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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Sort by: Select Price, Low to High Price, High to Low Newer Listings First Older Listings First Open House Date

36648 N 27th Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85086

$1,150,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,667 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6722360

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Indulge in luxury and serenity at this pristine, never-lived-in Desert Hills home, situated on 1.25 acres with breathtaking mountain views. Experience seamless indoor-outdoor living in an open-concept layout. The gourmet kitchen boasts commercial-grade appliances, dual islands, a breakfast nook, and formal dining space — an entertainer's dream! Enjoy no HOA, no interior steps, wood accents throughout, and walk-in closets in every bedroom. The primary bath features a Jacuzzi-style tub, complemented by practical amenities such as a 4-car garage with 220v, a spacious laundry room with built-in cabinets and sink, and a back patio pre-wired for a hot tub. Recent upgrades include a finished block wall and staircase to the walk deck, enhancing this ideal desert retreat.

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11633 E Bella Vista Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85259

Open House

$1,150,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,545 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6787599

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Resort style Stonegate community-24hr GUARD GATE. Enjoy back yd, desert & Camelback Mt VIEWS. Geoffrey Edmunds built 3 Bd , 2 ba hm-exp Barcelona flrplan- 2545sf per appraiser, light/bright, flagstone flrs, wht shutters, remote window coverings & more. Spacious kitchen-large island, granite cntrs, lots of cabinets, breakfast area & access to back patio to enjoy calming rock waterfall & desert. Open FR-wall of windows overlooking patio, extensive desert, beautiful mature cactus & CAMELBACK MT VIEWS. Enter LR & DR-lots of light from 3 tall windows & DR w/sliding door to cvrd patio. Primary lg bdrm ensuite- 2 closets, bath w/sep tub & shower, door to patio & split from other bdrms. FURNITURE AVAILABLE. Fantastic amenities-clbhs, htd lap pool/spa, 7 tennis crts,pickleball,play area,basketball

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16426 E Pinnacle Vista Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262

Open House

$1,150,000

3 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,581 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6787701

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning desert retreat on over an acre of serene landscape, blending modern design with panoramic mountain views. 3 bd +office, 3.5 baths (all bedrooms ensuite). Enjoy seamless indoor-outdoor flow thru a series of sliding glass doors, including a 5-panel & two 3-panel retractable glass doors in Great Room. Kitchen w/ exquisite Quartz countertops, waterfall island, stainless steel appliances, shaker cabinetry, plank tile flooring & crystal pendant lighting. Primary suite w/spacious spa-like bathroom and closet w/ an island. Fabulous landscaping, covered patios and synthetic grass in back. Extended 1,200+ sf, 3.5-car garage, storage and circular driveway. Near hiking, biking & horseback trails w/several trailheads nearby. Adore picturesque sunrises & sunsets w/ clear peaceful starry nights

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6525 E Cave Creek Road Unit 6 Cave Creek, AZ 85331

Open House

$1,150,000

2 Beds

3 Baths

2,078 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6774805

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover the epitome of luxury living in this esteemed Hidden Rock community, nestled beneath the picturesque Black Mountain. This home designed and built by acclaimed architect Shawn Kaffer, is more than a residence, it's a work of art. This impeccable, move-in-ready home offers a seamless blend of elegance in a thoughtfully designed open floor plan accentuated by 20' soaring ceilings. Boasting two generously sized bedrooms, each capable of serving as a the primary suite, providing both flexibility and privacy. The state-of-the-art kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring sleek dark cabinetry & light quartz countertops for a stunning contrast. Top-notch stainless steel appliances, including a professional-grade gas range, ensure a superior cooking experience. The spacious waterfall island with bar seating offers both functionality and a great gathering space. With its open layout and modern design ,this kitchen is perfect for crafting gourmet meals and hosting delightful gatherings. Constructed with superior energy efficiency in mind, it features remarkably insulated 8-inch thick walls (R40) and 12-inch thick ceilings (R60), showcasing the finest in desert home engineering. Sophisticated, newly updated high-end finishes grace every corner. Additionally, a two-car garage adds to the home's practical offerings. Located just minutes from the vibrant shops and restaurants of Cave Creek, this home perfectly marries comfort with opulence in an unparalleled setting. Experience this exceptional property and its inviting surroundings firsthand. Visit today and be prepared to be thoroughly impressed!

