2 Major Myths Holding Back Home Buyers

2 Major Myths Holding Back Home Buyers | Simplifying The Market

Urban Institute recently released a report entitled, “Barriers to Accessing Homeownership,” which revealed that eighty percent of consumers either are unaware of how much lenders require for a down payment or believe all lenders require a down payment above 5 percent.”

Myth #1: “I Need a 20% Down Payment”

Buyers often overestimate the down payment funds needed to qualify for a home loan. According to the same report:

Consumers are often unaware of the option to take out low-down-payment mortgages. Only 19% of consumers believe lenders would make loans with a down payment of 5% or less… While 15% believe lenders require a 20% down payment, and 30% believe lenders expect a 20% down payment.”

These numbers do not differ much between non-owners and homeowners; 39% of non-owners believe they need more than 20% for a down payment and 30% of homeowners believe they need more than 20% for a down payment.

While many believe that they need at least 20% down to buy their dream home, they do not realize that programs are available that allow them to put down as little as 3%. Many renters may actually be able to enter the housing market sooner than they ever imagined with programs that have emerged allowing less cash out of pocket.

Myth #2: “I Need a 780 FICO® Score or Higher to Buy”

Similar to the down payment, many either don’t know or are misinformed about what FICO® score is necessary to qualify.

Many Americans believe a ‘good’ credit score is 780 or higher.

To help debunk this myth, let’s take a look at Ellie Mae’s latest Origination Insight Report, which focuses on recently closed (approved) loans.

2 Major Myths Holding Back Home Buyers | Simplifying The Market

As you can see in the chart above, 53.5% of approved mortgages had a credit score of 600-749.

Bottom Line

Whether buying your first home or moving up to your dream home, knowing your options will make the mortgage process easier. Your dream home may already be within your reach.

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27264 N 103rd Way Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$3,850,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
5,944 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6779860
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Luxury living at its finest in the exclusive Estancia community. This stunning one-level soft-contemporary home has 4 beds, 3.5 baths + an office + a detached guest home all located on an interior lot w /breathtaking views. This beautifully designed, open floor plan offers seamless flow for entertaining, with a gourmet kitchen adjacent to a spacious family room, along with separate living and dining rooms. The layout features a large master suite and office on one side, while three additional bedrooms and two bathrooms are thoughtfully separated on the other. Modern decor elements include expansive butt glass windows, beamed ceilings, three gas fireplaces, striking stone columns, hardwood and natural stone flooring, slab granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a wet bar. The spacious outdoor living area features full length covered patio, built-in BBQ, firepit, & pool w/spa and boulder water feature. All of this with tremendous views of Pinnacle Peak and fabulous sunsets.

7501 E Cholla Lane Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$3,850,000
5 Beds
4 Baths
4,356 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6723664
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Located on a quiet cul-de-sac in the vibrant heart of Old Town, this exquisite residence offers a thoughtfully designed open floor plan that masterfully blends indoor comforts with outdoor delights. The expansive primary suite is designed as a private retreat, featuring a cozy fireplace and a separate sitting area. The chef-inspired kitchen is a highlight, centered around a striking cascading island and outfitted with stainless steel appliances, well equipped for both intimate family dinners and large gatherings.The dining space accommodates up to 12 guests and flows beautifully into a spectacular backyard through massive 20-foot pocket doors. This outdoor paradise boasts a putting green, several inviting fireplaces, a pergola and a swimming pool, creating a perfect setting for -- entertaining or relaxation. Further enhancing this home's appeal is the extensive 4-car garage along with an RV pad, offering plentiful space for parking and additional storage. This property stands as a beacon of sophisticated and elegant living within Old Town, with easy access to Sky Harbor Int'l Airport, Fashion Square mall, dining, golf courses, major freeways & much more!

