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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19992 N 101st Place
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$2,895,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
2,797
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6780780
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Charming Silverleaf villa w/casita located on beautiful Jacaranda Park w/breathtaking McDowell Mountain views. Exquisitely remodeled w/high-end finishings & no interior steps. Spacious great room w/gorgeous stone wall, romantic fireplace & beamed ceiling. Kitchen features spectacular Taj Mahal Quartzite counters w/large island for seating of five, all new Wolfe/SubZero appliances including 6-burner gas stove, 150 bottle wine fridge & additional 50-bottle under counter wine fridge, updated kitchen cab's w/custom pullouts & granite sink. Beautiful oak wood & travertine floors t/o. New: Carrier A/C units for main house & casita, split-unit A/C for garage, tankless instant hot H2O heater, completely remodeled courtyard w/new spool & equipment, firepit, BBQ, Bromic electric heater over dining area of patio & all new landscaping. New Quartzite tops & sinks in laundry & powder room, all new lighting fixtures including all can lighting, new fireplace gas log insert, new window coverings, paint, plumbing fixtures t/o w/all new valves & new Toto toilets. Sound system t/o home & patios, beverage fridge in large casita, plantation shutters, Nest thermostat & MBR electric mirrors. This is truly a jewel within the beautiful sought after community of Silverleaf.
3718 E Sells Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85018
$2,895,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,169
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6767565
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Community consists of 16 modern semi-custom homes. Walking distance to popular Arcadia lite eateries. Endless builder upgrades and recent additions from current owner. 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, air-conditioned 3-car garage. Front entry patio w/sitting area & fireplace. Modern glass front door entry with sidelight. Beautiful engineered wood floors t/o. Great room concept with open kitchen. Large center island. Custom cabinetry, high grade stainless Sub-Zero/Wolf appliances. Granite/stone counters. Large walk-in pantry. Soaring vaulted ceilings at living area w/exposed deco trusses. Upgraded surround sound. Built-in wet bar w/wine fridge. Custom fireplace. French doors off dining space to built-in outdoor barbecue. Lower level primary suite-features separate shower/freestanding soaking tub- -split dual vanity, large walk-in closet with built-ins, and fireplace. There's an additional en-suite downstairs AND guest half bath. Upstairs has 2 additional split en-suites. Massive secondary living space with vaulted ceilings. Office nook with built-ins. Secondary nook with built-cabinets for added storage. Custom light fixtures throughout. Oversized interior laundry with added cabinetry and utility sink. Whole home Savant water purification & water softener. New 5-ton a/c (23). $25,000 interior/exterior camera system. $450k in upgrades from previous owner. Expansive covered patio w/pavers. Heated salt-water play pool with water feature. Custom pergola with above ground jacuzzi. Outdoor fire pit. Easy care front & rear yard. Recently added landscape and upgraded lighting. N/S exposure. Situated at the start of cul-de-sac. Walk or bike to Arcadia's popular restaurants and pubs.
9801 N 53rd Place
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
$2,895,000
6
Beds
7
Baths
6,809
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6755031
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This Paradise Valley Estate has never been on the market and is being sold in As Is condition. This one of a kind home was custom built in 1991 and exhibits many unique qualities including multiple attached guest quarter suites and an indoor swimming pool. Main house is 2 bedrooms + an office. Additional bedrooms are located in multiple attached guest quarters Situated on nearly .8 acres adjacent to Camelback golf course and impeccably maintained, this is a rare opportunity in Paradise Valley.
