Whether You Rent or Buy, Either Way You’re Paying a Mortgage!

Whether You Rent or Buy, Either Way You're Paying a Mortgage! | Simplifying The Market

There are some people who have not purchased homes because they are uncomfortable taking on the obligation of a mortgage. Everyone should realize, however, that unless you are living with your parents rent-free, you are paying a mortgage – either yours or your landlord’s.

As Entrepreneur Magazine, a premier source for small business, explained in their article, “12 Practical Steps to Getting Rich”:

“While renting on a temporary basis isn’t terrible, you should most certainly own the roof over your head if you’re serious about your finances. It won’t make you rich overnight, but by renting, you’re paying someone else’s mortgage. In effect, you’re making someone else rich.”

Christina Boyle, Senior Vice President and head of the Single-Family Sales & Relationship Management organization at Freddie Mac, explains another benefit of securing a mortgage as opposed to paying rent:

“With a 30-year fixed rate mortgage, you’ll have the certainty & stability of knowing what your mortgage payment will be for the next 30 years – unlike rents which will continue to rise over the next three decades.”

As an owner, your mortgage payment is a form of ‘forced savings’ which allows you to build equity in your home that you can tap into later in life. As a renter, you guarantee the landlord is the person building that equity.

Interest rates are still at historic lows, making it one of the best times to secure a mortgage and make a move into your dream home. Freddie Mac’s latest report shows that rates across the country were at 4.22% last week.

Bottom Line

Whether you are looking for a primary residence for the first time or are considering a vacation home on the shore, now may be the time to buy. Give me a call to get started – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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9467 E Sundance Trail Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$3,995,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
4,900 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6461596
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Another spectacular contemporary home by August Building Company to be built on a great view lot in Desert Mountain. More information to come. No membership to the Desert Mountain Club available with this property.

9525 E Buckskin Trail Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$3,995,000
6 Beds
6.5 Baths
7,231 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6669023
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
At the base of the boulder cluster mountain ranges in north Scottsdale's most desirable pocket lies this privately gated desert modern sanctuary. As you walk through this amazing estate you will be enamored with details from the beautiful open chef's kitchen, with walls of glass slider creating an indoor/outdoor experience to the waterfall pool and cascading city views. Elevated lot captures ideal sunsets with an easy maintenance yard, making this home ideal even as a lock and leave. Entertainer's dream layout with full gym, media room/play room, office and 6 bedrooms, laundry and multiple oversized garages. Over two acres of serenity with a mix of views, elegance and room for your favorite 5 cars in your oversized garage!

