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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8185 E Alameda Road Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$9,999,000
5 Beds
11 Baths
5,950 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6593970
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Boasting nearly 10 acres of land, this gated estate includes a stunning Spanish-style main house, a full equestrian facility, an entertainment pavilion with attached theater, 2 standalone casitas, 2 staff apartments & a 1200 sqft multi-use building. The 5,950 sqft main home was renovated in 2021. Vaulted, wood beamed ceilings, engineered hardwood floors & statement luxury light fixtures through-out the home. The primary suite presents a seating area, balcony & spa worthy ensuite. The backyard has an outdoor kitchen, a heated pool, spa & putting green. The 5,000-SF, entertainment pavilion has a game room, full bar, kitchen, gym, yoga studio & 3rd-level deck with 360º mountain and city views. The equestrian facility encompasses 15 stalls, 2 arenas, 3 turnouts & 2 RV parking.

9204 E Grapevine Pass Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$9,996,000
5 Beds
7 Baths
7,718 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6608449
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
DESERT MOUNTAIN GOLF MEMBERSHIP AVAILABLE-Modern Mediterranean Luxury Living meets Fantastical Fun on one of the highest elevated estate sites in the premier community of Desert Mountain. Situated atop all of Desert Mountain on 12.2 acres with views of the entire valley. Entering the estate through the privately gated drive gives you the first sight of prominent elegance. The stone exterior with Cantera stone arches and accents, the forged metal details and limestone pavered entry greet you upon arrival. The 9 X 12 arched rain glass and iron scrolling door open to a brick mosaic lined rotunda with dazzling crystal chandelier. The elegant livability is instantly felt with the open and light great room split floor plan that blends seamlessly through the pocketing telescoping glass glass doors to the outdoor living space with linear spa and firepit offering unimaginable vistas in every direction. The Gourmet kitchen with large island, Alder wood cabinets, premium appliances and oversized walk-in pantry is every chefs dream. For the finest dining experience step through the circular entry defined by scrolled iron work, into the dining room with spectacular elevated views. The decadent Master Suite is well appointed with a stone wall backdrop, Cantera fireplace, dry sauna, spa like bath with glass tile shower, heated floors, free standing tub and designer closets. The Office, Guest Suite, Powder and Laundry each are statements in design and functionality. In the mood for some fun head downstairs to the whimsical bonus room with semi circular bar, work out room, home theater, and 2 additional guest bedrooms. The fanciful decor; bright colors, unique tile and fun finishes will make you smile. Head outside for more fun, relaxing and all your AZ outdoor entertainment needs; multi leveled patios, putting green, boulder waterfall cascading into the negative edge pool, sunning patios, outdoor kitchen and alfresco dining, Outdoor living room with fireplace, pool bath and outdoor shower. The separate entrance Casita charms every guest with the private patio, fireplace and unstoppable views. Car lovers will be astounded over the impeccably finished 5-car garage with garage vacuums, hot and cold water faucets, shoe closets and extra storage. The finest of organic finishes are throughout the home: wood and stone floors, wood, stone and tile wall details, brick mosaic and wood beam truss accented vaulted ceilings, stone counters and vanities, metal hand made iron work and the impressive steel great room grand fireplace. Additional details include smart home with Control 4 system, 44 solar panels, tankless water heaters, 2-inch water lines, 50 amp RV service and so much more! Ideal south facing backyard capturing maximum winter sun on the patio areas, along with tremendous sunsets, city lights and surrounding mountain views by day and mountain silhouettes by night. Bike or hike from your home to the nearby Desert Mountain Trails with over 20 miles of multi-use trails. Chiricahua and Cochise Geronimo Clubhouses are nearby for quick access to dining and golf. Sonoran Fitness center located within a short drive from this home. Golf Membership to the Desert Mountain Club available.

8412 N Golf Drive Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$9,950,000
6 Beds
6.5 Baths
7,372 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773398
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled on a serene, private street in the highly sought-after Camelback Country Club, this stunning single-level home, newly constructed by the RafterHouse, offers a luxurious blend of elegance and comfort. Designed by the acclaimed Blochberger Design, this residence boasts breathtaking views of the 17th hole and an expansive lake. The home is filled with natural light, thanks to oversized windows and sliders, perfectly complemented by the exquisite landscaping from Roots First. Featuring six spacious ensuite bedrooms, each designed to comfortably accommodate a king-size bed, the home offers privacy and luxury for every occupant. A separate, oversized game room provides additional space for entertainment or relaxation. The backyard is a true oasis, ideal for indoor-outdoor living with a custom-designed pool and spa, complete with a stunning fire feature that spans nearly the entire length of the pool. The oversized four-car garage offers ample space for vehicles and storage, making this home as functional as it is beautiful. Whether you're hosting gatherings or seeking a peaceful retreat, this property delivers the ultimate luxury living experience in a quiet, private setting.

