Careful…Don’t Get Caught in the Rental Trap!

There are many benefits to homeownership. One of the top benefits is being able to protect yourself from rising rents by locking in your housing cost for the life of your mortgage.

Don’t Become Trapped 

Jonathan Smoke, Chief Economist at realtor.com, reported on what he calls a “Rental Affordability Crisis.” He warns that,

“Low rental vacancies and a lack of new rental construction are pushing up rents, and we expect that they’ll outpace home price appreciation in the year ahead.”

In the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University’s 2016 State of the Nation’s Housing Report, they revealed that “The number of cost-burdened households rose to 21.3 million. Even more troubling, the number with severe burdens (paying more than 50% of income for housing) jumped to a record 11.4 million.” These households struggle to save for a rainy day and pay other bills, such as food and healthcare.

It’s Cheaper to Buy Than Rent 

In Smoke’s article, he went on to say,

“Housing is central to the health and well-being of our country and our local communities. In addition, this (rental affordability) crisis threatens the future value of owned housing, as the burdensome level of rents will trap more aspiring owners into a vicious financial cycle in which they cannot save and build a solid credit record to eventually buy a home.”

“While more than 85% of markets have burdensome rents today, it’s perplexing that in more than 75% of the counties across the country, it is actually cheaper to buy than rent a home. So why aren’t those unhappy renters choosing to buy?”

Know Your Options

Perhaps you have already saved enough to buy your first home. HousingWire reported that analysts at Nomura believe:

“It’s not that Millennials and other potential homebuyers aren’t qualified in terms of their credit scores or in how much they have saved for their down payment. 

It’s that they think they’re not qualified or they think that they don’t have a big enough down payment.” (emphasis added)

Many first-time homebuyers who believe that they need a large down payment may be holding themselves back from their dream home. As we have reported before, in many areas of the country, a first-time home buyer can save for a 3% down payment in less than two years. You may have already saved enough!

Bottom Line

Don’t get caught in the trap so many renters are currently in. If you are ready and willing to buy a home, find out if you are able. Let’s get together to determine if you can qualify for a mortgage now!  Give me a call – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

What’s Your Home Worth?

Search for Your New Home

Listing types.

For Sale

For Rent

Land

Multifamily

Commercial

Location Search Nearby

BedsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

BathsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

Property TypeAnyApartmentManufactured HomeSingle Family ResidenceTownhouseTwin Home

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

Home SizeAny600 ft2800 ft21,000 ft21,200 ft21,400 ft21,600 ft21,800 ft22,000 ft22,200 ft22,400 ft22,600 ft22,800 ft23,000 ft23,500 ft24,000 ft24,500 ft25,000 ft25,500 ft26,000 ft2

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

Distressed

Open House

Location Search Nearby

BedsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

BathsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

Price MinAny$500$600$700$800$900$1,000$1,100$1,200$1,300$1,500$1,600$1,700$1,800$1,900$2,000$2,250$2,500$2,750$3,000$3,250$3,500$3,750$4,000$4,500$5,000$5,500$6,000$6,500$7,000$7,500$8,000$8,500$9,000$9,500$10,000

Price MaxAny$500$600$700$800$900$1,000$1,100$1,200$1,300$1,500$1,600$1,700$1,800$1,900$2,000$2,250$2,500$2,750$3,000$3,250$3,500$3,750$4,000$4,500$5,000$5,500$6,000$6,500$7,000$7,500$8,000$8,500$9,000$9,500$10,000

Advanced Options

Property TypeAnyApartmentManufactured HomeSingle Family ResidenceTownhouseTwin Home

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

Home SizeAny600 ft2800 ft21,000 ft21,200 ft21,400 ft21,600 ft21,800 ft22,000 ft22,200 ft22,400 ft22,600 ft22,800 ft23,000 ft23,500 ft24,000 ft24,500 ft25,000 ft25,500 ft26,000 ft2

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

Location Search Nearby

Lot SizeAny1+ Acres2+ Acres3+ Acres4+ Acres5+ Acres6+ Acres7+ Acres8+ Acres9+ Acres10+ Acres20+ Acres30+ Acres40+ Acres50+ Acres

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

Neighborhood

Address, MLS# or Keyword

Location Search Nearby

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

Location Search Nearby

Lot SizeAny1+ Acres2+ Acres3+ Acres4+ Acres5+ Acres6+ Acres7+ Acres8+ Acres9+ Acres10+ Acres20+ Acres30+ Acres40+ Acres50+ Acres

