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.
Click Here to See What Your Home is Worth
855 Distant Drums Road
Sedona, AZ 86336
$2,749,500
3
Beds
4
Baths
3,275
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6768405
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Live in TRANQUILITY w/ THE Absolute BEST VIEWS, BEST POOL, BEST SUNSETS in Sedona. Sellers live in main home & rent out the attached studio & detached casita for past 6 yrs ! This magical 2.4 acre site sides to National Forest w/ INFINITY POOL & 360 views. Full REMODEL 2012 of Main Home which features Great Room Living w/ true AZ Stone fireplace, Gourmet Kitchen w/ Massive Stainless Commercial Fridge/ New Induction Range. Main house which includes the studio boasts 2 Primary Suites & 2 bonus rooms/ 2.5 bth + in ground spa + additional hot tub. Detached Casita TO DIE FOR! Offering Gr8 Rm w/14' ft ceilings & glass window walls + Murphy Bed, 1 bdrm, 2 bths, kitchen, wrap around VIEW DECK, & Hot tub. Multiple open and covered patios & decks to breathe in RED ROCK VIEWS & stargaze at night! End of road isolation that is 5 minutes to Dining, Shopping, Medical in West Sedona.
36600 N 50th Street
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
$2,749,000
8
Beds
7.5
Baths
7,605
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6783477
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Stunning Cave Creek Estate on 5.2 Acres with Desert Views! Located in the heart of Cave Creek, this exceptional estate offers 5.2 flat acres of serene desert landscape, backing up to 300 acres of protected desert preserve. With no HOA, this property provides ultimate privacy and flexibility, ideal for a peaceful retreat or short-term rental opportunities. With over 7,600 sq. ft. of living space, the main home spans 4,728 sq. ft. and features 4 bedrooms and 4.5 baths. A gourmet kitchen designed for entertaining includes double islands, granite and marble countertops, and custom alder cabinetry. Rich flagstone and hand-honed wood floors, 4 fireplaces, and floor-to-ceiling windows create a warm, inviting atmosphere throughout the home. The spacious 2,040 sq. ft. guest house offers 4 bedrooms and 3 baths, perfect for extended family or guests. Both homes are set against breathtaking mountain views and lush desert landscaping, offering unparalleled privacy and tranquility. Outdoor amenities include a sparkling heated saltwater pool and spa, a sports court ideal for pickleball or basketball, and ample space to add equestrian facilities. The property also includes a bonus 832 sq. ft. game room/gym adjacent to the pool, providing endless entertainment potential. Additional upgrades include a new roof on the main house, guest house, and garages, owned solar panels, new carpet throughout, updated pool equipment, and fully serviced HVAC systems. The property also features new irrigation, water softeners, a tankless water heater, and a 2,500-gallon septic tank which was serviced in November 2024. Just minutes from downtown Cave Creek's shops and restaurants, this peaceful estate offers both luxury and convenience, making it the perfect blend of modern comfort and desert charm!
210 E Georgia Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85012
$2,745,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,738
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6723103
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover unparalleled luxury in North Central's newest custom gated enclave, The Georgia Three. This exquisite residence, crafted by Bolte Custom Homes, boasts meticulous attention to detail with every fit and finish hand-selected by Katie Bowe Design. Nestled on a gated, pavered street, The Georgia Three features three homes. This particular home exudes single-level charm while incorporating a versatile basement, enhancing the floor plan and adding valuable square footage. Abundant natural light fills the basement through an expansive walk-out, creating a bright and inviting space.The kitchen and main living areas are designed for effortless entertaining and family gatherings, complemented by two additional living spaces offering superb flexibility. The home is bathed in natural light.
28135 N 96th Place
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$2,740,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,761
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6699788
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Ready to take your home life up a notch? Impeccable highly rated Salcito built home located on the #1 green. Stained glass doors open into the great room w/ fireplace, sunken wet bar & massive windows that capture unobstructed Pinnacle Peak views. Expansive owners suite w/fireplace,walk out doors, separate private office, full custom bath & generous sized walk in closet.Custom kitchen w/granite counters & S.S. appliances. Marvel at the 2 bed,2 bath guest wing w/ its own living area & stunning views.Relax around your private heated pool & spa, with 3 water features that make even the most luxurious resorts jealous! This custom 1.49 acre-4761 s.f. estate is fully stocked with all of life's little luxuries for you & yours to enjoy!An exclusive guard gated community with privacy.Seller Carry?
28119 N 109th Way
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$2,729,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
3,290
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6655117
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Serene is brand new gated enclave of 21 cutting edge single level contemporary homes designed by Swayback Architects & Planners and built by Sonora West Development. Each Serene home brings a new definition to the ''Lock and Leave'' lifestyle with open Great Room floor plans perfect for both entertaining and everyday living. There are four different models to choose from with lavish interior finishes created by renown interior designers Est Est. This Model B is available with 3 Car Tandem at 3,290/sf (Also available at 3,500/sf with 2 car garage.) Either configurations available only on lots 1, 3, 5, 8 & 19. Base price shown does not include lot premiums nor upgrades but does include 25K pool and a 25k landscape allowance, Subzero & Wolf Appliances & BBQ. Mountain in North Scottsdale, Serene is close to shopping, restaurants and over two dozen private and public golf courses. Don't miss your opportunity to take part in the Serene lifestyle.