5226 E Desert Vista Road Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$9,950,000
6 Beds
6 Baths
8,137 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769287
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
At the intersection of stylish elegance and unrivaled luxury you've discovered this breathtaking assignment by '555 Angel Designs'; situated in one of the most sought-after and private blue-chip corridors in Paradise Valley. With iconic Mummy Mountain as your backdrop and walking distance to the prestigious Paradise Valley Country Club, this 6,513 SqFt main residence and 1,624 SqFt guest house were masterfully crafted by world renowned architect Candelaria Design perfectly blends timeless architecture, elegant interiors and versatile spaces; with exquisite custom finishes and attention to detail throughout. Curated for entertaining and effortless day-to-day living, the home lives harmoniously with the gorgeous outdoors, allowing for seamless access to the sprawling covered patio... ,pool, spa, ramada, and a large yard; all while capturing stunning view corridors. The Chef's dream kitchen is the heart of the home and boasts high-end appliances, a large center island and opens to a comfortable main living space with an abundance of natural light, overlooking the resort backyard. A generously sized secondary living area off of the kitchen allows for flexibility and can be utilized as a more casual or formal space. The primary retreat is luxurious and spacious, boasting a spa-like bath with easy access to the outdoor space. 4 well-appointed guest bedrooms, one of which is currently being utilized as a gorgeous office, complete the main home. The 1,624 sq ft guest house features an additional bedroom, a kitchenette, as well as a private gated drive with its own garage for guests. The tranquil outdoor oasis boasts privacy, a large elevated covered patio, a sparkling pool, spa, BBQ Area, and a beautiful ramada with seating to soak in the mountain vistas. Away from road traffic and noise, yet just minutes to fine dining, and luxury shops, this estate checks all of the boxes for Paradise Valley living at its finest. See MOTION VIDEO

5500 S Four Cross Ranch Road Skull Valley, AZ 86338

$9,900,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,289 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781357
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Historic & picturesque Four Cross Ranch, located 20 miles SW of Prescott & 2 hours from Phoenix. Ranch spans a total of 1,576 deeded acres, w/additional 4,033 acres of BLM & State Land grazing leases, making it ideal for ranching, recreation & hunting. Perched on a hill, the main residence offers panoramic views of rolling pastures & distant mountains, creating a serene vantage point, along with 4 more homes for guests and ranch hands. Ranch is efficiently watered by multiple wells & offers top-notch facilities for cattle & horses, including a 14-stall enclosed barn, a two-stall shedrow barn w/spacious outdoor runs & an open-air barn with W panels. Complete w/tack room, office, round pen & cutting and roping arenas. Multiple workshops and equipment sheds provide ample space for all ranching activities. The large shop features three-phase electric power. Historically significant, the ranch was once partially owned by Virgil and Elvira Earp during the Territory of Arizona era. Scattered throughout the land, you may stumble upon ancient petroglyphs. Whether you're drawn to its rich history, exceptional livestock facilities, or the serene beauty of its surroundings, Four Cross Ranch is a legacy of excellence waiting to be explored. Main Residence 4289 sq/ft (3bed/3.5bath) Modular Home 1900 sq/ft (3bed/2bath) Modular Home 1900 sq/ft (3bed/2bath) Guest House 1806 sq/ft (2bed/2bed) Guest House 3574 sq/ft (3bed/2bed)

8302 N Mockingbird Lane Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$9,750,000
6 Beds
7 Baths
8,210 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6777816
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
A property that unveils itself from day to night, from private and intimate, to full blown entertaining with friends and family. This home has it all! At 8210 sq ft and situated on a private 1.2 acre lot the residence epitomizes modern elegance and thoughtful design. With stunning Mummy Mountain and Phoenix Mountain Preserve views enhanced by floor to ceiling pocket window doors that give new meaning to indoor/outdoor living. Highlights include: a stunning primary suite, five additional en-suite bedrooms, a private one-bedroom guest residence with separate entry, beautifully designed office, home theatre room and exercise room with infrared sauna. The open-concept chef's quality kitchen complemented by a spacious butler's pantry with additional dishwasher, refrigerator/freezer, wine refrigerator and abundant storage is a wow. The living and dining areas with full bar seamlessly integrate with the central courtyard and outdoor spaces. With custom heated pool and spa, sunken fire pit, gas fireplace and full outdoor kitchen that will be the envy of anyone who loves to entertain. Tennis, pickle ball anyone? We have you covered. The laundry room boasts a dry-cleaning/steamer appliance, dual washer/dryers and the four-car garage includes an electric vehicle charging station and convenient dog wash. The home is also designed for future solar panel integration. The team of Aspen Dev Co., The Ranch Mine and Boxwell Homes have designed and built a one of a kind Paradise Valley retreat. Come and see what makes this property so special...and once you feel it, you'll want to call it home.

