5 Things Renters Should Know About Owning

Moving can already be one of the most stressful times in a person’s life, but it may be doubly so for a new home owner.  For renters who aspire to be home owners, transitioning from an apartment to a house requires a shift in thinking that you may or may not be prepared to make. The financial changes that come with owning, the need to consider planting longer-term roots in a neighborhood, and new neighborhood rules are things renters may not be thinking about enough.

You need to understand how your financial investment is changing. Renters may see an increase in your monthly rent every lease term, but you don’t see exactly where it goes — toward property taxes and insurance, even “luxuries” such as trash pickup. As home owners, you don’t have a landlord who handles all those details, so you need to be ready to juggle the financial responsibilities of home ownership. Be aware of the importance of budgeting to make sure you make smart financial decisions during this process.

You need to be happy with your location for the long-term. As a renter, you can bounce around from home to home every year if you want. But when you own a home, you have to stay put — unless you plan on renting it out, which most home owners don’t.  Location is going to play a much more significant role in your future, so you should think about evaluating school districts, access to amenities, and commute time now as you search for your next home.

You may need to abide by new rules. Renters don’t think about possible homeowner association rules you may be governed by, such as trash pickup rules or any curfews or rules pertaining to animals. Make sure to get all the information on neighborhood rules and associations to understand what your new obligations will be.

You’ll need to get into the mindset of an owner. Life as you know it is about to change. Once you purchases a new home, you will no longer have a landlord to tend to your many needs, including lawn care and plumbing.  I will provide you with contact information for local industry experts including certified specialists ranging from HVAC companies to carpenters to electricians. You don’t have to do everything yourself – however, you will have to pay for it yourself.

Know your neighbors can affect your home value. Renters typically don’t care who their neighbors are as long as they’re quiet (enough).  Property value comes down to curb appeal. Less-appealing neighborhoods often have more-appealing prices, which is not always good for buyers and home owners.

When you’re ready to stop renting and become a homeowner, I’d love to help.  Give me a call – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

Source: Rob Rimeris is owner of EverSafe Moving Co. in Philadelphia. EverSafe is a five-star, full-service company that offers affordable moving and storage services.  http://realtormag.realtor.org/daily-news/2016/08/11/5-things-renters-should-know-about-owning?om_rid=AAT6BZ&om_mid=_BXthPGB9RSTgPN&om_ntype=NARWeekly

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18849 N Shelby Drive Maricopa, AZ 85138

$474,900

5 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,242 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6683359

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this stunning 5Bd/2.5Ba, PRIVATE POOL, 3242 Sq Ft home! This meticulously maintained home has upgraded flooring, granite countertops, two spacious living areas, loft, theater room, 3-car garage, and RO. The list of features is extensive - from oversized bedrooms with walk-in closets to a primary suite on the main floor. The primary bath impresses with upgraded tile flooring, a large shower, and a luxurious soaking tub. Outside, the backyard is a paradise with a sizable covered patio, a beautiful pebble-tec pool, new Bar area**July 2023 NEW ROOF,** **July 2023 NEW EXTERIOR & INTERIOR PAINT** new exterior lighting, upgraded LG Appliances 1.5yrs old, outdoor bar area just bring your BBQ, firepit in backyard, no neighbors behind you, and theater room upstairs The solar panel system is exceptionally efficient, keeping energy bills impressively low for the homeowner. Homes of this caliber don't stay on the market for long. You'll see and feel the homeownership of pride . Exterior cameras, and exterior Bluetooth speakers do not convey.

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1848 S 231st Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85326

Open House

$474,900

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,112 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6690177

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Come and see this super spacious, beautiful home in Buckeye's popular Sundance community! Over 3100 square feet, 4 bedrooms plus flex room & loft space, 2.5 bathrooms sitting on a large lot with no neighbors to the south or behind the home! Light & bright eat in the kitchen w/ Island, updated cabinets, pantry and opening to the great room w/ sliding door access to the covered patio. Large primary suite boasts vaulted ceilings, en suite bath & walk in closet! Inside laundry including energy efficient Samsung washer/dryer, EV charger in the garage, ceiling fans, recessed lighting and more to see! Backyard is a blank canvas just waiting for you to create your own masterpiece!

