Buying a Home This Autumn? 4 Unconventional Ways to Save up for Your Down Payment

Buying a Home This Autumn? 4 Unconventional Ways to Save up for Your Down PaymentAutumn is a popular time for new home buyers to start looking for their first house or condo. But with that down payment looming, everybody could use a bit of help saving up to make that bulk payment a little less intimidating.

There are plenty of unconventional ways to save up that may seem small, but will quickly add up and put a dent into that down payment.

Create A High Interest Savings Account

Talk to the bank about creating a secondary savings account with a higher interest rate. These super savings accounts usually come with the caveat that no money can be removed for a designated period of time. Using this account for the down payment works in everybody’s favor because it guarantees those extra dollars cannot be used for any other purpose.

Discard One Guilty Pleasure

Enjoy Starbucks coffee? Grab a pint every happy hour? Choose one vice and put the amount that would be spent on it into a jar. Most people will be surprised on how much money they spend each month on one guilty pleasure that can easily be cut out of their life. Every perk that’s cut will increase the amount by a decent margin.

Put Away Any Bonus Money

Holiday bonuses from work, tax refunds, birthday or Christmas presents, income from side gigs, any and all extra dollars that come in from any source outside of the main paycheck should be considered ‘down payment dollars.’ Sure it’s tempting to use that nice bonus or tax refund on a weekend trip or a night out, but all extra income should be saved away for that initial down payment.

Bring On The Roommates

People who already own a home and are looking to relocate can take this unconventional approach. Decent housing is hard to find so anybody with an extra room can rent it out and put that money towards the new house. Having a roommate can be a pain, but it’s for a limited time and can add up quickly.

While saving for a down payment can be stressful, you don’t have to go through the process alone. I’d be happy to guide you and provide some helpful tips for how to make that down payment without breaking the bank. I’ve seen countless couples go through the same thing and my experience can make a world of difference for you.  Give me a call – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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15027 N 28th Street Phoenix, AZ 85032

$1,225,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,448 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6732094
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This fine custom home offers a world of possibilities for both personal and business needs. This property has plenty of open living space and available land for additional building — perfect for someone working from home or desiring to customize a lot. Its convenient location in the heart of the city makes this 36,000 sqft lot (zoned R-14) an incredibly rare find. The property includes both the 3443 sqft main home and detached 1200 sqft workshop/garage — and the lot still offers room to grow. The interior of the residence boasts 4 bedrooms, an office/bonus room, and a large loft area with access to a spacious observation deck/balcony built with entertaining in mind. The exterior features an enormous paved parking space and a stylish backyard with always green artificial grass, fruit ..... fruit trees and a flower garden. The focal point, however, is the covered patio and BBQ area plus the large fire pit. They make the backyard perfect for entertaining large groups. And that's not all! The home also has an oversized RV gate.The interior finishes include recently updated real wood floors /large stone tiles /solid wood doors. The owner has also installed solar panels on the roof, providing you substantial savings on electricity bills. This spacious lot would also be perfect for the addition of a pickle ball or a tennis court. Don't miss out on your chance to make an offer on this remarkable property that has an ideal combination of convenient location and acreage! Short distance to 51 FRWY , Great Hearts Academy, Basis School, PV GOLF, Kierland Shopping and Mayo Hospital. Ready to Move- In.

5225 E Bluefield Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,225,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
3,053 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6772875
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Location! Location! Location! This beautiful 3 Bedroom/2.5 Bath, plus a Den, home is located in the desirable MAGICAL ZIP CODE 85254! A very light & bright preferred split floor plan boasts the open, Great Room concept, with nice high ceilings. Fabulous for entertaining Family & Friends! The fireplace is the perfect addition for those chilly nights. The spacious eat-in Kitchen features granite counters, an island, breakfast bar, double ovens, gas stove, large walk-in pantry, built-in desk and roll-out shelving. No carpet in this home. Plantation shutters in all of the right places. The expanded Primary Bedroom offers sitting room and sliders to the patio. Two separate vanities and closets are a Bonus! A large walk-in shower, separate tub, & extra built-in custom cabinets enhance the Primary Bath. The Den also features built-in cabinets & shelves. The second Bedrooms are sizable. Formal Dining and Living Rooms with crown moulding provide more gathering space. Enjoy the great AZ outdoors in this Resort-Style Backyard featuring a sparkling spool with a water feature, 2 grassy areas, a large covered patio with speakers, palm trees, and a built-in BBQ. This special large lot backs to a greenbelt with no one behind. Laundry sink and cabinets in the Laundry Room. The extended 3 Car Garage is loaded with built-in cabinets and a workbench. Along with a newer roof and newer exterior paint, a water softener system and security system are also a plus. Must see! Put this elegant beauty at the top of your list!

