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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Sort by: Select Price, Low to High Price, High to Low Newer Listings First Older Listings First Open House Date

15749 W Roanoke Avenue Goodyear, AZ 85395

$579,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,907 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6783608

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Dream Home with Everything You Want! Step into this home with an open & airy Great Room floor plan: perfect for everyday living & entertaining. The kitchen is a cook's dream: upgraded cabinets, roll-out shelves, granite tile countertops, a decorative backsplash, & under-cabinet lighting. It also comes with stainless steel appliances, a roomy closet pantry, & updated microwave, dishwasher, & disposal. You'll love the easy-care tile floors throughout; no carpet anywhere! The dining room & primary bedroom feature bay windows that let in tons of natural light. This home is full of thoughtful upgrades: *New A/C (2021) *New hot water heater (2019) *New reverse osmosis system (2023) *New Refrigerators (2023) *New water softener (2024) *Owned solar & ceiling fans keep your electric bills low The private backyard is like your own peaceful retreat. Relax in the partially enclosed Arizona room, take a dip in the sparkling pool with a water feature, or practice on your putting green. The low-maintenance landscaping, new PVC watering system (2022), and refreshed Kool decking mean less work and more time to enjoy. The extended 2-car garage with an epoxy floor and built-in cabinets offers plenty of storage. Need an extra bedroom? The den has double doors and can easily be converted into a third bedroom. This move-in-ready home has it allcomfort, style, and convenience. A list of the extensive upgrades is available. Don't wait; come see it today!

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1425 W Kenrick Drive Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$579,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,190 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6651710

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to a move-in ready home that offers the perfect canvas for your personal touch. Situated in a prime location with stunning views, this property boasts a spacious backyard, setting the stage for a comfortable and personalized living experience. As you explore the home, you'll discover a cozy and inviting layout, featuring multiple rooms that are primed for your creative ideas. Each room is a comfortable space, eagerly awaiting your unique flair. Whether you're interested in adding modern touches, highlighting the home's charming details, or a combination of both, the possibilities are limitless. The private and fully fenced backyard is an ideal setting for a variety of activities. It's a gardener's dream, or a tranquil retreat for those who appreciate peaceful relaxation.

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3200 W Black Oak Loop Show Low, AZ 85901

$579,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,550 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6669326

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

This Torreon golf villa offers a comfortable and convenient living space with its 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. It is designed for a lock and leave lifestyle, providing you with peace of mind when you're away. The property features a detached 1-car garage, offering secure parking and additional storage space. Surrounded by a lush canopy of trees, this villa provides a serene and private atmosphere. The covered deck and patio area are perfect for relaxing or entertaining, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful surroundings. The open floorplan creates a spacious and airy feel, while the split layout ensures privacy between the bedrooms. Large spacious kitchen makes meal prep a breeze while guest can accompany around the breakfast bar. Whether you're a golf enthusiast or simply..

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18508 N Avalon Lane Surprise, AZ 85374

$579,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

2,021 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6691782

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This well cared for 2 bedroom,2 bathroom plus den 2,021 square foot property offers many sought after features including a 2.5 car garage. Situated on Granite Falls North Course offering expansive views & beautiful sunsets.18 in tile floors on the diagonal except bedrooms.Kitchen corian counter tops,backsplash,new sink, stainless built in appliances & stone finish at breakfast bar.Extended breakfast nook bay windows with shutters & plenty of room for entertaining.Settle into the great room and take advantage of the gas fireplace finished with stone.Privacy doors at den.Primary suite has door to patio,bay windows,two sinks,separate tub & walk in closet in bathroom.Raised panel doors.Inside laundry with sink,W/D included.Side garage door & built in cabinets.Expaned patio & built in BBQ.

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303 W Columbine Road Christopher Creek, AZ 85541

$579,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,274 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6692998

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Your serene woodland retreat awaits! This charming cabin is located in the Prestigious Christopher Creek Park tucked perfectly behind a gate for added privacy. This cabin offers a brand new fence along the 1/3 acre lot it sits on, lush plants, flowers & fruit trees including barlett pear, honey crisp apple & peach all on irrigation! Cozy up to a fire while gazing through your expansive bay window in your living room. This 4bed/2 bath/2 car garage features a newly built loft, remodeled upstairs including plumbing/electric. Full size kitchen, walk in pantry, dining area & enclosed sun room. 5 decks to take in nature's beauty! Brand new roof w/ 10 year warranty, Brand new light exterior light fixtures. (2024) Exterior Paint done in (2023) Do not miss this amazing opportunity! Call Today!

