The Pros and Cons of a Getting Mortgage without Marriage

The Pros and Cons of There was a time when a higher percentage of people were married before they committed to buying a home together, but it’s a lot more common to invest in a home together as friends, partners, roommates or just as an investment property for financial gain.

If you’re considering the commitment of a mortgage without being married, here are some things to be aware of before you start searching the market.

Relationship Status Won’t Affect Your Rates

It might seem like there are greater risks involved if individuals purchasing a property are not legally bound, but it actually makes no difference to the mortgage lender. If any number of people are buying a home together, the lender is going to be assessing their credibility based on their individual credit reports and financial history, not on their relationship to each other.  All the proof, as far as lenders are concerned, is in the numbers.

What’s Your Credit History?

Most people are aware of their credit history, whether they’ve had financial hiccups in the past or are still paying off a significant amount of debt. However, it is more difficult for some to know the financial background of their partners.  Because the lender will be looking at credit scores, if you or your partner(s) have had financial issues in the past, it can have an adverse impact on your application. While you may have a nearly perfect credit history, if your partner does not this can make mortgage approval more difficult.  If this is the case, even in a marriage, it may be better for the prospective buyer to obtain the mortgage without considering the other party on the application.  You may be eligible for better rates and terms when only you are on the application.

In The Event Of Conflict or Separation

Home ownership can involve significant hurdles after a divorce, but there will still be some legal and financial issues to wade through if you’ve never been married. Since it’s likely that you won’t want to continue to own property together, there’s the possibility that one party will have to buy the other out, which can be a sizeable financial burden. While this type of situation may never come to fruition, it’s important to be aware of what might occur so you can be prepared.

There can be a lot of complexities involved in investing in home ownership whether you’re married or not, but it’s important to have an awareness of your partner’s financial history, be prepared for financial hurdles and plan for an exit strategy if the partnership is no longer working.  Give me a call for more information – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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2437 Wren Cove Way Lake Havasu City, AZ 86406

$6,700,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
5,998 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781604
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled in the world-class, guard-gated community of Riviera, this extraordinary lock-and-leave, lakeside estate—brand new construction—offers an unparalleled living experience. Boasting 4 expansive bedrooms and 4.5 luxurious bathrooms, this home is a true escape to paradise, where sophisticated design meets exceptional craftsmanship. The expansive great room, highlighted by soaring 14-foot vaulted ceilings, effortlessly flows into a gourmet kitchen featuring top-of-the-line Miele appliances, custom cabinetry, and a glass-enclosed wine room with capacity for 500 bottles. Throughout the estate, exquisite touches abound—rift-cut oak walls, Italian porcelain flooring, and handcrafted solid oak interior doors add a layer of refinement to every space. The opulent master suite is a... private retreat, complete with a steam shower and dry sauna for ultimate relaxation. Equipped with a state-of-the-art Crestron home automation system, this home offers convenience and modern luxury at your fingertips. Designed to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings, the home features expansive sliding glass walls that open to an outdoor sanctuary, complete with a pool, spa, and panoramic vistas. With every detail meticulously curated, this architectural masterpiece offers the perfect fusion of elegance, comfort, and breathtaking natural beauty.

27643 N 113th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$6,700,000
6 Beds
9 Baths
10,766 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6725873
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Enter a world of luxury and sophistication with this breathtaking masterpiece of design. Nestled on nearly 4 acres of private gated land, this expansive home offers unparalleled elegance and exceptional amenities. The residence has 2 levels: the main level consists of a grand foyer entrance, a formal dining room, an office, a gourmet kitchen with eating area and an opulent great room with high ceilings. There is a private wing for the master suite with 2 master baths & closets! The opposite side has 4 bedrooms each with an ensuite & patio, there is a powder room plus a game room and bar area.The lower level features a large theater room and separate guest house with a bedroom, living area and kitchen. There is an elevator from the 8 car garage to easily access the main level. The outdoor living space is truly a personal oasis with a large covered patio, a stunning heated pool / spa featuring a swim up bar and water slide, full sized tennis court / basketball court, a ramada, a playground, lush landscaping and accent lighting. This estate is more than a home, it's a lifestyle designed for both grand entertaining and serene relaxation. Welcome to your new paradise! FYI: New roof, 3 new AC units, new wood flooring in all bedrooms and game room, there is a laundry room and also a W/D in one of the master closets - this home has it all!

