Daydreaming About Your Perfect Home? Know What You WANT vs. What You NEED

Daydreaming About Your Perfect Home? Know What You WANT vs. What You NEED | Simplifying The Market

In this day and age of being able to shop for anything anywhere, it is really important to know what you’re looking for when you start your home search.

If you’ve been thinking about buying a home of your own for some time now, you’ve probably come up with a list of things that you’d LOVE to have in your new home. Many new homebuyers fantasize about the amenities that they see on television or Pinterest, and start looking at the countless homes listed for sale through rose-colored glasses.

Do you really need that farmhouse sink in the kitchen in order to be happy with your home choice? Would a two-car garage be a convenience or a necessity? Could the ‘man cave’ of your dreams be a future renovation project instead of a make-or-break right now?

The first step in your home buying process should be to get pre-approved for your mortgage. This allows you to know your budget before you fall in love with a home that is way outside of it.

The next step is to list all the features of a home that you would like, and to qualify them as follows:

  • ‘Must Haves’ – if this property does not have these items, then it shouldn’t even be considered. (ex: distance from work or family, number of bedrooms/bathrooms)
  • ‘Should Haves’ – if the property hits all of the ‘must haves’ and some of the ‘should haves,’ it stays in contention but does not need to have all of these features.
  • ‘Absolute Wish List’ – if we find a property in our budget that has all of the ‘must haves,’ most of the ‘should haves,’ and ANY of these, it’s the winner!

Bottom Line

Having this list flushed out before starting your search will save you time and frustration, while also letting your agent know what features are most important to you before starting to show you houses in your desired area.  Give me a call to get started!  J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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16331 W Sentinal Rock Lane Surprise, AZ 85387

$585,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,470 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6781817
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Estate model Ashbury home centrally located in The Grand. Home with 20'' neutral tiling in all common areas has 2 en suites, guest half bath, an office, great room with dining and a very generous sized kitchen. For the chefs amongst us, this model is known for its large kitchen with plenty of counter/storage and a center island with additional storage. Eating area is large enough to accommodate a table of 8 or more. Newer stainless appliances, gas cooktop, wall oven and mocha maple cabinetry. Primary suite which opens to rear patio features shower w/ separate tub, double vanities and a spacious walk-in closet. Rear patio has great protection from elements with lattice covering and a water feature to relax by. Home has a golf cart garage, garage built in cabinets and 2 NEW HVAC systems.

18225 W Mackenzie Drive Goodyear, AZ 85395

$585,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,625 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6694848
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
HUGE PRICE REDUCTION! Welcome home to this fantastic Sedella beauty! Sparkling pebble-tec play pool with waterfall. Professionally landscaped backyard with tons of pavers & large covered patio. Open & spacious floorplan. Formal entry. Living room. Formal Dining. Huge rear family room opens into spacious eat-in kitchen. Raised panel cabinets, granite counters w/ tile backsplash, huge island, upgraded stainless appliances. & huge walk-in pantry. Office/Den. Upstairs has large open loft. Master suite has his/her closets, garden tub & walk in shower. Two bedrms w/ Jack/Jill bath, 4th bedroom & another full bath. Upstairs laundry. Located on almost 1/4 acre lot. Room for RV gate and HOA allows RV Parking! This home is beautiful & located near tot lot & community park.

28016 N 251st Avenue Wittmann, AZ 85361

$585,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,654 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6667989
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This luxurious mini mansion on over an acre of land in the roping capital of the world is a haven for horse enthusiasts, boasting a private arena and covered stalls on-site, alongside ride-in, ride-out desert access and close proximity to major roping events. The property's circular drive, low-maintenance desert landscaping, and shared well guarantee pristine surroundings and water quality. Inside, the open floor plan facilitates seamless entertaining, complemented by a spacious kitchen featuring stainless steel appliances and tile countertops. With no restrictions, enjoy the freedom to park your camper on-site, striking a perfect balance between privacy and convenience.

