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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1384 N Alexis Drive Gilbert, AZ 85234

$625,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,108 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6787092

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Modern Elegance Meets Relaxing Retreat in Superstition Meadows! Discover your dream home in the heart of Gilbert's coveted Superstition Meadows subdivision! This beautifully remodeled single-family home boasts 3 spacious bedrooms, 2 luxurious bathrooms, and a versatile den perfect for a home office or playroom. Step inside to an open floorplan bathed in natural light, featuring modern finishes throughout. The newly remodeled kitchen gleams with sleek cabinetry, quartz countertops, and stainless steel appliances, seamlessly connecting to a welcoming living space designed for entertaining or quiet evenings at home. Outside, the tranquil backyard is an entertainer's paradise. Enjoy Arizona living under the expansive covered patio or custom pergola, gather around the cozy fire pit, or relax on the lush turf surrounded by established, low-maintenance landscaping. The new roof provides peace of mind, ensuring this home is move-in ready. Located near top-rated schools, shopping, dining, and easy freeway access, this stunning home offers the perfect blend of style, comfort, and convenience.

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15225 N 6th Circle Phoenix, AZ 85023

$625,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,684 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6777789

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Amazing Moon Valley location! Well-cared for 3 Bedroom/3 Bath tucked in a cul-de-sac. Huge bonus room could be craft room, storage, home business or workshop! Enter into formal living room with double-sided fireplace. Family room leading to updated kitchen. Formal dining room. Primary bedroom with French doors. 2 spacious secondary bedrooms, one with office built-ins. E-facing patio with view fencing. Beautiful HOA-maintained grounds with community pools. Solar Lease has been PAID forward! No neighbors behind! Walking distance to Moon Valley Park, convenient to shopping, freeways, schools and more!

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48039 N Kelley Road New River, AZ 85087

$625,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,954 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6776384

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this single-level home with breathtaking mountain views on a vast 5-acre lot! Enjoy carport parking and a large front porch, perfect for sipping morning coffee while soaking in the scenery. Inside, the spacious Arizona room is ideal for gatherings or relaxation. The open living and dining area is filled with natural light and cozy carpet. The kitchen offers storage shelves for easy organization. Each bedroom provides a peaceful retreat, with the primary bedroom featuring exposed ceiling beams, tile flooring, and a private bathroom. Plus, a fabulous casita awaits as a fantastic bonus! Massive backyard displays a covered patio, gazebo, and storage shed. Don't miss this gem!

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925 W Heatherbrae Drive Phoenix, AZ 85013

$625,000

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,284 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6779789

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to a rare find in the heart of the Woodlea Historic District—a classic English Tudor on one of the most iconic streets, complete with a charming guest house and nestled on a lush, irrigated lot. From the moment you arrive, this storybook home enchants with its curb appeal: mature shade trees, a paver walkway, and a sunny front porch that invites you to step inside. Enter through the beautiful paned glass front door and fall in love with the spacious living room, where original wood floors, coved ceilings, built-in bookshelves, and a stunning plaster fireplace create a timeless ambiance that's both cozy and elegant. The kitchen has been thoughtfully updated with quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, ample shaker cabinets, and stylish tile flooring, seamlessly blending modern convenience with historic charm. The primary suite is a luxurious retreat, featuring a sitting area, an updated ensuite bath, walk-in closet, and a private exit to the lush backyard. The home's second bedroom (currently used as a dining room) and the fully updated guest bath make hosting a delight, while the dedicated indoor laundry space adds extra ease to daily life. Step into the backyard and discover the charming guest house with a half bath, perfect for visitors, a home office, art studio, or anything your heart desires. Surrounding outdoor spaces provide private, tranquil areas to unwind and enjoy Arizona's beautiful weather. Located just a short stroll from the vibrant shops and restaurants of Melrose, this home is as ideal as its neighborhood. Don't miss your chance to own this classic Tudor- rarely does a home this special come to the market. (Main home is 1080 sqft with 2 bed/2bath, guest is 204 sqft with 1/2 bath)

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22769 E Orion Way Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$625,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,635 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6727430

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Wait for the Builder? No need with this upgraded ready to go beauty! 4 bedroom 3 bath home with tandem 3 car garage, finished backyard with artificial turf and great landscape. Home is highly upgraded and move in ready now! 12x8 sliding glass door that leads out to the extended covered patio. Pavers at drive, walk and entry, garage service door and an 8' garage door. Stainless steel gas appliance package with a 30'' cooktop/canopy hood. Tahoe Cherry slate cabinets through out with 42'' upper kitchen cabinets with 4-1/4'' crown. AZT Della Terra Quartz ''Linen-Off white'' quartz countertops. Upgrade floor includes Aura Cream 20x20 tile and Neutral color carpet. White Matte 4x12 ceramic tile at the shower/tub surrounds in owner's bath. Water softener and gas stub finish off the perfect home.