12654 N 17th Place Phoenix, AZ 85022

$1,225,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,410 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6666445
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
The elevated, hillside location delivers unparalleled sunset, golf, and mountain views in a gated community overlooking Lookout Mountain Golf course. This Ridge at Lookout Mountain property surrounded by scenic beauty, is now freshly painted, with a clean, modern ambiance, grounded with natural stone flooring and flooded with natural light through panoramic windows. The kitchen features custom cabinetry and high-end SubZero and Wolf appliances. Owned solar = sunshine pays the bill. A split owner's suite is a lavish escape with hardwood floors, sitting area, gas fireplace, dual walk-in closets, jetted tub, and snail shower. The low-maintenance yard enhances outdoor relaxation with a covered patio, pebbletec pool, built-in BBQ, and artificial turf, creating a perfect retreat. A new roof, tankless water heater, all new smart locks, shutters, invisible screen doors, electronic window screens, both a water softener and reverse osmosis, new insulated garage doors, two pergolas, gutters and a backyard gate are recent improvements. Overall, this residence combines modern elegance, integrated with its natural surroundings, offering a luxurious and tranquil lifestyle for those seeking a sophisticated home with breathtaking views and upscale amenities.

13512 N Granite Way Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$1,225,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
3,269 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6675282
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Here's a rare chance to own a home in Sunridge Canyon, cherished by its owner for over 25 years. This spacious 4-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom home features a family-friendly split master floor plan. Situated on more than 34,000 square foot lot (+/-.78 acres), you'll enjoy vaulted ceilings and stunning views of the mountains and Sunridge Canyon golf course. The backyard boasts a beautiful negative edge pool and spa as well as a built in BBQ island. Inside, the living room impresses with cantera stone floors and a natural gas fireplace. The primary bathroom seamlessly blends with the surrounding natural environment. Every room is generously sized and offers great views. This lovely home will make you feel right at home.

3713 E Nolan Drive Chandler, AZ 85249

$1,225,000
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,908 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6750895
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Situated on one of the most desirable lots in all of Valencia this exceptional 5-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom basement home offers the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, & eco-friendly living. Gorgeous wood-look tile, neutral paint, and stunning natural finishes - contemporary meets traditional in this TW Lewis quality home. Enjoyable from both inside & out, the lake with waterfall directly behind the home offers both privacy and serenity. The main level is designed with both style and functionality in mind. Including a modern kitchen with high-end appliances, huge breakfast bar, gas range, double ovens, built-in microwave, under cabinet lighting, & tons of counter/cabinet space. Suitable for entertaining or lazy evenings with the family the kitchen opens to the family room with gas fireplace. The living room is suited for entertaining with built-in bar and views of the stunning backyard accessible through the double slider doors - creating true indoor/outdoor living capitalizing on our gorgeous AZ weather. The primary suite serves as a peaceful retreat with a walk-in closet and a luxurious spa-like en-suite bathroom. The unique split floor plan basement features two generously sized bedrooms, a full bathroom, and a versatile flex roomideal for a home office, gym, or entertainment space or think multi-generational living! Step outside to enjoy your private backyard oasis, complete with a sparkling pool, large covered patio, artificial grass, & tons of pavers - a welcome retreat for your morning coffee or a glass of wine in the evening. The property also boasts pre-paid solar ensuring low electric bills for years to come.

9844 E June Street Mesa, AZ 85207

$1,225,000
5 Beds
5 Baths
4,172 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6744067
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
GORGEOUS MOUNTAIN, SUNRISE & SUNSET VIEWS! Gated private Boutique community nestled in the prestigious Mesa Uplands of NE Mesa. Close to hiking, boating, shopping & dining. Gorgeous contemporary flair that is warm & welcoming. ALL SINGLE LEVEL LIVING. Entertainers dream home & backyard. Entry offers soaring 2 story ceilings with huge windows offering expansive mountain views. True chefs kitchen: 42'' Expresso cabinets, tile backsplash, Granite slab countertops, gas cooktop w/ SS range hood, oversized prep island, built in oven / micro w/ walk in pantry. Generous dining is open to a wonderful family room. Tile flooring. Huge windows allowing natural light & mechanical blinds. Beautiful open staircase w/ decorative banner. The owner's suite is private & offers majestic views. Spa like bathroom offers 2 vanities, free standing tub, walk in shower & everyone's dream closet. Secondary bedroom area offers their own flex space, 2 bedrooms w/ walk in closets and Jack & Jill bath. Front bedroom w/ walk in closet & full bathroom. All baths are nicely upgraded. Second floor offers a super loft which can be used as a den/ studio/ office along with a bedroom & full bath. Wall of windows to the deck will blow your mind with views that are a must to experience. AZ dream resort backyard. Extended covered patio, heated 5.5 ft deep pool, heated spa & water features. Lush landscaping and 5 hole putting green. Views of the Superstitions MTN and Usury MTN are unobstructed. Sunrises and sunsets are spectacular! Close to the 202, shopping, dining, lakes and hiking. This home will not disappoint! This community is outstanding!

