First-time Home Buyers: Here’s a Quick and Easy Guide to Your First Mortgage

Delving into the real estate market for the first time can be a very intimidating thing with all of the mortgage and housing options available. Whether it’s market conditions or the amount you should be spending, there are a number of factors you’ll need to be aware of. If you’re just starting out and not sure where to begin, here are some points to consider that will set you on the right path.

Is It The Right Time To Buy?

Many people try to time the market, but the right time to buy a home is when it works for you. If you have a solid down payment and you’re truly prepared for home ownership, it’s probably the right time to start looking. While a good home and low interest rates can certainly push you in this direction, if it’s not quite the right time, hold off until it’s right for you.

What’s Your Payment Plan?

It’s easy for a first-time buyer to be taken in by their dream home, but it’s important to be clear on all the costs associated with home ownership like property tax, insurance, maintenance and other fees that will bump up the monthly payment. If you can formulate a budget that includes all of your monthly costs and is feasible in the long term, you’re good to go.

What Documentation Is Required?

Having your personal documentation in order and available will be one of the most important steps in your application, but there are a number of things you’ll need. Beyond recent paystubs, tax returns and bank statements, you’ll also need your credit report, so take a look over it to ensure that it’s correct and displays your financial history in a positive light.

Starting the Search

You may be ready to move as soon as you start looking, but buying your first home can be a rather lengthy process. Instead of being sucked in by too much house or taking the first home that appeals to you, ensure that you have a good sense of the size, neighborhood and style of house you want so you can get out there and find the home that works for you.

There are a lot of things to consider when it comes to buying your first home, but by being ready to invest and having your finances in order you’ll be well on your way. If you’re currently in the market for a home, give me a call, I’d love to help – 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

32731 N 74th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$1,425,000

5 Beds

4 Baths

3,738 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6731334

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Located in the wonderfully discreet gated community of Las Piedras in North Scottsdale lies this exceptional residence. Directly across from the community pool, spa and fitness room it is accessed by a gated courtyard to the front door. The bright, spacious interiors begin with an open plan living area including the kitchen and breakfast nook, formal dining area and living room. Sliding doors open to a covered patio and private rear yard with putting green. The primary bedroom suite includes a large bedroom, beautifully appointed bathroom and fitted closet. The home is complete with 4 additional bedrooms, one used as a home office. From the front courtyard you access the guest house above the 3 car garage. Beautifully located near restaurants and shopping it offers luxury desert living.

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31818 N 68th Street Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$1,425,000

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,232 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6744712

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This 4,200+ sqft home offers a wonderful opportunity to create your dream space! With a spacious, flexible floorplan and incredible mountain views, this property is ready for someone to add their personal touch. Situated on a 1 Acre lot, the home features 5 sizable bedrooms with walkin closets, and 4.5 bathrooms. Inside, the open split layout features large windows allowing natural light to pour in, perfectly framing the beautiful surroundings. The kitchen provides plenty of cabinetry, a spacious island, newer appliances, and a high counter area, making it ideal for gatherings. The primary suite offers a walk-in shower, deep soaking tub, and ample closet space, creating a perfect retreat. An entertainers backyard with a large patio, beautiful diving pool with custom rock waterfall, an d a pool house with an additional bathroom, dry sauna, and shower. Additionally, there's a 3-car extended garage, RV gate, and potential for further customization. This home is full of possibilitiesbring your vision and make it your own!

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6324 N 10th Drive Phoenix, AZ 85013

Open House

$1,425,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,696 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6733625

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

SELLER OFFERING 5.75% FINANCING RATE FOR 30 DAYS. COME SEE THIS GORGEOUS NEW CONSTRUCTION - CHOOSE YOUR HOME NOW Blue Sky Homes are 50% MORE energy efficient than a standard new build and Energy Star / Indoor AirPlus Certified for cost savings and a significantly healthier home for you and your family. WELCOME TO TOLTEC at CASA AZUL - We are a Newly Constructed 12 home subdivision exuding state of the art smart home features, notable sustainability with the intent of encouraging community and serenity. This 4 bedroom , 3 1/2 bathroom homes offers upgrades and amenities you won't find from any other new home builder Aside from our custom interior design features and highly desirable family friendly floor plans, we proudly offer all of the following upgrades in all of our Casa Azul homes homes .. 16' Sliding Glass Doors / Vaulted Ceilings / Smart Home Control Center Tablet / Smart lock & Keyless Entry / Smart Thermostat / Smart Home Pre-wiring for Complete Home Synthesis / Quartz Countertops & Custom Cabinetry / Energy Star Appliances / Oversized Bathrooms & Bedrooms / Covered Back Patios / Lifestyle Features / Serene Backyards / Electric Vehicle Charging Outlet / ENERGY STAR Certified / Indoor AirPLUS Certified / 3rd Party Audited Energy & HERS Score Rating / Spray foam insulation / Insulated Garage & Attic / EPA Water sense Toilets, Faucets, & Showers / LED Lighting /Insulated Owner's Suite for Efficiency & Sound / No VOC paint / Low VOC Engineered Flooring. Centrally located and close to all of the best restaurants and schools Arizona has to offer ... welcome to your new home!