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3535 E Covina Street Mesa, AZ 85213

$625,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,584 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769474

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

**AMAZING TRI-LEVEL with GORGEOUS CURB APPEAL** Be impressed with the lush lawn and fragrant roses as you step into this updated Mesa home. Sunlight, vaulted ceilings & neutral paint give this home an airy feel. The main level features a large great room & formal dining area with views of the spacious backyard filled with grass, trees & garden! The updated eat-in kitchen boasts 2 large pantries, granite counters, gas range, stainless appliances & French door refrigerator. Upstairs you'll find the owners suite with double vanity, tile shower, garden tub & walk-in closet. There are two more bedrooms & bath upstairs. The downstairs family room makes a perfect game room, play room or media space. Two bedrooms & bath complete the downstairs. You'll love.... ...the storage of the spacious 3 car garage. There is a soft water system, R/O system too. Located across the street from green space, its like having your own park! Come and see this beautiful home today!

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2920 S 96th Street Mesa, AZ 85212

$625,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,334 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6780421

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Check out this gorgeous home in the highly sought after Mesquite Canyon Community. Plenty of parks, play areas & Gilbert Schools! This home has 4 bedrooms 2 baths and a large office space that can be converted into a 5th bedroom. The updates are breathtaking! Quartz countertops, a large kitchen island, tile in every room, recess lighting and fresh custom paint are just some of things you will love. The gorgeous master and guest bathrooms are a must see! The master bedroom has a private backyard entrance for a convenient access to the new pebble tech pool! New AC was just installed. Close to shopping, dining, freeways and entertainment!

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4046 E Del Rio Street Gilbert, AZ 85295

$625,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,268 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6766936

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this stunning single-level home built by Shea Homes, featuring a desirable split floor plan with 4 spacious bedrooms and a versatile bonus room perfect for a home office, workout space, or even a mother-in-law suite. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, boasting custom cabinetry, sleek quartz countertops, and top-of-the-line appliances. With tile flooring throughout, a recently replaced roof, AC and a brand-new water heater, this home is move-in ready.. Step outside to your serene, private backyard complete with flagstone walkways, and enjoy the convenience of an RV gate. Located near the 202 freeway and close to local favorites like Joe's Farm Grill, you'll never be far from great dining and shopping. This home offers the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and convenience!

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9618 E Monterey Avenue Mesa, AZ 85209

$625,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,389 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6787044

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This gorgeous two story home with 4 beds & 2.5 baths offers mature landscaping and 3 car garage. Inside a bright foyer welcomes you upon entry; formal living room, dining, and large family room are some attributes that can't be left unsaid. Lovely kitchen includes stainless steel appliances, large 42' oak cabinets, solid surface counters, island, breakfast bar, pantry, and breakfast room. Office/Den space & powder room on 1st level. Upstairs you will find a loft & a large bonus room ideal for an entertainment area. Master suite has vaulted ceiling that add to the spacious feel, full bath with dual vanity, separate tub/shower, and walk-in closet. Stunning backyard boasts covered patio and fabulous pool.

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2132 Quail Court Page, AZ 86040

$625,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

2,358 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6699099

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home! This charming Santa Fe-style abode boasts 4 beds and 4 baths, perfect for your family's comfort. With a spacious two-story layout, every corner exudes warmth and character. Hard flooring throughout ensures easy maintenance, while granite countertops elevate the kitchen and bathrooms with timeless elegance. Embrace the Southwest vibes and make cherished memories in this inviting sanctuary.

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1873 E Mcnair Drive Tempe, AZ 85283

$625,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,138 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6663148

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Amazing location in Tempe! Welcome home by Oasis Anozira lake subdivision, with community walking path around the nearby lake. This home features 4 bed. , 2.5 baths, Family room opens to the kitchen w/ island & dining area , Formal Living Room & Dining Room w/ Vaulted Ceiling , From Master Bed. you can exit to the beautiful, huge balcony & enjoy the outdoors. The Master bath features double sinks, separate shower, bath tub, toilet room & walking closet. Garage includes built in cabinets, front entrance with tile & lash landscaping, the extended back patio has newer ceiling, neutral tile, the walkway along the house. Enjoy the beautiful landscaped yard with large grassy area. House has new A/C (installed Jan. 2024) and great location, close to major freeway, shopping, dining..

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17750 W Pershing Street Surprise, AZ 85388

$625,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,526 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6696333

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Gorgeous Single Level 3 bedroom plus an Office/Den or 4th Bedroom One full bathroom and one full deluxe bathroom. Kitchen plus Nook Lot Size: Almost 1/4 acre. ''Huge back yard'' Extra driveway added with 2 RV Gates. Open floor Plan. Lrg Family Room. Formal Living & Dining Room. Lrg Laundry Room. Large private pool (10k Gal) and Hot tub. Cobble stone driveway & 2nd RV gate added. 5+ Parking Spaces, plus Security/Motion lighting added,(Front and Back). Minutes to golfing, Walmart and more. Easy access to 303 hwy. New Recreation Center coming in 2025, three mins away.

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