37224 N 237th Avenue
Morristown, AZ 85342
$2,895,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
5,865
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6700116
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover unparalleled luxury and versatility on this remarkable 9.88-acre estate, nestled in a prestigious airpark community. Offering the perfect blend of sophistication, comfort, and vast open space, this property caters to both the aviation enthusiast and the horse lover. While direct runway access is available, the real magic lies in the boundless opportunities this estate provides for relaxation, entertainment, and equestrian pursuits. The home itself spans over 5,800 square feet, and each room is crafted with a focus on comfort and detail. As you enter, the warmth of the great room sets the tone for the rest of the home—a space that effortlessly blends elegance with everyday living. The well-appointed chef's kitchen, featuring a premium gas cooktop and custom cabinetry, invites... culinary creativity. Multiple dining areas offer the flexibility to host anything from intimate family breakfasts to grand dinner parties. Carefully curated finishes and thoughtful touches are present throughout, giving the entire home an understated elegance that feels both inviting and luxurious. This home's six bedrooms provide plenty of room for family and guests, each offering a retreat-like atmosphere. The primary suite stands out as a private oasis, complete with its own fireplace and a beautifully designed en suite bathroom. A spa-like soaking tub, walk-in shower, and dual vanities make this space perfect for unwinding after a long day. The additional bedrooms are equally spacious and well-appointed, ensuring comfort for all. Step outside, and you'll find that this property is made for entertaining. The sweeping backyard is your own private resort, featuring a sparkling pool surrounded by manicured landscaping. Imagine hosting summer gatherings herefriends and family relaxing by the pool, enjoying the sunshine, and dining al fresco under the stars. The outdoor kitchen is fully equipped with a professional-grade grill, refrigerator, and everything you need for seamless outdoor entertaining. There's even a private volleyball court for endless fun and a cozy fire pit area for winding down with s'mores and great conversation. Beyond the luxurious home and entertainer's backyard, this estate offers incredible potential for horse enthusiasts. With 4.88 acres zoned for horses, you'll have more than enough room to create your dream equestrian setup. Whether you're envisioning a spacious arena, stables, or other horse facilities, this land is ready to accommodate your vision. Though situated in an airpark community, this estate feels like its own world, offering a unique combination of luxury living and vast open space. Whether you're drawn to the home's elegant design, the endless possibilities for outdoor living and entertaining, or the opportunity to build a horse retreat, this property offers it all. Live the life you've always dreamed of with this estate that truly has something for everyone.
5302 E Mercer Lane
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
$2,895,000
5
Beds
5
Baths
5,295
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6746339
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to the Magic Zip code of 85254! Perfect family home in esteemed GATED community of La Camarilla Estates. This exceptional home offers 5 spacious bedrooms, 5 baths, and 8 versatile flex spaces perfect for a home office, playroom, or personal gym. Great room with large windows/sliding doors to backyard. Split master includes a newly renovated closet and a workout room/office in addition to an oversized bed and bath with his and hers sink and bath. Memorable kitchen with features such as double dishwasher, Woodmode kitchen cabinets, extra deep drawers, granite, huge island with second sink. New paint, vaulted ceilings, and floor is lovely all the way through! Oversized corner lot with huge wrap-around patio, grassy area, pool and spa for elegant outdoor living. Double washer and dryer. Reversed osmosis water filter, butler's pantry, double oven, Cantera Iron front door, Knotty Alder custom 8 ft interior doors, Pella windows, hardwood floors, hybrid floors, granite galore, storage throughout, covered paver porch, attached guest suite, surround sound audio system, central vacuum system, water softener.
8217 E Del Cadena Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
$2,895,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
2,783
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6765782
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
*Easy to show - contact listing agent* This beautifully rebuilt McCormick Ranch home, completed in 2024 by a luxury custom builder, is a true gem. The meticulous attention to detail is evident in every corner of this property. Boasting four ensuite bedrooms, including two primary suites in the main house and a two-bedroom guest house, this charming residence has been impeccably reinvented. The renovation spared no expense, featuring stunning wood floors, custom cabinetry throughout, top-of-the-line Wolf and SubZero appliances, exquisite lighting and plumbing fixtures, all-new doors and windows. and bathrooms adorned with impressive tile work. Major enhancements include a new roof, plumbing, electric, HVAC, stucco, paint, landscaping, paver driveway, and garage doors.A large covered patio spanning the length of the home looks out onto sparking pool situated between the main and guest house. Rarely does a home of this caliber come onto the market, it is turnkey, completely redone and ready to move in.
11320 N 106th Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85259
$2,895,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,071
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6771028
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
IF AN OFFER IS NOT ACCEPTED BY 11/24, LISTING WILL BE CANCELLED AND OWNERS WILL MOVE IN SO PLAN ACCORDINGLY. Located in the highly desirable Cactus Corridor neighborhood comes this 4071sf single-story transitional contemporary renovation (w/ no steps,). It offers 4 bedrooms + an office & a game room, 4.5 baths (all ensuite + powder), 3 car garage on a private 1/2-acre lot. With project completion set for November, every aspect of this home will be touched, inside & out, mechanically & cosmetically with no stone unturned. The list is so extensive, that all are described in the listing's docs tab. This stunning remodel rivals any multi-million-dollar home in Scottsdale. Curb appeal is magnificent showcasing all new windows, smooth stucco paint, brick-wrapped columns, paver walkways & widen driveway, & charcoal roof tiled roof. Enter through the oversized iron pivot door and find that walls have been taken down & reconfigured to reveal a spacious modern open floor plan with soaring beamed ceilings. Custom cabinetry w/ panel-ready Thermador appliances make this a dream kitchen. The built-on site fireplace at the heart of the home is a stunning piece of artwork with herringbone brick and a modern shiplap border. Every cabinet, including closets, has been custom-made with either quartzite or quartz counters. The primary suite with custom paint & lighting establishes the mood & the ensuite bath is designed with impeccable taste & functionality. The 3 guest rooms have ensuite baths with their own unique, but blended style. The office is perfectly situated with a tranquil courtyard & water feature. The entire backyard was transformed. All decking was resurfaced with marble pavers & now includes an expansive turf area. Gorgeous deco & waterline tile bordering the pebble-tec diving pool sparkles. Indoor & outdoor access to an oversized game/flex room that has a full-size fridge, microwave & sink. Spacious ramada for dining al fresco with a dedicated BBQ station. Lush greenery and mature landscaping surround the property with easy backyard maintenance. The side yard has space & power to add a double bay garage and/or casita. This home is the epitome of balance between luxury and creature comforts.