26446 N 119th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$9,750,000
6 Beds
7.5 Baths
8,299 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6767018
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Just completed and ready for occupancy! Located in the highly coveted Troon area of North Scottsdale, in the exclusive luxury gated community of Cantabrica Estates, award winning architect Craig Wickersham, in collaboration with luxury home builder DWD Homes, has given careful consideration to the design and layout of this newly built home to create a striking modern silhouette set against the dramatic high Sonoran Desert landscape that maximizes views and privacy. From pristine, design-forward finishes to vast expanses of glass that usher in the Arizona sunshine, the uniquely designed interior blends contemporary elegance with touches of warming finishes. The main house offers 6494 square feet with 4 bedrooms, 4 full bathrooms and 2 half baths. The The great room, with its floor to ceiling automated and pocketing glass doors by Fleetwood, showcases direct views of Troon Mountain. Flowing into the formal dining area, highlighted by a glassed front wine room and opening to a private patio area, guests will enjoy views of the Mazatzal Mountain range to the east, in addition to views of Troon Mountain to the west. For more relaxed entertaining, the casual dining area offers a bar area with four refrigerated beverage drawers, a Scottsman ice maker, and floor to ceiling, corner opening, glass doors that give access to the outdoor kitchen and patio areas. Along with a chef inspired kitchen, for both additional storage and use as a service kitchen, the architect added a Butler's Pantry with dishwasher, sink and refrigerator. Additional rooms include an office, the wine room that holds approximately 700 bottles of your favorite wines, a large entertainment/media room with direct access to the outdoor area, and a gym with cork flooring and its own private patio. The guest house has 1805 square feet with an expansive upper balcony to enjoy the surrounding mountain views, two ensuite bedrooms, a full size kitchen, very large separate living room, and a laundry room, giving a total of 8299 square feet to this home. Highlighted are 6.5 oversized garage spaces with room to add 2 additional garages, if needed. For those with a discerning taste in creativity, artistry and fine materials, this residence harmoniously balances its contemporary design with timeless earthy textures and soothing hues to create a serene environment. Along with showcasing the latest in efficiencies and technology, designer selected expanses of Eurostyle Rift cut Walnut and French White Oak cabinetry in the chef's kitchen and throughout the home are highlighted. Finishes and fixtures include top of the line kitchen appliances like Wolf, SubZero and Miele. Dornbracht, La Cava, Toto and Waterstone are a few examples of plumbing fixtures. Along with large format ratified limestone porcelain tile flooring and various Quartzite counter tops, extraordinary decorative lighting by Holly Hunt, Hammerton Forge & others is featured. An abundance of natural sunlight filters throughout the home with Fleetwood's system of windows and the retractable glass door system in the main living space that opens to patios. With the doors and walls of glass throughout the home, there is a wonderful and seamless emersion between the indoor and outdoor spaces. The outdoor living areas provide entertaining drama. Enhanced by views of Troon Mountain and the McDowell Mountain range, the expansive under cover patio with its outdoor kitchen, the pool and spa, and the large ramada with its multiple areas for seating and dining, the fireplace and the oversized TV niche, all create a wonderful outdoor lifestyle. Looking beyond this incredible home with its many unique and quality driven details, you will see what makes it and Cantabrica Estates so special--the endless and pristine beauty of the area showcased by the surrounding McDowell and Mazatzal Mountain ranges, Troon Mountain and Sonoran Desert views. While just a short distance from all the city has to offer, the community of Cantabrica Estates is about tranquility and open space. For outdoor activities, close by are miles and miles of scenic hiking, biking and horseback riding trails, lakes for boating and fishing, as well as many world class golf courses. Easy access to the 101 Freeway allows you to reach various destinations around the valley quickly. Phoenix Sky Harbor can be reached in approximated 35 minutes and Scottsdale's private airport is about a 20 minute ride. While there are many outstanding doctors, clinics and hospitals in the valley, The Mayo Clinic is also a short drive away. Looking for more? Scottsdale is known for its art and culture and offers an incredible mix of museums, shopping, restaurants, galleries and nightlife, along with a wide range of performing arts and special events such as baseball's spring training, Barrett-Jackson car auction, the Arabian horse show and the Waste Management Phoenix Open Golf Tournament. Click on Documents tab for additional information about this home.

