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.

Click Here to See What Your Home is Worth

8100 N 68th Street Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$17,500,000
5 Beds
11 Baths
17,912 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780460
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Transport yourself to a bygone era of grandeur with this luxurious 17,912 SF estate, set in the heart of Paradise Valley. Designed by world-renowned architect Juan Sandoval, this architectural masterpiece spans 3 acres, featuring 5 opulent bedroom suites and 11 baths, each designed as a private retreat, featuring fireproof walls, wet bars, and exquisite finishes. Upon entering the estate, the attention to detail is immediately apparent with a custom 13' Honduran Mahogany entry door, flanked by lush courtyards adorned with fountains and over 600 rose bushes. The estate's central courtyards lead to a stunning 60'x60' mosaic-tiled saltwater pool and spa, offering a serene focal point for outdoor living. This residence combines Old World elegance with modern conveniences, all within ... a secured 45,000 SF perimeter. Inside, the residence is a showcase of artisanal mastery. Venetian plaster, marble, and granite adorn every surface, while custom wood coffered ceilings and ironwork, created on-site, add layers of bespoke detail. The kitchen is a chef's dream with top-of-the-line appliances, including four Sub-Zero refrigerators, five KitchenAid dishwashers, and a 60 Wolf gas cooktop. Beyond, the estate features expansive living and entertaining spaces, including a 10,000-square-foot arcade, a game room with a walk-in bar, and an unfinished basement ready to accommodate whatever your heart desires. The estate is also equipped with cutting-edge technology, including Lutron home automation, hidden HVAC vents, and custom cabinetry throughout. The attention to detail extends to the smallest touches, such as stone kick plates under every cabinet and handcrafted Canterra stone accents. This is more than a homeit's a living work of art perfected by artisans over a 9-year period, blending historic design with modern luxury and security, offering an unparalleled lifestyle for those who appreciate the finest things in life. This could be your own private Royal Palms and it must be seen and experienced to be believed!

5802 E Cholla Lane Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$17,000,000
4 Beds
6 Baths
9,500 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6785075
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
On 4 acres, majestically nestled on the highest point of Camelback Mountain. Designed by renowned architect Ken Hutchinson, the house is a sculpted piece of art, with walls following radius points of soft curvatures, some with a flowing ribbon effect. Eyes are drawn to an intricate, voluminous domed ceiling with groin vaults and an expansive 40-ft. radius wall of glass with unobstructed views towards the McDowell and Four Peaks Mountains and sparkling city lights. Boulder outcroppings have been thoughtfully incorporated into the architectural design, creating a striking visual statement. A cantilevered, 52-ft. mosaic-tiled pool and spa, an outdoor kitchen and sauna are the destination point for an unparalleled luxurious outdoor experience. A nearby supplemental indoor kitchen supports the outdoor lifestyle. The split primary bedroom features a private upper deck patio, dual baths and highly finished walk-in closets. Guest bedrooms enjoy a secondary family room opening to a view patio. This sculpted piece of art offers a truly remarkable living experience. Only the 2nd offering of this precious, iconic property, at the zenith of Camelback Mountain.

5625 N Wilkinson Road Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$16,995,000
7 Beds
7.5 Baths
9,470 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6765075
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Introducing the Wilkinson Estate—an ultra-private gated 1.2-acre sanctuary on one of the most prestigious streets in Paradise Valley. Crafted by Patterson Homes and Grey Collective, this stunning transitional property features a 5-bedroom, 5.5-bath main residence and a detached 2-bedroom, 2-bath casita with its own separate gated entry and guest parking. The grand living area flows seamlessly into a resort-style backyard boasting expansive covered patios, a lavish pool, and a full outdoor kitchen. Entertain in style with a pool cabana featuring sunken seating overlooking an impressive LED video wall, as well as a full-size sunken pickleball court and a bocce ball court. Step inside to discover high-end finishes throughout. The bespoke kitchen boasts top-of-the-line appliances, including a 60 Wolf range, a 36 SubZero refrigerator and freezer, a wine refrigerator, and two Cove dishwashers. The adjoining back kitchen adds further convenience with two Wolf ovens, a built-in Wolf coffee maker, microwave, and ice maker. Luxurious spa-like bathrooms enhance the home's elegance, with the primary suite featuring Kallista plumbing fixtures, a Native Trails bathtub, and a steam shower. Elevate your entertainment in the state-of-the-art Dolby Atmos home theater. For your peace of mind, the estate is equipped with a full security and camera system, while full home Control4 automation ensures comfort and convenience at your fingertips.

