Arizona MLS Real Estate Search

6 Mistakes to Avoid When Trading Up to a Larger Home in Arizona

 6 Trade Up Mistakes to Avoid

Unlike the experience of buying a first home, when you’re looking to move-up and already own a home, there are certain factors that can complicate the situation. It’s very important for you to consider these issues before you list your home for sale. Not only is there the issue of financing to consider, but you also have to sell your present home at exactly the right time in order to avoid either the financial burden of owning two homes or, just as bad, the dilemma of having no place to live during the gap between closings.

Six Strategies

In this report, we outline the six most common mistakes homeowners make when moving to a larger home. Knowledge of these six mistakes and the strategies to overcome them will help you make informed choices before you put your existing home on the market.

“. . . you have to sell your present home at exactly the right time in order to avoid either the financial burden of owning two homes or, just as bad, the dilemma of having no place to live during the gap between closings”

 

  1. Rose-colored glasses - Most of us dream of improving our lifestyle and moving to a larger home. The problem is that there's sometimes a discrepancy between our hearts and our bank accounts. You drive by a home that you fall in love with, only to find that it's already sold or that it’s more than what you are willing to pay. Most homeowners get caught in this hit or miss strategy of house hunting when there's a much easier way of going about the process. For example, find out if your agent offers a Buyer Househunting Service, which takes the guesswork away and helps to put you in the home of your dreams. This type of program will crossmatch your criteria with ALL available homes on the market and supply you with printed information on an on-going basis. A program like this helps homeowners take off their rose-colored glasses and affordably move into the home of their dreams.
  2. Failing to make necessary improvements - If you want to get the best price for the home you're selling, there will certainly be things you can do to enhance it in a prospective buyer's eyes. These fix-ups don't necessarily have to be expensive. But even if you do have to make a minor investment, it will often come back to you ten-fold in the price you are able to get when you sell. It's very important that these improvements be made before you put your home on the market. If cash is tight, investigate an equity loan that you can repay on closing.
  3. Not selling first - You should plan to sell before you buy. This way you will not find yourself at a disadvantage at the negotiating table, feeling pressured to accept an offer that is below market value because you have to meet a purchase deadline. If you've already sold your home, you can buy your next one with no strings attached. If you do get a tempting offer on your home but haven't made significant headway on finding your next home, you will know to consider putting in a contingency clause in the sales contract giving you reasonable time to find a home to buy. If the market is slow and you find your home is not selling as quickly as you anticipated, another option could be renting your home and putting it up on the market later - particularly if you are selling a smaller, starter home. You'll have to investigate the tax rules if you choose this latter option. Better still, find a way to eliminate this situation altogether by getting your agent to guarantee the sale of your present home (see point number 5 below).
  4. Failing to get a preapproved mortgage - Pre-approval is a simple process that many home owners fail to take advantage of even when it doesn't cost or obligate them to anything. Pre-approval gives you a significant advantage when you put an offer on the home you want to purchase because you know exactly how much house you can afford, and you already have the green light from your lending institution. With a pre-approved mortgage, your offer will be viewed far more favorably by a seller - sometimes even if it's a little lower than another offer that's contingent on financing. Don't fail to take this important step.
  5. Getting caught in the "Real Estate Catch 22” - Your biggest dilemma when buying and selling is deciding which to do first. Point number 3 above advises you to sell first. However there are ways to eliminate this dilemma altogether. Some agents offer a Guaranteed Sale “Trade-Up” Program that actually takes the problem away from you entirely by guaranteeing the sale of your present home before you Not intended to solicit property currently listed for sale “6 Mistakes to Avoid When Trading Up to a Larger Home” take possession of your next one. If you find a home you wish to purchase and have not sold your current home yet, they will buy your home from you themselves so you can make your move free of stress and worry.
  6. Failing to coordinate closings - With two major transactions to coordinate together and all the people involved such as mortgage experts, appraisers, lawyers, loan officers, title company representatives, home inspectors or pest inspectors, the chances of mix-ups and miscommunication go up dramatically. To avoid a logistical nightmare, ensure you work closely with your agent.

