The Pros and Cons of a Getting Mortgage without Marriage

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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36444 N Stardust Lane Carefree, AZ 85377

$1,199,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,403 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6781738

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Fantastic opportunity to own a 5 bed, 3 bath home on just under 1 acre. The spacious floorplan offers flexibility to suit your needs. Features 2 main Living Rooms with vaulted ceilings and exposed wood beams, complemented by a two-way fireplace and a wet bar. Room off the kitchen can be used as a formal dining room, office, den or sitting area. The split floor plan boasts a private Mother-in-Law Suite that is perfect for hosting guests. Bedrooms are well-sized with ample closet space. Retreat to your spa-like bathrooms for relaxation. Outside you'll find a backyard complete with a sparkling pool and seating areas to enjoy the desert sunsets, mountain views, city lights and stars! Arizona room provides additional square footage - closer to 4,000 sq ft with this room included. The 2 car garage has built-in storage cabinets as well as a HUGE tucked away closet-you will love all the extra storage space throughout the home! Also features 2 large driveways with plenty of parking for guests. Featuring breathtaking views in all directions, this home offers a perfect blend of comfort, style, and opportunity for indoor/outdoor entertainment. Experience the best of Arizona living in this desert oasis!

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16401 W Monterey Way Goodyear, AZ 85395

$1,199,000

3 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,134 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6720218

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Experience the pinnacle of resort living at PebbleCreek, an exquisite master-planned community designed for active adults. This luxury golf front property is nestled in a guarded and gated country club setting, offering spectacular views of the golf course and surrounding mountains. PebbleCreek is a vibrant lifestyle community rich in unique and abundant activities for seniors. With its many views, updates and upgrades, this home is your perfect ''Escape to Paradise'' in a community that offers an unparalleled resort lifestyle. Step into elegance through a gated courtyard entry with a separate casita. Inside, discover the newly remodeled living room, a true centerpiece, showcasing a stunning stone fireplace and an open floor plan perfect for entertaining. This home boasts an impressive chef's kitchen featuring a butler's station, large walk-in pantry, new stone island, upgraded appliances, custom wood cabinetry and granite countertops. Three generously sized bedrooms, each featuring walk-in closets and private baths. A versatile den that can also serve as a fourth bedroom with its own walk-in closet. 3.5 beautifully appointed bathrooms. Oversize laundry room. Spacious 3.5 garage. Energy efficiency is maximized with fully owned solar panels, and the property has been updated with fresh interior and exterior paint, new flooring, modern lighting, and durable epoxy-coated garage floors.

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7264 W Cielo Grande -- Peoria, AZ 85383

$1,199,000

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,361 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6732093

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Executive Style living - Fantastic Family Home! This amazing property is tucked away in the desirable gated community of Talas. Oversized backyard includes an 800 sf diving pool w/built in spa, outdoor gas fireplace, Sport Court, putting green. The. built in stainless BBQ and sink area provide all you need to enjoy resort style living. Inside enjoy a breathtaking entryway, Chef's kitchen, Granite counter tops, butlers pantry, large master suite w/jetted tub and large walk in closet. Bedroom w/ private bath and two other bedrooms with a jack n Jill bath. Enjoy the beautiful Arizona sunsets with your choice of front or back balconies. Don't miss out on this opportunity to own a piece of paradise.

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9505 S Kenneth Place Tempe, AZ 85284

$1,199,000

6 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,889 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6735594

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome home to this stunning, completely remodeled brick tri-level masterpiece in the coveted Estates Del Sol community! With 6 spacious bedrooms, 3.5 luxurious bathrooms, and a 3-car garage, this home is perfect for those who crave functionality and style. Be prepared to be amazed by the grandeur of the circular driveway and ample parking space. Punctuating the elegance of this property has NO HOA, giving you the freedom to truly make this house your own. Step inside and prepare to be wowed by the chef's kitchen, Featuring a gas cooktop (tanks in the back yard are own), butler's kitchen, and a pantry fit for a king, this space is a food lover's paradise. & perfect for hosting! For those who love outdoor living, this property has it all, private diving pool. Plus, with a sprawling .35 acre lot, you'll have plenty of space for all your outdoor activities, from hosting unforgettable barbecues to creating your own private oasis. With 6 bedrooms, there's plenty of room for everyone to have their own private sanctuary. Retreat to the master suite, complete with a spa-like bathroom, for the ultimate relaxation after a long day. Located in the desirable Estates Del Sol community close to shopping, dining, and entertainment. This truly is a perfect balance of tranquility and accessibility. Don't miss out on the opportunity to make this remarkable home your own. Get ready to fall in love with the epitome of luxury living. Welcome home to your dream oasis in Estates Del Sol!

