2 Myths That May Be Holding Back Buyers

2 Myths That May Be Holding Back Buyers | Simplifying The Market

Fannie Mae’s article, “What Consumers (Don’t) Know About Mortgage Qualification Criteria, revealed that “only 5 to 16 percent of respondents know the correct ranges for key mortgage qualification criteria.

Myth #1: “I Need a 20% Down Payment”

Fannie Mae’s survey revealed that consumers overestimate the down payment funds needed to qualify for a home loan. According to the report, 76% of Americans either don’t know (40%) or are misinformed (36%) about the minimum down payment required.

Many believe that they need at least 20% down to buy their dream home, but many programs actually let buyers put down as little as 3%.

Below are the results of a Digital Risk survey of Millennials who recently purchased a home.

2 Myths That May Be Holding Back Buyers | Simplifying The Market

As you can see, 64.2% were able to purchase their home by putting down less than 20%, with 43.8% putting down less than 10%!

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

The survey revealed that 59% of Americans either don’t know (54%) or are misinformed (5%) 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. As you can see below, 54.7% of approved mortgages had a credit score of 600-749.

2 Myths That May Be Holding Back Buyers | Simplifying The Market

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. Give me a call to get started on the path to homeownership – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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22423 N 89th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$6,800,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
6,350 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784610
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Set in a prime location in North Scottsdale surrounded by Arizona's top golf destinations, this iconic new contemporary estate is situated on an Elevated large flagship lot with south-southwest facing city views spanning all of Scottsdale and boasts ultimate privacy, luxury, and technology. Resort-like living throughout this single-story home that is completely flat with zero stairs or steps. Featuring spectacular indoor and outdoor living spaces, this home includes multi-slide stacking glass doors throughout, 420 bottle wine wall by Heritage Vine, full size wet bar, billiards room, sports bar, wet edge black tiled infinity pool and spa by California Pools, professional landscaping by Berghoff Design Group, private BBQ patio with Wolf grill, state-of-the-art systems throughout including motorized blinds, Smart house Control4 technology system, security system and cameras, and custom lighting and speakers throughout each room including the courtyard and backyard. Owner built with highest attention to details, featuring wall tiling by Bisazza, 24x48 Pietra Italia white tile flooring, 3 countertops, stone wall cladding throughout, and T&G wood ceilings.

10040 E Happy Valley Road Unit 1 Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$6,800,000
7 Beds
9.5 Baths
12,307 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6476411
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to Desert Highlands #1! The Epitome of Multigenerational Resort-Style Living. This extraordinary estate, nestled on a sprawling 2.6 acre private cul-de-sac homesite, offers IMMEDIATE full Club membership, providing you with access to a wealth of exclusive amenities. Step onto the pavered, circular drive, and you'll be greeted by a private garden courtyard with lush landscapes, setting the tone for the remarkable lifestyle that awaits. This home underwent a remarkable $6 million total re-imagination in 2019, resulting in a smart, transitional luxury masterpiece. Every detail meticulously curated, and no expense spared to create this stunning residence. Inside the main home, you'll find an array of sophisticated spaces, perfect for hosting large gatherings, as well as comfortable, light-filled areas for casual everyday living. The state-of-the-art features and top-of-the-line finishes make this home truly exceptional. A remarkable value, priced well below pre-listing appraisal. The first level of the main home boasts a formal living room, elegant dining room, four of the five en suite bedrooms, a spacious office, media room, and not one, but two wine cellars. The fifth guest ensuite (on the 2nd level) opens to a private deck featuring down valley views. The chef's kitchen is a delight with upgraded appliances, oversized Sub Zero refrigerator, a Wolf range with six burners and multiple ovens. And let's not forget the Miele built-in plumbed coffee system to kickstart your day in the best way possible. The custom furniture grade cabinetry is not only abundant but exquisitely topped with gorgeous Matterhorn granite, adding to the allure of the kitchen. From the kitchen, you'll find seamless transitions to the light and airy breakfast room and inviting family room, with telescoping glass sliding doors leading to multiple extended covered patios and private gardens, offering magnificent views from every angle. As you explore further, you'll discover the private primary suite, occupying the south wing of the main level. This luxurious oasis features a relaxing sitting area, direct patio access to the pool and spa, and a resort-inspired bath retreat with mesmerizing mountain views from the spectacular blue marble topped jetted tub. Dual custom vanities, water closets, and a generously sized shower with multiple heads complete this lavish bathroom, along with dual custom walk-in closets. On the other side of the home, beyond the 50' gallery, Desert Highlands #1 offers a large and spacious casita. Thoughtfully designed with privacy in mins, its single-level layout ensures easy accessibility for those who prefer a step-free environment. The casita features its own private courtyard entrance, allowing guests to come and go as they please without intruding on the main living areas. The well-appointed guest casita offers tranquil living space, a full Wolf/Sub Zero kitchen, two en suite bedrooms with personal patios, private laundry room and an attached garage. Beyond the diving pool, a true entertainer's paradise awaits with a 2,576 square foot fun-filled cabana. This vibrant space boasts a full-sized kitchen, a massive wet bar, four wall-mounted TVs, and game room . The cabana opens up to the pool area with automated telescoping sliding windows, overlooking the swim-up bar. And for a unique experience, the Dive-In movie screen is stored above the swim-up bar, allowing you to enjoy your favorite films while relaxing in the pool. The primary home, guest casita, cabana, and ramada seamlessly encircle the backyard retreat, creating a completely private oasis. The outdoor living space is unlike any other, featuring an expansive heated pool, spa, three gas fire pits, two waterfalls, misters under the ramada for added comfort, a water slide, custom outdoor kitchen and a swim-up bar! You can also indulge in a huge conditioned gymnastics space, complete with a trampoline, tumble track, and foam pit, complemented by a convenient full bathroom. The home is fully automated with Control 4 technology, offering modern convenience in the heart of the Sonoran Desert. For the car enthusiasts, there is a possibility of 12+ parking to accommodate your prized collection. Desert Highlands Golf Club, a private guard-gated community, provides an idyllic setting for this exceptional estate. As a resident, you'll have access to an 18-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature course, a Gary Panks designed 18-hole putting course, a 7,700 sq. ft. state-of-the-art fitness center, 13 tennis courts with various surfaces, pickle ball courts, fishing pond, dog park, and a meandering walking/biking path throughout the community. After enjoying these amenities, unwind at Jack's Pub or indulge in formal dining at the Ventana Dining room. Welcome to your new home at Desert Highlands #1, where the possibilities for luxury living and unforgettable experiences are endless.

