Buying a home is an ideal investment for many people because not only is it a place that belongs to them, it can also be very beneficial financially. While you may be strongly considering buying a home for these reasons, it’s also important to be in good financial health so that your ideal home purchase is within reach. If you’re currently perusing the market for prospects, here are some reasons you should pay down debt before taking the leap into home ownership.
Good Credit History
The amount of your debt load and whether or not you’re paying off your minimum monthly payments has a considerable impact on your mortgage approval, so ensuring that you have good credit history going into the process is important. If you’ve had hiccups with your credit, make sure you go through your credit report prior to submitting your application to determine where you’re at.
Lowering Your Debt-to-Income Ratio
Whether or not you’ve heard the term, your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) has a significant impact on how much house you can afford. Made up of the amount of your monthly debt payment and current house payment, your DTI should be below a certain percentage as this will enable you to afford a higher home payment each month.
Shifting Interest Rates
Getting a mortgage is one thing, but interest rates add more to the monthly amount you’ll owe. A fixed-rate mortgage can seem like a good idea, but if interest rates are low you may end up paying more than you would on a variable rate, which can be hard to predict. As interest rates are a part of home ownership, having lower debt will enable you to deal with these additional costs.
Finding The Right Home
Putting your money into a home can be one of the best purchases you’ll make, but if you’re unable to afford the home you love, it can be a disappointing fact to face. While there are no assurances that paying down debt will enable you to afford your dream home, it can go a long way towards giving you more options that will fit your budget.
Buying a home can be a money saver in the long run, but if you’re struggling to keep up with your debt payments buying into the market can be more of a burden than anything else. If you’re currently paying down debt and considering a home purchase, give me a call and let me help start the planning process – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.
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31550 N 70th Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85266
$1,925,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,876
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6757631
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This property is the one you've been waiting for! It is located in magnificent North Scottsdale on 2.5 acres & has no HOA. It comes with a detached casita, an additional garage plus a RV garage. The property offers easy access to Scottsdale Road, the 101, and the towns of Cave Creek and Carefree. 70th St is paved & the extra large half-circle driveway has been redesigned and landscaped. One acre of land is still available for building, and the property is zoned for horses. The main home at 2968 sf features a family room w/ a built-in office, wet bar & wine room. The primary bedroom is very spacious with 12+ foot ceilings, another office, a sunny sitting room, jetted tub & an oversized walk-in closet. There are four newer HVAC systems. The detached casita is an additional 908 sf & can... serve as a perfect space for an extended family, a home business, an art studio, etc. An attached garage and an RV garage are large enough to fit a Class A coach. Plus, there is additional slab parking. The courtyard exudes a resort-like ambiance, making it a perfect retreat for relaxation and entertainment. The rooftop observation deck offers breathtaking sunset views, while the propane fire pits create a warm and inviting atmosphere. With a covered patio equipped with misters and a BBQ area, it's an ideal setting for gatherings and enjoying the outdoor Arizona lifestyle. Nearby, you'll find some of the finest dining and shopping options in Scottsdale, with Kierland Commons and Scottsdale Quarter just a short drive away. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to Pinnacle Peak Park, offering hiking trails with stunning views. Additionally, top-rated schools and world-class golf courses are conveniently located in the area, making this property an ideal choice for a variety of lifestyles. This private and enchanting property is ready for you, your family, your toys, your home business, your art studio, your RV/coach, and your horses. Make it yours today! Professional photography is coming soon.
26005 N 107th Way
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$1,925,000
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
3,720
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6773941
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Resort-style living with sweeping Pinnacle Peak, sunset & city light views await you in Scottsdale's guard-gated Windy Walk community, adjacent to Troon Country Club. Every room offers its own unique ambiance with stunning views as the backdrop. The primary suite features a cozy fireplace and attached office (could be converted to a guest suite). The oversized guest suite also boasts a walk-in closet. While you may feel like you're on vacation here, the kitchen is ready for serious cooking with an oversized separate fridge & freezer, double ovens, gas stove & abundant storage. Outdoors, relax on expansive covered patios, unwind by the fireplace or pool, practice your putting, or host a barbecue-it's all here! Plus you're nearby the Four Seasons Hotel , Troon North Golf, hiking & more!