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1522 W Hadley Street Phoenix, AZ 85007

$474,500

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,540 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6675363

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Home, sweet home! Comfort meets convenience in this fully fenced 4-bed, 2-bath residence in Phoenix! You are greeted by the large & bright living room graced with tile flooring in all the right places. The impeccable eat-in kitchen features recessed lighting, ample white cabinetry, built-in appliances, a handy pantry, and glossy granite counters. The sizable primary bedroom offers a walk-in closet for all your belongings and a private bathroom with a combination of shower & tub. PLUS! Secondary bedrooms provide well-sized closets. The 2-car garage includes attached cabinets. In the spacious backyard, you'll find a storage shed and an RV gate. This gem won't disappoint you! Hurry before it's gone!

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8114 E Osage Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$474,500

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,937 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6686563

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home! This stunning 4-bedroom 2 bath pristine property boasts the right space to accommodate your family's needs. The kitchen is a true standout, featuring beautifully updated elements including granite countertops, newer appliances, and a cozy eat-in area, ideal for morning gatherings or intimate dinners. The living spaces are thoughtfully designed, with separate family and living areas offering versatility and ample room for relaxation or entertainment. Spacious Master suite & updated master bath. Secondary bath is a jack and jill that has been freshly updated as well. You'll enjoy the comfort and convenience of a brand-new HVAC unit, ensuring year-round comfort. Storage is never an issue here, with a spacious attic providing plenty of room for all your belonging. Step outside into the expansive backyard, with a shed for additional storage space, a large space to create your own personal touch to transforming it into an oasis. This home is meticulously crafted with all the right touches in all the right places, offering a perfect blend of style, functionality, and comfort. Don't miss your chance to make this your forever home!

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15631 W Bethesda Court Surprise, AZ 85374

Open House

$474,500

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,889 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6651863

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Price Improvement!! Stunning Palo Verde Model complete with all the bells and whistles! New Roof, Owned Solar, New HVAC, New Windows, New Exterior Paint, Cool Deck on Driveway, Walkways and Patio. Interior Upgrades, including SS Appliances...just move right in! Don't miss this excellent opportunity to live in a Premier 45+ Community! Priced far below market value!

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5069 N Atwood Court Prescott Valley, AZ 86314

$474,197

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,307 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6694713

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

A beautiful Capstone Home in the most sought after community in Prescott Valley ''Jasper'' This home is MOVE-IN-READY. This home features 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, and a tandem 3 car garage. White shaker cabinets, quartz countertops, luxury vinyl plank flooring and 12'' by 24'' tile in the bathrooms and primary shower. A great room fireplace with tile surround makes this open floor plan comfortable and cozy. Come see this home today!

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17639 W Hatcher Road Waddell, AZ 85355

Open House

$474,030

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,052 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6674701

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This Gorgeous sprawling floor plan has 2052 SF , w/3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and a 3 car tandem garage! Almost ready for you! Est COE in Jun/Jul 2024. This home features a fresh, neutral color palette, offering 36'' white shaker cabinetry, a large kitchen island, white quartz countertops, 9' ceilings and tile flooring. It also includes features you'll love like a soft water loop, under cabinet lighting in the kitchen, dual pane low-E windows, multi-zone thermostat, and a smart home system. The exterior features front yard landscaping, a covered patio and private backyard. Conveniently located off the 303, this gated community is near Costco, Walmart, and shopping. **Finishes may vary from sample photos and virtual tour.