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13626 N Tan Tara Point Sun City, AZ 85351

Open House

$1,150,000

5 Beds

6 Baths

3,693 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6785616

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

BEAUTIFUL UPDATED LAKEFRONT HOME, PRIVATE HEATED POOL, PAID FOR SOLAR SYSTEM, NEW BOAT DOCK, 3 NEW AC HEAT PUMPS WITH 10 YEAR WARRANTY, NEW KITCHEN AND 6 BATHS, ROLL SHUTTERS ON MOST WINDOWS, ALL FLOORS ARE HIGH GRADE MARBLE LOOK PORCELAIN NO CARPET, QUITE SAFE CUL-DE-SAC LOT,2 CAR GARAGE WITH STORAGE, FRESH PAINT, SKY LIGHTS, SUNSET VIEWS, THE LAKE IS CRYSTAL CLEAR AFTER UNDERGOING AN EXTENSIVE UPDATE.

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1236 E Mclellan Boulevard Phoenix, AZ 85014

Open House

$1,150,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,803 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6738763

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

BEAUTIFULLY REMODELED! Nestled on one of the biggest lots on the street, this gorgeous residence tastefully blends classic charm and modern amenities. Attention to detail is evident with recent upgrades, including NEW elegant light fixtures, wood-look tile flooring, recessed lighting, fresh neutral paint, & ceiling fans. Featuring a spacious great room and a large family room w/ custom French doors to the back, The renewed gourmet kitchen offers high-end appliances w/wine fridge, two-tone shaker cabinetry, quartz counters, designer tile backsplash, and a huge waterfall island w/breakfast bar. Plus a spacious casita in the backyard! Every aspect of this property has been fully upgraded, truly one of a kind. For added convenience, this gem comes with an attached 1-car garage and RV gate & parking. If entertaining is on your mind, the backyard awaits! With multiple seating areas & a private pool, this space promises year-round enjoyment. Excellent location close to schools, shopping, dining options, and freeways. Don't miss this opportunity!

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6641 W Wolfpaw Lane Pine, AZ 85544

Open House

New

$1,150,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

3,398 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6789439

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

First time on the market! This stunning property offers the perfect mix of space, privacy, and breathtaking views. Set on a full acre with panoramic vistas, the home includes three separate lots, giving you endless possibilities for outdoor living. Inside, you'll find vaulted ceilings and an open, airy layout that flows effortlessly from room to room. Large windows fill the space with natural light and frame the amazing views, creating a peaceful and inviting atmosphere. Whether you're relaxing or entertaining, the beauty of nature is always around you. Step outside onto the newly refinished porch to take in the views—ideal for enjoying Arizona sunsets or hosting gatherings. The main house (2566 sqft) includes two spacious bedrooms, and the walk-out basement (832 sqft) with a full bath can easily be turned into a private guest suite, offering plenty of flexibility and potential for the next owner. Plus, two brand new AC units and exterior paint were installed/completed in October 2024!

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29618 N 144th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,149,999

6 Beds

5 Baths

3,881 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767900

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Located on 1+acre & w/vast mountain views, this single-level, HOA-free, custom home has it all! With an open floor plan, the primary bedroom is found on the opposite end of the house, away from the 3 bedrooms. Inside? A seating area, spa tub, & walk-in closet. Enjoy your entertainer's kitchen feat. granite counters, stainless appliances, custom cabinets, & a walk-in pantry! A formal dining room & bonus living room are also to be found. And then there is the attached casita providing a bedroom, bath, full kitchen, & its own entrance. A 4-car garage has a workshop! Above it is a studio apt w/balcony! The large backyard has 2 fireplaces, patio, pebble-tec pool, turf lawn, raised beds w/fences, & a private retreat w/AC. Lastly, the property is located near stellar recreational activities!