7120 N 46th Street Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$9,595,000
5 Beds
6 Baths
7,253 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6764563
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Experience the epitome of luxury at this gated 2-acre Paradise Valley estate, where breathtaking views of Camelback Mountain and sparkling city lights take center stage through expansive floor-to-ceiling glass walls. The home features a chef's gourmet kitchen, a sleek bar and an oversized wine room, creating the ultimate setting for entertaining. Additional highlights include a media room, a fitness /spa room, a thoughtfully designed split floor plan with a bonus room and a full casita for visiting guests. Step outside to your personal oasis, complete with a beach-entry negative-edge heated pool and spa, a sports court, a zip line, and a putting green. Car enthusiasts will appreciate the 6-car climate-controlled garage with an elevator. Home is all one level excluding the garage.

5555 N Camino Del Contento -- Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$9,500,000
5 Beds
7.5 Baths
7,400 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784428
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
A SIGNATURE contemporary estate in the heart of Paradise Valley, this architecturally significant property blends rich organic elements w/ monolithic 24-inch rammed earth walls, floor-to-ceiling glass, steel, copper-clad exterior, finished concrete floors & warm Douglas Fir ceilings. Designed + built by The Construction Zone, this 2.5-acre compound, secured by dual-gated entry, offers a 3-car garage & an add'l 8+ car, temp-controlled SHOWROOM garage! Ascend the floating staircase to the primary suite, lofty lounge area, offices, & balconies showcasing city + Cmblk Mtn views. A secondary wing is home to 3 bdrms & exercise room, w/ ensuite bathrooms, family/media room, & private patio. This TIMELESS estate offers mesmerizing views of Cmblk Mtn, spacious guest casita & golf simulator room!

6554 N 40th Place Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$9,390,000
6 Beds
6.5 Baths
7,500 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6613811
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this 7,500 sq ft private estate, a masterpiece by UR Development's in-house team. Enter through dramatic glass doors into a stunning open-concept design with 95% of the living space on one level. Enjoy six ensuite bedrooms, an office, powder room, and four-car garage. The versatile casita overlooks the pool, and the chef's kitchen boasts dual islands, custom cabinetry, and Wolf/Sub-Zero appliances. Entertain in style with a custom wood wine cellar and handcrafted bar. Outdoor features include desert landscaping, an infinity-edge pool, an eight-person spa, a fireplace, and a fire pit. Revel in panoramic views of Camelback and Piestewa Peak, with a C4 smart home system and more. Ideally located minutes from Arcadia, Scottsdale Waterfront, and Biltmore.

6879 E Palma Vita Drive Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$9,195,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
5,480 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6719626
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
The Estates Homes are created by celebrated architect, C.P. Drewett of Drewett Works and award-winning Designer, Claire Ownby of Ownby Design. The floor plan offers gracious space spanning a main and lower level with astonishing views of Camelback Mountain. Future owner can choose from 3 architecturally styles. Each Estate is serviced and branded by The Ritz-Carlton Paradise Valley. Owners have full access to private amenities, hotel amenities, a wide variety of homeowner services, and hotel privileges. The Estate are built by luxury home builders, Starwood Custom Homes and GS Fries Construction. The owners have a very personalized experience with the entire team and involved in every step and progression of their semi-custom home. Please note Estate #6 is not built.

7555 N Eucalyptus Drive Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$9,000,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
7,592 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6687994
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
New to the market for the very first time, this majestic, warm, and elegant Desert Contemporary occupies a serene setting and sits on a site of 2.3 acres on the Paradise Valley Country Club golf course. This one-of-a-kind highly desirable lot is situated on one of the most coveted cul-de-sacs in Paradise Valley. The splendor of the home, built in 1998, and featured in Phoenix Home and Garden magazine, begins by opening the dramatic front door of inlaid walnut wood with sculpted iron handles. Showcasing the extraordinary craftsmanship found throughout the home, the entry rotunda conveys a gallerylike calm, featuring dramatic art niches, honed marble and cherry wood floors illuminated by a dome skylight. A magnificent great room has soaring14' high ceilings of beams and inlaid wood. Floor to ceiling glass doors and windows frame views of the golf course and incredible vistas of the mountains. The kitchen with alder wood cabinetry, center island and eating bar flow into a breakfast room with a two-way fireplace and curved windows. Deep set patios invite you outside to the marble clad BBQ and outdoor dining, firepit and reflecting pool. Formal dining can be enjoyed while looking at vignettes of desert landscaping through glass doors on one side and a wall-to-wall window on the other. A peaceful retreat, the primary bedroom and office wing is a private space with well-placed windows, high ceilings and an atrium effect for the primary bathroom. A cozy yet spacious office is warmed by a 3-sided slate fireplace, creating a dual office space, art walls and comfortable seating. A secondary bedroom suite has a kitchenette and separate entrance, making it perfect for guests. A new wing was added in 2005, with a sizable jack-and-jill bathroom between two bedrooms, one of which can serve as another office space. Symmetrical lines, warm hues, serene elegance, and comfort make this residence a timeless masterpiece.

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