$1,099,000
5 Beds 3 Baths 7078353 MLS 3,363 SqFt.
Freshly remodeled, new baths, chefs kitchen, freshly painted & new carpet! Move-In tomorrow and own a stunning over a quarter-acre property with distant mountain views. Tucked on a peaceful cul-de-sac in the prestigious Eagle Feather at Las Sendas! This 5-bedroom residence (two rooms adjoined for excellent in-law or teen quarters). Split floorplan providing privacy, while soaring ceilings create a spacious, airy ambiance. The bright great room showcases tile flooring and plantation shutters, with an open design that seamlessly flows for easy entertaining. The kitchen features Stainless & Kitchen Aid appliances, warm beige cabinetry, tile backsplash, quartzite Taj Mahal countertops. Unwind in the newly remodeled primary soaking tub w/ oversized shower, expanded from original floorplan. The expansive owner's suite offers a bright sitting area, a bay window, outdoor access, and a spa-inspired ensuite with dual sinks, Quartzite (top of the line) counters, freestanding tub, expanded tile/glass shower, and a two walk-in closet. Additionally, a secondary main suite features an adjacent bonus room, ideal for an office or inlaws or teen quarters with private access to a full hall bathroom. The 3-car garage includes built-in cabinetry for extra storage, expansive driveway for extra guest parking a plus. The backyard oasis offers a covered patio, space for sunbathing, a sparkling pool with rock waterfall, and a relaxing spa. Enjoy resort-style amenities of this award-winning community including pool, spa, tennis courts, pickle ball, parks, recreation center, and golf course. Experience the perfect blend of comfort, luxury, and active living!

7926 E Saddleback Circle, Mesa

$2,600,000
3 Beds 3 Baths 7078335 MLS 4,325 SqFt.
Set against a backdrop of Camelback Mountain and Piestewa Peak, this secluded Biltmore retreat pairs dramatic desert views with inviting indoor-outdoor living. Sweeping mountain vistas, sparkling city lights and unforgettable Sonoran Desert sunsets unfold from morning to night. Located within the manned, guard-gated Biltmore community, this two-story, north/south-facing home welcomes you with soaring ceilings, abundant natural light and a grand staircase. Expansive windows illuminate the great room, where a gas fireplace and adjoining formal dining area create an inviting setting for both everyday living and entertaining. The spacious kitchen offers generous prep and gathering space with an eat-in island and breakfast area, opening to the family room with easy access to the backyard. A large walk-in pantry with wine cellar and second French-door refrigerator adds exceptional storage and functionality. The home features three bedrooms and three bathrooms, plus a dedicated office. The primary suite is a private retreat with its own gas fireplace and balcony, along with a separate soaking tub, oversized shower, expansive vanity with generous storage and spacious walk-in closets. Outside, mature trees and professional landscaping enhance the sense of privacy surrounding a custom pool and spa with an expanded pool deck. A covered patio, outdoor fireplace and built-in BBQ create an inviting setting for Arizona entertaining, while thoughtfully placed outdoor lighting extends the enjoyment well into the evening. Private balconies and outdoor spaces provide additional opportunities to take in the mountain views, sparkling city lights and vibrant desert sunsets. A generous three-car garage with built-in storage completes the home. Secluded yet connected, this residence offers a distinctive way to experience the Biltmore lifestyle.

