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.

Click Here to See What Your Home is Worth

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

3211 E Kerry Lane Phoenix, AZ 85050

$565,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,880 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6758934

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled in a quiet cul-de-sac, this stunning 4-bed, 2.5-bath home offers the perfect blend of comfort and style. Enjoy the benefits of energy efficiency with Newly Leased solar panels. Relax in a Refreshing Pool at the end of your day or all weekend long! There are no neighbors behind to peer down at you. The sleek remodeled kitchen offers modern appliances, quartz countertops, and ample cabinetry, perfect for any home chef. Just minutes from Desert Ridge Shopping, Loop 101, and the Musical Instrument Museum. Fantastic location to get you anywhere in the Greater Metro area quickly.

View Property

2133 N Atwood -- Mesa, AZ 85207

$565,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,379 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6759727

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Escape to your own Desert Oasis! This radiant 2 bed, 2 bath retreat in the coveted Mountain Bridge Community is ready to welcome you home. Built in 2017, this light-filled haven features a split floorplan, modern upgrades & abundant storage, including built-in garage cabinets. The kitchen is a chef's dream w/stainless steel appliances, generous pantry & ample counter space. The oversized laundry room & private grassy backyard backing to a scenic desert wash offer extra comfort. HOA covers roof & exterior paint making it a perfect lock-and-leave option. Mountain Bridge is an award-winning master-planned community w/extensive amenities- pools, fitness centers, tennis, pickleball & basketball courts, plus playground putting green. Bella Via adds its own private pool, spa, clubhouse & more!

View Property

3819 N Springfield Street Buckeye, AZ 85396

$565,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,036 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6764983

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

LOCATED IN HIGHLY DESIRABLE VERRADO, PRIDE OF OWNERSHIP, PARKING FOR 6 CARS! This Pulte Magnolia model features a cozy front porch, high-end turf in both front and backyard, expansive great room that opens to the gourmet kitchen w/island, breakfast bar, eat-in kitchen, formal dining room, staggered cabinets, Corian countertops, granite stone sink, wall oven, cooktop, black appliances, and a large pantry, the split master floor plan includes an oversized master suite, his/her closets, raised vanities w/double sinks, separate tub/shower, 2 large additional bedrooms, and full bath. The backyard boast of a covered patio, extended custom pavers designed for a park-like setting, built-in pergola makes this the perfect place for entertaining. The 2car garage includes high-end epoxy flooring, storage cabinets, an extended driveway with room to park 4 additional vehicles.

View Property

22337 E Via Del Palo -- Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$565,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,162 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6765247

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover a stunning two-story home nestled within the prestigious Villages at Queen Creek Golf Course community. This corner lot residence offers breathtaking mountain views, a refreshing community pool, and a spacious interior designed for comfortable living. Key features include:Prime Location, Enjoy easy access to the 60 and 202 freeways, as well as a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Enjoy the convenience of a full bedroom and bathroom on the ground floor. Modern Updates include new tile, and updated cabinets and granite countertops. The expansive open concept living space features vaulted ceilings, a large kitchen with an island, and a generous pantry. Don't Miss this opportunity to make this house yours!

View Property

272 N 167th Lane Goodyear, AZ 85338

$565,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,735 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767667

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home in Canyon Trails! Nestled in a peaceful cul-de-sac, this 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom residence is loaded with premium upgrades. Step outside to your own slice of paradise, featuring a splash pad for endless summer fun and an outdoor kitchen perfect for al fresco dining and entertaining family and friends. The area directly behind your back fence boasts lush greenery, ensuring added privacy for your backyard. Enjoy the convenience of a full bedroom and bathroom on the main level, ideal for guests or multi-generational living. The extended garage provides ample space for your vehicles, while the built-in shelving offers extra storage and a dedicated workspace. Upstairs, the primary bedroom features a luxurious walk-in shower and two separate walk-in closets.

View Property

10521 E Hawk Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$565,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,104 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767313

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful residence in the esteemed Eastmark Community is the one! Lovely curb appeal with a well-maintained front yard and a 3-car garage. Be welcomed by an inviting foyer leading to the spacious living room enhanced with tall ceilings, pre-wired surround sound, and sleek wood-look tile flooring. The chef's kitchen is fully equipped with an electric cooktop, a wall oven, granite counters, a walk-in pantry, ample white cabinetry with crown molding, and an island with a breakfast bar. The primary retreat has plush carpeting, an immaculate ensuite, and a walk-in closet. Secondary bedrooms enjoy a Jack & Jill bathroom! The home's elegance extends outdoors to the tranquil backyard with a covered patio and pavers, great for relaxation. Make this gem yours today!