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29561 N Varnum Road San Tan Valley, AZ 85143

$1,199,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

3,025 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6725499

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Look no further, this home has it ALL...4.55 Acres with Horse Privileges, Corner Lot, Mountain Views, 20' x 50' RV Garage piped for propane 500 gallon underground tank (owned), fenced in 14' x 28' Private Play Pool and Spa (UV lighting and ozone injectors for easy maintenance), 1100 square feet of hardscape pavers, backyard Gazebo and rectangular Built-in propane Fire Pit! I'd say, tranquility at its best! This remarkable modern farmhouse has 4 bedrooms, 3 baths with beautiful upgrades throughout including staggered kitchen cabinets, granite countertops, granite island with built in cabinets, energy efficient stainless-steel appliances and a walk-in pantry! The list is endless...it's breathtaking and a must see. Shipping container on property conveys. Call today for your private tour.

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745 Crosscreek Drive Prescott, AZ 86303

$1,199,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

3,184 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6756804

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Tucked away among the pines and overlooking the 5th fairway of the prestigious Capital Canyon Golf Club in Hassayampa, this 3,184 sq. ft. home offers both privacy and scenic beauty. The large deck is perfectly positioned to capture views of the lush course, distant mountains, and city lights, all while staying shaded from direct sunlight—ideal for morning coffee or evening cocktails, with a gentle breeze adding to the comfort. The interior features a welcoming great room with soaring, beamed ceilings, a dramatic floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, and cherry hardwood floors. The updated kitchen is equipped with custom cherry cabinetry and premium granite countertops, perfect for both casual meals and entertaining. The main floor includes a spacious master suite with a large bath and walk- closet, along with two additional bedrooms and a bath. On the lower level, a guest suite provides extra privacy with its own living area, bedroom, and bath, plus access to a private patio. Located along the 5th fairway, this home offers an ideal balance of peaceful retreat and stunning views in the heart of the Hassayampa community.

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6918 E Granada Street Mesa, AZ 85207

$1,199,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,970 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6744579

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this stunning single story custom home on a 30,000 + Square foot lot with North/South lot. In Northeast Mesa! This is the complete package! New AC units in June 2024, Owned solar system. Kitchen boasts Huge Island, Maple Cabinets, large walk-in pantry, with Granite counter tops. Travertine Tile inside and outside. Great room features Beautiful Stone Wall with Gas Fireplace, Beamed Ceiling, and Double French Doors, and 12-inch Glass Doors. Office with separate entry, can also be used as 4th bedroom. Coffered ceilings throughout. Master Suite with French Doors, Gas Fireplace with sitting Room or workout area. Luxurious Master Bath and Fully built out Master Closet. Enjoy another day in Paradise in your resort style back yard with large extended patio and stunning pool & heated 4 car garage, spacious area for RV Parking and oversized driveway, minutes from 202, Highly Rated Schools, close to hiking and biking trails. Conveniently located minutes from shopping, restaurants, and more!

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3263 E Bryce Lane Phoenix, AZ 85050

$1,199,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

3,297 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6736726

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Someone special was meant for this one. Back on market after the sellers contingency fell through, twice! Now is your chance to get into the amazing Sky Crossing Community! This elegant 4 bedroom/3 bath contains endless upgraded amenities including, quartz countertops throughout, custom accent walls, panoramic doors, chefs kitchen, fireplace, outdoor built in grill, in ground trampoline, no maintenance turf lawn, extra large loft area and much more! Situated in a cozy culdesac located across the street from Sky Crossing Elementary School. An outstanding community center complete with outdoor swimming pool, splash pad, and a full workout gym. This property is ready for you to make yourselves at home today!