7202 N 40th Street Unit 9 Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$16,550,000
5 Beds
6 Baths
9,200 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6726898
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Crown Canyon presents Topaz, an impressive architectural gem under development by esteemed luxury home builder BedBrock Developers. Nestled in the serene topography of Arizona's most exclusive gated community, Topaz is a true monumental marvel. This unique property calls for a homeowner looking to customize the interiors and add their personal touch to enhance the striking design. Boasting a generous living area of 9,200 square feet, the Topaz residence has been meticulously planned to provide ample space for comfort and luxury. Breathtaking view corridors capture the striking rock outcroppings to the South and offer stunning canyon views and distant vistas to the Northeast. We invite you to experience the privacy and sophisticated allure that the Topaz residence represents. Discover the exquisite allure of Crown Canyon, a secluded and untouched 30-acre enclave in the prestigious community of Paradise Valley. Nestled within a breathtaking mountain preserve, this is home to 12 exceptional luxury residences. Meticulously designed by renowned architects, these one-of-a-kind homes embrace the natural beauty of the surroundings, maximizing the captivating views and unique topography of each homesite. Experience tranquility, seclusion, and utmost security within this gated haven, ensuring unparalleled peace of mind.

6123 E Ironwood Drive Unit 11 Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$16,495,000
4 Beds
6 Baths
9,444 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6648642
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Coming to life at the base of Mummy Mountain, Silver Sky presents ''Aquarius,'' a remarkable steel-framed 9,444 sqft estate designed by Drewett Works, set to begin construction in Spring 2024. Inspired by the tranquility of resort-style coastal towns, Aquarius is named for its captivating water features. Expansive floor-to-ceiling European glass doors that pocket into the walls, completely open the living spaces to a central zero-edge pool and spa that move under roof creating an oasis within this estate. This privately gated 1.32-acre estate boasts oak wood flooring throughout and a continuous entertaining space across the kitchen, dining, and living that connects directly to the intimate courtyard entrance. The entertainers kitchen is equipped with Wolf and Subzero appliances with a large back chef's kitchen featuring dornbracht fixtures and Wolf appliances. The great room showcases a stunning floor to ceiling, temperature-controlled wine wall holding over 300 bottles of wine, crafted with natural cobblestone and millwork. Adding to the great room opulence are 17' Panoramah structural glass automated sliders that with a touch of a button, this technological marvel opens to reveal a covered patio, seamlessly merging the indoor and outdoor spaces. The residence also includes a spacious office, a gym, a steam shower and sauna, four-car garage, and a guest suite with private entrance. Two additional large bedrooms come with ensuite baths, ensuring privacy and comfort. Designed to truly maximize an indoor-outdoor living experience, Aquarius is highlighted by a breathtaking rooftop open living space with a bathroom and bar offering panoramic views of Paradise Valley. Off the downstairs lounge sits an indoor/outdoor bar and secluded backyard with a fire pit to further enhance the outdoor ambiance. Crafted with meticulous detail with interiors by Ownby Design, lighting by Creative Designs in Lighting, landscaped by Berghoff Design Group, and built by Arcadia Custom Builders, Aquarius is more than a home - it's a masterpiece of craftsmanship waiting to be unveiled. The developers left no details behind including solar ready engineering, Lutron lighting system, and automated window coverings throughout, along with so much more. Nestled among 11 other brand new, award-winning estates, including 3 custom builds and 8 Showcase homes, Aquarius is part of the exclusive Silver Sky community. A community consisting of privately gated, single level homes ensuring endless views, privacy, and the unparalleled size and sophistication of a luxury new community. Create your sanctuary and join an exclusive group of discerning buyers that cherish the finer things in life.

