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

Autumn 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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2102 W Kuralt Drive Anthem, AZ 85086

$553,900

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,143 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6740759

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Fabulous single story home with separate entrance Casita (for multi-generational living, or spectacular office) in a lovely, quiet neighborhood! You'll love the gorgeous curb appeal with a gated courtyard. Light, bright open floor plan. Inside find 18'' ceramic tile floors, new carpet in bedrooms, plantation shutters and neutral color designer paint. Kitchen is open to family room with huge kitchen island, corian countertops, upgraded maple cabinets, huge pantry, stainless steel appliances. Primary features en-suite bathroom with remodeled custom walk-in shower, walk-in closet, designer window coverings and easy access door to patio. NEW A/C, sunscreens, & new Water Heater! Solar lease only $79.65 per month! WHAT A DEAL! Lease started 9/2012. Exterior boasts extended paver patio, low maintenance synthetic grass, plumbed gas pipe, and lush mature landscaping. Finished garage features extended cabinets for storage, sink, water softener and R/O. Close to Diamond Canyon Elementary, grassy parks, play parks and splash pad! Anthem Parkside Amenities include 16-acre park with catch-release lake, Pickleball, gym, skatepark, baseball, softball, tennis, over 37 pocket parks, hiking/biking trails, soccer fields, bocce ball, and so much more!

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44163 W Palo Abeto Drive Maricopa, AZ 85138

$553,711

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,512 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6773810

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Step into this exceptional home in the Palo Brea subdivision. The beautiful kitchen dazzles with expansive granite countertops, sleek cabinets, a walk-in pantry, and stainless steel appliances. The primary master suite boasts two walk-in closets, a soaking tub, walk-in shower, dual sinks, and a private toilet room. A second guest master includes a full bath, linen closet, and walk-in closet. Upstairs, a flexible fifth bedroom is perfect for a theater or sewing room, accompanied by a game room with billiards and darts. Two additional bedroom share a Jack & Jill bath, each with walk-in closets. Downstairs features a dining room, den, family and living rooms, a half bath, and a well-appointed kitchen, perfect for entertaining.

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4721 N 177th Drive Goodyear, AZ 85395

$553,490

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,530 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6779778

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

BRAND NEW, energy-efficient home available in GATED COMMUNITY! The showstopper single-level Bailey floorplan boasts a charming front porch, 5 bedrooms each with a spacious walk-in closet and a 3-car garage! This home has umber cabinets with white quartz countertops, wood-look tile flooring with beige carpet. ALREADY INCLUDED - washer, dryer, window blinds (except slider), refrigerator, soft water loop and MORE!!!! Enjoy EXCLUSIVE amenities right at your doorstep including parks, pickleball, soccer, play area, walking trails, basketball court, ramada with outdoor kitchen, gas grill and fireplace, and more!!! Each home is built with innovative, energy-efficient features designed to help you ENJOY more SAVINGS!

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10231 E Ulysses Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$553,418

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,994 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769957

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this BEAUTIFUL 2024 home in the highly sought-after Medley at Avalon Crossing! Over $82k in UPGRADES! This GORGEOUS home combines modern elegance + thoughtful living spaces! GOURMET kitchen features quartz countertops + Whirlpool stainless appliance suite! The great room is perfect for entertaining, while the upstairs loft offers additional living space. Private primary suite w/ensuite bath! Balcony! Situated in a BEAUTIFUL community, residents can take advantage of wonderful amenities including a heated pool, playgrounds, bocce ball courts, and scenic walking paths lined with trees. Perfectly designed for modern living, this home offers luxury, comfort, and community all in one! WELCOME HOME!

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2389 W Spaulding Avenue Apache Junction, AZ 85120

$553,300

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,273 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6761575

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

3 car garage!! The Courtland floorplan offers a spacious and well-designed single-level living experience, encompassing 2,273 square feet. You are welcomed into an open-concept living area that seamlessly connects the kitchen, dining, and family rooms. The kitchen is a chef's delight, equipped with modern gas appliances, ample counter space, and a large island that serves as the heart of the home, ideal for meal preparation and casual dining. The adjacent dining area provides ample space for family meals and entertaining guests, while the family room is perfect for relaxation and gatherings. This community features resort like amenities including a large pool, splashpad, park & clubhouse with fitness center!