6511 N 28th Street, Phoenix

$1,680,000
3 Beds 4 Baths 7078332 MLS 2,760 SqFt.
One-of-a-Kind Modern Barndominium on Corner Acre Lot | This home comes Fully Furnished inside & out | Mountain Views | Resort Backyard | 5-Car RV Garage | RV parking & RV carport. This custom-built 2,760 sq ft modern barndominium sits on a spacious acre corner lot with mountain views and offers a rare combination of luxury, functionality & lifestyle living. Designed with entertainment in mind, this property stands apart from anything else in the area. The open-concept floor plan features vaulted ceilings, a dramatic two-story great room, and a stunning floor-to-ceiling fireplace. The kitchen is the heart of the home with a large island, custom cabinetry, and seamless flow into the main living and dining areas. Upstairs, a loft overlooks the main living space, creating a unique and versatile bonus area perfect for a game room, lounge, or office. Property Features 3 Bedrooms + Den (easily converted to 4th BR) - 2 Full Bathrooms + 2 Half Baths. The 5-Car Garage includes RV garage mezzanine, built-in garage cabinets, basketball court & wrestling mats, full pull thru access with 40 ft depth & two 16x16 doors w/ a second bay at 21 ft deep and 10x16 ft door. Resort-Style Backyard includes custom pickleball court, outdoor kitchen with large island, pizza oven, above-ground pool with surrounding deck & above ground spa, elevated entertaining deck with seating and lighting plus an enormous turf lawn area. Fully fenced and thoughtfully designed for privacy This is a true outdoor living experience that would cost significant time and money to recreate. With low maintenance living the property features Eco friendly landscaping and turf, offering a clean, modern aesthetic with minimal upkeep and long-term cost savings. Turnkey Opportunity: Offered fully furnished with like new, gorgeous furnishings, all indoor and outdoor items included, even the 13 TV's, making this an ideal primary residence, second home, or short-term rental opportunity (VRBO/Airbnb potential). Unlike new construction, this home is fully finished inside and out with no additional cost, wait, or upgrades needed. Whether you're looking for a primary residence, vacation home, or income-producing property, this one-of-a-kind home delivers lifestyle, flexibility, and long-term value.

26514 N 101st Avenue, Peoria

$485,000
2 Beds 2 Baths 7078326 MLS 1,696 SqFt.
Beautifully maintained and truly move-in ready, this inviting 2-bedroom, 2-bath home with a versatile den is designed for easy living and everyday enjoyment. Start your mornings on the charming front porch, coffee in hand, surrounded by attractive desert landscaping and peaceful neighborhood vibes. Inside, upgraded tile flooring carries you through the main living areas into a light-filled great room where large picture windows create an airy, welcoming atmosphere. The stylish kitchen is both functional and eye-catching, featuring light grey cabinetry, granite countertops, a tiled backsplash, stainless steel appliances, and a spacious center island with breakfast bar - perfect for casual meals or entertaining. The kitchen flows seamlessly into the dining area, where abundant natural light makes every meal feel special. Retreat to the generous primary suite, highlighted by a charming bay window and a bright ensuite with double sinks, a walk-in shower, and a large walk-in closet. Step outside and discover your own private oasis. The oversized backyard backs to common space, offering rare privacy with no neighbors directly behind. Enjoy Arizona living at its best with a sparkling swimming pool, expansive covered patio, and an extended paver patio that leads to a cozy gas firepit - ideal for evening gatherings, sunsets, and stargazing. Take in beautiful mountain views to both the east and west, adding to the serene outdoor experience. Located in the highly desirable, lake-inspired 55+ active adult community of CantaMia, residents enjoy resort-style amenities including a stunning clubhouse, pools, fitness center, pickleball and tennis courts, scenic walking trails, on-site dining, and a vibrant calendar of social events - all designed to support an active, connected, and carefree lifestyle.

