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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9701 E Happy Valley Road Unit 16 Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$2,700,000

3 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,688 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784799

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Sought after custom estate in North Scottsdale's gated community, The Peak, is perfectly situated on 4.44 acres of Sonoran desert. Boasting postcard worthy views of mountain peaks, city lights and stunning sunsets from patios in every room. Dramatic details throughout. Unique opportunity on expansive homesite, nestled to the south of Pinnacle Peak and Troon Mountain.

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8567 E Black Mountain Road Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$2,700,000

5 Beds

5.5 Baths

5,838 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6779985

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

- RV Garage or 9 car -One bedroom casita - Theater room - No HOA restrictions - 50 FT RV Garage with ample storage space - Private courtyard with a resort-style pool - Breathtaking panoramic views from view deck - Dedicated movie theater for cinematic experiences - Bonus/game room for endless entertainment - Open floor plan with sliding doors bringing the outdoors in - Every bedroom has ensuite bathrooms for comfort and privacy Landscaping, mirrors, closets, will be complete per buyer request Lowest price SQFT in new construction in the area. Built in equity.

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41777 N 111th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$2,700,000

4 Beds

5 Baths

6,217 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6613162

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Set among giant boulders outside & inside the home, this contemporary home offers stunning unobstructed 270 degree views of city lights, sunsets, mountains & golf course from every room. Very rare for a home under $4M to sit so far above the homes in front, easily the best views you'll find in this price range. All living areas of main house are on one level with 4 large storage closets in the basement; framed for elevator. Kitchen & bath updates done summer 2023. Kitchen offers Sub-Zero & Miele appliances with views of all common areas of the home and major mountain ranges of the Valley. 3 adjacent lots are protected from having a home built, providing much more open space & enhanced view corridors. Great room has 2 separate TV viewing areas, pool table area, and 9' boulder that dramatically protrudes thru the wall. 4 bedrooms are ensuite and spacious; guest house can function as 2 bedrooms for a total of 5 bedrooms. Guest house is perched above a boulder field and offers even better views, with patio privacy secured by a 9' high granite formation. The main patio is built around magnificent boulders and features built-in BBQ, spa, firepit and views of the entire Valley. Ample room for large negative-edge pool and additional patio space if desired. Oversized 3.5 car garage has abundant storage. Recent upgrades... brand new spa heater, heat pump & water heater in 2023, all interior walls doors & cabinets painted for a more contemporary look, kitchen ceiling raised 2' with taller upper cabinets. Furnishings all available. Comps comment... home next door recently closed for $4.8M with views that are very inferior in width & elevation; at about half that price, this home is priced to sell! Golf & social memberships are available for purchase thru the Club; buyers are not required to purchase any type of membership. Owner agent.

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461 Rockrimmon Circle Prescott, AZ 86303

$2,700,000

4 Beds

6 Baths

6,125 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6745528

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Luxurious Living!This exquisite home nestled in The Ranch of Prescott designed with meticulous attention to detail.Greeted by a grand entry,flows into an open concept living area perfect for entertaining.Gourmet kitchen is a chefs dream,w/high end appliances,custom cabinetry,large island.Great Room w/expansive windows,offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape,creating a serene&peaceful ambiance.Luxurious primary suite is a private retreat,complete with spa-like bathroom&spacious walk-in his&herclosets,sitting room.Additional bedrooms are generously sized,w/en-suite bathroom, ensuring privacy&comfort for guests or family.State of the art home theater,spacious family room,full kitchen,for entertainment&family get togethers,expansive deck, where you can enjoy panoramic views Step outside onto the expansive deck, upstairs and the lower level where you can enjoy panoramic views of the lush, rolling hills and stunning natural beauty. The outdoor space is perfect for hosting gatherings or simply unwinding with a glass of wine as you take in the spectacular sunsets or relax in the hot tub and enjoy the warmth of the firepit. Every detail of this home has been thoughtfully designed to offer the finest in luxury living. Amenities List is available upon request. Don't miss the opportunity to make this your dream home

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10031 N Palisades Boulevard Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$2,700,000