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17149 N Stonebluff Road Maricopa, AZ 85139

$553,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,922 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6666798

Property Type Manufactured Home

Price Type --

This beautiful new Champion home, on an expansive, gated lot of 4.55 acres, is on a paved road with stunning mountain views and unforgettable Arizona sunsets. This spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home has more than enough room to entertain and make unforgettable memories. A 30x35-foot enclosed shop with a concrete floor and convenient gravel driveway offers plenty of room for projects or storage. This home is built for Arizona, with upgraded 2''x6'' exterior walls with R-19 insulation, R40 roof insulation, well water, and unheard-of power availability consisting of two 400 amp panels for your home, shop, electric vehicles, or anything else you choose to build. This is a uniquely attractive home with numerous upgrades that you won't want to miss, and no HOA to limit your possibilities

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825 S Henry Lane Gilbert, AZ 85296

$553,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,529 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6758655

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this stunning 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home nestled in a prime corner lot in Gilbert! This spacious 2-story, 2,467 sq ft property boasts a versatile loft and a den/office, perfect for work-from-home setups or additional living space. The main floor features elegant hardwood flooring, complemented by gorgeous plantation shutters throughout the home. The kitchen is a chef's delight with cherry 42-inch cabinetry, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances. Enjoy outdoor living with your private courtyard, ideal for relaxing or entertaining. The 3-car garage provides plenty of space for vehicles and storage. The HOA maintains the front yard and offers access to community pools, making maintenance a breeze. With easy freeway access, and close proximity to shopping and shopping and restaurants, this home combines comfort, style, and convenience in one perfect package.

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19702 E Arrowhead Trail Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$553,000

5 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,040 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6730181

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Check out this home in the heart of Queen Creek. It's just over 3,000 square feet with 5 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. This home offers a large and spacious great room as you enter. The kitchen and living area is an additional space that is large and open giving you all the space you need. The backyard is low maintenance and the turf makes it feel like you have a yard minus the hassle. There is an extended patio in the backyard that can help shade you when temperatures begin to increase. There is one room located downstairs and the remaining four bedrooms and laundry room are located upstairs. The master bathroom has large his and her walk-in closets. The seller is open providing concessions to buy down the rate and allowing you to reduce your monthly payment

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3454 E Jasmine Way San Tan Valley, AZ 85143

$552,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,530 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6752588

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

You'll love this beautiful ranch-style home in the desirable Community of Bella Vista Farms! With 5 beds, 3 baths, & a 2-car garage, this 2024-built gem offers comfort & style! Inviting hallway ushers you to the spacious open layout enhanced by tall ceilings, wood-plank tile flooring, multiple exits, & recessed lighting t/out. The impeccable kitchen is outfitted with sleek SS appliances, granite counters, rich wood shaker cabinetry with crown molding, & a sizable island with a breakfast bar. The grand main suite has plush carpeting, a pristine ensuite, a walk-in closet, & outdoor access. The home's elegance extends outdoors to the serene backyard that comes with a extended covered patio, artificial turf, & pavers. Enjoy amenities like a community pool, playgrounds, sports fields, etc.

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3131 N Central Avenue Unit 3021 Phoenix, AZ 85012

$551,900

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,125 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6585352

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

*Construction completed* 5% BUYER INCENTIVE! Introducing Edison Midtown Phase 2 with 60 new construction condominiums. This spacious two bedroom condo offers ten ft. ceilings, an open floor plan, and large master bedroom with ensuite bathroom. Chefs kitchen offers expansive cabinetry, quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances including a gas range. Edison Midtown features incredible amenities for that perfect Urbanite lifestyle. A beautiful pool and lap pool, 2000 sq. ft. fitness center and lounge, and gated parking garage.

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4417 S 111th Drive Tolleson, AZ 85353

$551,900

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,524 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6780759

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

A rare find! You'll surely love to own this beautiful 4-bedroom residence in Tolleson! Meticulously maintained interior boasts a desirable great room graced with bountiful natural light, wood-look tile flooring, and neutral paint that creates an inviting vibe. Impeccable kitchen offers recessed lighting, glossy stainless steel appliances, quartz counters, stylish tile backsplash, plenty of white cabinetry with crown moulding, and a peninsula equipped with a breakfast bar. Romantic primary bedroom provides a private ensuite with dual sinks, a sit-down shower, and a walk-in closet. As a bonus, this gem includes a fully equipped guest's quarter! Spacious backyard features a covered patio, pergola, and artificial turf. Seize the opportunity while it's still available!

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4634 N 177th Drive Goodyear, AZ 85395

$551,190

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,530 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769363

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

BRAND NEW, energy-efficient home available in GATED COMMUNITY! The well-designed Bailey is perfect when a bit more space is needed. Each of the five bedrooms in this floorplan features a spacious walk-in closet. White cabinets with quartz countertop and grey tile flooring and carpet in bedrooms. ALREADY INCLUDED - washer, dryer, window blinds (except slider), refrigerator, soft water loop and more!!!! Residents will enjoy future amenities right at their doorstep including parks, pickleball, soccer, play area, walking trails, basketball court, ramada with outdoor kitchen, gas grill and fireplace, and more!!! Each home is built with innovative, energy-efficient features designed to help you enjoy more savings!

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