7101 E Berneil Lane Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$3,850,000 - 5Br/4Ba -  for Sale in Cypress Creek Estates, Paradise Valley
Open House
$3,850,000
5 Beds
4 Baths
4,702 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6761121
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your very own paradise! This luxury, move-in ready home offers 5 oversized bedrooms and 4 bathrooms with the 5th bedroom currently being used as an office. This Control4 smart home features a newly remodeled kosher kitchen with a large walk-in pantry. The spacious formal living area, cozy lounge/game room, and the grand dining room that can accommodate at least 20 guests makes for an entertainer's dream. The expansive backyard is home to citrus trees, a fresh herb garden, fire pit, spa, and a newly redone pool. Paradise Valley living at its finest!

8599 E Tecolote Circle Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$3,825,000
6 Beds
5.5 Baths
6,960 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6776719
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to the Bowman House, a breathtaking architectural masterpiece crafted by award-winning designer Bob Bacon. Set on 3.4 acres within the prestigious gated Windmill neighborhood at the Scottsdale/Carefree border, this home is the first of eight exclusive residences. Combining warmth with spacious elegance, it offers the perfect blend of luxurious living and entertainment. The main house features 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, and a 5-car garage, including an RV bay. The gourmet kitchen boasts quartzite countertops, a Wolf dual-fuel range, dual Asko dishwashers, and dual Sub-Zero refrigerators. The home includes a formal dining room, kitchen, living room, and family room, providing ample space for gatherings. Upstairs is designed for entertaining with a game room and multiple outdoor patios showcasing magnificent high Sonoran desert views. The outdoor living space is ideal for hosting, with a large pool patio for ultimate relaxation. Additionally, a 2-bedroom casita offers privacy and comfort for guests. This property is an entertainer's dream, blending luxury with the beauty of the desert.

130 Shadow Rock Drive Sedona, AZ 86336

$3,800,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,797 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780070
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This home speaks to the soul. 130 Shadow Rock Dr is a breathtaking fusion of modern luxury and natural beauty. Meticulously reimagined in 2012 by Sedona's renowned Design Group, it exudes sophistication with every detail—from rich walnut hardwood floors to stunning fossil granite countertops & accent walls throughout. Nestled in the prestigious Soldier's Pass corridor, this residence offers jaw-dropping views of Sedona's iconic red rocks, including the majestic Soaring Eagle and Soldiers Pass. Step into your private backyard oasis featuring a sparkling pool, hot tub, & fruit trees—a true retreat for relaxation. Located minutes from Sedona's best dining, Whole Foods & world-class hiking, this extraordinary home is a sanctuary of elegance and tranquility. Welcome to 130 Shadow Rock Drive, a masterpiece of design, art, nature, and the ultimate in luxury living. You are greeted by a delightful and private courtyard featuring numerous Japanese maples and a flagstone walkway which leads to the front door. Upon entering the home, you are welcomed by an expansive seamed glass wall of windows that perfectly frame the red rocks of the Soldiers Pass Corridor. The materiality of this home is apparent the moment you walk in. Under foot you will find impeccably laid Sedona red rock flagstone flooring. Overhead are vertical-grain Douglas Fir beams and tongue and groove ceiling. In the living room, an exquisite stacked red-rock stone fireplace creates the centerpiece for a perfectly balanced space. The home is divided into two wings, east and west. The east side of the home houses the 3 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms and the west side of the home features the dining room, kitchen, laundry, powder room, executive study, and 3-car garage. We will start our journey with the east wing. The primary bedroom envelopes you in luxury with its solid walnut floors, recessed ceiling with Douglas Fir inlay, and abundant windows that drench the room in natural light and look out to million dollar views. The primary bathroom and closet are mindfully tucked just off of the primary bedroom and features a separate water closet, Victoria & Albert soaking tub, smoked glass walk-in steam shower, dual vanities, and an ample primary closet with Shoji-style doors. The primary bedroom opens directly to the backyard with a retractable wall of glass doors , giving you convenient access to the pool, hot tub, outdoor shower, and productive fruit trees (peach, plum pomegranate, and grape vines). From the primary bedroom, we travel down the hallway, with windows cased in Douglas Fir trim that overlook the secluded courtyard. Off this hallway, you will discover two elegant guest bedrooms and bathrooms that each act as their own private retreat. Bathroom 1 showcases another wonderful material selection of emerald green quartzite countertops and complimentary tiled walk-in shower. Guest Bedroom 1 has south and east facing exposure and overlooks abundant greenspace. Bathroom 2 has a fossil granite countertops and ample walk in shower. Bedroom 2 features a walk-in closet and an exterior sliding glass door that leads to a private patio on the east side of the home. Our journey continues on the west wing of the home... Let's go back down that hallway and start at the foyer. We will next head into the dining and kitchen area of the home that are open concept but distinctly their own separate spaces. The dining room features an oversized north facing window that is cased in Douglas Fir and detailed with stacked red rock. The dining room features some of the finest red rock views, where you will be enjoying dinner every night. We then effortlessly flow into the kitchen which houses numerous luxury appliances including a Miele oven, Miele steam oven, Miele microwave, a Dacor cooktop, a Dacor dishwasher, fossil quartz countertops, and solid hardwood cabinetry. Adjacent to the kitchen is the executive office with commanding views of Soaring Eagle! This office is conveniently tucked off the main living area and is a private corner of the home. A short hallway off the kitchen features a powder bathroom, laundry room, and entrance to the 3-car garage. The garage space has been outfitted for a car enthusiast as it is heated and cooled, has ample space, and contains built-in cabinetry with a quartz countertop to store all of your tools. The exterior greenspace of the home was professionally designed by landscape architect Richard Hubbell and features not only native trees and shrubs but also an abundance of fruit trees. The backyard area also features a sparkling pool and in-ground jacuzzi tub with sweeping red rock views. This home is truly a masterpiecewhere art, nature, and luxury seamlessly blend.

