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

Buying 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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3145 W Sandra Terrace Phoenix, AZ 85053

$649,999

4 Beds

3 Baths

3,601 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6736381

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover the perfect home in a super convenient location! This beautifully maintained residence offers 4 spacious bedrooms, a huge den, and 3 bathrooms. Enjoy 3 expansive living rooms, one with a cozy fireplace, and a grand great room, ideal for family gatherings and entertaining. The heart of the home is the spacious island kitchen, perfect for meal prep and family time. Step outside to a huge backyard, ideal for children, gardening, or hosting get-togethers. Plus, enjoy the convenience of a 3-car garage. With 3,601 sqft of living space, this home provides ample room for everyone. Don't miss the opportunity to make this incredible home yours.

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7326 E Portland Street Scottsdale, AZ 85257

$649,999

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,741 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6744851

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

PERFECT Rental! This rare gem in Scottsdale boasts 4 bedrooms plus a den, a 2-car garage, and a refreshing pool. Inside, discover an inviting open-concept layout complemented by sleek concrete floors, exposed metal beams. The kitchen is a culinary paradise, featuring stainless steel countertops, backsplash, and appliances, along with ample white cabinetry. Renovated bathrooms offer modern tile work and fixtures. The spacious master suite grants access to the backyard oasis, complete with a sparkling pool, and covered patio with a bar area. Situated in downtown Scottsdale, it's conveniently close to Fashion Square, dining, entertainment, and major attractions like the botanical gardens and the Phoenix Zoo and spring training stadiums! A rare blend of luxury and convenience.

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2771 E State Route 260 Highway Overgaard, AZ 85933

$649,999

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,208 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6752564

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Here's your opportunity to own a piece of nostalgia with the storied Irish Castle. The exterior retains its original castle charm, continuing to captivate passersby with its unique appeal. Inside, you'll find a completely renovated space that masterfully blends modern comforts with the exterior historic character. This landmark offers a distinctive blend of old-world charm & contemporary interior living. This would make an outstanding bed & breakfast or airbnb with 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, huge kitchen and separate gathering spaces. All updates have been done within the last 2 years which include items such as mini splits in each room, new roof, new septic, flooring, painting, windows, spray insulation &so much more. List of updates/upgrades attached. Only 219 a square foot!

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4232 N 161st Avenue Goodyear, AZ 85395

$649,999

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,122 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6756990

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

4 Bedroom 3.5 Bath, 3 Car Garage & RV GATE. Custom Iron Gate Entrance into Private Courtyard. Beautiful Custom Tiled Entrance as you enter. TILE T/O except bedrooms. Open Floor Plan W/ Large Open Dining Area & Den. Great Room & GOURMET KITCHEN. Kitchen Features Beautiful GRANITE Countertops, Island, Stainless Steel Appliances, GAS STOVE ,DOUBLE OVENS, HUGE WALK IN PANTRY & 42'' CABINETS for Storage. PLANTATION SHUTTERS. Spacious Primary Suite with gorgeous bathroom w/ a Glass WALK-IN SHOWER, Separate Tub & double Sinks w/ Granite Countertops. 8' Interior Doors & 3 Secondary Bedrooms w/ Generous Closets. Garage W/ Cabinets & Overhead Storage Racks. Large Backyard professionally landscaped with ARTIFICIAL TURF & covered patio

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21664 E Roundup Way Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$649,995

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,390 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6721119

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

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19725 E Escalante Road Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$649,995

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,500 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6762361

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this absolutely beautiful home nestled in West Park Estates in Queen Creek. Offering 3 spacious bedrooms, a versatile den, and a dining room, this home is designed for both comfort and luxury. Step inside to a large living room that flows seamlessly to the heart of the home—a gourmet chef's kitchen equipped with a large island, sleek quartz countertops, brand-new appliances, a gas cooktop, and a convenient butler's pantry. The oversized back sliding door invites you to a large covered patio, perfect for outdoor entertaining. Enjoy relaxing on the expansive front porch with its cozy sitting area. The spacious secondary bedrooms share a Jack and Jill bathroom, while the luxurious primary suite boasts a floor-to-ceiling glass and tile rain shower, along with a large walk-in . . . closet that connects directly to the laundry room for ultimate convenience. Additional highlights include an extended-length garage, tankless water heater, and the oversized sliding door that brings the outdoors in, double gates on the east side, and a single gate on the west side. Minutes from downtown Q.C. where you will find great dining options, shopping, and entertainment. Within walking distance of Mansel Carter Oasis Park and Lake. This is a prime location for an incredible estate. Every detail has been thoughtfully crafted, making this home an ideal choice for anyone seeking style, comfort, functionality, and location.

