56-acre lot. This architectural masterpiece, completely rebuilt in 2024, with interiors by Joel Contreras Design, offers unparalleled elegance and comfort. The expansive great room, over 2,000 square feet with 16-foot ceilings, seamlessly blends the living, dining, and family areas and features stunning views of Camelback Mountain, creating an inviting atmosphere perfect for entertaining and relaxation. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring Thermador appliances, Vadara Quartz countertops, Shinnoki cabinetry, a 15.5-foot island, and a convenient pot filler. A versatile bedroom suite on the south side serves as an excellent second primary suite or guest retreat. The primary bedroom includes an en-suite bath, custom closet, and direct access to the stunning heated pool. The front yard features a large pool, outdoor kitchen, and dual gas fireplaces, while the backyard offers a more intimate setting with a private patio and a glimpse of Piestewa Peak. Additional features include a temperature-controlled 4-car garage with epoxy flooring, a well-appointed laundry room with dual washers and dryers, and custom Arcadia commercial-grade sliders throughout. The exterior and interior T&G details showcase durable, medium-textured Red Grandis wood, enhancing the home's timeless appeal.