3918 W Bowen Avenue Glendale, AZ 85308

$1,225,000 - 3Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Vision Hill Estates, Glendale
Open House
$1,225,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,944 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6734292
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
PRICE IMPROVEMENT-like new construction SINGLE LEVEL - in premium cul-de-sac N/S location with stunning Mountain Views! Everything you want in a new home - only better with SOLAR OWNED 38 panels, 3-car garage/epoxy floors/storage (2 EV GARAGE), & walls of glass & soaring ceilings opening to an expansive back patio w/privacy & views. Large great room opens to chef's kitchen w/state-of-the art appliances w/gas cooktop/large center island/wine and coffee area/huge WI-panty & dining that opens to front courtyard patio. Expansive primary suite - sitting area w/views & sumptuous primary bath w/soaking tub/large WI shower, and large primary WI-closet. Game room, office/bedroom/bath & guest suite/bedroom/bath. Easy access to freeway/hospitals & shopping in this newer subdivision VISION HILLS

5949 E Larkspur Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,225,000 - 3Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Avant 1 Unit 4, Scottsdale
Open House
$1,225,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,558 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6747120
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover the perfect blend of space, convenience, and modern luxury with this large corner lot located in one of the most sought-after areas. Nestled within the ''magic zip code,'' this property offers an unparalleled opportunity to live the resort-style lifestyle you've always dreamed of all with the peace of mind that comes from brand-new upgrades throughout. This property boasts an array of recent enhancements, including a **new roof** and **new AC system**, ensuring comfort and efficiency year-round. The **completely renovated bathrooms** add a touch of elegance and modern design, perfect for relaxing after a long day. The state-of-the-art **hybrid hot water heater** provides both energy savings and reliable hot water, while the **new filtration system** and ................. **water softener** offer pristine water quality for your household. The expansive lot and corner location ensures easy access and added privacy. Imagine owning you own private oasis including a sparkling pool, outdoor kitchen, lush citrus trees, RV Gate, framed detached structure and putting green while still having room to put you own stamp on.the possibilities are endless. Living here means more than just owning a property; it's about embracing a lifestyle. Enjoy the benefits of a prestigious neighborhood known for its top-rated schools, vibrant community, and proximity to shopping, dining, and entertainment. Plus, with nearby access to recreational amenities like golf courses, spas, and exclusive clubs, every day feels like a vacation. Don't miss out on this rare find in a location where properties like this are few and far between. Prime location is everything in one of you larges life investments.

18248 W Desert Sage Drive Goodyear, AZ 85338

$1,224,900
5 Beds
4 Baths
3,500 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6749741
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This stunning 5-bedroom, 4-bathroom home is a true gem, offering luxury living in a desirable neighborhood! Built in 2019, it's the last home completed in the subdivision, is situated on an oversized lot and right on the golf course. The grand entrance welcomes you into a spacious open concept living area with high ceilings, gorgeous 12x24 neutral tile floors, and large windows that flood the space with natural light. Smart home enabled, this home comes equipped with a Ring security system and four cameras, all light fixtures and fans are custom made and plantation shutters throughout. The gourmet kitchen features top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances, Espresso colored shaker cabinets, granite countertops, herringbone subway tile backsplash, and an oversized butler pantry. The primary suite is true retreat with a spa-like en-suite bathroom, which includes dual vanities, and a large, upgraded walk-in closet with built-in California closers. Enter the backyard through remote controlled power blinds on the sliding glass doors to your beautifully landscaped oasis that includes a covered patio, fireplace, built-in kitchen with grill and refrigerator, which are all perfect for outdoor dining and entertainment. Enjoy your pool and spa all year around, that are heated with both gas and electricity. This home has been fitted with gutters that drain out underground and did I mention there is solar with a back-up battery, and it's paid in full!! Located in a prime location and just 25 miles from downtown Phoenix, Estrella provides a lakeside mountain oasis nestled in the Sierra Estrella Mountains in the Sonoran Desert Valley. The community offers more than 500 acres of parks and open space, including 72 acres of lakes for boating, fishing, and hiking. Estrella is home to a Nicklaus-designed championship golf course along with pickle ball, volleyball and basketball courts. Estrella offers a Yacht Club and three different Residents Clubs that feature resort-style pools, state-of-the-art fitness centers and a variety of sports courts, outdoor seating, dining, and more. Last but not least, within the Estrella community, they have five schools that focus on the arts, science, sports, civics, and citizenship which offer well-rounded education. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to own a luxurious home with every detail thought of in this sought-after neighborhood.