4545 N Launfal Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85018

$6,695,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
5,630 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781063
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
4545 Launfal - Welcome to your own slice of paradise, located in the idyllic Arcadia neighborhood of Phoenix. Providing an unparalleled setting amidst picturesque landscapes and breathtaking mountain vistas, the home offers a lifestyle of convenience and sophistication, with proximity to upscale shopping destinations, fine dining establishments, and world-class entertainment venues, ensuring every desire is effortlessly met. Yet, despite its proximity to urban amenities, the home remains a sanctuary of serenity and seclusion, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. The home embodies luxury living with its sleek design and modern amenities. As you enter, the spacious living areas boast an abundance of natural light and elegant finishes, creating an inviting atmosphere for entertaining guests or relaxing with family. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring high-end appliances, custom cabinetry, and a large island perfect for meal preparation and casual dining. Adjacent to the kitchen, the formal dining room offers a sophisticated space for hosting dinner parties and special occasions, tastefully integrated with a wine wall that not only serves as a visually stunning backdrop, but acts as a temperature-controlled wine cellar, adding an element of refinement that elevates the overall ambiance of the space. Retreat to the spacious primary suite with fireplace and views of Camelback Mountain, complete with an expansive bathroom area, with separate commodes and large walk-in closets, for added convenience and functionality. The home not only boasts three large ensuite guest bedrooms in the main house, but also a guest casita with private entrance, offering a truly exclusive retreat for discerning visitors. Step outside to your own private oasis, where relaxation and recreation await. The expansive covered patio allows for ideal outdoor living, while enjoying a backyard that is an entertainer's dream, featuring a large salt water pool and built in spa area surrounded by lush landscaping, multiple seating areas, and numerous patio spaces perfect for outdoor dining and lounging. With its prime location, this exceptional residence offers the perfect vantage point to appreciate the natural beauty of Camelback Mountain while enjoying the ultimate in outdoor living. Whether hosting a poolside gathering with friends and family or simply soaking in the peaceful ambiance, it is truly an unforgettable setting for relaxation and enjoyment. Your dream home awaits - seize the opportunity to make it yours and discover the epitome of Arizona living.

36700 N Lone Eagle Point Carefree, AZ 85377

$6,600,000
5 Beds
6.5 Baths
6,435 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6771399
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Majestic hillside masterpiece, with endless views of the mountains and city lights below of Scottsdale and Carefree! Upon entering this custom home, you are immediately at one with the layout, interior finishes, and amazing views. Perfectly sited on 2.7 acres, blending naturally with the massive boulders, the Sonoran Desert, and offering privacy and views in every direction. The unique crescent shape of this home resulted from an extremely narrow buildable area and the steep incline of Black Mountain. The home was designed & built using sophisticated and expensive commercial building techniques, with natural masonry and steel framing that minimized site disturbance. The foundation is actually integrated with the granite boulders & bedrock that is unique to the East side of Black Mountain. Carefully chosen natural cut stone, color-matched stucco, and patina copper enable the home to truly blend with the boulder-laden landscape. Careful use of eco-friendly sustainable materials such as bamboo wood floors laid over a cork substrate for a durable surface that eliminates any sensory disturbing echo within. Low level VOC paint and LED lighting compliment the many other eco-conscience decisions that went into building this home. As with any well planned and technically difficult project, this one-of-a-kind custom home took numerous years to build, and it would be impossible to build today for this offering price. There will never be another one like it, and it can truly be a legacy home passed through generations!

7451 N Las Brisas Lane Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$6,600,000 - 6Br/8Ba -  for Sale in Montana De Bonitas Casas Replat, Paradise Valley
New
$6,600,000
6 Beds
7.5 Baths
8,540 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6785821
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This transitional contemporary home is discreet and understated from the road. Once through the door you're greeted with a collection of exotic woods, stonework, and a high level of craftsmanship and quality. This home has a level of sophistication that is rarely seen. It was designed with the luxury of convenience in mind. It's equipped to enable different activities and uses through the home with separation and privacy. It's not a single large box room. Its different rooms allow more specific functions while creating an intimacy throughout. An office with some of the best woodwork you've seen, a fully equipped theater, an 1800 bottle wine room adjoining a handcrafted bar, a master suite on it's own level with an exercise room, its own laundry, deck, and 2 beautiful and detailed closets Three wet bars, a main kitchen, an exterior kitchen, and a guest house kitchen. Four laundry rooms. Three elevators. Multiple patios and decks. A large temperature controlled four car garage in the main home, and a two car garage in the guest house. The 2 bedroom 2 bathroom guest house is separate and apart from the main residence. The home's infrastructure and mechanical systems are equally as impressive as it's visual design and functionality. The home has a water pressure system that maintains constant needed pressure throughout the home, regardless of the number of locations calling for water at the same time. The home is set on the side of Mummy Mountain, and enjoys the exterior mountain views, while allowing it's residents the ease of access to anywhere on the interior with the option of any of its' three elevators. This home is so dignifiedly understated from the street, and so sophisticated on the inside, that it may be the residential representative of, Speak softly and carry a big stick.