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3033 E Millbrae Lane Gilbert, AZ 85234

$579,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,146 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6726711

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MOVE-IN-READY!!! LOTS of CHARM & CHARACTER EVERYWHERE!!! This home is a MUST SEE!!! Full Bedroom & Bathroom DOWNSTAIRS!!! Upon entry, you're wowed by VAULTED CEILINGS, along with two separate living areas, a STUNNING KITCHEN overlooking the main living space, making this the PERFECT HUB OF THE HOME!!! Spend some time outback in your Sparkling POOL, or relax in tub HOT TUB, cook out in your BUILT-IN-BBQ, or even enjoy your very own PUTTING GREEN!!! This backyard is an Entertainer's Dream!!! Workbench area in garage, along with LOTS OF STORAGE!!! This home has it all!!! Home is steps away from a FANTASTIC park with playground area and Basketball courts!! Don't miss out on this one!!!

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2319 E Earll Drive Phoenix, AZ 85016

$579,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,416 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6747987

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this freshly updated 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom gem close to all of the action of Arcadia and Central Phoenix! Boasting a modern, neutral aesthetic with designer touches throughout, it offers comfort and style at every turn. Enjoy outdoor living with covered patios in the front and back, a charming porch swing, and a generously sized backyard complete with a pool and firepit—perfect for entertaining. Additional features include a storage room off the 1-car carport. Conveniently located near freeways, restaurants, and shopping, Enjoy the freedom and flexibility of homeownership with no HOA restrictions.

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8821 S 47th Place Phoenix, AZ 85044

$579,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,195 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6745563

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

A rare opportunity for totally updated residence w/ views in mountainside resort, gated community! Amazing 4 bed, 3 bath residence in Pointe South Mtn/ AZ Grande in Ahwatukee haven! Two master bedrooms/ two large bedrooms perfect for large family or multi generational living. Upstairs bedrooms have balconies. Downstairs master with outdoor access. Updates from 2024 include modern interior color palette (2023 colors of the year), ext paint, two luxurious tiled rain showers, SS appliances, granite counters in kitchen/ downstairs baths, new light fixtures, new plumbing fixtures, all new flooring (wood plank tile and carpet), feature wall, roof updated, new landscape design featuring artificial grass and nightscape. The joy of your own piece of resort living, totally updated!

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25024 S Stoney Lake Drive Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

$579,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,968 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6750372

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this beautiful 2-bed, 2-bath Plus Office/Den residence on a coveted corner lot! The exterior boasts a striking stone facade, a 2.5-car garage, and a tasteful paver driveway. The inviting living room showcases vaulted ceilings, a soothing palette, and plush carpeting throughout. The eat-in kitchen comes with granite counters, ample wood cabinetry with crown molding, built-in appliances, a center island, and a serving window with a breakfast bar for casual dining. The cozy main bedroom offers direct backyard access, an en suite with dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. Venture outside to find a covered patio for al fresco dining, a relaxing spa, and a low-maintenance desert landscape. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity! HVAC - 2 Units- Replaced in 2021, Hot water heater replaced 2021, Exterior Painted 2023, New Drip system - valves & timer replaced 2023. Exterior Stone work & Pavers done in 2023. New SPA Hot Tub 2024 Hard wired Security System. Reverse Osmosis.

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1509 E Peach Tree Drive Chandler, AZ 85249

$579,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,250 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6757886

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome home to this gorgeously redone 3BR 2BA home in the vibrant active adult community of Sunbird CC. A charming courtyard greets you. Enter a large living/dining area with wood look tile throughout. The stunning kitchen boasts granite counters, crisp white cupboards, bar and newer SS appliances. Large family room with access to the relaxing patio and backyard. Bonus art studio den just off the family room. Enjoy the active adult resort lifestyle with golf, pool, tennis and pickleball. Plus, restaurant, bar and loads of entertainment!

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20597 W Walton Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$579,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,785 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767346

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful 4/3 Craftsman home in Verrado. Great location with tree lined streets and close to park. Relax on beautiful patio in this welcoming community.

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8305 W Pioneer Street Tolleson, AZ 85353

$579,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,244 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6756752

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Make yourself at home in this beautiful 5-bedroom haven with a 3-car garage in Tolleson! Large living & dining room and the desirable great room are meticulously designed for relaxation and entertaining. High vaulted ceilings, plantation shutters, and wood-look tile flooring add to the overall appeal. Open-concept kitchen boasts ample white shaker cabinets, a pantry, tile counters & backsplash, a center island with a breakfast bar, and stainless steel appliances. You'll also have a den/office and a cozy loft ideal for a reading nook. HUGE main retreat provides double door entry, media niches, an ensuite with dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. Surely to impress with the wonderful backyard equipped with a covered patio, gazebo, and a refreshing pool for endless summer fun. Don't miss it!

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