16768 S 180th Drive, Goodyear

$660,000
3 Beds 4 Baths 7078320 MLS 2,086 SqFt.
FRONT-ROW GOLF COURSE LIVING IN SUN LAKES PALO VERDE! Beautifully positioned along the 11th fairway of the Palo Verde Golf Course, this fabulously renovated 3-bedroom, 3.5-bath home offers 2,086 sq. ft. of living space, including a PRIVATE DETACHED CASITA, plus a 2-car garage AND separate GOLF-CART GARAGE. From the moment you enter, the golf-course setting takes center stage. The spacious family room features a wood-burning fireplace, adjoining formal dining area and new French doors opening to an incredible full-length wraparound patio overlooking the fairway. The kitchen has been beautifully renovated within the past three years with quartz countertops, new backsplash, freshly painted white cabinetry, updated hardware, new sink and faucet, stainless appliances, newer refrigerator and a comfortable eat-in kitchen area. Wood-plank porcelain tile extends through much of the home, with new flooring in nearly all remaining living areas. Wake up to GOLF-COURSE VIEWS from the owner's suite! This inviting retreat features vaulted ceilings, plantation shutters, new LVP flooring, large closet and direct access to the patio. The bath includes a large walk-in shower, soaking tub, double vanity, skylight and white painted cabinetry and new hardware. The PRIVATE DETACHED CASITA adds tremendous versatility for visiting family and friends, a private office or hobby space. It includes a full bath, walk-in closet, new tile flooring, updated cabinetry and new double-entry screened doors. THE OUTDOOR LIVING IS EXCEPTIONAL! Enjoy front-row views of the 11th fairway from the expansive wraparound covered patio with multiple lounging and entertaining areas. There's an outdoor kitchen/BBQ area, built-in spa with newer equipment, pavered courtyard and patios, ceiling fans, recessed lighting and approximately $20,000 in floor-to-ceiling electric sun screens designed to extend your enjoyment of Arizona's indoor/outdoor lifestyle. Major improvements include an approximately ONE-YEAR-OLD ROOF, newer windows and window screens, white shutters throughout much of the home, new ceiling fans, owned whole-home water softener, newer water heater and three approximately 5-year-old HVAC units. The 2-CAR GARAGE + GOLF-CART GARAGE is equally impressive with epoxy flooring, extensive built-in storage cabinetry and a cedar-lined closet. GOLF COURSE " DETACHED CASITA " GOLF-CART GARAGE " EXTENSIVE UPDATES " INCREDIBLE OUTDOOR LIVING Offered at $660,000, this is an exceptional opportunity to enjoy the Palo Verde lifestyle in Sun Lakes!

25443 S Spring Creek Road, Sun Lakes

$995,000
3 Beds 2 Baths 7078317 MLS 2,172 SqFt.
Welcome to this beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom single-level home in Scottsdale's sought-after 85254, where you'll enjoy a prestigious Scottsdale address, lower Phoenix property taxes, top-rated schools, and no HOA. At 2,172 square feet, the open floor plan connects the living area, kitchen, and dining spaces, with large tile wood flooring throughout, into one inviting flow, perfect for everyday living and entertaining alike. The kitchen is the heart of the home, finished with quartz countertops, a white subway tile backsplash, white shaker cabinetry to the ceiling, a large island with bar counter seating and storage below, a charming eat-in-kitchen nook with bay windows, and premium stainless-steel appliances including double ovens and a stainless farmhouse sink. It's a space built for real cooking at the induction cooktop with a stainless-steel island-mount range hood and there's a passthrough window above the sink for easy indoor/outdoor hosting and serving. The primary suite opens directly to the backyard through sliding glass doors and includes three closets for generous storage. The primary bathroom features marble-like tile flooring, dual sinks, a walk-in shower, and contemporary finishes. Two additional bedrooms offer flexible space for family, guests, or a home office, and the front dining room can easily convert to a game room or flex office space. Step outside to a true backyard retreat with multiple paver and travertine sitting areas, a covered patio, and a diving pool with a variable-speed pump and removable safety fence. Additional upgrades include a digital thermostat, LED lighting, updated fans and hardware, and a two-car garage with epoxy flooring, attached cabinets, and a water softener. Owned solar helps keep energy costs down. Laundry room with an adjacent drop zone adds everyday convenience. Double entry doors and a courtyard entrance give the home standout curb appeal from the moment you arrive. Just steps from Desert Horizon Park and minutes from Kierland Commons, the reimagined Paradise Valley Mall, and Scottsdale Quarter, this move-in ready home puts dining, shopping, parks, and golf within easy reach, in one of the most desirable pockets of Arizona to call home.

5227 E Paradise Lane, Scottsdale

Start Your Search

Copyright 2026 Arizona Regional Multiple Listing Service, All rights reserved. The data relating to real estate for sale on this website comes in part from the Arizona Regional Multiple Listing Service. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed and should be independently verified. All properties are subject to prior sale, change or withdrawal. Neither listing broker(s) nor Arizona Regional Multiple Listing Service shall be responsible for any typographical errors, misinformation, misprints and shall be held totally harmless.