25210 N 90th Way
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$2,725,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,963
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6783651
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Rare offering in sought after Desert Skyline Estates, a gated enclave of 44 custom home lots in North Scottsdale. Owner Financing available! This custom residence is set on a 1.5 acre lot that would support a separate guest house.The possibilities are endless. As you enter the home you will be welcomed by the soaring vaulted ceilings featuring tongue and groove pine that open to the great room and out to the back where your pool awaits for enjoying the amazing Arizona sunsets. Features include 18-inch diagonal travertine throughout including hand laid borders, new GE Profile kitchen appliances, new roof and Rhino Shield stucco coating. All windows and doors are top quality Anderson. The fourth bedroom includes, wood floors a custom built in desk and cabinets. Relax in the nearly 700 square foot game room off the kitchen area for relaxing or entertaining. The oversized nearly 1,100 square foot garage includes custom cabinets including a large counter with storage drawers. 220 is also available in the garage. The private backyard has a custom-built pool, large, covered patio and view deck to enjoy both sunrises over the nearby mountains and sunsets. All furnishing are available to buyer. You are minutes to popular hiking trails that include Pinnacle Peak park, Browns Ranch Trailhead and Toms Thumb trailhead. Golf and fine dining are also minutes away!
5641 N Echo Canyon Circle
Phoenix, AZ 85018
$2,725,000
3
Beds
4
Baths
3,818
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6641691
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
A true gem situated under the iconic Praying Monk! Resort style living in the privately guard gated community of Echo Canyon. This is a very rare and special find! A charming home with a warm open floor plan/ high ceilings and picture windows to take advantage of stunning Camelback Mountain views. There are two bedrooms and a den/bedroom on the main floor. An additional guest suite upstairs which includes its own kitchenette, 3/4 bath and veranda with spectacular views of city lights to the northwest. Centrally located with walking distance to echo canyon trailhead, urban activities like the Village, the new Global Ambassador hotel and a stone's throw to Old Town Scottsdale, PV and Arcadia! Enjoy the amenities of Echo Canyon living with a community clubhouse, pool and tennis!
36001 S Moreton Road
Wickenburg, AZ 85390
$2,700,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,552
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6744469
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Hidden Hacienda, Wickenburg's Premier Team Roping and RV Camp Destination. Private, quiet, crisp and clean! 22+ Acres, contiguous to state land. Property available turnkey with tools equipment and furnishings. Secluded hilltop 3 bedroom, 3 bath home overlooking the property. 150 x 300 Roping Arena with Sprinkler System. 28 Covered Horse pens. 7 Stall Barn with turn outs and Tack Room. 60' Panel Round Pen. Outside pens approximately 180' x 40'. Covered Hay Storage and Connex Tool Shop. RV Camp and Club House is county approved and permitted in 2016 offering 110, 30 & 50 amp, plug-ins at each pedestal, water and septic. Club House offers an open-air lounge, two commercial washers and dryers, a commercial ice maker, two bathrooms, one with handicap accessible custom tile show Custom Cabinetry and furnishings. Home has an expansive and very private back yard, new roof and fresh interior and exterior paint as well as new tile and carpet. Property available turnkey with tools equipment and furnishings. Acreage available near the home to build additional shop or barn as well. Property Owned and offered for Sale by Arizona Licensed Real Estate Broker. 4 Parcels Available: 201-13-001-B, 201-02-002M, 201-02-002L, 201-06-005-D. Purchase 22 Acres or 12+ Acres THE ADDITIONAL 10 ACRES BORDERS STATE LAND, IS A PREMIUM LOT AND IS ZONED RCU-2A! MUST SEE Please see Turn Key list of Equipment to convey.
10751 E Candlewood Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$2,700,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,440
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6692218
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Nestled in the Windy Walk Estates of Troon Village, with Troon Mountain as its backdrop, extensive mountain and city views as well as a private backyard oasis, this expansive custom home is a must see in order to truly appreciate all it has to offer. The large and recently updated primary suite and balcony afford panoramic views while the extra large covered patio and outdoor fire pit create the perfect opportunity to enjoy private outdoor living at its finest. Step into the inviting ambiance of 4440 sq ft of soaring ceilings, authentic French Oak hardwood flooring, two way fireplace, 1000 bottle wine room, two pantries. Updated kitchen with sleek lines, SS appliances/Viking range, large island, breakfast bar and eat in kitchen overlooking the backyard's sparkling heated pool and spa.