9853 N 48th Place
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
$1,925,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
3,055
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6782914
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautiful, fully remodeled home in the unique Taliesin Architect (John Rattenbury studied from and worked with Frank Lloyd Wright ) designed Paradise Valley neighborhood. The home sits on an epic, near half acre lot, surrounded by mature trees, landscaping and beauty. The expansive driveway has an oversized carport that makes you feel as if you're checking into a boutique hotel. Everything is custom built, including a large glass pivot entry door, 9'' Oak engineered hardwood floors, Venetian Plaster master bath with Dutch Design Cabinetry and a steamist steam shower, huge tub with large glass windows and water that cascades down from the ceiling. Chef kitchen featuring Subzero Wolf Beverage Refrigerator, and much more. Excellent Schools, Very close to Shea & Tatum, grocery stores. Own/Agen
39220 N 30th Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85086
$1,900,000
4
Beds
5.5
Baths
3,800
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6731365
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your dream retreat, where luxury meets adventure! Nestled in a secluded, gated community, this custom estate home is a haven for RV and off-road enthusiasts. With a 4-car extended-length garage and an attached RV garage, you'll have ample space to store your vehicles and gear, ready for your next journey. Step through the elegant steel and glass doors into a world of opulence. The grand entrance features soaring 12-foot ceilings and an open great room with panoramic doors that invite the outdoors in. Cozy up by the electric fireplace or enjoy the seamless flow to the expansive pavered patio, perfect for relaxing or entertaining. The chef's kitchen is a culinary masterpiece with a separate induction cook-top, wall oven, microwave, and a generous butler's pantry with sink The enormous island and matching cabinetry extend into the dining area, providing a stylish and functional space for meals and gatherings. Enjoy the seamless flow of 8-foot interior doors and wood-look plank tile throughout, enhancing the open and airy feel of the split floor plan. The primary bedroom is a retreat of its own, featuring a private exit to your personal patio and a luxurious bathroom with a large walk-in shower, large soaking tub, separate vanities, leading to a spacious closet with a dressing table that connects to the laundry room. For those who work or need extra space, there's an office/den and a convenient half bath for guests. The three guest bedrooms each come with a private en suite, ensuring comfort and privacy for all your visitors. Don't miss the additional amenities like the large, open and pavered patio with another full bathroom. As well as 400 AMP panel in the garage and the central vac system, adding convenience and efficiency to your home. This estate is more than just a home, it's a gateway to endless adventures and ultimate comfort. Make it yours and start living the life you've always dreamed of!
1804 E Senna Point
Payson, AZ 85541
$1,900,000
3
Beds
4
Baths
3,606
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6748495
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Stunning new WTM Construction home located in the prestigious gated golf community of Chaparral Pines awaits you. This beauty is completed and displays an elegant masterpiece that this builder creates including 2X6 exterior walls, spray foam insulation, concrete fiber siding, Windsor Pinnacle Series Wood Clad windows, and a 50-year GAF Roof. This single level, open split floor plan home sits on a large lot backing to 2 water ponds with a waterfall and is not to be missed. Starting with a grand front entry to the great room is a wall of windows to capture the views where you will notice a stone ceiling to floor gas fireplace highlighted by a beamed ceiling bringing it all together. Kitchen boasts SS Wolfe Subzero appliances such as a 48'' refrigerator, 48'' gas cooktop, built in oven and microwave, Sollid Brand soft close doors/drawers done in Shaker White style with black hardware, upgraded granite throughout, farm sink, an oversized kitchen island and breakfast nook which make it truly a chef's delight. Separate study/office with barn doors also has a beamed ceiling and can be a multi purpose room. Primary bedroom is a dream with a beamed ceiling and exterior doors to the back patio. Bath has dual vanities with large mirrors, walk through shower, 2 closets, and a free standing tub highlighted by a Chandelier. Guest bedrooms are both ensuites with large walk in showers and closets. Garage is oversized and can hold an RV/Boat and has epoxy floor finish and leads into a mud room/breezeway for added convenience. Flooring is all engineered wood with tile in all the wet areas. Large driveway and all patios are done in pavers. Too much to mention! Come experience this amazing build.