7500 E Deer Valley Road Unit 68 Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$585,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,358 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6714999
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Seller may carry. Best offering in North Scottsdale. Priced to sell Freshly painted interior will impress you, showcasing a large living room bathed in natural light, ideal for entertaining or relaxation. The kitchen displays fluorescent lighting, plenty of honey oak cabinets, built-in appliances, and a bright dining area with sliding glass doors to the back patio. Make the flexible den with double doors a media room or extra bedroom for your guests. Take a look at the spacious primary retreat, which provides a walk-in closet and private bathroom. The secondary bedroom has a mirrored door closet. A washer and dryer are included! The backyard has a covered patio where you can sit and relax after a hard day's work. This rare find won't disappoint!

7102 W Windrose Drive Peoria, AZ 85381

$585,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
3,532 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6721103
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
SELLER OFFERING CONCESSIONS! Welcome to this modern home nestled on a large corner lot with an RV GATE offering 5 bedrooms & 3 full-sized bathrooms, & a secondary owner's suite in the basement. The main level features 3 bedrooms, including the master bedroom upstairs with walk-in closets. REMODELED bathrooms and a laundry chute to enhance the comfort & functionality of the home. Natural light shines through plantation shutters, creating a bright atmosphere. The basement adds 2 bedrooms, a WET BAR, & a full-sized bathroom to be used as a guest room or for entertaining extended family members. Outside, the backyard is a serene retreat with mature greenery providing privacy & a perfect backdrop for relaxation or outdoor activities.

3161 W Frankfurt Drive Chandler, AZ 85226

$585,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,024 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6760217
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This beautiful one-level home exudes charm and comfort with its expansive open floor plan and high ceilings, creating a bright and airy atmosphere throughout. Recently updated with fresh paint inside and out, along with updated carpets. The master suite is a true retreat, featuring a full spa-style bathroom with a soaking tub and walk-in shower—perfect for unwinding. The outdoor living area is equally impressive, boasting a sparkling pool and an extended patio, offering plenty of space for lounging, dining, and entertaining. Whether you're hosting a barbecue or enjoying a quiet evening by the pool, this home provides the perfect blend of indoor and outdoor living. Don't miss your chance to make this exceptional property your own!

22740 N 74th Lane Glendale, AZ 85310

$585,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,242 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6748677
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Situated on a great lot in the community of Hillcrest this 4 bedroom 2 bath home has everything you are looking for. Great curb appeal with new exterior paint in 2021. Step inside to beautiful inlaid tile in neutral colors, large open living room with art niches, vaulted ceilings and bright open windows. Open kitchen with plenty of cabinet and counters space, kitchen island and great spot for a dining table - all over looking the cozy family room. Nice primary bedroom with ensuite bath featuring a step in shower, soaking tub and dual vanities. Beautiful back yard with large covered patio, sparkling pool/spa with rock accents, grassy area, and mature landscaping. New roof in 2017; New heat pump/AC in 2018; New water heater 2023. No neighbors behind you. Low HOA! So much to love!!

11410 N 50th Lane Glendale, AZ 85304

$585,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,782 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6755548
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful Former Model Home...Inviting 5 bedroom, 3 full bathrooms! Real wood plantation shutters, recess lighting, 8 foot doors and closets, 5 inch base boards throughout home. Gorgeous kitchen w/ white cabinets, stainless steel appliances, granite counter top, and an island w/ a breakfast bar. Spacious primary bedroom w/ large walk in closet, double sinks w/ subway tiled walk in shower. Primary bedroom PLUS 2 additional bedrooms and another bath downstairs! Large loft, 2 more bedrooms and a bath upstairs. Energy efficient spray foam insulation keeps electric bills low. Laundry room w/ sink and custom cabinets downstairs. Dreamy backyard showcases a covered patio, pavers, built-in BBQ, a fire pit, & an enticing pool for year-round entertainment! A MUST SEE!!

