Buying a New Home? Use This Checklist to Ensure Your Finances Are in Order

Buying a New Home? Use This Checklist to Ensure Your Finances Are in OrderBuying a home is a significant expense. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a first-time buyer or have experience. Unless you have a large pile of cash, you’ll need to ensure your finances are in order before closing. In this post we’ll explore four financial items you’ll want to check off before buying a new home.

Figure Out Your Current Monthly Budget

First, you’re going to want to sort out your monthly budget. If you’ve never done a budget before, start with something basic. Open up a spreadsheet or take out a piece of paper. Make two columns: ‘income’ and ‘expenses’. Fill in each column with the amounts that you make or spend each month. Bank, credit card and other statements can help with this process. It’s a good idea to go back at least 3 months to ensure you’re capturing your true spending.

Make A Debt Management Plan

Do you have any debts? If so, you’ll want to make a plan for how you’re going to manage these when you buy a new home. For example, you may have a car payment, student loans, a line of credit or credit card debt. Write down your debts, how much you owe and when payments are due. If any debts are due monthly, make sure you include those in your budget.

Keep in mind that your outstanding debts may impact your ability to borrow for a mortgage as well. If you plan on taking out a mortgage to pay for your new home, it’s best to get your debts figured out beforehand.

Understand All Your Real Estate Costs

Next, you’ll want to determine what all your real estate costs are going to be. If you’re not yet close to the bidding or closing process, this might be a bit challenging. But ask your real estate agent for a breakdown of what you can expect to pay for a home in your price range.

Set Up An Emergency Savings Cushion

Finally, you’ll want to set up a financial cushion in case of emergencies. It’s not much fun to think about, but losing a job or having a health event is possible. Most financial experts recommend having at least six months of expenses saved up. Of course, this is always easier said than done. What’s important is that you have at least some cash tucked away, just in case. If you can, save a bit extra each month or from each pay check and add to this emergency fund.

When you’re ready to buy a new home, a licensed real estate agent is your best bet for success. Give me a call today and learn more about how affordable a new home in your community will be!  J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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3454 E Inglewood Circle Mesa, AZ 85213

$1,650,000
6 Beds
4.5 Baths
6,070 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784509
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled within the serene and exclusive confines of a prestigious gated community, this exceptional 6-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom home offers a rare combination of luxury and privacy. This home combines sophisticated design with unparalleled craftsmanship, featuring expansive living spaces, a resort-style pool, and a fully-equipped wine cellar in the basement—perfect for both entertaining and relaxed family living.

4701 Sharp Shooter Way Prescott, AZ 86301

$1,650,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,478 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6785219
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to Prescott! ***Your Perfect Escape from Big City Life*** Are you looking for a serene retreat away from the hustle and bustle of Metro living? This exclusive custom-built home offers the perfect blend of privacy, luxury and convenience! With the scenic Prescott National Forest as your backyard and easy access to all modern amenities, this property presents a rare opportunity for homeowners seeking the best of both worlds.

22415 N La Senda Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,650,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,717 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6755685
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Looking for privacy? Nestled in the gated community of Pinnacle Peak Country Club Estates, this charming 3 BR/ 3.5 BA desert retreat is situated on a quiet, private half acre corner site. You will immediately feel the tranquility & peace of this property due, in part, by the mature ficus & citrus trees. This home features 2 BR with Office/Den & 3 BA in the main house as well as a beautiful, detached 738 SF Casita which can be used for extended family or guests, as a home office, gym or studio.The gorgeous estate features Saltillo tile, wood beams and ceilings throughout, 4 fireplaces, & French doors opening from each room to covered patios for true Southwestern indoor/outdoor living. A large, sparkling pebble tech pool invites complete relaxation and a backyard just perfect for pet lovers. Enjoy the outdoors against the backdrop of Arizona's stunning landscape. The property truly embodies the essence of upscale desert living in the prestigious Pinnacle Peak community.

10065 E Charter Oak Road Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$1,650,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,841 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6718416
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Priced to represent COMPELLING value & deliver SIGNIFICANT instant equity to new owners. This premium luxury estate with Best-In-Class potential is situated in a private suburban neighborhood near the heart of Scottsdale. The single-level custom home sits on a fully utilized 0.4 acre cul-de-sac corner lot & features a fully renovated exterior blending elegant outdoors amenities with expansive recreational space. Raised wood beam ceilings give distinct character to an extreme-split floorplan with generous & flexible living spaces filled with natural light. The private owner-suite is at the NW corner, with a private guest wing off the massive kitchen at the SE corner; all 3 guest BRs offer in-suite bath access. A cosmetic interior makeover away from a market value SUBSTANTIALLY north of $2M Above-ground spa will convey with premises; chandelier in dining room will not.