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1568 E Canyon Way Chandler, AZ 85249

$1,149,999

6 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,629 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6776621

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home in an exclusive gated community! This stunning two-story with 6 spacious bedrooms, situated directly across from a serene park without any homes in front, is packed with hidden gems and upgrades galore- a freshly landscaped front yard, fine detailS throughout such as accent walls and fresh upgraded carpet upstairs, the main floor has tastefully picked new luxury vinyl flooring, beautiful new windows, an RV gate, a backyard sprawling with upgraded pavers, the fence lined in beautiful warrantied ficus trees, a brand new splash pad that's just like, if not better than a park, that even comes with a transferable warranty! This home offers not just a residence, but a lifestyle made for comfort, luxury, entertainment, and creating memories.

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1075 W Encinas Street Gilbert, AZ 85233

$1,149,990

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,610 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6761301

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

3600 square foot home on over an acre. Horse property. Custom cabinetry, granite counters w/integrated sink & dishwasher, sub zero fridge. All appliances are top of the line. Real wood oak floors in kitchen & dining areas. 19x21 den/library (exec). 950' 3 car garage. Separate detached workshop. water softener & water distiller for fridge. 11 citrus & 10 fruit/nut trees. Master bath has jacuzzi & large shower. Ceiling fans throughout. 60' covered patio, surround sound in family room. approx 1500 foot basement. 20 kw back up generator w/500 gal underground propane tank. 2 water heaters (1 propane-1 electric). Irrigated Lot is over an acre and near the freeway. Fire pit for entertaining. Commercial greenhouse for hobby or storage. NO HOA! North/South facing.

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5231 E Muriel Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,149,900

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,647 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6732153

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Major Price Reduction!!! Welcome to to this Amazing house in the highly sought after Arabian Views with No HOA!!! Freshly remodeled from head to toe, this house is a MUST see in person!!!The interior boasts 16' Celing in the entrance and 10' ceiling through out with 6'' crown molding in all the right places, high end marble like porcelain 16/32 tile through out including showers, free standing stone resin bath tub, 3/8 glass shower door in both bathrooms, stunning kitchen with custom cabinets with glass, dark blue dazzling granite countertop in the kitchen with all new appliances, are just a few of the items hat will capture your heart upon entering this house. Hurry as this beauty will take out wings and FLY!!!

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1931 E Paso Nuevo Drive Phoenix, AZ 85086

$1,149,900

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,092 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6756202

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Come and enjoy this beautifully nestled single-family home on a private and paved road that offers the best of Desert Hills living! - a rare find in this peaceful, scenic area. Inviting circular, paver driveway & courtyard entry. An open-concept, split floorplan features 4 spacious bedrooms + den and an office with 3.5 luxurious baths, ideal for those seeking both space and modern amenities. Sprawling island-kitchen boasts loads of beautiful soft-close cabinetry, quartz counters, stainless appliances and walk-in pantry. Owner's suite with dual-vanities, walk-in shower, soaking tub, walk-in closet and private exit to backyard. Relax in your private and fully landscaped resort backyard with heated pool & spa, expansive Alumawood pergola/patio, and easy-maintenance turf. Three-car extended garage, ideal for vehicle storage or a workshop. For those looking for energy efficiency, the property boasts a highly updated solar system complete with a full back up Tesla Powerwall battery system boasting 40.5 kwh of back up storage, significantly reducing energy costs while providing peace of mind. A customized water cleaning/softening system with arsenic removal and UV light cleansing. With NO HOA, you'll have the freedom to personalize your property and enjoy the serene desert lifestyle without restrictions. Whether you're entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet evening under the stars, this home is a true Desert Hills gem. Come experience this rare opportunity today!

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