6018 N Saguaro Road Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$6,599,000
5 Beds
7 Baths
7,193 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780828
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled in a quiet cul-de-sac of only four homes, this charming Santa Barbara-style transitional residence offers timeless charm, tasteful updates, captivating views of Camelback Mountain and lushly landscaped grounds that are truly an oasis in the desert. The exceptional single level floorplan features 6,467 square feet in the main home with 4 ensuite bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, an office, a generous sitting room off of the primary bedroom, a fitness room, refrigerated wine room, and a 726 sq ft separate guest house. The privately gated driveway provides abundant room for parking in addition to the side-entry 4 car garage. A paver stone walkway leads the way to the home's inviting front entrance. Inside, a striking chandelier adorns the entry foyer, which overlooks the living room with a dramatic floor-to-ceiling chevron pattern stone tile fireplace, wood plank ceiling, and views of the lush backyard. The spacious kitchen is equipped with stainless steel appliances, stone countertops, a large center island, walk-in pantry, and a generous casual dining area. The kitchen flows into the large family room, which is perfect for both relaxing and hosting friends, with gorgeous outdoor views, a corner fireplace, a seated custom wet bar, and a refrigerated wine room with a modern mix of metal, glass and wood. You will love unwinding in the primary bedroom wing of the home. Picture windows frame the view of Camelback Mountain in both the primary bedroom as well as the adjacent sitting room, which is well-appointed with a fireplace and wet bar. The spa-like primary bath offers marble floors, dual vanities, a makeup counter, a walk through shower, a roman tub set in front of a stacked stone fireplace, and an exterior door that opens to a private gated courtyard that encloses a built-in spa. An oversized custom closet and a fitness room complete the primary suite. Adjacent to the primary suite, an executive office with built in shelving and a wood beamed ceiling overlooks the manicured front yard and includes a wet bar, private powder room, and a large walk in closet. On the opposite side of the home, three spacious guest bedrooms each have their own ensuite bathrooms and walk-in closets, ensuring privacy and comfort for all. The 726 square foot guest house, complete with a full kitchen, family room with fireplace, bedroom and bathroom, and its own covered patio, is a comfortable retreat for guests or extended family. Outside, the backyard is an enchanted garden, with mature trees and abundant foliage set against the backdrop of Camelback Mountain. A brick walking path lined with rose bushes and lush hedges traverses the yard from one side to the other. An expansive grassy play area, approximately 90 feet long, offers endless possibilities for outdoor fun. An enormous resort-worthy pool area with multiple water features is positioned perfectly to take in the view of Camelback. A deep covered patio with Chicago brick pavers provides ample room for dining and lounging, and offers a built-in barbeque and pizza oven. Just off of the covered patio is a large gas firepit with plenty of room for guests to gather around on a cool desert evening. This special property is conveniently located within minutes to Scottsdale Rd, Camelback Corridor, unlimited shopping and dining options, golf, and Paradise Valley's finest resorts and spas.

Sedona AZ 86336

$6,500,000
4 Beds
6 Baths
8,627 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6596238
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Indulge in luxury and tranquility backdropped by panoramic Red Rock Views at 130 Hidden Meadow Drive. An iconic Sedona Haven, ideally situated on an elevated 1.71-acre lot backing to National Forest and residing in the prestigious neighborhood of Solitude at Seven Canyons. Tucked behind the two gates, this European Villa-style estate offers a private and secluded oasis simply a step above the rest. Meticulously crafted by skilled artisans with recently added conveniences & lifestyle upgrades, the level of craftsmanship and attention to detail is evident throughout. Designed by award-winning architect Terry Kilbane with the interiors designed by Tim Hawkins and constructed by Phil Morris. Enter through the private courtyard to the grand foyer featuring... ...antique Spanish Andalusian tile floors and a circular staircase. Main level living areas include the decadent living room, the formal dining room with dual wine cellars, a recently remodeled gourmet kitchen and a family room all connected to the outdoor terrace with stunning views from every window. The sprawling primary suite is also located on the first level and features a fireplace, access to three private courtyards, custom hand-painted cabinetry, marble and onyx countertops, dual walk-in closets, a separate dressing room, two water closets, separate tub/shower and an outdoor spa. The remainder of the first level offers an executive office/den, laundry room, workout/storage room, and a breezeway to the well appointed attached guest house perched above the three car garage. Take the elevator upstairs where each space has access to a private balcony. You'll appreciate the split floor plan with two en-suite bedrooms, media room & library. Embracing the Sedona Lifestyle, this property creates a peaceful equilibrium with outdoor living just as elaborate as the home itself. Centered around the negative edge pool, newly added outdoor kitchen, and numerous private courtyards, covered patios and sundecks with water features and fountains that beckon you to enjoy Sedona's mild four seasons. Each space is beautifully landscaped and accentuates the panoramic Red Rocks Views. Interior showcases custom doors and windows, French chandeliers, antique limestone fireplaces, Austrian hand-forged metal work, custom cabinetry throughout, and beautiful Spanish marble and French Oak floors. Additional amenities include Butler's pantry, technology conveniences from WiredUp, automatic draperies in the Media Room, radiant in-floor heating, an elevator, and a half bath on each level. See the list of features attached. This property sale includes a Resident's Membership to Seven Canyons Golf Club (A value of $75k+. Ask for details and transfer fee). Every aspect of this exclusive community embodies exclusivity and sophistication. Offering privileges to golf, clubhouse, restaurant, fitness center, pool, and access to Enchantment Resort. Only 5 miles to all other Sedona services. Book a private tour to experience the grandeur of this unique estate and luxury lifestyle in a one-of-a-kind setting.