4 Beds

5.5 Baths

4,604 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6727118

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

New construction! Bring All Offers! Welcome to the All American home, a stunning new construction masterpiece that embodies the beauty of fountain hills in every way. EVERYTHING is top notch, this is for the meticulous buyer that demands perfection. MUST SEE the video tour of this home with IMPORTANT INFO! Walk up and experience Breathtaking curb appeal, designer entryway with tray sky ceiling, climate controlled 3 car garage, and VIEWS!! ALL Main living area is on ONE LEVEL. Custom chef's kitchen, w/ ample cabinetry w/marble counters, herringbone tile backsplash, pendant & recessed lighting, stainless steel dual wall ovens, island complete w/a breakfast bar. Upstairs bonus w/loft, bathroom, extra hidden room and more! The primary bedroom boasts direct outdoor access, a walk-in closet, and a lavish ensuite w/dual sinks & a garden tub. All other bedrooms also showcase their own private baths for added convenience. Don't forget about the sizeable loft w/soft carpet or the cozy den, ideal for an entertainment center and office. Laundry room is equipped w/additional storage cabinets and a utility sink. Finally, the backyard includes a covered patio, extended seating area, a built-in BBQ, and a fire pit! What are you waiting for? Act now!

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8563 E Tumbleweed Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85266

Open House

$2,700,000

3 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,116 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6760560

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Immaculately stunning Rosewood home in gated Sierra Boulders of North Scottsdale, atop an acre of pristine land nestled within the natural desert surround. This premium homesite is located at the end of the community offering immense privacy while accentuating the homes open and bright design, soaring ceilings, hardwood floors, custom window treatments, impressive gourmet kitchen with opulent granite island coupled with a dine-in tabletop, custom wood cabinetry, craftsman range hood, stainless steel appliances and gas range. The open & elegant formal dining room lends an essential touch to family gatherings, daily living and planned events. A 20' pocketed-sliding-glass-door frames the majestic desert-by-design backyard inviting you to experience the warm sunrises, mountain views, sparkling heated pool & spa, water feature, modern-fire-flame, built-in BBQ, ramada and expansive covered patio. The spa-like primary suite offers a large oversized walk-in shower, soaker tub, his and her custom-closets, dual vanity, makeup vanity, separate water closet and an abundance of beautiful natural daylight. Adjacent you'll find a relaxing and well organized library/den with custom Stone Creek built-in cabinetry, tray ceiling with crown molding and retractable sliding glass wall allowing for a serene and pleasant retreat. Just down the hall you'll find two large ensuite bedrooms with walk-in closets. The powder room is appropriately located off the foyer near the storage and coat closet. The walk-in pantry offers a well organized space with plenty of visible shelving for storing and accessing necessities. You're sure to appreciate the spacious laundry room with custom cabinetry, wash basin and ample storage. The temperature controlled, oversized 3 car garage abuts the expansive paver driveway with additional parking and turn around area. This luxury residence is conveniently located near the Boulders Golf Resort and Spa. The Carefree Town Center is just minutes away, making it an appealing option for those seeking a special property with resort-like amenities, excellent dining and shopping nearby.

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11717 E Estrella Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$2,699,000

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,910 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6772481

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Top Scottsdale Location! Absolutely gorgeous 6-bedroom 5.5-bathroom home. With an almost 5000 square feet with a separate 850 sf Guest house with its own entrance and garage, this is the one that checks all the boxes for family living at its finest. Garage parking for 7 Cars Kitchen equipped with 6 gas burner stoves, double ovens, and double door Sub Zero fridge. With 3 master suites. The home is situated on an acre lot with a massive yard equipped with seating, dining, pool, spa and entertaining. All the best schools, access to entertainment, Freeway 101 No HOA, so perfect for a turnkey rental (Short or long term).