10150 E Havasupai Drive Unit 1119 Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$3,800,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,756 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6738205
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Contemporary home in The Parks at Silverleaf. This meticulously designed residence features two large Principal Suites, one on each floor, and another guest en suite on the main level - this home offers so much flexibility! The kitchen, equipped with all new Wolf Sub-Zero appliances, a walk-in pantry, and a spacious island with seating, opens to the great room with a fireplace and dining area. The large office/den offers excellent valley views. The upper level boasts a sizable entertainment area with a wet bar and with its' full bathroom it could also serve as another en suite bedroom! The backyard includes a pool, turf, and a covered patio with a dining area. The home is Crestron controlled with Sonos sound throughout. An exceptional opportunity in a prestigious neighborhood.

40777 N Echo Canyon Drive Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$3,800,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
5,799 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6757254
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
On just under 15 acres of pristine land, this one-of-a-kind property offers unmatched privacy and convenience, located just minutes from famous Downtown Cave Creek with its lively entertainment, restaurants, and shopping. For outdoor enthusiasts, the home is perfectly situated near Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area and Trails, providing easy access to some of the best hiking and riding in Cave Creek. The main house features a spacious and functional layout with two bedrooms and a grand owner's suite, complete with an oversized walk-in closet and a private office. The open living room is lined with windows, offering sweeping views of the beautiful backyard and the stunning mountain landscape. The backyard is an entertainer's paradise, equipped with a basketball court, infinity pool, koi pond, and desert landscaping that blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings. For equestrian lovers, the property also includes two horse stalls, perfect for enjoying the nearby trails. To top it all off, a rooftop deck offers stunning views making this the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the desert sunsets. The 1,500 sq ft guest house offers a cozy studio living space with a kitchenette, and an oversized bedroom upstairs that can double as a game room, office, or study. The sky's the limit! Let's not forget -this home offers a HUGE RV Garage and an additional 3 car garage, providing climate controlled space for up to 8 vehicles. This expansive property offers a rare opportunity to own almost 15 acres of highly sought-after land, combining serene privacy with close proximity to grocery stores, dining, and outdoor adventures. Don't miss out on this exceptional home!