7661 E Solano Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
$2,895,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,961
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6751749
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This exceptional home, located in the prestigious gated community of Camelot Reserve, offers 3,962 square feet of meticulously renovated living space. Completed in 2023 using non-toxic materials, this home blends modern luxury with thoughtful design. The grand living area features soaring ceilings and an abundance of natural light from large windows, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The chef's kitchen is a highlight, featuring sleek quartz countertops, Thermador appliances, custom cabinetry, an instant hot water faucet, and pharmaceutical-grade water filtration. The spacious primary suite provides a private retreat with a spa-like en-suite bathroom that includes a dual vanity, soaking tub, walk-in shower, make-up station and a custom-designed walk-in closet. Three additional bedrooms, all with custom closets, offer generous space for family or guests. Each room is equipped with advanced tech features such as Lutron Caseta light switches, Serena automated shades, CAT5e wired networking, and coaxial connections for next-gen broadcasting. The home's smart water system includes a Moen Flo Smart Monitor for enhanced convenience. This home is built with all living areas and bedrooms on the main level, upper level is a wonderful loft / multipurpose room with full bathroom and large storage closet. Outside, the backyard is a peaceful oasis with a large covered patio perfect for entertaining. A cozy wood-burning fireplace adds charm to outdoor gatherings, while the professionally landscaped yard ensures privacy and beauty. The 3-car tandem garage, with polyaspartic floors, two EV chargers, and durable cabinetry, provides ample storage and convenience. With proximity to top-rated schools, premier shopping, and dining, this home offers a unique blend of luxury, comfort, and convenience in the heart of Scottsdale. Don't miss out on this rare opportunity!
37200 N Cave Creek Road Unit 1004
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$2,883,988
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
3,489
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6719736
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
**MEMBERSHIP AVAILABLE - CONTACT FOR DETAILS** WELCOME TO THE VILLAGE AT SEVEN DESERT MOUNTAIN! BUILT BY THE AWARD-WINNING CULLUM HOMES, THESE DISTINCTIVE ''LOCK-N-LEAVE'' RESIDENCES ON ALL 33 LOTS EITHER BACK UP TO THE 13TH HOLE OF THE RENEGADE GOLF COURSE, OR THE 10TH AND 11TH HOLE OF THE SEVEN DESERT MOUNTAIN® GOLF COURSE. CHOOSE FROM FOUR DIFFERENT BASE FLOOR PLANS, WITH SINGLE AND TWO-LEVEL OPTIONS AVAILABLE, AS WELL AS THE OPTION TO ADD A ''19TH HOLE'' BASEMENT ENTERTAINMENT ZONE COMPLETE WITH INDOOR GOLF SIMULATOR, GLASS-ENCLOSED COLLECTOR CAR SHOWROOM, THEATER, WET BAR AND OTHER AMENITIES. THIS DESERT WILLOW PLAN, WITH LIVABLE SQUARE FOOTAGE STARTING AT 3489 SF, FEATURES 2 BEDROOMS PLUS AN OFFICE/DEN, 2 FULL BATH AND 1 POWDER (SEE MORE) BATH, 2-CAR GARAGE. SPACIOUSLY LAID OUT SPLIT FLOOR PLAN. OPEN GREAT ROOM WITH A MODERN LINEAR-STYLE BUILT-IN FIREPLACE AND GLASS WALLS FOR VIEWS, WITH AN OPTION FOR INDOOR/OUTDOOR POCKET DOORS. FORMAL DINING AREA. KITCHEN AREA WILL HAVE A LARGE CENTER ISLAND WITH EAT-UP BAR SEATING, ALL STAINLESS-STEEL TOP-OF-THE-LINE WOLF SUB ZERO APPLIANCE PACKAGE, WALK-IN PANTRY. OWNERS SUITE WITH A SEPARATE EXIT OUT TO THE BACK YARD, DUAL SINK VANITIES IN THE BATH, SEPARATE SHOWER AND SOAKING TUB, WALK-IN CLOSET WITH BUILT-INS. ADDITIONAL BEDROOM ON OTHER SIDE OF HOME WITH EN-SUITE BATH AND WALK-IN CLOSET, ALONG WITH A PRIVATE OFFICE/DEN. LARGE LAUNDRY ROOM WITH EXTRA STORAGE SPACE AND LAUNDRY TUB AND A POWDER ROOM. THIS FLOOR PLAN CAN BE FULLY CUSTOMIZED TO FIT