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.

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

41209 N Laurel Valley Court Anthem, AZ 85086

$549,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

2,039 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6778775

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

The location is perfect with panoramic views of Ironwood golf course and features one of Anthem's best floor plans. It's open and welcoming but gives a sense of separation as well. This home is just the right size for full-time residents or winter visitors, featuring 2 bedrooms, office/bonus room, laundry room and a 2 car garage. The large great room/dining room combination feels spacious with many furniture placement options. Lovely 3 sided fireplace and media wall separates this area from the kitchen/family room that also features a nice breakfast nook right off the kitchen with glorious views of the large patio and golf course. With plenty of cabinets, this kitchen features a large island, granite slab counters, SS appliances, gas cooktop and is convenient with easy access to the to the to the patio for outside entertaining. Primary bedroom/bath offers double sinks, walk-in shower, soaking tub and a large walk in closet. Second guest bedroom/bath feels like a private ensuite, located at the other end of the home. Large extended patio with pavers and views of the golf course along with mature landscaping make this a peaceful and tranquil backyard setting. New HVAC 8/21, Dishwasher 2/24, garbage disposal 11/23 & hot water heater 2023. Other upgrades include Soft water, R/O & garage cabinets. Come and enjoy all that the Anthem Country Club has to offer today.

View Property

2427 W Hearn Road Phoenix, AZ 85023

$549,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,344 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6739390

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

No HOA! Beautiful tri-level home in the sought after community of Thunderbird Valley. This lovely home features 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms. 1 of the bedrooms would be perfect for a guest suite. This home has a gorgeous backyard with a fenced in pool and a grassy area as well as a covered patio. Great home, great price. Come take a look!

View Property

36855 S Rincon Road Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$549,000

2 Beds

1.5 Baths

1,740 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6762676

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Don't miss the chance to own this exceptional home nestled at the top of the canyon, offering breathtaking views and unparalleled seclusion adjacent to BLM land. Designed to harmonize with the surrounding desert landscape, this unique Earth Home sitting on 8 acres is partially covered by earth keeping it cool during those hot summer days. Bring the horses along too. There is ample flat space for a small barn and pens with RV hookups close by. This home is perfect for those who appreciate nature and desire a serene lifestyle. With a little TLC, you can transform this gem into your dream getaway. Act fast—properties like this don't last long!

View Property

3664 N Mistletoe Drive Pine, AZ 85544

$549,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,656 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6774517

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This charming house is nestled among tall pine trees. It features 3 bd 2 ba, along with a spacious 2-car garage. The open living room boasts a cozy wood burning fireplace and beautiful luxury vinyl flooring. A large covered wrap-around deck provides ample outfoor space to relax or while enjoying nature and wildlife. The main floor includes bedroom and bathroom, while two additional bedrooms and a bathroom are loated upstairs. The house has been meticulously maintained, with paint, new roof installed in 2021 and energy-efficient mini splits in every room added in 2022 in addition to a furnace for heating. The kitchen is well appointed with newer appliances from 2022, making it a great space for cooking and gathering. Outside, the large, 0.37 acre yard is dotted with mature trees, i is dotted with mature trees, ideal for outdoor activities or simply enjoying the tranquil setting Turn-key, furniture included.

View Property

19039 N 90th Lane Peoria, AZ 85382

New

$549,000

2 Beds

3 Baths

1,855 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6786641

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

View Property

9505 E Cherrywood Drive Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

$549,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,123 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6778738

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

GORGEOUS Palacia Plus model w/ 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath & DEN in GATED ADULT COMMUNITY of OAKWOOD featuring: 2022 ROOF, 2018 AC, vaulted ceilings, freshly painted interior, SHUTTERS, WOOD-LOOK TILE FLOORS & NEW carpet. Beautiful EAT-IN kitchen has CORIAN counters, professionally painted cabinets, GAS STOVE & is open to the FAMILY ROOM. SPACIOUS MASTER w/ a LARGE WALK-IN CLOSET, double sinks & sliding door to the patio. Two guest bedrooms, DEN & Full guest bathroom. Large, 10,000sf lot w/ expansive PAVER PATIO, ARTIFICIAL TURF & beautifully landscaped yard. EXTRA STORAGE SPACE in the laundry Room & EXTENDED 2-CAR GARAGE. COME ENJOY THE GOOD LIFE IN SUN LAKES w/ community amenities like: Golf, Tennis, Pickleball, Pools, Spas, Fitness Center, Clubs, Social Activities & Restaurants!