3940 E Mulberry Drive Phoenix, AZ 85018

$1,650,000
6 Beds
4 Baths
3,216 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6760009
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
WOW!!! This is a SHOWSTOPPER in the highly sought after zip code 85018! Professionally imagined and designed, this sophisticated home is ready for its new owner! Mulberry will check ALL the right boxes, 6 bedroom, 3.75 baths, soaring ceilings, GORGEOUS wood flooring and high end finishes/fixtures throughout! Entertaining will be a breeze with the huge OPEN floor plan boasting a beautiful modern accordion door - One that leads to the backyard oasis/pool/firepit. The Chefs kitchen has everything you want and need including a gas range/oven and cook top, double islands with granite countertops. The grand primary suite has a huge custom closet and spa-like bathroom. The list is endless! Create memories in this dream home! No HOA! YOU will LOVE this HOME!!!

6601 E Military Road Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$1,650,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
4,045 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6744285
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled on the slope of Black Mountain, this renovated home offers breathtaking panoramic views throughout. Owned solar equals $25-30 electric bills! Recent upgrades include a NEW roof, redesigned landscaping, a completely resurfaced heated pool and spa and all NEW equipment. NEW smooth stucco and paint, a NEW septic system, and a dramatic entrance featuring a massive glass and wrought iron door, hinting at the craftsmanship within. Inside, the open floor plan and high ceilings create a spacious and airy atmosphere. The completely transformed kitchen features all NEW appliances, including dual refrigerators, dishwashers and ovens, refaced cabinetry, and a grand chandelier. Renovated baths, new lighting, and custom paint add a modern and distinctive touch. Polished stained concrete floors gleam throughout for a clean esthetic. Solid-core alder doors and cabinetry, and ceiling details add substance and interest. The rotunda foyer, illuminated by an enormous wrought iron chandelier, welcomes you with both elegance and sophistication. The natural flagstone walkway and the grand entrance set the tone for the opulence within. Notably, a large solar system ensures almost zero electric bills, aligning with a commitment to sustainability. In summary, this home seamlessly blends modern luxury with thoughtful design and eco-conscious features. From the grand entrance to the polished interiors, each element contributes to a sophisticated living experience complimented by the stunning backdrop of Black Mountain.

16522 N 109th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,650,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,597 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6724674
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautifully Renovated 4 Bed, 3 Bath Expanded Floorplan Home in McDowell Mtn Ranch. Open floor plan with a Huge Entertainment area encompassing the Kitchen, Dining and Family Room. Renovated Kitchen with 8 Burner Meile Range with Double Oven, 3rd Oven/Microwave Combo, Upgraded Professional Rangehood, Dishwasher, New Refrigerator, Quartz Countertops, Farm Sink, RO, Full Pantry, Full Tile Backsplash, Under-cabinet Lighting, Renovated cabinets, Beverage Center w/Wine Refer, Huge Quartz Island with seating, Wide Plank European Oak, 3 Renovated Baths in the Contemporary Style, Master Bath Features Matte Marble Tile with Wainscot, Forced Air Kohler Tub (no tubes) His and Hers Walk in Closets, Separate Water Closet, Huge Master Bedroom with Seating area, Wood Shutters, Electric Shades in Family Electric Shades in Family and Front Room, Office with Wall to Wall to Wall built-ins, Large Den with Built in Guitar or Art Case with Accent Lighting, Lush Back Yard that Borders NAOS, Huge Free-Form Pool, Extended Covered Patio, Seating area with Firepit and BBQ and City Light Views. Seller will pay off Solar Lease at COE and Buyer will have payment free, warrantee'd solar service for the remaining length of the lease (aprox 8 years) at which time Buyer can cancel and have the system removed free of charge or continue as they wish!

331 W Vista Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85021

$1,650,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,219 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6763823
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Exquisite North Central home captures what it means to be a part of this wonderful community. Sprawling front and backyard offers over 50 mature trees, grassy lawns with flood irrigation, outdoor kitchen and living room, pool, raised planters full of veggies and herbs, and beauty that makes you forget you're in the middle of the desert. Interior of the home is updated, functional, and spacious. Split floorplan with updated bathrooms and kitchen make it move in ready and stunning. Addition of a casita/''she shed'' in the back is convenient for those who work from home or want an air conditioned outdoor structure for hot summer days. Exterior recently painted and wrapped in river rock, fenced with unbeatable curb appeal. Visit today! Additions and Upgrades : T&G Covered Patios With Additions and Upgrades T&G Covered Patios With Fans Misting system throughout backyard and in play structure Pergola added with power Casita is insulated with mini split Master bathroom remodeled En-suite bathroom remodeled New exterior paint and river rock facade Interior fireplace tiled Tiled bedrooms Buffet with fridges added in dining room EV car charger Restored flood irrigation, grading, and berms 22 trees added Raised planters added and on automatic drip New pool filter summer 2024