7424 N 61st Street Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$16,400,000
5 Beds
5 Baths
8,190 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6757565
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Challenging the essence of luxury design, this extraordinary 8,200 sq. ft. estate will sit on the most coveted view lot in Paradise Valley. A masterpiece redefining ultra-high-end living, it offers an architectural marvel that cannot be replicated. Crafted by award-winning STRATTON ARCHITECTS, this home features bold, soaring 24-foot-high glass walls that perfectly frame panoramic views of Mummy Mountain. Step inside to unparalleled interiors by MARA Design, where opulence and sophistication fuse through daring, exquisite finishes. This visionary design will be brought to life by multi-award-winning BEDBROCK DEVELOPERS with over 200 luxury homes built and reputation for building the most prized estates in Paradise Valley. Now PERMIT-READY —LET'S BUILD YOUR DREAM! This exclusive residence includes elite BEDBROCK CONCIERGE service, ensuring the home remains in impeccable condition. Set on a flat lot free from hillside regulations, it promises a seamless building experience. Words alone cannot capture this over-the-top design. Explore the renderings in the photos and documents section to immerse yourself in what could be your future sanctuary.

20567 N 112th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$16,250,000
6 Beds
8.5 Baths
13,272 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774451
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Motivated Seller and SILVERLEAF GOLF MEMBERSHIP opportunity available. Nestled within the prestigious Silverleaf community's Upper Canyon, this magnificent Mediterranean Estate is a testament to extraordinary craftsmanship and design. Spanning an impressive 13,272 square feet, this residence offers unrivaled vistas of the cityscape, mesmerizing sunsets, and the majestic mountains of Scottsdale, Arizona. Crafted through a seamless collaboration between the visionary Mark Candelaria of Candelaria Design, the master builder John Schultz of Schultz Development, and the renowned interior designer Isabel Dellinger Candelaria of Earth and Images, this home radiates elegance at every turn. The result is a sophisticated sanctuary, decorated with the finest luxury finishes and meticulous attention to detail. The thoughtfully designed great room floor plan provides a harmonious flow, separating the principal suite from the guest wing of the home with a private entrance hosts five generously appointed en-suite guest rooms, each boasting king-sized accommodations. This layout offers both privacy and comfort for residents and guests alike. Step outside to discover a breathtaking outdoor oasis, featuring a captivating negative edge pool, a generous spa for ultimate relaxation, and multiple inviting seating areas set amidst flawlessly manicured gardens. This al fresco retreat is an idyllic backdrop for intimate gatherings or grand-scale entertaining. Embodying the pinnacle of architectural excellence in the esteemed Silverleaf community, this Mediterranean Estate offers an unparalleled lifestyle of luxuriousness, elevated by its breathtaking natural surroundings. This is a residence that redefines luxury living in Scottsdale, Arizona. Silverleaf, located in North Scottsdale, Arizona, is a prestigious guard gated community known for its luxurious estates, exclusive golf courses, private Club and stunning desert landscapes. The Tom Weiskopf-designed Silverleaf Golf Course is a highlight for golf enthusiasts. With a blend of Spanish and Mediterranean-inspired architecture, the community offers a high standard of living, including upscale amenities like spas, fine dining, and exclusive shopping. Residents enjoy a harmonious balance between modern luxury and the natural beauty of the desert environment, making Silverleaf a sought-after destination for those seeking an exceptional lifestyle in North Scottsdale.

7140 N 40th Street Unit 12 Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$16,200,000
4 Beds
6 Baths
8,132 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6672341
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
NOW SCHEDULING HARD HAT TOURS! Discover unparalleled privacy and serenity with the Jade residence in Crown Canyon, Arizona's most exclusive gated community under development by renowned builder BedBrock Developers. This award-winning ultra luxury home with architect CP Drewett and interior designer Mara Green is a true masterpiece. Its distinctive Frank Lloyd Wright inspired triangular form features primary living on the main level with soaring 19-foot ceilings that ascend to an impressive 24 feet encapsulated in glass. A grand staircase, or elevator for ease, takes you to the lower level with two secondary en-suite bedrooms, an oversized game/family room complete with a bar, and a separate fitness room. A detached casita perched above the four-car garage rests seamlessly on the hillside, offering a private retreat for guest. Sprawling outdoor decks, fireplaces and an outdoor kitchen surround the infinity pool and spa capturing 250 degree views of the raw desert landscape. This one-of-a-kind home is customized with premium materials and appliances, showcasing a steel construction and meticulous attention to detail throughout. Discover the exquisite allure of Crown Canyon, a secluded and untouched 30-acre enclave in the prestigious community of Paradise Valley. Nestled within a breathtaking mountain preserve, this is home to 12 exceptional luxury residences. Meticulously designed by renowned architects, these one-of-a-kind homes embrace the natural beauty of the surroundings, maximizing the captivating views and unique topography of each homesite. Experience tranquility, seclusion, and utmost security within this gated haven, ensuring unparalleled peace of mind.