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

Address, MLS# or Keyword

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

View As: Thumbnails List

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

4901 E Tomahawk Trail Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$5,790,000

6 Beds

8 Baths

8,463 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6752947

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This home has a beautiful presentation! It is an absolutely gorgeous walled gated estate. Enter thru a dramatic stone archway into an elegant courtyard with a large circular paver drive to the main residence which is not visible from the street. The 6 bedrm estate includes a full guest house w/ kitchen, bedrm + bathrm. The main home has beautiful architectural detail and hickory wood floors, as well as a master with separate sitting rm and expensive mahogany + glass woman's closet, a paneled library, theater + walk in wine rm. The extraordinary backyard has extensive lawns + features an award winning swimming pool with 4 firepits, spillways + waterfalls cascading from real boulders.The gourmet kitchen with 2 pantries opens to the inviting family room which opens to the large theatre.

View Property

6601 N Mountain View Drive Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$5,785,000

6 Beds

6.5 Baths

6,809 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6748190

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This exquisite custom estate is loaded with impeccable quality and unique design elements, and the soft contemporary vibe beautifully combines elegance and comfort. The island kitchen is absolutely gorgeous with every imaginable amenity, the great room is stunning with fully retractable walls of glass that open to the impressive backyard, and the dining room is another alluring space with a temperature-controlled wine room that holds more than 320bottles and french doors that open to a lovely outdoor patio. The magnificent primary suite has a fireplace, morning bar and spa like bath creating an ultra-serene environment, and the additional bedrooms are all ensuite. There's a newly built guest wing that includes another ensuite bedroom, bonus room, large family room and full bath and close

View Property

10612 E Winter Sun Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$5,750,000

5 Beds

9 Baths

9,471 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784147

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

FULL GOLF MEMBERSHIP IS AVAILABLE subject to the club bylaws and membership approval. This gated mediterranean style masterpiece has multiple high-end finishes, including numerous architectural details, recessed lighting, & brick details. Great entertaining home w/ large walk-behind full bar area & temperature-controlled wine room strategically placed between the kitchen, great room, and dining areas. The home has 5 bedrooms, 6 full baths, & 3 half baths. Included in that count is a detached 2-room casita w/ kitchenette and stacked W/D. The 2 oversized 2-car garages make this home perfect for the car enthusiasts. Other features include an elevator, home theater, office, & game room w/ an additional wet bar. The luxurious primary suite bath has plenty of storage & a steam shower. The outdoor living space includes 2 covered BBQ areas and room for both dining & lounging areas. Furniture is available under separate Bill of Sale.

View Property

4021 E Claremont Avenue Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$5,750,000

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

6,155 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6775893

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

One of the most unique homes in Paradise Valley. You pause as the private gate opens revealing the stunning entrance framed by two custom fountains. As you open the incredible hand crafted front door you are overwhelmed by the view from the large. Courtyard. This meticulously well maintained home with lush landscaping offers alfresco dining alongside the sparkling 20' lap pool and spa. focusing directly on Camelback Mountain. Fourteen foot ceilings reign over the large sliding glass windows which disappear into the walls with the push of a button. This house was created for indoor outdoor entertaining. The kitchen, a chef's dream features Gaggenau appliances, a 6x11 soapstone island with Paul Henningsen's Artichoke Lighting above also includes a well appointed butlers pantry. The open kitchen concept embraces a spacious family room and inviting breakfast nook with corner fireplace. Massive exotic Tiger Wood barn doors are featured in the two en-suite guest bedrooms. Virtually every room captures our magical Arizona lighting and views from nearly every room of the three iconic mountains, The Preserve, Mummy and Camelback. Two separate offices, one with distinctive large fireplace allow more than one person to work while home. At the end of the courtyard visit the entertainment room or stay in shape with the private gym adjacent to the large self contained Casita. The air conditioned 3 car garage has additional storage for bikes and holiday decorations. Privately positioned with easy access to AJ's, Global Ambassador, Steak 44, Paradise Valley Country Club and PCDS. Minutes to Phoenix Airport, HWY 51 & 101.