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3905 Doc Raymond -- Flagstaff, AZ 86005

$2,699,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,063 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6626676

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Spectacular True Log Home in one of the most serene areas of Forest Highlands. Masterfully designed with impressive log beams and tons of windows and natural light. Be welcomed to this amazing log cabin by the large covered front patio and Porte Cochere. As you walk in the front door, you will be mesmerized at every angle by the quality construction and impressive log beams, stone fireplace and open great room. With 2 master suites and a total of 4 bedrooms, plus a loft, there is plenty of room for both large or intimate gatherings. Enjoy the cool nights on the expansive covered back deck. The garage is oversized and has a large storage area and workshop space. This home is impressive and you owe it to yourself to see it. Tucked away amidst 1,100 acres of pristine alpine beauty, Forest Highlands exudes an unparalleled sense of exclusivity and serenity. With two championship golf courses designed by Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish, Forest Highlands sets the stage for unforgettable golf experiences. The community offers an array of exceptional amenities, including two clubhouses, multiple dining options, tennis courts, swimming pools, and miles of hiking and biking trails. Forest Highlands is a retreat where luxury meets nature, ensuring a harmonious lifestyle for its residents.

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6023 E Turquoise Avenue Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$2,698,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

4,308 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6747782

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Spacious Contemporary Santa Fe Home. Seize the opportunity to live in the sought-after Three C Scottsdale Unified School District with this stunning 4-bedroom 3 bath, 4,309 sq ft home located on cul-de-sac, which also features a dedicated office space. The open layout is bathed in natural light, highlighting the elegant natural stone and wood flooring throughout. One of the bedrooms, along with an adjacent room, is perfect for a teen retreat or an additional living area. The expansive 36,204 sq ft south-facing lot offers breathtaking views of Mummy Mountain and endless possibilities for outdoor living. Whether you're dreaming of creating an adult oasis or a children's playground, there's ample space for a pickleball court, batting cage or any other outdoor activity you can imagine. This is a rare chance to craft your perfect lifestyle in a home that combines modern comfort with classic Santa Fe charm.

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37200 N Cave Creek Road Unit 2120 Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$2,695,900

2 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,702 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6554592

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

New Construction! The Pinnacle floor plan, upper middle unit has 2 beds plus study, 3.5 baths, 2 car garage w/storage area. This home has the largest covered patio of all three plans offered at the Retreat. The expansive, sliding pocket doors off the great room let the outdoors in. There is a cozy outdoor fireplace on patio. South facing unit with jaw dropping views of Pinnacle Peak and Black Mountains. All this while overlooking the Seven golf course . Steps away from the Seven Clubhouse and Pro Shop. Membership to Desert Mountain Club is required. All properties in the Seven Desert Mountain community are deed restricted to include the requirements of Membership to Desert Mountain Club. Membership application required along with approval.

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41915 N 111th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$2,695,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,579 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6710926

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This stunning contemporary home, inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright, features a great room plan with seamless indoor/outdoor living and breathtaking views of the McDowell Mountains, Pinnacle Peak, sunsets, and city lights. The expansive outdoor area boasts a large covered patio, perfect for entertaining or relaxing by the lap pool. Inside, you'll find top-of-the-line kitchen appliances, hardwood and travertine floors, vaulted ceilings in the living room, a home office, his and her closets in the master bedroom, and ample storage throughout the home and garage. Some furniture available by separate agreement. Fenced backyard is perfect for pets. Owner has a Lifestyle Membership.

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7120 E Kierland Boulevard Unit 1203 Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$2,695,000

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,000 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6725497

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

Enjoy stunning MOUNTAIN VIEWS in this 2 bed, 2.5 bath penthouse unit at Optima Kierland. With 2000 sqft of luxurious space, unit offers 2 master suites, den, spacious kitchen, family & dining rooms. Top notch finishes include wide plank oak flooring, 10 ft ceilings, quartz counters, Bosch appliances, & Wolf induction cooktop. Tons of nature light inside with floor to ceiling windows & 400 sqft of outdoor space. Optima Kierland offers the ultimate in urban luxury lifestyle living within walking distance to shops & dining at Kierland Commons & Scottsdale Quarter. Amenities include basketball, electronic driving range, exercise facility, rooftop pool, concierge, & more. Unit comes complete with 2 parking spaces & storage unit. Come join the Optima Kierland club & lifestyle!

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