10763 E Addy Way Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$3,995,000
4 Beds
6.5 Baths
6,043 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6746620
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This high-quality custom home with sunset views in guard-gated Mirabel Club is being sold COMPLETELY TURNKEY and is truly ONE OF A KIND, with quality materials that cannot be built for even close to this price today. As you approach, you'll notice the pristine curb appeal, in low-maintenance desert landscaping. The courtyard with wrought iron gate and water feature sets the mood upon arrival, and provides a central meeting space for your guests, with covered patios for both the guest house and one of the guest suites. Before stepping inside, take a moment to appreciate the 9.5' custom alder door, an impressive piece on its own. Upon entry into the living room, you'll immediately notice the thoughtful design, quality finishes, breathtaking views, sunset bronze flagstone flooring, massive two-way stone fireplace, and beamed ceilings. The entertaining area includes a full wet bar with copper sink and under-counter drink fridge. Imagine hosting your friends in this dining room while enjoying sunset views out your window. The ironwork on the wine cellar is another nod to the thorough attention paid to every detail. Continue toward the kitchen, first stopping at butler's pantry with ice maker and dual-drawer dishwasher. The kitchen is comfortable yet luxurious, from the hand-finished alder cabinets to the herringbone terra cotta backsplash. High end appliances include 48 Wolf gas cooktop, Wolf carbon finish dual-ovens, microwave, and warming drawer. There is abundant cool storage, with a full-size fridge plus two cooling drawers along with a full-size freezer plus two freezer drawers, all Subzero. Continuous hickory flooring connects the kitchen and family room, with vega beams radiating out over the curved room, seamlessly connecting them into a flowing great room. Across the home you'll find the owner's wing. The office features square wood beamed ceilings, with that square pattern duplicated on the hickory flooring below. The ample primary suite is complemented by a sitting room with kiva fireplace, a perfect place to take in the stunning views. The primary bathroom includes the same quality finishes you've seen throughout, from the travertine slab countertops, alder doors, down to the rustic iron towel holders. Completing the primary suite is the oversized closet, with built-ins from wall to wall. Multiple guest suites provide privacy for all of your family and friends. First, upstairs you'll find an ensuite bedroom with their own loft living room, and access to the rooftop deck with amazing views. Also within the main house is a second ensuite bedroom. For additional guests, through the front courtyard is a full guest house, with living room and half-kitchen, private patio, large ensuite bedroom, and direct access to the third garage bay. Even the fundamentals have been recently updated. The entire roof was recoated (2021), and all four AC units and two furnaces replaced (2021), as well as two large water heaters with recirculating pumps replaced (2020). Outside, the landscaping was redone with the entire irrigation system replaced (2021). The pool was resurfaced with mini-pebble finish, tile edge, and travertine coping, along with a wi-fi Aqualink control system added (2021) and the pool heater replaced (2020). Finishing off this home is precisely where you'll want to unwind every evening, in the spacious and gracious backyard. The covered patio extends the length of the home, and includes an outdoor fireplace for those cool nights. Two additional uncovered seating areas offer options for taking in the sun. Entertain at the built-in BBQ, and don't miss the outdoor half bathroom. The backyard is a serene high-desert landscape, strategically placed to take in the picturesque Arizona sunsets while overlooking the golf course. Located toward the end of a cul-de-sac, so extremely light traffic, and all adjacent homesites have already been built. Mirabel's weather is famously dry and sunny. Our risk of natural disasters is extremely low. Being higher and somewhat removed from the city means the stars are bright at night, the air typically much cleaner, and the daytime high temperatures can be about eight to ten degrees cooler than the Valley floor, every day of the year. You would be amazed how comfortable 95 degrees is at night or in the shade. So, being in Mirabel on a year-round basis is an attractive proposition. In addition to the endless shopping and fine dining options all just minutes away, the owner of this home will be close to major league and collegiate sports, fabulous medical care (including the Mayo Clinic and hospital), terrific air service, and a wide variety of cultural attractions. This home is truly one of a kind and I encourage you to come see it today, and you'll be glad you did.