View Property

36070 N Prickley Pear Road Unit 89 Cave Creek, AZ 85331

New

$5,750,000

5 Beds

5.5 Baths

5,828 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6788814

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Steve Jensen Homes unveils a masterpiece of luxury in Canyon Ridge Estates, Cave Creek. This remarkable home offers 3 spacious bedrooms and 6 elegantly designed bathrooms in the main residence, blending sophistication with comfort. Thoughtful amenities include a game room, private office, an expansive man cave complete with a media area, built-in bar, and a striking glass overhead door leading to the garage. The separate casita adds versatility, featuring 2 additional bedrooms and a bathroom, ideal for hosting guests. The heart of this home is the state-of-the-art kitchen, equipped with premium appliances and a dedicated prep kitchen, perfect for effortless entertaining. Walls of glass create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living spaces, inviting you to enjoy the serene Arizona landscape in unparalleled style. The luxurious primary suite is a private retreat, complete with a warm fireplace and a spa-inspired bath designed for ultimate relaxation. Step outside to an outdoor oasis, where a cozy fireplace, fully equipped outdoor kitchen, firepit, sparkling pool, and soothing spa create the perfect space for entertaining or unwinding. For car enthusiasts, the property boasts a 4-car garage and a separate RV garage, offering generous storage for all your vehicles. Discover the perfect balance of luxury, functionality, and timeless sophistication in Canyon Ridge Estates.

View Property

35801 N Meander Way Carefree, AZ 85377

$5,750,000

3 Beds

5 Baths

6,501 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6749384

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Chic single level contemporary new build completed in 2023 in Carefree on Black Mountain! Nestled on a sprawling mountainside estate spanning 1.6 acres, offering breathtaking vistas of Black Mountain, Boulders Resorts golf courses, and beyond. This architectural gem is a testament to modern luxury living, meticulously crafted with unparalleled attention to detail. Upon entry, you are met with great room, featuring soaring 16-foot ceilings, expansive 30-foot wide glass pocket doors, and a sleek modern fireplace adorned with porcelain slabs. Floor-to-ceiling 10-foot glass walls frame the awe-inspiring views, seamlessly blending the indoors with the natural splendor outside. The European-inspired kitchen is a culinary enthusiast's dream, showcasing a over 15-foot long island finished with luxurious Taj Mahal quartzite, Miele appliances, and a spacious breakfast nook enveloped by sliding glass doors. For added convenience, a full prep/catering kitchen awaits. Step outside to the sprawling 14-foot high ceiling covered patio, featuring limestone floors and a misting system, creating an outdoor oasis to unwind, entertain, and revel in the panoramic views of the valley and city lights. The focal point of the backyard is the exquisite custom negative edge pool and spa, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. Retreat to the sumptuous primary suite, complete with dual custom closets and a spa-like bathroom featuring dual water closets, freestanding tub, marble floor and wall surrounds, and a steam shower. Additional rooms include an expansive office with custom bookshelves and a private patio, along with a versatile flex space ideal for a gym, game room, or additional bedroom, offer flexibility to suit your lifestyle. Two spacious ensuite guest rooms complete the guest wing! Designed for modern living, this home boasts a Creston smart home system, allowing for effortless control of lighting, music, HVAC, pool, shades, and security with a simple touch. A 4-car garage with oversized doors, a spacious laundry room with double washer and dryer, and lush turf grass area add to the convenience and allure of this remarkable property. Welcome home!

View Property

8843 N 63rd Place Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$5,750,000

5 Beds

5.5 Baths

5,930 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6684784

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Modern Traditional~The warmth of a Santa Barbara with modern updates . Welcome to a front patio with fireplace and comfy seating that opens to the dining room with custom wine wall . Chefs kitchen with island and seating is a part of the family room featuring sit down bar , humador, wine fridge and ice maker. Split primary suite has lounge area and private patio plus killer closets and bathroom . Attached casita/ gameroom / or bedroom 5? Bedroom 4 can be an office with builtins and full bath . Two additional bedrooms have private ensuite and walk in closets. Resort vibes in back include a huge bbq ramada, tv/bar ramada , kids play area, pool and spa and putting green. This is the season for the PARTY BACKYARD .Also a Lift in the garage ! Well maintained and upgraded tastefully

View Property

10184 E Peak Circle Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$5,700,000

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,519 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6754344

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Estancia Golf Membership available * Completely remodeled in 2023 * Elegant residence in the guard-gated community of Estancia with timeless architectural details * The exterior details include an organic composition of dry-stacked stone, stucco and glass with a new concrete tile roof * Sited on an elevated lot with panoramic views of Pinnacle Peak * Split floor plan with a living room, family room that connects to an open kitchen, two guest suites and a dedicated office with full bath providing the flexibility for a fourth bedroom * Interior details include wood plank flooring, granite and quartz countertops, custom-crafted cabinetry, all new custom lighting and dry-stacked stone fireplace surrounds * The resort-style outdoor living space offers a large covered patio, heated pool and spa built-in BBQ station and a gas fireplace *