7500 E Old Walnut Canyon Road Flagstaff, AZ 86004

$3,800,000
5 Beds
5 Baths
5,104 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6768828
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to an unparalleled 5 acre sanctuary nestled within the Flagstaff city limits, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Coconino National Forest. This exceptional property offers the rare opportunity to embrace serene living just 2 miles from the Continental Country Club, all without the constraints of an HOA. Exquisite main residence spanning 4,106 square feet, this completely remodeled 3-bedroom, 3-bath masterpiece with laundry on both levels boasts high-end finishes and thoughtful design. Step inside to find a spacious open floor plan adorned with custom-built alder cabinets, knotty alder doors, and stunning granite countertops. Enjoy movie nights in your private theater room with surround sound and unwind in the luxurious primary suite featuring an attached home office and a private balcony overlooking the National Forest, complete with a relaxing hot tub. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, equipped with stainless Monogram appliances, beautiful tile accents, and a custom dining island. Enjoy the full entertainers bar with a built-in refrigerated wine cellar and commercial ice maker. Outdoor living is equally impressive, with a stone kitchen featuring a pizza oven, Napoleon BBQ grill, and spacious custom decks for entertaining. Your guests will feel right at home in the newly completed 998-square-foot guest house, which mirrors the meticulous craftsmanship of the main residence. This 2-bedroom, 2-bath haven is the perfect retreat for family and friends. Car enthusiasts and hobbyists will appreciate the expansive 2,024-square-foot garage, equipped with RV doors, Guardian epoxy floors, and interior hookups. This versatile space is ideal for heavy equipment storage, a workshop, or a personal (wo)man cave. Additionally, a detached 12 x 24 garage or flex space offers further possibilities for storage, an office, or a home gym. Unmatched location and amenities with a total of 5 bedrooms and 5 baths, this property is perfect for large gatherings. Enjoy the abundance of wildlife right in your backyard, with elk and deer frequently visiting and take advantage of easy access to national forest hiking trails nearby. Experience the ultimate in Flagstaff living, complete with city water service, a backup water system, APS & back up generator, propane, and two certified septic systems. With plans drawn by premier architect Anne Mead and fully permitted by the city, this home is move-in ready and offered fully furnished (some personal items excluded). This legacy property is truly one-of-a-kind, offering peace, privacy, and luxury in an exclusive setting. Don't miss your chance to own this spectacular retreat. Schedule a private tour today and begin your journey to unparalleled mountain living! Seller is a licensed Real Estate Broker in Arizona.

9514 E Madera Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$3,800,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
4,400 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6779315
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This exquisite 2.2 acre Desert Mountain estate welcomes you with its brick lined circular driveway, old world Tuscan feel and panoramic mountain views! Elegance abounds with the extensive use of marble and stone finishes throughout, granite countertops, gorgeous tile flooring and well appointed bathrooms! The kitchen is an absolute DREAM and features a gas cooktop, double wall ovens and a wet bar with a pass through to one of the FIVE outdoor patios (one is screened in)! There are 3 bedrooms with ensuite baths in the main home, with a bedroom, bath and kitchen in the private 545 sq. ft. casita with separate entrance! Let the views of the Sonoran desert and stunning sunsets melt away your stress while soaking in the sparkling pool or spa! Sellers have a Lifestyle membership