51414 W Pete Road
Aguila, AZ 85320
$1,900,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
6,556
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6659027
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This magnificent Property offers Hacienda Style Architecture reminiscent of Spanish Living plus a 52' x 80' Hangar with Pilot's Lounge. Chef's Kitchen boasts Wolfe Range, Kol-Gard Commercial Refrigerator, Traditional & Baker's Islands, Conversation Counter & Separate walk-in Server's Pantry. Complete with Formal Dining Room, Great Room Dance Floor, Wet Bar, Spa, Atrium, multiple Fireplaces, Den & Office, it's ideal for personal Luxury or Entertaining. The spacious Primary Suite features multiple Bath areas, Large walk-in Closet & Sitting Room. Guest Rooms have Private Exits. Enjoy Outdoor Living on the Covered Patio. The 52' x 80' Hangar features Pilots' Lounge, Shop, Storage Room & Sunshade Port. Propane & Diesel Fuel Tanks plus RV parking add to the convenience of Airpark living. Property is on 5 acres with Private Well, Well House & Detached Garage in a Gated Airpark with HOA & CCR's. State Land across the street to the South. Community has a 3,906' paved, lighted runway, paved taxiways/streets & community center for great gatherings. See Document Tab for Additional Features. THIS IS AN ACTIVE AIRPARK. PLEASE YIELD TO PLANES. DO NOT CROSS, DRIVE OR WALK DOWN RUNWAY.
18610 W Porter Drive Unit 93
Goodyear, AZ 85338
$1,900,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,122
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6779817
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this 2021 custom-built, luxury home in Estrella Mountain Ranch. Designed for energy efficiency with ICF construction, it boasts a main house featuring 2 beds, 2.5 baths, a chef's kitchen with butler pantry, & a state-of-the-art-theater. An 811 sf. casita offers additional private quarters with a bedroom, kitchen and bathroom. Enjoy Arizona's indoor-outdoor lifestyle with an enclosed outdoor kitchen that extends to a large patio, fire pit, fountains, privacy & tranquility. Built with structural integrity & energy-efficiecy, this home provides durability & low operating costs. Additional features include a 7kW solar system, 4-car garage, advanced security, and proximity to South Lake, Estrella Golf Club, Phoenix Raceway, and MLB Spring Training. A must-see to believe! This property is situated on a corner street, a cul-de-sac designed for privacy, security, and low maintenance. It provides outstanding 3G durability and resilience and low ongoing operating costs. ICF Construction (Integrated Concrete Forms) provides high energy efficiency and reduces fire risks and other natural disasters. 29 truckloads of concrete were poured inside 6- and 12-inch-thick blocks from 10 to 16 feet in height without thermal breaks or energy escapes. The HVAC system was designed to optimize the ICF construction and uses high-efficiency Daiken mini-splits with very high SEER ratings. Fire sprinkler system throughout the entire house, including garages. 4.5 spray foam insulation cathedral application on all roof lines. Windows and Patio doors are 100% Fibrex® composite material with superior strength and performance. Wired and wireless security systems designed with four levels of redundant protection video and audio utilizing 16 cameras managed on the Cloud and owned internal server by UniFi Dream Machine professional gateway with 3 Wi-Fi points providing 360-degree property coverage. State-of-the-art, Custom-Designed 3D audio and Dolby 7.2.8 Home Theater System with 19 speakers and custom Acoustics; video system includes 4K Dual Laser Projector and 135-inch Wall Screen (66x118). 7kW 20 Solar Panel system provides from 11k to 14k annual kW Hours. Integrated battery backup power: 6 cells provide 18kWh, capable of powering a 200-amp circuit in the main living area, including HVAC. A 10 to 25-year warranty is conveyable to the new owner. Automated whole house wi-fi Water-Valve monitoring system 24x7. Automated internal patio and landscape lighting system integrated with photocell for security and enhanced the property's beauty. Located on a hillside with views, and to maximize privacy on a .85-acre lot.
7220 N 185th Avenue
Waddell, AZ 85355
$1,900,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,000
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6691951
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Here's your chance to one a piece of Waddell history...the iconic LITTLE KENTUCKY! Equestrians, trainers, breeders, this is the property you have been looking for. Offering an impressive 140 x 250 covered arena, 3 enclosed barns offering 16x16 stalls fully trimmed out with high pressure mister systems, water and electric, the large barn also offers a workshop shop and trainers office with kitchenette area, there is an additional 4 stall shed row offering 12x 32 stalls, 60' trainers round pen, hot walker, covered hay storage, several tack and storage areas, wash rack,. multiple pastures, exercise track, 32 stalls in total and not to mention the very comfortable and nicely appointed 3 bedroom apartment AND ASK US ABOUT THE POSSIBILITY OF PURCHASING THE MAIN HOME AND ADDTIONAL 4 ACRES!!!