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6782 W Skylark Drive Glendale, AZ 85308

Open House

$1,199,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,325 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6711318

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Looking for a beautiful home on the the lake with its own dock? Welcome to this 5 beds, 3 baths, upstairs loft/office, Pool / Spa home in Sabino/Arrowhead lakes area. Gorgeously remodel really checks all the boxes. Chef's kitchen with Quarts countertops, farmhouse sink, stainless steel Bosch appliances. New Vinyl flooring throughout the house. Gas fireplace, New wooden shutter in all the right places, New paint, New lighting and bath fixtures. 2 bedrooms with 1 bath downstairs. Great sized owner's suite comes with customized bay window bench to enjoy the breath-taking lake view, his/hers closets, walk-in tiled shower, and freestanding bathtub. Close to freeways, dinning, shopping, schools, etc. Come take a look today.

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1110 N Cortez Road Apache Junction, AZ 85119

$1,198,888

3 Beds

3 Baths

3,575 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784611

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled at the foot of the majestic Superstition Mountains, this Apache Junction property is a serene retreat on a sprawling 2.5-acre lot, zoned for horses. Perfectly blending spacious living w/ rural charm, the home features 3-beds, TWO private offices & a gigantic upstairs loft complete w/ its own bathroom & wet bar. Designed for comfort & functionality, a separate air-conditioned workshop in the garage, a large covered patio & an expansive upstairs balcony—all perfect for enjoying breathtaking views of the Superstition & Four Peaks mountains. The land surrounding the home offers ample room for children, livestock or future enhancements, making it an idyllic haven for families and horse enthusiasts alike. Residents adore this area for its rural ambiance while still being close to rivers lakes & essential establishments. With easy access to Hwy-88 & nearby recreational hotspots, this property combines tranquility w/ convenience. Don't miss this rare opportunity to own a spacious, beautifully designed home w/ endless possibilities for living & entertaining!

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51445 N 299th Avenue Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$1,197,500

4 Beds

3 Baths

1,612 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6747332

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Step into your own slice of Wickenburg horse country, where the timeless allure of the Old West blends seamlessly with modern comfort across two sprawling parcels totaling 10.89 acres. This unique property is a rare find, featuring not just one, but three beautifully designed homes, each offering a cozy retreat that's perfect for living the western dream. The main house, a warm and inviting haven, boasts 2 spacious bedrooms and 1 well-appointed bath. The open living spaces provide the perfect setting to relax and recharge after a day spent under the wide western sky. Just a short distance away, you'll find two additional homes, each with 1 bedroom and 1 bath—ideal for hosting guests or accommodating extended family. Each home offers a fully fenced yard, offering privacy and safety for all your two- and four-legged companions. Horse enthusiasts will appreciate the 12 stalls complete with shade and turnouts, a round pen, plenty of space for your rigs and room to add more, making this property a true equine paradise. And for those who love the RV lifestyle, there are 4 RV hookups, perfect for welcoming friends and family with their own home on wheels. Whether it's a weekend gathering or a longer stay, everyone will feel right at home on your ranch. But this ranch is more than just a place to live,it's a gathering spot where memories are made. Whether you're hosting a weekend barbecue, a sunset bonfire, or simply savoring the peace and quiet, this property offers the perfect backdrop for every moment. Embrace the freedom of the open range while enjoying the comforts of modern living. This isn't just a ranch; it's a lifestyle. Come see for yourself why this property is the perfect place to start your next chapter.

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16912 E Desert Vista Trail Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$1,197,000

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,200 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6753799

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

The steel & glass double-door entrance leads to a gorgeous interior featuring a formal dining room with wood floors, wine closet with wrought iron & glass door, butlers pantry with wine refrigerator, great room with gas fireplace, & French doors leading to a covered patio. Archways throughout, recessed lighting, travertine floors, solid arched 8 ft. wood doors, 12 ft. ceilings, crown molding & 6 inch baseboards. The chef's kitchen is open to the great room, with double breakfast bars, fully equipped SS appliances, six burner Viking gas stove with pot filler, microwave, double ovens, GE Monagram side by side frig, granite countertops, plenty of cabinet space, a tile backsplash, huge walkin pantry, built-in desk, & large center island with sink and chandelier.

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