35140 N 52nd Place
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
$2,700,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,731
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6740350
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
LOCATION! PRIVACY! MOUNTAIN VIEWS! HORSE PROPERTY W RESORT STYLE LIVING! Amazing custom home in one of the best kept secret CC locations. 2.13 fenced acres offers 4733 sf home w attached Casita w/kitchenette, walk through gated court yard,water feature & fireplace. Open the front door to overlook negative edge heated pool/spa & 360 mountain views, huge covered outdoor living area, built-in BBQ, total of 5 bedrooms/4.5bath, office,gourmet kitchen w granite island,ss appliances, w desk,warming drawer,office ,custom cherry cabinets, Big game-room w wet bar/ billiards rm view of pool. 3 stall-barn w turnouts,tack room/feed arena, pipe fencing & miles of trails out your back door, RV full hook up, trailer parking, large 4 car garage, close to all stores/restaurants but feels remote & secluded Features include: Butlers pantry off the kitchen with huge pantry, warming drawer and appliance center, special, under mount and art lighting through-out, Huge 1200 sq foot covered patio with heated pool and spa, family/billiards room with wet bar, wine cabinet with entry to the patio, folding glass folding into the wall patio glass doors from great room to patio to increase the livable space, cozy office off the primary bedroom, attached guest house has been used for Air B&B and is a premier listing on that sight! Guest house offers bedroom kitchenette, and full laundry facilities, full bath and cozy sitting area with access to the fenced front court yard with a fireplace and water feature. Horse facilities offers 3 stalls with runs, trailer parking with full RV hook up, tack/feed room, turn outs and trails for miles of riding right from you home. Fenced dog run, Huge 4 car garage with pull through and large doors- plenty of room for a tractor, & set up for an Air compressor, and lots of storage. surround sound speakers, View out of all windows of the mountains- quiet neighborhood, with paved streets and city water. Minutes to stores, Home Depot/Lowe's, restaurants, and the fun town of Cave Creek.
1020 E Caroline Lane
Tempe, AZ 85284
$2,700,000
6
Beds
7
Baths
10,613
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6707527
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Elegant, high craftsmanship estate home with over 10k s/f, 6 bed +office, 6 bath, 3 car garage, new carpet on a 1.382 acre irrigated cul-de-sac lot. Air conditioned Carriage House with 6+ car garage, workshop, gun/storage room, half bath, & large hayloft next to horse pasture. Main home features a gourmet kitchen with 2 dishwashers, double ovens, & newer appliances. Gorgeous custom wood paneling in the office & throughout. Extensive storage incl laundry room with 2 washers & dryers, mud room & very large pantry in the huge basement. Two bright secret rooms add to the charm! Diving pool with newer commercial grade filtration system & poolside half bath. Peach, lemon, grapefruit trees. Large court for sports or riding bikes. 4 of the 5 A/C units are less than 1 yr old.
6032 W Victoria Place
Chandler, AZ 85226
$2,700,000
6
Beds
5.5
Baths
5,919
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6742378
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Extraordinary custom home within one of Chandler Arizona most coveted and idyllic gated communities. Trovita's newest built home is located on a desirable north/south exposure lot and nestled within the gated community's private, tree-lined streets, offering a unique opportunity to immediately enjoy all of today's modern styles and finishes within a well-established neighborhood. 2023 and 2024 full remodel of the home the upgrades are stunning with no details overlooked,...... The floor to celling custom retractable accordion doors seamlessly offer indoor and outdoor living to backyard including a custom oasis equipped with a beautiful wood beamed outdoor ramada and kitchen area w/ outdoor seating that offers a Wolf Grill, gas burners, stainless steel sink area, custom stone pizza oven and fireplace. Upgraded heated pool with water features, and custom tiled oversized spa. The large lush grassy yard with citrus trees and palm trees. Fine designer finishes throughout the home , including NEW wood and stone flooring, Crown molding, fully NEW paint throughout including all doors, Lutron automated shades, custom lighting, stone gas fireplaces. 3 of the fully remodeled bathrooms are fully handicapped accessible. One of bedrooms has its own private mini split A/C heater. Other bedroom has also been wired for a mini split. Entertain in the gourmet kitchen w/ an oversized island, stunning granite counters, tile backsplash, custom range hood, stainless appliances & dual convection ovens. The private owners wing provides relaxing amenities such as french doors leading to the resort backyard, a stone gas fireplace and a luxurious ensuite bath outfitted with gorgeous marble finishes, jacuzzi jetted tub, custom chandelier and an oversized marble shower. Even a state of the art Toto toilet. Retreat to the fully functional basement where you will find a large bonus room with wet bar and U-Line beverage fridge, a wine storage area, two of the six bedrooms, a bathroom and a theater room equipped with leather seating, a large screen, projector and a state of the art AV tower. Oversized 3 CG w/ epoxy floors, storage cabinets & a Tesla charging station. Rare palm trees planted in the front yard, ADT alarm is fully installed for added security. Truly a one of a kind custom home in this desirable area of Chandler Arizona.