12390 E Triple T Lane Prescott Valley, AZ 86315

$15,958,650
6 Beds
10 Baths
11,400 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6750027
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover an unparalleled opportunity on 206.75 exquisite acres in the heart of Prescott Ridge, a prestigious gated community in Prescott Valley. This extraordinary property is arguably the most coveted in the region, offering endless opportunity and unmatched luxury. The main residence spans 11,400 square feet of custom construction, exuding elegant Western ranch style and boasting spectacular awe inspiring panoramic views in every direction from its unique location atop the tallest peak in the prestigious Prescott Ridge development. See documents for full description. The home's stunning interiors are adorned with natural stone, beveled travertine floors, and custom window treatments featuring numerous gas fireplaces, art niches, six guest ensuites of the ten bathrooms, as well as a Sonos sound and intercom system. Additionally, there is ample space for a dozen or more vehicles in the multiple garages and exterior parking for dozens more. Perfect for all your visitors and/or toys. The grand foyer instantly impresses with a brick barrel vault ceiling and indirect lighting, while the formal dining room showcases a stately coffered ceiling. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream featuring Poplar custom cabinetry, black granite countertops, dual Sub-Zero refrigerators, dual wall ovens, a large island with a six-burner gas range, a pizza oven, butlers pantry, large breakfast room and views, views, views! The impressive great room is ideal for entertaining with a gas fireplace, stone chimney, a 10 seat wet bar with a copper top, under-bar lighting and stone backsplash. Enjoy cinematic experiences in your own theater equipped with a 120 high-definition projection system, terraced recliner seating for eight, and auto-draw cinema curtains. Additional luxury amenities include a game entertainment lounge with a kitchenette, pool table, social area and beehive gas fireplace. Off the entertainment lounge is an immense Arizona room that offers a weatherproof glass-enclosed space with paver floors, BBQ grills, a gas fireplace and unparalleled unobstructable views forever! The property's six ensuite guest bedrooms offer comfort and style, each with ¾ baths, walk-in closets, and covered outdoor patios with views. The primary suite is a personal oasis complete with a sitting area, gas fireplace, a private covered patio, a lavish bathroom with his-and-her closets, a spa-like sanctuary with a jetted tub, fireplace and a full steam shower. Adjacent to the primary suite, the glass enclosed gym provides jaw dropping unlimited views, state of the art interactive gym equipment, and a wet bar. The outdoor living is elevated with a fabulous courtyard featuring stunning landscaping, lounging areas, gas fire pits, and a pool/hot tub. Expansive covered patios provide ample shade, while the grand gazebo includes a stone outdoor kitchen, water feature, and retractable screens. Accommodations continue with 3 separate guest quarters, alongside high end horse stables, mare motel pastures, and functional horse facility round pen and eurosizer style equipment all supported by an impressive 50+ GPM well. For more information on equestrian elements, please reach out. The expansive land, adjacent to state trust land, offers paved access and is primed for future development. The seller has completed the engineering process of subdividing the 206.75 acres into additional building sites/lot splits (minimum 10-acre plots). Conveniently located just 20 minutes from Prescott Airport, this property is ideal as a corporate/family retreat or a luxurious equestrian estate with unlimited riding access. If privacy and security are essential, this property answers that need. While only 15 minutes from shopping and dining, access to the property requires passing through two security gates and traversing a half-mile long easily guarded private entry drive. A lower guest apartment along the entry drive provides the opportunity for a final detached security point before reaching the main residence. With the ability to add a helicopter pad, you are a short flight south to Maricopa County or other surrounding areas. The property lies adjacent to State Land to which Prescott Ridge residents enjoy private access through three keyed gates. From there you can explore the Arizona back country on endless dirt roads and riding trails north, east and west into Prescott National Forest. There's even a back way over the Mingus Mountains to historic Jerome. Pack lunch to eat at a scenic spot along the trails or eat at one of the many eclectic restaurants in town. Hop back into your side-by-side and arrive back at your dream home without ever traveling on a paved road between destinations. See documents tab for all personal property included in the sale of this home. This undeniably exceptional estate combines natural beauty, spectacular amenities, and limitless possibilities, offering a rare opportunity to own a coveted dream living experience in one of Prescott's most sought-after locations.