6368 N Lost Dutchman Drive Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$3,995,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,392 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6724005
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
NESTLED AT THE BASE OF THE VALLEY'S MOST ICONIC NATURAL LANDMARK, CAMELBACK MOUNTAIN, THE VILLAGE AT MOUNTAIN SHADOWS IS SITUATED IN THE HEART OF PARADISE VALLEY. BUILT EXCLUSIVELY BY CULLUM HOMES AND DESIGNED BY THE RENOWNED ARCHITECTURAL FIRM CANDELARIA DESIGN ASSOCIATES. THIS BEAUTIFUL CUSTOM ECHO TWO-STORY FLOOR PLAN FEATURES 3 BEDROOMS(2 PRIMARY SUITES 1 UP AND 1 DOWN), 3 FULL BATHS AND 1 POWDER BATH. GUESTS ENTER THROUGH THE PRIVATE COURTYARD LANDSCAPED TO PERFECTION TO THE LARGE IRON AND GLASS FRONT DOOR. THE GREAT ROOM WITH FIREPLACE WALL WITH BUILT IN SHELVES AND RETRACTABLE WALL OF GLASS LEAD YOU OUT TO THE COVERED PATIO AND OUTDOOR BBQ. THE BACKYARD WITH VIEWS OF CAMELBACK MOUNTAIN MAKE THIS INDOOR/OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING SPECIAL. THE DINING ROOM WITH DRY BAR. KITCHEN WITH... QUARTZITE STONE ISLAND, EAT-AT BAR, BUILT IN PANTRY, OTHER CABINETS FOR STORAGE AND EXTRA APPLIANCES (SUB ZERO, WOLFF) TOP OFF THIS CHEFS KITCHEN. A BUILT IN COMMAND CENTER JUST OFF THE KITCHEN IS PERFECT FOR A SPACE TO STILL WORK. THE STYLISH POWDER ROOM, LAUNDRY ROOM AND ELEVATOR LEAD DOWN TO THE 3 CAR GARAGE. TONS OF GARAGE STORAGE BUILT INS, EPOXY FLOORING AND A/C CONTROLLED. THE FIRST PRIMARY SUITE OPENS OUT TO THE BACKYARD, BATH AND WALK IN CLOSET FOR SINGLE LEVEL LIVING. THE WOOD STAIRCASE (ENTIRE HOME WOOD) OPENS UP TO A LOFT LIVING AREA, SECONDARY LARGE PRIMARY SUITE WITH BEAUTIFUL BATH AND OVERSIZED CLOSET OPEN UP TO A LARGE PRIVATE TERRACE. THE 3RD GUEST BEDROOM IS LARGE TO MAKE A BUNK ROOM WITH EN SUITE AND ROMEO AND JULIET BALCONY. A OFFICE OR GYM ROOM TOPS OFF THE SECOND LEVEL. THIS HOME HAS SO MANY EXTRAS AND IS HIGHLY UPGRADED THROUGH OUT INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR. COME SEE THIS HOME TODAY. IT WILL NOT LAST LONG! RESIDENTS HAVE ACCESS TO THE PLETHORA OF AMENITIES AVAILABLE AT THE MOUNTAIN SHADOWS RESORT. THE COMMUNITY BOASTS A PRIVATE POOL AREA, PARK AND IS GUARD-GATED 24/7 FOR THAT HIGHLY DESIRED LOCK AND LEAVE LIFESTYLE.

11420 N Sundown Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$3,995,000 - 5Br/5Ba -  for Sale in Sundown Ranch Estates Lot 17-61, Scottsdale
Open House
$3,995,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,604 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6746492
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Step into a modern sanctuary at 11420 N Sundown Dr, an exquisite creation by Aperture Design. This contemporary marvel perfectly harmonizes natural elements with a spacious, airy design, offering a unique blend of luxury and tranquility. Set on over 1.5 acres that feels close to 2 with the way in opens up and all sits in the useable backyard, this estate is more than just a home—it's your own private retreat. The backyard is an entertainer's dream, featuring premium, maintenance-free turf and a state-of-the-art three-zone misting system to keep you cool during the hottest days. Whether you're practicing your swing on the Par 2 chip and putting green, taking a dip in the stunning pool, or gathering around one of the multiple outdoor fireplaces, this space is designed for relaxation and entertainment. The shaded outdoor living room, complete with a TV , and the fully outfitted outdoor kitchen are perfect for both laid-back evenings and lively get-togethers. Sports enthusiasts will delight in the sand volleyball, pickleball, and basketball courts. Finished in late 2023, the comprehensive backyard renovation provides endless opportunities for enjoyment and peaceful relaxation. Inside, 11420 N Sundown Dr continues to impress with its meticulous attention to detail, crafted for both luxurious living and entertaining. A grand glass pivot door welcomes you into an elegant foyer, setting the tone for the home's sophisticated ambiance. The main living area is defined by soaring 25-foot wood-covered ceilings and expansive sliding panel windows that seamlessly merge indoor and outdoor living. The gourmet kitchen, generous dining area, and expansive living space are ideal for everything from intimate family moments to grand celebrations. The vast patios are the perfect spot to enjoy Arizona's breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. The back patio seamlessly connects to the pool, outdoor kitchen, and living room with fireplaces, making the most of this backyard paradise. A short corridor leads to the oversized three-car garage, complete with ample storage and a full butler's pantry, featuring an extra refrigerator and sinkideal for enhancing your entertainment experience. The residence wing, located opposite the entry foyer, ensures maximum privacy and comfort. It features dual master bedrooms in a split floorplan, each offering luxurious amenities. The primary master suite boasts a serene patio overlooking the backyard, an expansive walk-in closet, and a spa-like bathroom with a nine-sprayer shower and a deep soaking tub for two. The secondary master suite also includes a large walk-in closet, a soaking tub, a rain shower, and shares a generous patio with the gym/studio.