131 Amado Montosa Road Amado, AZ 85645

$6,500,000 - 6Br/8Ba -  for Sale in Na, Amado
New
$6,500,000
6 Beds
8 Baths
5,400 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6787073
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
The 3,787 acre Montosa Canyon Ranch is the premier Gentleman's Ranch in Arizona. It is located 30 minutes south of Tucson in Santa Cruz County spreading out across 627 deeded acres of lush irrigated pastures and rich native grasslands. There are also 3,160 acres of State leased land adjacent to the deeded acreage creating a ranch that is second to none. The ranch is set amid the sweeping landscapes of southern Arizona between Green Valley and Tubac at an ideal 3,100-foot elevation where the days are warm and sunny and the nights cool and clear. With the towering Santa Rita and Tumacacori Mountains as its backdrop, the ranch has been developed to the very highest standards of quality artisan craftsmanship as an exceptional Spanish Colonial equestrian estate.

24046 N 126th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$6,500,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
5,476 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6717169
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
New gated community by Camelot Homes... Featuring sweeping mountain vistas and pristine desert surroundings, Shadow Ridge is the ultimate Scottsdale sanctuary. Boasting spacious lots, this follow-up to our award-winning White Horse and Bronco communities combines bright, contemporary design with timeless indoor-outdoor appeal, all in a highly desirable location a stone's throw from Tom's Thumb trailhead. **Home is offered with an 18-month leaseback, and 3-1 Month extensions (if needed).

11070 E Rolling Rock Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$6,500,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
7,276 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6678211
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Sitting at the top of Sunset Canyon this classic home with modern and Tuscan flavor is sure to amaze with incredible views, private cul de sac lot, amazing guest house/ private office, theatre room option, and two separate game/family, or exercise rooms. Oversized garage space with elevator to the main floor. Main floor living with chef's kitchen, family room, wet bar, primary bedroom suite and powder room. Additional bedrooms and multi purpose rooms are on the lower level. Some of the best views in all of Desert Mountain.

5850 E Glen Drive Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$6,500,000
4 Beds
5.5 Baths
8,100 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6746313
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This extraordinary 8.75-acre property, designed by renowned architect The Construction Zone, is perched at the pinnacle of Mummy Mountain, offering an unparalleled living experience. Plans are currently in the approval process, and this remarkable estate is being offered prior to breaking ground. Buyer can hire The Construction Zone to build or hire their own builder. As you ascend the gated, private drive, you'll be greeted by jaw-dropping, panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see. The property boasts spectacular vistas of Camelback Mountain, and Downtown Phoenix, all framed by a breathtaking city lights in every direction. Savor majestic sunsets from the comfort of your luxurious backyard. Accessible from the south side of Mummy Mountain, the approach begins at Lincoln Drive. Head north on 60th Street and follow the path to the gate at Upper Glen Drive. From there, a short walk up the private road brings you to this unique and magnificent parcel. Don't miss this rare opportunity to own a piece of paradise in one of the most coveted locations in the Valley. Land with exceptional views is becoming scarce on the south side of Mummy Mountain in Paradise Valley. Very private and an incredible opportunity!

9705 E Cholla Street Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$6,500,000
6 Beds
7.5 Baths
11,236 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6755115
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Richly designed with impeccable detailing, grandeur finishes and magnificent curb appeal, this Italian compound is the epitome of classic luxury and modern entertaining. Privately gated 11,236 sqft estate features 6 bedrooms, 7.5 bathrooms, office and home theatre to rival any theaters in town.The Venetian plaster, teak flooring, Cantera stone columns/fireplaces, and coffered ceiling with custom metal detailing brings in a warm and elegant ambiance. Step inside the primary suite and bathroom to find Onyx counter tops, a steam shower and two oversized clothing closets. Gourmet kitchen with high end appliances, oversized kitchen island and 9x9' commercial walk-in refrigerator.The detached guest house offers a bedroom, bathroom and large living space that could also be the ideal pool house.

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