Buying a Home with Your Significant Other

Buying a home is one of the most exciting milestones a couple can reach, but it’s also one of the ultimate tests of a relationship. From differing design tastes to varying financial priorities, the process requires a masterclass in communication and compromise.

We were honored to share our insights on this topic with AZ Big Media, where we highlighted the essential steps couples should take before signing on the dotted line. To help our clients navigate the Arizona market, we’ve expanded on those tips below to ensure your home-buying journey strengthens your relationship rather than stressing it.

The "Wants vs. Needs" Deep Dive

It sounds simple, but you would be surprised how often partners assume they are on the same page when they aren't. Before you look at a single listing, sit down separately and write out your "Must-Haves" and your "Nice-to-Haves."

The Pro-Tip: Compare your lists. If one person needs a home office and the other needs a large backyard for a dog, you’ve just identified your non-negotiables. Discussing the why behind your preferences helps you empathize with your partner's vision.

Avoid Being "House Poor"

In a competitive market like Phoenix, it’s easy to let emotions drive the budget. However, financial stress is the leading cause of friction in relationships. We recommend focusing on a monthly mortgage payment that stays between 25% and 35% of your combined take-home pay.

The Pro-Tip: Don’t just look at the purchase price. Factor in Arizona’s cooling costs (those summer AC bills are real!) and potential HOA fees to ensure you have plenty of "fun money" left over for date nights in your new neighborhood.

Get Pre-Approved Before You Fall in Love

There is nothing more heartbreaking than finding your dream home only to realize it’s outside your financial reach. Securing a pre-approval from a local mortgage lender gives you a concrete "north star" for your search.

The Pro-Tip: Being pre-approved makes your offer significantly stronger in a multi-offer scenario. It shows the seller you are a serious, prepared duo.

Keep an Open Mind (and an Open Door)

A home might have "bad curb appeal" but an incredible interior layout that fits your lifestyle perfectly. Conversely, a beautiful exterior might hide a floor plan that doesn't work for your daily routines.

The Pro-Tip: Don't veto a house based on a single photo online. If your partner sees potential in a property, be willing to take 15 minutes to walk through it. Sometimes the "hidden gems" are the ones you almost skipped.

Know When to Take a Breather

If the market feels too volatile or the search is causing genuine strain on your relationship, it is okay to hit the pause button. Taking 90 days or even six months to focus on your credit scores or simply enjoy each other's company without "real estate talk" can make a world of difference.

The Pro-Tip: A home is a long-term investment. It’s better to wait for the right timing than to rush into a purchase under duress.

Lean on Your REALTOR®

Think of your real estate agent as a neutral third party—half market expert, half relationship counselor. Our job is to help you find common ground, facilitate the "tough" conversations about value, and handle the logistical heavy lifting so you can focus on the excitement of the move.

“As Seen In: We were thrilled to discuss these strategies in our guest feature for AZ Big Media. You can check out the original article and more Arizona real estate news on their site: 6 Tips for Buying a Home with Your Significant Other.”

Ready to start your journey together?

Buying a home is a team sport. Whether you’re looking for a modern loft in Scottsdale or a family home in the East Valley, BUYAZRE is here to guide you every step of the way.

The market is moving and buyers are feeling it.

Check out the full January Stats here.