2544 W Knowles Avenue Mesa, AZ 85202

$585,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,106 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6771836
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home in the heart of Dobson Ranch! This beautifully updated residence is ready for its new owners & features an impressive backyard oasis, complete with a lush ficus hedge, low maintenance turf, and a delicious orange tree. Step inside to discover a versatile den that serves as the perfect flex space—ideal for a craft room, office, media room, utility area, or guest room. The heart of the home is the stunning kitchen, completely remodeled in 2018 to create an open floor plan that doubled its size. Enjoy modern conveniences, including motion-detected under-cabinet lighting that illuminates your space as you descend the stairs. Recent upgrades include a complete ductwork overhaul in 2024, ensuring optimal airflow throughout the home. Nestled on an oversized lot in a peaceful half cul-de-sac, this property features RV gates on both sides, leading to two large concrete pads-perfect for storage, parking, or additional outdoor activities. The driveway also accommodates a third slab, complemented by a charming paver walkway. The extended-length garage provides direct access to the side yard. Dive into relaxation with the large diving pool, and enjoy evenings on the covered patio overlooking the north-facing yard, where you can gather around the firepit. Pool equipment is discreetly stored in the side yard for your convenience. Experience the vibrant Dobson Ranch community, complete with miles of scenic walking paths along the lake and golf course; 3 community pools, and engaging events throughout the year. Enjoy tennis & pickleball courts, a splash pad, and a rec room available for private rental. Explore a variety of clubs for hobbies ranging from dance and writing to hiking and cards-there's something for everyone! For more information, visit Dobson Ranch HOA for community publications like the Ranchers' Roundup. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the recent upgrades at Dobson Ranch Golf Course, including a cutting-edge Inrange ball tracking driving range, on-course food ordering, a 9-hole putt-putt course which is free for kids, a restaurant and bar, and numerous leagues and clinics.

3706 S Cottonwood Drive Tempe, AZ 85282

$585,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,669 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6768193
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this beautifully updated 4-bedroom, single-story home with a 2-car garage and no HOA! Recently renovated within the last 5 years, including a new A/C unit, this home features hard floors throughout and an open-concept kitchen with granite countertops. The exterior boasts fresh paint, a low-maintenance yard, and a sparkling PebbleTec diving pool. The spacious covered patio is ideal for entertaining. Conveniently located near shopping, dining, entertainment, the 101/60 freeways, and Ehrhardt Park. This home is the perfect blend of style, comfort, and location!

4077 S Sabrina Drive Unit 71 Chandler, AZ 85248

$585,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
1,775 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6768414
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Welcome to this stunning home in the Echelon At Ocotillo Community in South Chandler. This end unit boasts an abundance of natural light and windows creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. Well laid pavers in the front patio make it a great place to sit and watch the sunset. The gourmet kitchen includes quartz counter tops, new upgraded LG smart appliances with refrigerator connected to the RO for water, regular ice and craft ice spheres, plus lower kitchen cabinets & pantry with convenient pull outs. Smart home system with ring doorbell, programmable thermostats and smart garage door opener. One bedroom and full bath on the first level, three bedrooms and two bath rooms on the second level. Walk-in shower in master bathroom. Additional features, ceiling fans, steel security front door, full driveway with two car garage. Community amenities include a playground , gorgeous community pool and spa for your enjoyment. Don't miss out on the opportunity to make this house your new home.

5831 W Pine Cove Prescott, AZ 86305

$585,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,057 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6772452
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home tucked away on a serene, pine-covered .93 acre lot in Highland Pines. Offering 2,057 sq. ft. of living space, this mountain retreat features a great room with soaring ceilings, rustic wood accents, and a cozy wood-burning stove. The dining room's wall of windows provides breathtaking views of the surrounding pines. Step outside onto the deck to take in the panoramic scenery. Additional amenities include a one-car garage, asphalt driveway, brick paver paths, and a fenced dog run. This home is truly a peaceful getaway in the Pines with modern comforts!

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