2800 E Portola Valley Drive
Gilbert, AZ 85297
$1,900,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,067
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6763587
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This stunning single-level home, built in 2022 and located in the highly sought-after Belmont at Somerset community, was crafted by the prestigious Blandford Homes. Spanning 4,067 sq ft, this 5 bed, 4.5 bath plus den & 4 car garge showcases soaring 12 ft ceilings, an abundance of natural light, and modern finishes throughout. The home features beautiful wood-look tile flooring, sleek quartz countertops, a gourmet kitchen with a natural stone backsplash, walk-in pantry, stainless steel appliances, and a striking wood beam ceiling. Designer lighting, ceiling fan fixtures and custom motorized Hunter Douglas window treatments add elegance throughout the space. The expansive primary suite includes a luxurious soaking tub, lighted floating cabinets, and a spacious walk-in closet. Step outside to an entertainer's dream backyard, complete with travertine pavers, low-maintenance artificial turf, a cozy fire pit with seating area, and a large removable fenced-in pool perfect for both relaxation and family fun. Beautifully situated near the vibrant San Tan Village, this home offers unparalleled convenience with easy access to premier shopping, dining, and entertainment options just minutes away. Located in a highly sought-after neighborhood, you're close to top-rated schools, parks, and recreational facilities. Quick access to the 202 freeway makes commuting a breeze, putting the rest of the Valley at your fingertips. Whether you're looking to enjoy the nearby golf courses, explore local hiking trails, or experience the lively community events, this location has it all. Don't miss the opportunity to experience this exceptional Gilbert home!
4502 E Calle Tuberia --
Phoenix, AZ 85018
$1,900,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
1,953
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6716154
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this gorgeous oasis in the heart of Arcadia! Nestled on a generous .24-acre lot, this 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers amazing views of Camelback Mountain. Step into the backyard and discover the lush landscaping creating a serene backdrop for outdoor gatherings and al fresco dining. The sparkling pool begs you to take a refreshing dip on hot summer days, while the meticulously manicured gardens offer a peaceful sanctuary for quiet reflection. With new A/C units and fresh exterior paint, this home is not only a feast for the senses but also a practical investment in your future. Don't miss this rare opportunity to own a piece of paradise in Arcadia.
6407 E Old Paint Trail
Carefree, AZ 85377
$1,900,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,339
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6772625
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover a tranquil oasis on nearly 2 acres in the prestigious gated community of Black Mountain Foothills. This 4,339 SqFt estate boasts a single-level, split floor plan with 3 bedrooms, a spacious office, and 3.5 baths. Enjoy the serene Sonoran Desert landscape, complemented by spectacular mountain vistas, dazzling sunsets, and unobstructed city light views. Unique floor-to-ceiling glass wall corners seamlessly blend the interior with an expansive covered patio, pool, and spa, all surrounded by mature desert landscape. The home features soaring 18' ceilings, an enormous Principal Suite with a fireplace and large bathroom, and a beautiful formal Dining Room perfect for entertaining. The well-appointed Kitchen includes a huge walk-in pantry, island, breakfast counter, and ... informal dining area that opens to a large Family Room. Additional amenities include a 3-car garage with 2 EV chargers, an air-conditioned exercise room, and indoor-outdoor speakers. Every window offers a view, enhancing the peaceful and private atmosphere of this luxurious estate.
9811 W Monte Lindo --
Peoria, AZ 85383
$1,900,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,853
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6772283
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautiful residence sitting on a desired corner lot! This resort style beauty offers a fenced grassy front yard & a welcoming courtyard. Come inside to find formal dining, wood-style flooring throughout, fire sprinklers, a gas fireplace in the living area, & 4-panel sliding pocket doors that merge perfectly the indoor/outdoor living areas giving you the resort feel. Create gourmet dishes in the eat-in kitchen showcasing SS appliances w/double ovens, quartz counters, subway backsplash, farmhouse sink, & a large breakfast bar island. The flexible den boasting double doors is perfect for an office, game area, media room, yoga studio, etc. Retreat to the split owner's suite to discover private backyard access & a lavish bathroom. Too many upgrades to list! Two vanities, a glass enclosure shower, a soaking tub, & oversized walk-in closet complete the main bathroom. You will love the Jack & Jill bathroom with a convenient dual sink vanity. Utility sink & plenty of cabinets in the laundry room! Oasis-style backyard has a sparkling blue pool & spa combo w/lovely waterfall that is the heart of the backyard, a Ramada, grass area, covered patio, & ample dog run w/pet door leading into the house. Don't miss the air conditioned 3-car sided garage, paver driveway for extra parking, & RV gate. This home combines comfort & elegance. Seize this opportunity!