View Property

17814 N 137th Drive Sun City West, AZ 85375

$565,000

2 Beds

3 Baths

2,532 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6776829

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This exquisite San Simeon model was originally designed by Del Webb as a 3-bedroom home or 2 bed with study. This particular one is unique because it actually has a 3rd bathroom. As you approach this stunning property, you're greeted by a private front courtyard that promises tranquil mornings and an intimate space for reflection or casual conversation. Inside, you'll find a home that with a spacious layout that is perfect for both relaxation and entertaining. The living spaces flow seamlessly to the extended back patio, where the home's true gem lies: breathtaking views of the golf course, lake, and distant mountains that has delighted the owners for a quarter of a century enjoying these sunsets from the extended patio. Garage can accommodate a golf-cart. Roof replaced 2019. Situated on a tranquil street void of through traffic, it's peaceful, yet convenience is just around the corner, with easy access to all the shopping, dining, and amenities that Sun City West has to offer. Live your adventure now.

View Property

112 N 3rd Street Buckeye, AZ 85326

$565,000

5 Beds

6.5 Baths

5,264 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769706

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Check out 1 of Historical Downtown Buckeye building that was built in 1927. Flood irrigation is available on this 15000 sq ft lot. This property can be residential or commercial. it has 5 bed, 6.5 baths . Roof had new sealant , all new pool equipment, and resurfacing. new primary shower, new flooring in dining area, remodeled front half bath. new hot water heater. 2 car garage plus 8 assigned parking spaces. Basement has bedroom and bath plus living area. Green house and a shed. Shared parking with bank,verify all info.

View Property

23105 E Camina Buena Vista Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$565,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,381 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6777387

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MUST SEE! Take a look at this incredible 2,381 sqft single-story home with 4 bedrooms, large GREAT ROOM, and a prime spot near the community pool, splash pad, and parks—perfect for relaxing and having fun! Step inside to find a spacious, open floor plan that brings together the living, dining, and kitchen areas, making it great for both everyday life and hosting. The living room is bright and airy, thanks to large windows and a sliding glass door that lets in an abundance of natural light. The open kitchen has a sleek, modern look with upgraded countertops, plenty of cabinets, and a HUGE ISLAND —ideal for casual meals or hanging out with guests. The kitchen opens up perfectly to the great room and dining areas. The primary suite is split perfectly from the other three bedrooms features an upgraded bathroom. Head out back to enjoy a beautifully designed yard with a large covered patio, a cozy paver sitting area, and a low maintenance artificial turf area. It's perfect for entertaining, gardening, or just kicking back in your own private space to watch a breathtaking Arizona sunset. Other features include: 3 car tandem epoxy garage with built-in storage, energy efficient home, vinyl frame windows, new carpet, mudroom, reverse osmosis, water softener, tankless water heater, and so much more. This home is perfectly located in Queen Creek, AZ with every convenience just minutes away - close to shopping, Golfing, Freeways, Dining, Schools, Downtown Queen Creek. You don't want to miss out on this property. Schedule your showing today!

View Property

813 W Diamond Drive Tempe, AZ 85283

$565,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,915 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6782021

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This beautifully upgraded home is a standout gem! Thoughtfully renovated inside and out, this home combines efficiency, elegance, and high-end finishes and is 100% move-in-ready. Be the very first to live in this freshly renovated home! Stunning wood-look porcelain tile throughout the entire home - no carpet here! Upgrades include solid maple cabinet doors, white quartz countertops, all new dual pane argon windows throughout the home, new fans, hardware, light fixtures, toilets, mirrors, and the list goes on and on!! The details and touches put into this home are unmatched. Freshly epoxied garage with storage cabinets, plus a RV gate w\ concrete slab for your motorhome, boats, or other toys. Add this one your short list - this home is gorgeous and completely turnkey!!

View Property

3355 E Los Altos Road Gilbert, AZ 85297

$565,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,952 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6785311

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This 4-bed 2-bath Gilbert home is situated on a corner lot with mature landscaping all around. The home includes a 3-car garage with storage cabinets. The oversized driveway includes a RV gate next to the home. This single owner property has been meticulously maintained throughout its life. The home features a R/O System as well as brand new complete A/C system. The home also has newer LVP flooring with fresh paint. Backyard features an Extended patio with a pergola, perfect enjoy the AZ weather.

View Property

2258 E Soft Wind Drive Phoenix, AZ 85024

$565,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,518 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6744749

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this charming North Phoenix home, offering 1,518 square feet of comfortable living space. This three-bedroom, 1.75-bath residence features vaulted ceilings and an open floor plan that creates a spacious and inviting atmosphere. The updated kitchen is a highlight, boasting elegant granite countertops and modern amenities, while luxury vinyl flooring flows throughout the home. Situated on a large corner lot, this property provides stunning mountain views and ample outdoor space. Perfectly located near hiking trails, mountain biking paths, and the vibrant communities of Cave Creek and Desert Ridge, this home offers the ideal blend of tranquility and convenience. Don't miss out on this opportunity to enjoy the best of North Phoenix living!

View Property