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21747 E Roundup Way Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$649,995

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,630 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6674425

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Enjoy this beautiful Pomona Opportunity with Guest Suite! This true split floorplan provides space to spread out! Your guests will find the spacious Kitchen/Dining /Great Room area quite comfortable for making memories for years to come. Included features: Timeless Stone Creek Collection Interior Design with cool tones. Upgraded Shaker Cabinets, Quart Kitchen Counters, 6X35 Tile flooring, Carpet in Bedrooms. Matte Black Hardware. Insulated 3 Car Garage with 8' Garage Doors, Gas stub at patio, Gas Range at Kitchen, Gas Dryer Hook up, Paver driveway and courtyard and Tankless water heater included!! Elevate your lifestyle today with the Amazing Pomona Floorplan!

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21673 E Roundup Way Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$649,995

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,390 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6702202

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to Light Sky Ranch and the Pinecrest plan! This 2390 square foot home epitomizes modern luxury and comfort, boasting a well-appointed design that caters to both relaxation and functionality. With three bedrooms, two and a half baths, and a dedicated study, there's ample space for both privacy and gathering. The gourmet kitchen stands as the focal point, featuring quartz counters, upgraded shaker cabinets, and a spacious center island ideal for culinary endeavors or casual meals. The master suite is a tranquil oasis, offering dual closets and a spa-inspired shower for indulgent relaxation. Enhanced by 10-foot ceilings and a multi-slide door, the home is flooded with natural light. Outside, a single-car garage and a 2-car garage offer ample storage for vehicles, outdoor gear, and more. With amenities such as a tankless water heater for efficiency and a charming paver driveway, this home seamlessly blends convenience with sophistication.

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20271 W Hollyhock Street Buckeye, AZ 85396

$649,995

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,630 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6717642

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

8760 sqft lot - Gourmet kitchen, quartz countertops, full tile backsplash, white cabinets w/extension at nook, pendant lights at island, stainless steel appliances w/pyramid hood & gas cooktop - Center-meet doors at great room - Walk-in shower at primary bath - Pre-plumb locations at laundry room, soft water loop, gas to patio - 9 x 35 tile floors throughout except for carpet in bedrooms - Matte black fixtures throughout - Ceiling fan pre-wires at bedrooms, patio and great room - 10-foot ceilings - Single additional gate non-garage side - Two-tone paint - Garage service door.

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21680 E Roundup Way Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$649,995

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,390 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6721113

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This Pinecrest plan is on a generous sized lot with a South facing front and borders a community greenbelt in central Queen Creek. The smart floorplan is a 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath, 3 car garage. Interior finishes include 10' ceilings, Gourmet Kitchen appliances with a gas cooktop and a 36'' vent hood, beautifully designed separate tub and large shower with His and Hers closets in the Primary Bathroom, expansive multi-slide glass door system from the Great Room to the covered patio, and much more! Awesome location close to Queen Creek Marketplace, a brand new Costco and Fry's, and all that Queen Creek has to offer.

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2567 N 195th Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$649,995

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,570 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6761230

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

The Former Celeste Model is for Sale. home across from the neighborhood park. This home includes many options such as: 10' ceilings w/tray ceilings at the entry & extended entry, Gourmet Kitchen with stainless steel GE appliances including a 36'' gas cooktop, hood, oven and microwave in the wall, quartz countertops, full kitchen backsplash, pendant lights over the kitchen island, walk-in pantry, center meet doors at the nook, deluxe primary bathroom #2 which has the oversized walk-in shower, walk-in closet in primary bathroom, pre-plumbed for sink in laundry room, pre-plumbed for water softener, tankless water heater, gas stub at the patio, service door in the garage, 8' garage door, pavers in the driveway, walkway and entry. Stop in to see this beautiful model home in person , walk-in closet in primary bathroom, pre-plumbed for sink in laundry room, pre-plumbed for water softener, tankless water heater, gas stub at the patio, service door in the garage, 8' garage door, pavers in the driveway, walkway and entry. Stop in to see

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7552 E Elena Circle Mesa, AZ 85208

New

$649,990

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,048 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6788968

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome home! Tastefully remodeled single-story home on a HUGE lot, 4+ car garage featuring an air-conditioned shop, a diving depth pool, two oversized RV gates, two carports, and NO HOA! Kitchen includes 42'' upper cabinets, solid surface counters, and wood look ceramic tile. Three LARGE bedrooms plus a den featuring a tray ceiling. Primary suite also has a private office/gym with barn doors. Bathrooms feature floor to ceiling tile and soft close cabinets. Oversized covered patio with ceiling fans throughout are great for entertaining. Completely remodeled Pebble-Tec pool has new equipment and warranty! Newer dual pane windows with UV film and all LED lighting throughout make this home very energy efficient. The detached shop is air conditioned, plumbed for air, has an oversize garage door and carports on both sides, all behind a massive 14' wide RV gate. On the other side of the home there is a 12' RV gate. Enough parking for ALL the toys!

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