View Property

24863 N 103rd Way Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$5,695,000

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

5,932 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6723326

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Amazing opportunity for brand new build contemporary styled construction in North Scottsdale! Camelot Homes award winning Cavallo floor plan offers all Single level and the best indoor/outdoor living. Price includes all structural components, wine wall, highly upgraded contemporary cabinets , oversized tile flooring, countertops and tile, electrical and low voltage upgrades as well as 3 en suite bedrooms, casita, office and bonus room along with standard 4 car garage. Amazing views from courtyard and rear yard. Price also includes upgraded pool and landscaping. Pool/landscaping currently being installed. Estimated closing End of the year 2024. Video is from our Bronco model and not representative of home for sale.

View Property

3866 S Clubhouse Circle Unit 259 Flagstaff, AZ 86005

$5,695,000

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

6,522 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6691628

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Situated on one of Pine Canyon's best fairway lots this stunning mountain lodge has dramatic views of the 17th green and the San Fransisco Peaks. The grand ledge stone and wood exterior design continues inside as textured stone columns frame the great room and a stunning floor-to-ceiling ledge stone fireplace takes center stage along with expansive windows and glass double doors to frame the outdoor views. The Great room towers to over 25 feet with a beamed ceiling and partially surrounded by the wood and metal railings of the upper loft area. This very special home features two primary suites, each with its own fireplace and luxurious bath. The Great room floor plan blends the the living, dining and kitchen areas altogether. Between the the Great room and dining area is a ... wet bar with wine and beverage coolers as well as a sumptuous powder room. The dining area has room for family and guests. The country kitchen is a chefs delight with a large butcher board and granite center island, Viking appliances and a walk-in pantry. You enter the outdoor patio deck from either the Great room or kitchen. Its a great place to enjoy the fabulous views, relax in the hot tub, or to enjoy a barbecue. The main level laundry/craft room is the access into the large 3 car garage. The lower walk-out level includes a large media/game room with a large sitting area with fireplace and a separate area for the pool table. This all opens to two covered patios with similar golf course and mountain views as the main deck above. The lower level also includes 2 bedrooms, a large bunk room, 2 baths and two large mechanical closets with an abundance of storage. The loft includes a comfy office, a large seating area and half bath (This seating area can easily be converted to a spacious guest en-suite by adding a shower to the half bath). High end finishes abound in including ledge stone and steal fireplace surrounds, hardwood flooring, floating vanities, custom wood and metal railings and beamed and tongue & groove ceiling treatments. This is Pine Canyon living at its best.

View Property

12913 N 119th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$5,600,000

7 Beds

11 Baths

11,548 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6743300

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

BREATHTAKING VIEWS, ULTIMATE PRIVACY AND ENTERTAINER'S DREAM in this guard gated golf club community. Perched on a hill in the back of the neighborhood, this home gives you the feeling of being on top of the world as you step out onto one of the many balconies where you can enjoy unobstructed views of Camelback Mountain and the shimmering city lights below. Imagine hosting ultimate gatherings in a home that's designed for entertaining! This paradise offers your very own movie theater, billiard room with bar, fitness center with sauna, wine cellar, sprawling open-concept living and kitchen area that flows effortlessly into a fully equipped bar and outdoor patio. A spa and 2 beautiful pools with waterfalls share a private courtyard space. Main house includes a separate guest quarters -- along with an additional detached guest house adjacent to the courtyard pool. Even a 7 CAR GARAGE including space for an RV or boat! This home is more than just a place to live - it's a venue for experiences....a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life while still being close to all amenities and events Scottsdale has to offer!

View Property

10701 E Jomax Road Unit 1 Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$5,575,000

5 Beds

5 Baths

5,000 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6707666

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

A striking 'Moditerranean' from Temac Development and Candelaria Design Associates - Situated on 2.5 Acres, this classic estate boasts some of the best views in the area with privacy and seclusion. Unobstructed views of Pinnacle Peak, Troon Mountain, and Troon Country Club, all with the freedom of no HOA. Nearby world-class Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale. Your inquiry to this iconic estate is welcomed.

View Property