View Property

16900 W Pinchot Avenue Goodyear, AZ 85395

New

$549,000

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,915 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6786839

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Lovely, well appointed and ready for you! This lock-and-leave villa features included landscaping that is maintained by the HOA. Ease of living with all that the award winning PebbleCreek community has to offer. What an opportunity! Please come by the new homes sales office and model gallery at PebbleCreek for a tour of this home and more.

View Property

1179 E Coyote Creek Way San Tan Valley, AZ 85143

$549,000

5 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,272 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6709440

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your pre-inspected, dream home in the highly sought-after Johnson Ranch subdivision. This immaculate property offers everything you desire in a home, ensuring a lifestyle of comfort, luxury, and endless entertainment. Enjoy the convenience of community amenities including 3 pools, walking/biking paths, golf courses, and abundant green spaces and parks. Bedrooms/Bathrooms: This spacious home boasts 5 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, providing ample space for family and guests. Outdoor Oasis: Your own personal playground awaits with a stunning pool, jacuzzi, and a putting green, perfect for entertaining or unwinding in style. Relax knowing this home has been meticulously maintained and features numerous upgrades, including a newer HVAC system, soft water system, and pavers leading up to the spacious RV gate and parking area. Open kitchen overlooks the pool area and features modern appliances, making it perfect for hosting gatherings. The great room comes complete with an 82 LG television, conveying with the sale, ensuring endless entertainment for you and your loved ones. Retreat to the expansive upper primary suite, featuring a brand-new shower with 24 tiles, a spacious walk-in closet. Enjoy the convenience of a private water closet, glass block window, and double vanity sinks. Additional Details: Move-in ready condition, all televisions convey and Nest programmable thermostats included, Water softening system installed and owned. Don't miss out on the opportunity to own this exceptional home in Johnson Ranch. Schedule your viewing today and start living the lifestyle you've always dreamed of!

View Property

6441 S Roosevelt Street Tempe, AZ 85283

$549,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,797 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6737382

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

So many upgrades in this beautiful home located in a quiet community with no HOA and walking distance to Celaya Park! Just freshly painted. Pride of ownership. Kitchen remodelled in 2023 with tons of cabinet space, extended island and new flooring; windows and patio door replaced in 2022, newer AC, roof is 10 years old, bamboo flooring in the living room and bedrooms; electrical upgrades including subpanel; new automatic blinds, remodeled bathrooms. Newer patio roof. Pool just got a new liner (July 2024), comes with a warranty! Don't miss out on this amazing home.

View Property

7 W Sarah Lane Tempe, AZ 85284

$549,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,588 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6734133

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home in the highly sought-after Warner Ranch Villages, nestled in South Tempe! This beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bath residence features a modern aesthetic with stylish finishes throughout. Located within walking distance to the beloved Postino wine café and with convenient canal access, this home offers the best of Tempe living. Families will appreciate the close proximity to the neighborhood elementary school and easy strolls to two nearby parks, perfect for outdoor activities. Kids will also delight in visiting friendly neighborhood horses, making this a unique and memorable place to make your home. HVAC replaced in 2020. Don't miss this fantastic opportunity to enjoy both comfort and community!

View Property

1121 E Jahns Drive Casa Grande, AZ 85122

$549,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,942 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6736963

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Completely updated home with a built in pool and spa and 3 car garage! This spacious home has all new flooring, fresh paint and updated kitchen. Vaulted ceilings for a nice open feel. The kitchen features granite counters, gas stove and a beautiful tile backsplash. Gas fireplace. Both front and back yard are tastefully landscaped with mature plants and turf grass for easy maintenance. Cool off in the beautiful pebble tec pool with water features and a built in spa.

View Property

25226 N 131st Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$549,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,254 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6738818

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to The Views at Rancho Cabrillo! This is a new build home by Scott Communities. This one is the 4412 plan with 3 bedrooms plus den and 2.5 bathrooms. Includes gourmet kitchen featuring double ovens, microwave drawer, and gas cooktop. Beautiful white shaker cabinets and white quartz countertops. Great room layout with an eat-in kitchen. Large covered patio. Come out and see this home and beautiful north Peoria community!

View Property