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6313 N 10th Drive Phoenix, AZ 85013

Open House

$1,425,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,680 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6725247

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

SELLER OFFERING 5.75% FINANCING RATE FOR 30 DAYS. COME SEE THIS GORGEOUS NEW CONSTRUCTION - CHOOSE YOUR HOME NOW. Blue Sky Homes are 50% MORE energy efficient than a standard new build and Energy Star / Indoor AirPlus Certified for cost savings and a significantly healthier home for you and your family. WELCOME TO ARUMA at CASA AZUL - We are a Newly Constructed 12 home subdivision exuding state of the art smart home features, notable sustainability with the intent of encouraging community and serenity. This 4 bedroom , 3 1/2 bathroom homes offers upgrades and amenities you won't find from any other new home builder Aside from our custom interior design features and highly desirable family friendly floor plans, we proudly offer all of the following upgrades in all of our Casa Azul homes .. 16' Sliding Glass Doors / Vaulted Ceilings / Smart Home Control Center Tablet / Smart lock & Keyless Entry / Smart Thermostat / Smart Home Pre-wiring for Complete Home Synthesis / Quartz Countertops & Custom Cabinetry / Energy Star Appliances / Oversized Bathrooms & Bedrooms / Covered Back Patios / Lifestyle Features / Serene Backyards / Electric Vehicle Charging Outlet / ENERGY STAR Certified / Indoor AirPLUS Certified / 3rd Party Audited Energy & HERS Score Rating / Spray foam insulation / Insulated Garage & Attic / EPA Water sense Toilets, Faucets, & Showers / LED Lighting /Insulated Owner's Suite for Efficiency & Sound / No VOC paint / Low VOC Engineered Flooring. Centrally located and close to all of the best restaurants and schools Arizona has to offer ... welcome to your new home!

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3330 W Desert Dawn Drive Phoenix, AZ 85083

$1,420,000

5 Beds

4 Baths

3,778 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6778764

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Seller offering 1% concession towards rate buydown, landscape etc. This soft contemporary home is 100% new construction and is tucked back in a quiet cul-de-sac surrounded by million-dollar homes. Optimally designed for modern living this home has it all. As you enter, you are greeted with soaring ceilings and a great room that is flooded with natural light. Each generously sized bedroom boasts en suite baths and walk-in closets. The open concept kitchen is well appointed with quartz counters, white shaker cabinetry and LG Studio appliances. A large island sits at the center which overlooks the great room, ideal for gathering and entertaining. The primary suite is a true retreat with a spa-like bathroom complete with soaking tub, quartz counters, dual vanities and an oversized shower. The massive primary walk-in closet is situated with access to the laundry. Boasting 4 bedrooms and 5 baths plus a spacious den/flex space and 3-car garage there is ample room for all and for storage. Enjoy mountain views, easy freeway access, close proximity to Lake Pleasant, and numerous options for nearby shopping and dining. There is plenty of space for a pool and an RV gate is ready for your boat, off-road toys or extra vehicle storage. All this with the peace of mind of a quality new built home.

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10147 W Camino De Oro -- Peoria, AZ 85383

$1,417,990

4 Beds

3 Baths

3,025 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6702235

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This LIGHTLY LIVED IN and STUNNING CUSTOM HOME in a FANTASTIC LOCATION on an ACRE LOT in a MARICOPA COUNTY ISLAND adjacent to Peoria has a perfect BLEND of LUXURY LIVING with a FUNCTIONAL FLOOR PLAN*GOURMET KITCHEN includes CALACATTA QUARTZ with WATERFALL at island, DOUBLE STACK WHITE SHAKER CABINETS, DOUBLE OVENS, BEVERAGE FRIDGE, prep sink, walk in pantry, POT FILLER, and GAS COOKTOP*SPLIT OWNER SUITE has SPA LIKE BATHROOM with STAND-ALONE TUB, BEAUTIFUL TILE WORK at the frameless SHOWER, and DIRECT ACCESS to LAUNDRY*Other UPGRADES include ENERGY EFFICENT SPRAY FOAM, soft water and R/O, oversized water heater, 4-CAR garage with EPOXY Floors, multiple car chargers, smart home, WOOD-TILE throughout - and SO MUCH MORE*COME BY and SEE WHY you WILL WANT to CALL THIS PLACE YOUR ''HOME''

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5543 E Olesen Road Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$1,415,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,038 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6659555

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Ready for move-in! Contemporary NEXTGEN Builders home: 4BD +office/den, 3.5BA, high-quality luxury with many upgrades. See attached for included features. Oversized 2-Gar with attached 46' RV Gar with 12x14 RV door, on 1+ acre. No HOA, paver front sidewalk & driveway apron, large kitchen island, upgraded SubZero/Wolf appliance Pkg:, Gas Range, Microwave Drawer, 48'' Subzero Refrig, Quartz counter tops throughout. Many upgrades, all bedrooms have walk in closets. Owner's bath has large entry shower with standalone tub and double sinks. 8' doors throughout, nicely finished. Energy efficient Spray foam insulation, 2x6 framed and fully sheathed exterior, post tension foundation, Pictures are from recently completed model home. Buyer to verify all facts.