3011 E Los Gatos Drive Phoenix, AZ 85050

$1,650,000
5 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,450 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6778677
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover unparalleled luxury in this 3,400+ sq ft custom stucco ranch home located near the prestigious Desert Ridge, AZ. This exquisitely designed residence features 5 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, blending elegance, comfort, and cutting-edge technology to create a true masterpiece of modern living. As you approach the home, the custom front door and entryway, along with custom side gates, welcome you into an atrium-like front courtyard, setting the stage for the grandeur within. Inside, the home boasts high-end custom cabinetry and crown molding throughout, complemented by custom lighting fixtures and Philips Hue smart bulbs offering infinite color options. The gourmet kitchen is the heart of the home, featuring a custom kitchen island with leathered granite., high-end stainless steel appliances, and custom pantry with built-ins. A KitchenAid mini fridge in the pantry and a full-size KitchenAid fridge in the laundry room add to the convenience. The expansive living spaces include a great room with a 7.1 Dolby Digital surround sound system, perfect for entertaining. The luxurious media room, designed to double as an additional family room, features a state-of-the-art 13.2 Dolby Atmos surround sound system, custom noise-canceling blackout curtains, and smart lighting. Each bedroom is a sanctuary, with custom designs and high-end finishes. The master suite offers a spa-like bathroom with dual vanities, a soaking tub, a walk-in shower, and a custom closet with built-ins. Step outside to your private oasis. The backyard showcases a brand-new Pebble Tec pool with a propelled swim lane, heated and cooled with a heat pump, and a gas-heated spa. The sunken outdoor kitchen, climate-controlled and featuring a high-end Heston grill and refrigerator, is perfect for alfresco dining. The backyard walls are stuccoed and painted for a polished look, while the custom automated room-darkening screens on the back lanai provide the perfect environment for relaxation. This home is equipped with the latest smart home technology, fully integrated with Amazon Alexa for seamless voice command control. The entire home is fitted with Nest smoke/CO detectors, custom automated dog doors with backup batteries, and a comprehensive security system. Energy efficiency is paramount, with a 46-panel, 15 kW solar system and two Tesla battery walls ensuring sustainability and lower utility costs. The residence also features climate-controlled garages with a 220 outlet for electric vehicles, an ultra-quiet garbage disposal, reverse osmosis filtration in the kitchen, and soft-close cabinetry throughout. Every detail has been meticulously curated, from the custom coat and mudroom space by the garage to the high-end carpet and pet-resistant padding. This meticulously designed estate offers an unparalleled living experience, combining luxury, sustainability, and modern amenities to create the ultimate sanctuary for discerning homeowners just one mile from Pinnacle High School, 3 blocks from the brand new Sky Crossing Elementary School, and just minutes from Desert Ridge shopping center. Seller said Get it SOLD price reduced for quick sale.

10634 E Sheena Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,650,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,466 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6741510
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome home to this recently remodeled golf course and mountain facing gem in the highly desirable gated community of McDowell Dowell Mountain Ranch. Home wows with upgraded flooring and fixtures throughout. Chef's kitchen w/ breakfast nook that opens to family room boasting wet bar and cozy gas fireplace perfect for entertaining. Bedroom with en-suite, half bath and laundry 1st floor. Upstairs primary bedroom wows with resort style bathroom and exit to private patio overlooking the golf course. 2 additional bedrooms, full bath and loft space upstairs. Backyard oasis with low maintenance turf and private pool and spa. Hiking and biking trails.

24 E Wagon Wheel Drive Phoenix, AZ 85020

$1,650,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
4,031 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6775748
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
North Central sought after North/South private large cul-de-sac lot! Move-in ready home was remodeled! No detail overlooked! Park-like yard w/child play equipment, upgraded salt water play/sport pool w/ energy saving variable speed control motor & removable pool fence and above ground Jacuzzi spa. Mature landscaping with fruit trees & large shade trees, newly installed artificial grass in front. CIRCULAR DRIVE & SIDE ENTRY GARAGE with addtional side paved parking & storage; store your toys & NO HOA! Double ovens in kitchen. The family room w/gas fireplace & built-in bookcases. Formal double entry door into living room overlooking back yard. Ample storage abounds! Large bedroom sizes; 3-2 split. Mstr bedroom w/walk-in closet & cedar closet, Mstr dual showers. 4 beds w/plantation shutter.

23955 N 112th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,650,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,352 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6685578
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
One-of-a-kind home in the heart of Troon, designed around a gorgeous natural boulder. This unique floor plan seamlessly incorporates the boulder into the living space, offering a blend of modern design and natural surroundings. Enjoy stunning views from every window, showcasing the beauty of the Arizona landscape from every room in the house. This remodeled home is located in the prestigious gated community of Troon Ridge Estates 3. Every detail has been executed with meticulous attention, bringing sophistication and comfort into every corner of the space. (see features sheet for a full list). New dual pane Pella windows w/ Low-E glass & custom sliding doors enhance the home w/ state of the art insulation & natural light throughout. The split floor plan is ideal for entertaining and indoor/outdoor living at its finest. The open concept kitchen is equipped w/ Bosch & Thermador appliances, induction cooktop, complimented w/ new cabinetry, granite countertops, & honed quartz island. Gorgeous ceiling beams frame the space of the family/living area accentuating the length of the home. Two newer 3-ton HVAC units and 3 mini-split systems provide year-round comfort. The location is unmatched with the tranquility of Troon, 5 golf courses within 10 min & endless shopping, dining & hiking.

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