12331 E Gold Dust Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$3,995,000 - 5Br/6Ba -  for Sale in Emerald Hills, Scottsdale
Open House
$3,995,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
5,430 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774178
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Our gorgeous Arizona mountains and desert are the perfect backdrop for this stunning new construction home by Cachet Homes. Thoughtfully designed to maximize the concept of at home entertaining, the home features a large double island kitchen that open to the family room, a detached courtyard guest home, a separate pool house, and a flowing floorplan that allows for privacy as well as gathering spaces for family and friends. The finishes and amenities are contemporary and yet still timeless, and enhance this lovely home. The rear yard has been completely finished, something you don't often see in new construction any more, and boasts a pool house, BBQ ramada, beautiful pool and spa and large grassy areas for play. Emerald Hills by Cachet Homes is an exclusive 7-home subdivision in the desirable Shea Corridor in north Scottsdale. Close to schools, golf, parks, entertainment, shopping and dining - you will be in your dream home and area in no time at all!

3807 N 55th Place Phoenix, AZ 85018

$3,995,000 - 6Br/5Ba -  for Sale in Casa Linda Lot 24-44, Phoenix
Open House
$3,995,000
6 Beds
5 Baths
5,178 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6747124
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Introducing a completely remodeled, modern adobe on a half acre lot in the heart of Arcadia Proper. Boasting 5 bedrooms & 4 bathrooms in the main house plus a charming casita! From the moment you arrive, you'll be captivated by the seamless blend of traditional adobe aesthetics with contemporary design elements. Saltillo tile flows through the main living areas creating a warm & inviting atmosphere throughout. The chef's kitchen features high-end Thermador stainless steel appliances, custom cabinetry, spacious island, & dining space filled with natural light, perfect for both casual living & entertaining. Immerse yourself in cinematic experiences with state-of-theart surround sound system in the main living areas & outside, elevating your entertainment to new heights.

4938 N Ascent Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$3,994,293 - 2Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Phoenician, Scottsdale
Open House
$3,994,293
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,035 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6670454
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
**HOME TO COME FULLY FURNISHED! TURN-KEY READY!!** A NEW PRIVATE RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITY WITH A COVETED LOCATION AT THE BASE OF CAMELBACK MOUNTAIN ADJACENT TO THE ICONIC PHOENICIAN® IN SCOTTSDALE. ONLY A SHORT DISTANCE TO FASHION SQUARE AND OLD TOWN SCOTTSDALE. THIS COLLECTION OF CUSTOM HOMES BUILT EXCLUSIVELY BY CULLUM HOMES THAT REFLECT A TIMELESS, MODERN DESIGN AND LOOK OUT OVER THE BEAUTIFUL PHOENICIAN® GOLF COURSE. FEATURING THE ''DESERT ZEN LIVING'', A TWO-STORY HOME FEATURING 2 BEDROOMS, 2.5 BATHROOMS, AND A 3-CAR GARAGE. THROUGH THE EXTRAVAGANT FRONT ENTRANCE LOCATED ON THE LOWER LEVEL, A BEAUTIFUL STAIRCASE OR AN ELEVATOR TAKE YOU TO BOTH LEVELS OF THE RESIDENCE. THE MAIN LEVEL BOASTS TWO EN-SUITE BEDROOMS, A FORMAL DINING AREA, OPEN CONCEPT KITCHEN, ADDITIONAL POWDER ROOM AND THE GREAT ROOM AREA. SPACIOUS KITCHEN WITH ISLAND, EAT-AT BAR AND WALK-IN PANTRY. A GLASS WALL LEADS YOU TO THE COVERED PATIO OFF THE GREAT ROOM WHERE GORGEOUS VIEWS AWAIT YOU. OWNER'S SUITE WITH WALK-IN CLOSET, DOUBLE SINK VANITY, SEPARATE TOILET ROOM, TUB AND WALK-IN SHOWER. ALONG WITH AN ADDITIONAL EN SUITE BEDROOM, LARGE LAUNDRY ROOM WITH EXTRA STORAGE AND A DECK AREA. THE COMMUNITY IS GUARD GATED FOR PRIVACY AND SECURITY. AT THE BASE OF CAMELBACK MOUNTAIN, YOUR PRIVATE POOL, FITNESS CENTER, AND SOCIAL SPACES OFFER AN INTIMATE GATHERING PLACE FOR WELLNESS, SOCIALIZING AND RELAXATION. RESIDENTS ARE OFFERED THE OPTION TO JOIN THE PHOENICIAN® AMENITY ACCESS PROGRAM  ACCESS AND DISCOUNTS TO THE NEW ATHLETIC CLUB, 38,000 SQUARE FOOT SPA, TENNIS FACILITY AND RESORT POOLS AT THE PHOENICIAN® RESORT.