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2200 E Nolan Place Chandler, AZ 85249

$1,409,628

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

3,705 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6754060

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Quick Move-in Ready Home! McKinley Glenn is an intimate gated enclave of luxury single-level homes offering modern home designs by Cachet Homes. Welcome to this stunning Ascent Plan boasting 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, game room, den, this residence is designed for comfort and style. Situated on a North/South corner lot this home features a Gourmet kitchen with modern appliances and ample counter space, a game room perfect for entertainment and relaxation, spacious great room with 20' stacking door inviting the outdoor living spaces inside, en-suite baths for every bedroom, high-end finishes and upgrades throughout the home, and 4-car garage for ample storage and parking. Community amenities include a recreation area with Ramada and cornhole, close proximity to shopping centers, schools, restaurants, and other conveniences, ensuring a convenient lifestyle. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to own a luxury Cachet Home in a prime location.

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43712 N Acadia Way New River, AZ 85087

$1,407,900

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,455 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6758310

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Former gorgeous model home! Welcome to The Tierra Hacienda, a distinguished single-story residence that exemplifies luxury and thoughtful design. Spanning 2,455 square feet, this home offers 3 spacious bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and a 2-car garage, all nestled on a sprawling 16,800 sq ft homesite with breathtaking mountain views. Included is a 50 x 16 RV Garage: Ample space for your recreational vehicle and additional storage. Plus a 280 sq ft Casita with Kitchenette. Every detail of The Tierra Hacienda has been meticulously crafted to offer a refined living experience. This residence is designed for both grand entertaining and serene living.

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103 E Quartz Rock Road Phoenix, AZ 85085

$1,400,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,200 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6656213

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MODEL HOME ... NEVER LIVED-IN ... 1.5 Acres ... Move-in Ready ... Mountain Views in a quiet neighborhood, yet just 5 minutes from the 101, I-17 & Norterra ... Just 2 blocks from the Sonoran Preserve ... No HOA ... Gourmet kitchen consists of quartz countertops, premium appliances, luxury backsplash, massive island, veggie prep island and custom coffee bar/butler area ... Two Master Bedrooms.

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24610 N 102nd Avenue Peoria, AZ 85383

$1,400,000

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,964 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6765674

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Gorgeous custom home on 1.39 acre North Peoria lot, bordering open state land, with beautiful mountain views! This nearly 5,000sf home features a stunning gourmet kitchen with expansive breakfast bar island and lovely rustic finishes. This basement home offers split floorplan on the main level, with two bedrooms to one side, and on the other, the large master suite with walk in closet, french doors to the backyard, and cozy 2 way fireplace to the big soaking tub. Formal dining and eat-in kitchen with greatroom layout provide excellent space for entertaining. Basement level features theater space with projector/screen, wet bar, 2 additional bedrooms and additional full bath. Outside you will find the huge covered patio, sparkling pool, gazebo, planters, coop, and space for your additions!

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9665 N Stagecoach Drive Williams, AZ 86046

$1,400,000

3 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,326 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6760623

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your serene ranch retreat, sprawling across nearly 29 acres with stunning mountain views. Rain collection for water supply, NEW METAL ROOF +$100k in recent updates! This home is perfect for equestrians, the property includes a 2500sqf barn+ 2000sqt covered paddock &5 acres of fenced land. Nestled in nature, the estate is a sanctuary for local wildlife all surrounding a 3,300+ sqft custom built home. Seamless indoor-outdoor living, each of the 3 spacious bedrooms offers an ensuite bathroom and access to covered patios, indoor&outdoor fireplace blending luxury with the beauty of the outdoors. This property is fully equipped for modern convenience and adventure. A 2000sqft RV shed with a full bath provides extra space for guests or storage, while a 2000sqft workshop greenhouse caters to projects and hobbies. The barn features horse stalls, a tack room, and hay storage, while the 5-acre fenced arena and paddock complete the equestrian setup. Located just 30 miles from the Grand Canyon and minutes from Williams, you'll enjoy endless outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking at nearby Kaibab Lake. Entering through a secure electronic gate, you're greeted by a grand custom Italian wrought iron door, leading to heated tile floors, rock archways, and crystal chandeliers inside. The chef's kitchen is fully equipped, while the three master suites offer luxurious en-suite bathrooms and fireplaces. This estate is the perfect blend of comfort, privacy, and adventureyour peaceful, luxury ranch awaits.

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