691 E Elgin Street Gilbert, AZ 85295

$1,224,900
7 Beds
3.5 Baths
5,090 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6758928
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your new home in the sought-after Vintage Ranch neighborhood! This isn't just any property; it's a rare 2 story split floorplan home with a heated pool and jacuzzi! This home has been lovingly maintained by a wonderful family. Each detail reflects pride and care. On the main floor, you'll find a perfect blend of comfort and functionality, featuring a large chefs kitchen and island as well as a spacious family and living room. The sprawling master bedroom is located on the first floor with its own completely renovated custom bathroom and walk-in closet for two. The first floor even has its own laundry so no hauling laundry up and downstairs! And.. the first floor is fitted with a generously sized office and guest bath. The kitchen is a true highlight, boasting ample storage and sleek stainless steel appliances. Step outside to your expansive backyard, a private oasis where tranquility and luxury meet. Venture up to the 2nd floor to discover 4 additional bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, laundry, an office, a work area, and even another living area/playroom! Whether you dream of a vibrant game room or a cozy home theater, this area is ready to fulfill your vision. Conveniently located near freeway access, schools, shopping, and more, this home embodies both convenience and lifestyle excellence!

13733 E Laurel Lane Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$1,220,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,769 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773004
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
VIEWS VIEWS VIEWS! 24/7 Guard Gated community in highly prestigious Scottsdale Mountain. Single Level home w/ direct south facing Mountain , sunset and city light views features 3 full bedrooms plus a large den, 3 full bathrooms, and a three-car garage! Premium south facing corner lot backs to natural desert and offers exquisite mountain views and city lights. Kitchen includes granite counter tops, SS appliance, plenty of storage space and eat in kitchen! Scottsdale Mountain community features pickleball, tennis, heated spa and plenty of access to the many hiking trails within the McDowell Mountain Preserve. Home is located close to the Basis Schools, Mayo Clinic, golf and much much more!

781 N Bristol Lane Gilbert, AZ 85234

$1,220,000
5 Beds
4 Baths
4,036 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773389
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover this spacious home in the Bristol Square community in Gilbert, Arizona, offering a blend of comfort, flexibility, and convenience. Improvements: Roof Underlayment Two HVAC Systems LVP Flooring & Carpet Water Heater Interior/Exterior Paint Renovated Balcony Floor & Railing Basement Remodel Updated Kitchen *The total square footage of the home including the basement, is approximately 4,692 square feet. *Verified by appraisal service. This home includes a 655-square-foot finished basement filled with natural light, a full bathroom, kitchenette, utility room/walk-in closet, & its own HVAC system. This versatile space could potentially be an additional bedroom, playroom, or theater room. Another highlight is the nearly 700-square-foot recreation room with a separate HVAC system and an exterior door to the driveway. This flexible area could serve as storage, a guest suite, home gym or a blend of it all. Upstairs, you'll find generously sized bedrooms, including the primary suite that has a walk-in closet with a standard closet across from it. Primary bathroom is large, has a toilet room, and a two person shower. The private balcony, accessible only from the primary suite, has the Superstition Mountains in sighta great spot to relax. Three of the four bedrooms are spacious enough to accommodate a standard king-size bed. One full bathroom with quartz countertop and dual sinks. The main floor features an open floor plan with vaulted ceilings, two large living spaces, laundry room, a ¾ bathroom with quartz countertop, two car garage and the recreation room. The updated kitchen with quartz counters is perfect for entertaining, offering both formal & informal dining areas. With an office/bedroom on this level it adds even more versatility. The exterior has low-maintenance landscaping and a spacious driveway. The 35' x 50' rear side yard could be ideal for RV/trailer parking or a variety of other uses, additionally, the pool presents options for renovation, fill-in, or relocate to optimize the outdoor space.

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