9930 E Miramonte Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$3,985,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,638 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769058
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
GOLF MEMBERSHIP AVAILABLE. Brand new Mortensen Signature Home. COMPLETION HAPPENING NOW, MOVE IN NOVEMBER. Outstanding Mountain and Sunset Views. Easy access to the main gate. Cul-de-sac location. Dual Primary Suites, 2 other en-suite bedrooms plus an office, den or 5th bedroom, take your pick. 4 Sliding door exits to your view patio with pool, spa, oversize fireplace and bbq ready for relaxation and entertainment. Whole Home Furniture packages available.

25001 N 107th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$3,977,000
4 Beds
7 Baths
8,448 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6696412
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This remarkable custom estate is surrounded by boulders that make up what is the famous Troon Mountain. No expense spared remodel puts this homes all in spend at $4.5 Million dollars, making this offering even more attractive than the surrounding views. Inside this European inspired gem you will find immaculate living spaces throughout. Boasting a flawless great room, a refined dining area poised to enhance your dining and entertaining occasions, a charming floor-to-ceiling brick fireplace that anchors both the breakfast room and kitchen, a graceful home office, and a primary suite seamlessly blending tranquility with comfort. Wood flooring, bespoke cantera stone, wooden beams, marble embellishments, and distinctive interior wood shutters imbue the exquisite design with character, while the open floor plan effortlessly harmonizes style and practicality. The guest quarters ensure ample privacy and offer splendid views. Surrounding the home are lush grounds, a stunning pool and spa with cascading waterfalls, and enchanting covered and uncovered patios that collectively create an unparalleled ambiance. This opulent residence truly epitomizes paradise! Totaling 8,448 square feet (including main and guest house).

36138 N Summit Drive Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$3,975,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
5,017 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6711246
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Million Dollar Views as far and wide as the eye can see! Views from every window in the house. Your own AZ get a way on about 1.5 acres. This 4bed + office, 4.5 bath includes an elevator. Retractable wall of windows bring the outdoors in, vaulted ceilings with beams, large wrap around balcony, Open floor plan, Gourmet Kitchen, SS Appliances, Dual ovens, Granite & Wood block Countertop, Alder cabinets and doors, Fireplaces in Family Room & Kitchen, Master boasts more amazing views. Master Bath with large walk-in closet. Take the ELEVATOR to Game/Theatre room, Wine Cellar and 2 guest bedrooms. Resort Style Backyard is perfect for entertaining. Extensive exterior misting system.

10040 E Happy Valley Road Unit 676 Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$3,975,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
4,445 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6654478
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Embrace elegance on the 17th fairway of the renowned Desert Highlands Golf Course. Enjoy immediate access to FULL CLUB Privileges in this 5 bed/5.5 jewel box home designed by Allen Tafoya, in built by Rick Merritt-built 5 bed/5.5 with interiors by Billi Springer. This old-world inspired home features an open floor plan, blending exquisite finishes with functional luxury. The expansive layout includes a grand master suite, a dedicated exercise room, and a versatile upstairs office. Every space is crafted with precision, harmonizing indoor comfort with serene golf course views. Experience sophistication in this stunning home, where lifestyle, luxury, and exquisite craftsmanship meet. The upstairs Study has outstanding city light views. The main level frames Pinnacle Peak.

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