4939 E Mockingbird Lane Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$15,895,000
8 Beds
10 Baths
10,051 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773397
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Set on 2.07 acres with commanding views of Mummy Mtn, this new 10,051 sf transitional estate finished Nov. 2022, has a massive turf lawn, NBA basketball court with tennis and pickleball lines, 2 guest homes and garages for 20+ cars! Enter an elegant great room with light oak floors +16 ft ceilings open to a chef's kitchen w /quartzite island + large back kitchen. In addition to the 6 car garage attached to the house-- there is a HUGE MULTI-PURPOSE 16 FT HIGH AIR CONDITIONED BUILDING for 3 RV's, 15+ cars or an amazing entertainment space! 4/5 bedrms in the main house plus 2 guest homes-- a 1 bedrm + 2 bedrm, each with their own kitchen, livingrm + laundry. Fully solar with minimal electric bills. There is also a fabulous pool+ spa, cooking ramada, adult chess set + firepit! Large paver driveways will accommodate approximately 30 cars. The cabinetry and finishes are absolutely beautiful. The huge grass is all turf- so no water bills for the grass! There is a large back kitchen with a separate air conditioner. ALL information is deemed correct but not guaranteed. Buyer to verify with their own due diligence.

7835 N Ironwood Drive Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$15,850,000
6 Beds
8 Baths
10,676 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6772382
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Exquisite desert oasis on Mummy Mtn. A privately gated 3.34 ac Spanish Revival estate filled with quiet refinement, artistic vision, and state of the art technology. One of the last remaining large, intact lots on the mountain. The views, the grounds, the ancient olive trees combine to create an awe inspiring tranquil retreat. Completely updated/renovated in 2021-22 by Phx Architecture & Salcito Custom Builders, incl. solid walnut & limestone floors, Albertini steel windows, Caesarstone countertops, hand made Craftsman Court tile, antique stone fireplaces. Lutron & Savant integrated systems control audio, visual, lighting, HVAC. Two kitchens, Main + Prep. Fully built-out (1660sf) gym for any serious athlete + separate full GH. 5 Car A/C garages, motor court w/ entry & service gates Zillow users, please click on the more tab under Facts and Features to access the amazing virtual tour.

10673 E Wingspan Way Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$15,500,000
6 Beds
8 Baths
11,026 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6702795
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
SILVERLEAF GOLF CLUB MEMBERSHIP OPPORTUNITY! Nestled within the exclusive Upper Canyon of Silverleaf, this privately gated 3.5-acre estate models luxury living. Meticulously renovated, no detail has been overlooked in crafting this exquisite residence. The chef's kitchen seamlessly connects to the family room, offering an exceptional space for entertaining. With 3 en suites and an office in the main house as well as an attached guest casita, complemented by a 4-car garage, this estate provides ample accommodation. Every room boasts stunning city or mountain views, with private courtyards and patios enhancing the indoor-outdoor flow. Other highlights include Crestron home automation, leathered marble countertops, hardwood floors, and timeless Venetian plaster finishes. The gorgeous principal suite features a steam shower, separate tub, dual vanities, dual closets, including it's own washer & dryer, a fitness room and a private secondary office with amenities. A separate 2,677-square-foot stunning guest home boasts a game room with custom pillowed walls, a full kitchen, 2 bedrooms, a bar with zinc countertops, an exterior pool bath, and a 2-car garage. Outdoors, discover a resort-style (and size!) oasis with an infinity pool, spa, multiple fire pits, outdoor fireplaces, ceiling heaters, fountains, and loggias. Don't miss your opportunity to experience unmatched luxury and breathtaking views - truly Arizona living at its finest. SILVERLEAF GOLF MEMBERSHIP OPPORTUNITY!

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