THE BUYER'S LIFESTYLE. A DETACHED GUEST CASITA IS AVAILABLE ON SELECT LOTS. HOMES ARE EQUIPPED WITH THE LATEST SMART-HOME TECHNOLOGY WITH FULL HOUSE AUTOMATION AVAILABLE. ENERGY EFFICIENT AND LOTS OF HEALTHY HOME FEATURES ALSO INCLUDED. FRONT YARD LANDSCAPING INCLUDED. HOMEOWNERS AT SEVEN DESERT MOUNTAIN WILL BECOME EITHER A LIFESTYLE OR EQUITY GOLF MEMBER AT DESERT MOUNTAIN, GAINING ACCESS TO ITS WORLD-CLASS AMENITIES INCLUDING THE NEWLY RENOVATED SONORAN SPA AND FITNESS CENTER, TENNIS COMPLEX, HIKING AND BIKING TRAILS, SIX ADDITIONAL PRIVATE GOLF COURSE, LUXURIOUS CLUBHOUSES AND RESTAURANTS. COMMUNITY IS GUARD-GATED 24/7 FOR THAT LOCK-N-LEAVE LIFESTYLE ONE SO DESIRES.
13188 E Desert Holly Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$2,883,545
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,779
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6678261
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
**AGENTS - Please read private remarks** This fantastic new construction home features a Full Landscape Package with Pool, Gourmet Kitchen, A Spacious Back Prep Kitchen, Urban Style Aries Cabinets, Modern Tile Flooring, Quartzite Counters with Waterfall Edge on Island, Contemporary Iron Entry Door, Infrared Ceiling Patio Heaters, 12ft Rolling Wall of Glass at the Nook and a 20ft Rolling Wall of Glass at the Great Room. With trails offering access to the Preserve and its 150+ mile trail network, life at Storyrock includes convenient access to Tom's Thumb and endless opportunities to enjoy nature. Storyrock offers a rare opportunity to live within close proximity to the best of Scottsdale while also among Arizona's timeless natural treasures, all within a distinctly modern setting.
11440 E Black Rock Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$2,875,000
4
Beds
5.5
Baths
5,402
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6683249
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Views, views, and more views! Showing off with a subtle sense of Southwestern sophistication, this extraordinary home enjoys a spectacular panorama of city lights, mountain and desert views from its secluded cul-de-sac setting on 2.4 acres in the exclusive Troon Estates community. Living room w/corner-set kiva fireplace, handsome ceiling beams, tall view- windows, stunning wood accents. Chef's kitchen w/gorgeous granite, high-end culinary accoutrements. Owner's suite w/blissful bedroom, luxurious bath, private cocktail view-balcony, Exercise room with private patio and surrounded by saguaro forest. Inviting alfresco amenities, front-of-property lagoon-style pool w/boulder trim. Spa w/gently cascading waterfall. Expansive lounge and sun-decks. Fireplace view-patios. Putting green. BB 1,502SF expansive guest house is currently used as an executive office suite, game room, entertainment space, and kitchenette. It could easily be converted to a 2-bedroom-2 bathroom private living quarters with a full kitchen.
37300 N School House Road
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
$2,875,000
3
Beds
4
Baths
3,701
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6610024
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
RISE ABOVE IT ALL!!! FANTASTIC 360-degree views, exceptional privacy, yet blocks away from COUNTRY DANCING, dining, shopping, golf, and all the watering holes that Historic Cave Creek has to offer. Quality constructed custom home by Presidio Homes has been lightly lived in, still has that NEW HOME FEEL. Buyers will appreciate the detail, planning and finish of this home. Carefully integrated into the mountain for unsurpassed views of surrounding mountains, spectacular sunrise/sunsets and city lights by night. Every detail of the home was carefully planned by owner/structural engineer. Indoor/ outdoor living, privacy and top of the world views as the home borders Black Mountain Preserve!! A 320-acre paradise outside your door.