2262 Meadow Trail -- Overgaard, AZ 85933

$3,800,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,036 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6779358
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Endless Possibilities for this One of a Kind-Easy central access in Overgaard Arizona on the Mogollon Rim. Close to forest and Lakes and all services. The main Property is on 20-Acres with A1-GeneraL Zoning along with a private pond and private well. This furnished Custom Farm House style Home was built in 2018 has 4-bedrooms and 3.5 baths with dual Primary suites on the main floor with 2-additoinal bedrooms and bath upstairs with a Rec.Room with a Pool table and balcony. Vaulted White Washed wood tongue & Groove Ceilings, Oversized Trex front & rear deck with balcony, Kitchen: Granite Counters with large Island and tile back splash, Upgraded Stainless Appliances, Crushed Ice maker, gas range/oven, upgraded light & plumbing fixtures, wine cellar, mud room,, *See Supplement Tab $4,500,000 $4,500,0000 with 27-Acres furnished: Note: There are 3 additional parcels adjacent with 2+- Acre parcels a total of 6-acres and all A-1 General Zoning on the North side of Ranch(Each currently listed 2255 bootlegger Parcels#1,2,3). There is also another adjacent 1-acre parcel R1-10 Zoning (2252 Mulligan to the south of ranch). All lots can be split for development or your desired use or use as a compound, many possibilities. A private well exists for the main home on 20-acres. All acreage is fenced. Water & Electric available for the adjacent lots. Mogollon Airpark just East. Endless Possibilities for this One of a Kind-Easy central access in Overgaard Arizona on the Mogollon Rim. Close to forest and Lakes and all services. This furnished Custom Farm House style Home was built in 2018 has 4-bedroom and 3.5 baths with an Oversized 3-Garage, White washed gas Brick Fireplace with elevated views of trees and meadows also has a private pond, private well, paved road access, gravel driveway. Oversized Trex front & rear deck with balcony, White washed tongue & groove Vaulted Ceilings, Granite Counters with large Island and tile backsplash, Upgraded Commercial grade Stainless Appliances, Crushed Ice maker, gas range/oven, upgraded light & plumbing fixtures, Main Primary bath has free standing soaking tub & large oversized tile shower, dual sink vanity, additional primary bedroom has large oversized shower, wood flooring thru-out, Oversized laundry room/Den and a mud room, Wine Cellar under stairs, walk-in Closets thru-out. The layout has 2-primary bedrooms on the main floor with 1/2 bath and upstairs has 2-bedrooms with 1-bath with Recreation room with a pool table and private balcony overlooking pond, trees & meadow. Chain link fenced rear yard with apple and peach trees along with Artificial turf.

8222 E Old Paint Trail Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$3,799,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
5,638 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6770322
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Calling all car lovers! This home showcases a 5 car garage with work area, an open floor plan with elevated ceiling heights and tons of windows in the main living spaces. The Gourmet kitchen is a chef's delight with upgraded cabinets, dual islands, designer stainless steel appliances including a Wolf 48'' Rangetop w/Griddle, Pro Hood, Micro Drawer, Pro Double Ovens, and Cove Dish Washer. Spacious great room features a 60'' primo fireplace and 20' multi-stacking door opening to a covered patio and amazing backyard with views. An oversized family room with direct access to a covered patio and pool area, in addition to the private serene front courtyard. Wake up to amazing views in the spacious Primary Suite. Relax in your spa-like bath with separate soaking tub, and step-in... shower. The additional 3 main home spacious bedrooms ALL have their own baths, perfect for family/guest privacy. Large attached casita with living area that has a sink and drink chiller, full bath and courtyard with fire pit. The sparkling pool in your private backyard oasis is AMAZING! Baja shelf, smaller pool and spa will WOW you! The grill master will love the covered built-in grill area. End your day in front of the gas fire-pit while watching stunning Arizona sunsets. SO much more to mention! You MUST SEE this home!

10585 E Crescent Moon Drive Unit 6 Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$3,795,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,562 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781819
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome home to Privada, a highly sought after gated enclave adjacent to the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale * This meticulously maintained custom single-level home offers 4 ensuite bedrooms * Intimate entry courtyard w/ gas fire-pit offers access to the main house and detached casita * Open great room offers massive sliding glass doors to both courtyard and the backyard w/ Troon Mountain and Pinnacle Peak views * South facing yard also features remodeled heated pool and spa, fireplace, built-in grill, covered patio, and complete privacy * Split master suite with sitting room & fireplace, dual vanities, and steam shower * Membership to the Four Seasons Pinnacle Club available, making you a permanent guest of Scottsdale's finest resort & all of its amenities (pools, spa, fitness, fine dining) just steps from your front door *

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