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41906 W Solitare Drive Maricopa, AZ 85138

$474,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,896 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6694815

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

You will fall in love with this Yukon model where no expense has been spared. When you pull up, you will notice the ungraded exterior and the enclosed front patio with water feature. The upgraded security door opens to the entry with 15' diagonal tile with Belcaro walnut finish lighting. The entry to the den has Italian drapes called Veneto and are on rods with granite fineals. The den has the same drapery and rods with Hunter-Douglas roman shades. The same quality continues into the great room overlooking the extended covered patio. The kitchen has a special stone sinks, large granite counters with glass backspalsh and pull out shelves in all cabinets. Best of all - all applicances stay. The pendant lights match the Belcaro chandelier in the dining room which has sun shades on the side windows. Both bedrooms have upgraded carpet and room darkening roman shades. Both the walk-in closet and the guest bedroom closet have extra shelving. Did you notice the bay window in the master overlooking the oversized backyard? Master bath has an oversized garden tub and separate shower with rain glass. The patio has extended pergola covering with a privacy wall at one end. You have a TV jack and natural gas stub, all overlooking the extra large, perfectly landscaped backyard. The laundry room has cabinets above the washer/dryer and the owner is leaving these appliances for you. The extra length garage has a utility sink, cabinets on two walls, overhead storage, the floor has an epoxy coating and you have a side door to the outside. All of this in the 55+ guard gated lake community of Province; where you can fish in the lakes, walk on one of the 5 miles of walking paths throughout the community, practice your putting, play a game of pickleball or tennis is nothing short of retiring like you mean it! To wrap it all up, inside the 32,000 square foot club house, you have a fitness center, lap pool, library, billiards room, ceramic, sewing, and computer center besides the quaint, gorgeous outdoor pool for perfect solitude or fun gatherings with friends and family. What more can you ask for... all for an affordable price in an incredible community awaiting your arrival !!

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7300 E Earll Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$474,000

1 Bed

1 Bath

864 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6607436

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

Welcome to Inspire on Earll, a gated community perfectly situated in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale putting you incredibly close to some of the best restaurants, stores, galleries, and more! At home, you'll enjoy this ground level single bed & bath corner unit with one of the few large, oversized outdoor back patios in the complex, and with only one neighbor. Beautiful white shaker cabinets and quartz counter are accented by a gray subway tile backsplash and stainless steel. You and your guests can relax by the pool with shaded Ramada area, firepit, and hot tub, or take advantage of other community amenities such as the fitness center, lounge area, ping pong table, and outdoor grill. Most furniture is available on a separate Bill of Sale. Don't miss this opportunity!

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2376 N Nicklaus Drive Mesa, AZ 85215

$474,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,640 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6620997

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This home offers 2 bedrooms 2 bath PLUS a den. It has a split master bedroom floor plan. Patio is plumbed with natural gas for outdoor grilling. Also has gas range and water heater. Walk in pantry in kitchen plus pullout shelves. The garage has beautiful cabinets for closed in storage. There are 4 solar tubes throughout the house. Call to see this house today.

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2135 Northwind Drive Pinetop, AZ 85935

$474,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,790 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6645676

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

Beautifully updated condo in the gated Pinetop Country Club community of High Country Village. This open-concept floor-plan features 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms and plenty of space for you & your guests! The kitchen has ample cabinets, eat in nook and built in drink fridge! The kitchen opens to the open concept family room with vaulted ceilings and a cozy rock surround fireplace, perfect for entertaining. The primary bedroom boasts an en-suite with dual vanities and a large walk in closet. The additional two bedrooms share a hall bathroom. Don't forget the expansive panty & laundry room before heading outside to your large, covered back deck to enjoy the views & fresh mountain air. One car detached garage and extra parking slab make this low maintenance property perfect for your mountain getaway. Being sold furnished and move in ready! Schedule your showing today!

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9315 W Mariposa Drive Phoenix, AZ 85037

$474,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,157 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6656598

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome home! 3bed/2bath single-level home with a study/bonus room, nestled on a corner lot, large living area perfect for gatherings, accentuated by an open and inviting layout. Kitchen is a chef's delight, featuring granite countertops, a pantry, and modern stainless-steel appliances. Main bedroom serves as a private retreat, with an ensuite showcasing dual sinks and a spacious walk-in closet. Backyard is a true extension of this home's charm with an extended patio cover, a built-in BBQ island, a custom pool, an above-ground spa, and a cozy fire pit for memorable nights under the stars. Recent enhancements include an exterior paint job in 2022, a new air conditioning system installed the same year, and thoughtful updates to the kitchen, bathrooms, and pool area. This gem will sell fast.

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