9810 N 57th Street Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$6,799,000
6 Beds
5.5 Baths
7,379 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6771812
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to Ivy Manor—a 7,379 sq ft brand-new construction masterpiece by UR Development's in-house team THIS HOME WILL BE COMPLETED NEXT MONTH! Inspired by Old World design with contemporary finishes, this luxurious estate is nestled in the highly sought-after Paradise Valley. With a spacious, usable lot, there's ample room for an elegant courtyard or even a tennis court. This stunning home features six bedrooms, five and a half baths, and a guest house for ultimate privacy. High-quality appliances and premium materials, including stone finishes and engineered hardwood floors, elevate the quality of living. The master bedroom offers complete seclusion with a split floor plan, blending traditional elegance with modern luxury throughout.

7568 N Mockingbird Lane Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$6,790,000
6 Beds
7 Baths
7,625 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6725714
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Priced to sell! Mediterranean style home in a highly coveted part of Paradise Valley. Mother in law suite includes its own washer dryer and kitchen along with its own exit to the patio and garage. You're going to love spending time in this oversized master bedroom with spacious sitting area and coffee counter with refrigerator built in making for more convenient mornings. Master bathroom includes makeup area as well as free standing tub with beautiful views into your private backyard. Gorgeous resort style backyard includes gas fireplace that has never been used. Private office with wall to wall built in cabinets and shelves. Sound system has been installed in master, formal living area as well as formal dining area and family room! Pool and spa with roof deck makes sunset/mountain views in your backyard hard to resist. Home includes pantry/prep kitchen and movie theatre as well. House includes an additional room that can be used for flex, gym or yoga depending on your preference. Faux wood beams in the family room as well as dining area. Tesla Solar plus Tesla pack make for an energy efficient and easy to charge home. Too many additional features to list.

6515 E Stallion Road Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$6,775,000 - 5Br/6Ba -  for Sale in Cinco Serros Lots 9 & 10, Paradise Valley
Open House
New
$6,775,000
5 Beds
6 Baths
6,236 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6775896
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this stunning, meticulously upgraded home featuring 5 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms across 6,236 square feet of luxurious living space. With a brand-new tile roof and seamless hardwood floors throughout, this residence offers an elegant and inviting atmosphere. The spacious split floor plan includes king-sized en suites, each equipped with walk-in closets, ensuring ample privacy and comfort for family and guests. As you enter, you'll be greeted by a beautifully remodeled entrance with keyless access and a Ring doorbell, setting the tone for modern convenience. The heart of the home is a chef's dream kitchen, featuring beautiful cabinetry, marble countertops, and high-end Viking and Wolf appliances, including a Subzero fridge and dual dishwashers. A butler's pantry and an apron sink enhance functionality, while the adjacent family room features accordion slider doors that seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living. The primary suite is a true retreat, complete with his and her walk-in closets, a safe room, and a luxurious bathroom featuring a tranquil tub with garden views. The living areas are designed for both relaxation and entertainment, featuring surround sound, a formal dining room, and inviting fireplaces. Step outside to a beautifully landscaped backyard, where you'll find a mosaic-tiled pool, an inset Jacuzzi, and an outdoor shower, all framed by mountain views. With RV parking and mature fruit trees, this private oasis is perfect for outdoor enjoyment. Additional highlights include a spacious laundry room, an epoxy-floored garage with ample storage, and a flex room that can serve as a home gym or theater. This home is truly a masterpiece, offering the perfect blend of sophistication and modern amenities. Don't miss your chance to make it yours.

8822 E Chino Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$6,750,000
5 Beds
6 Baths
5,565 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6758786
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to 8822 E Chino Drive.This North Scottsdale elegant estate is perfectly situated on 1.5 acres creating a home that enjoys resort style living, complete privacy & exquisite McDowell Mountain views. The home was originally built in 2017 and has been totally reimagined and redesigned in 2021 creating a modern and elegant timeless estate, with seamless indoor/outdoor living spaces in a peaceful Zen like setting. The gourmet kitchen with Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances will compliment any chef, with a large island that is open to the dining and coffered ceiling living room with 60 inch linear fireplace, creating an elegant space which is perfect for family gatherings and entertainment. This is also a smart home, operated by using an app or your voice: Lights, TV, Music, and Fireplaces can all be turned on by the time the garage door opens. The home is also equipped with solar. The primary suite is split from other bedrooms offering complete privacy, the linear fireplace will set the mood for any occasion. Enter the spa-like En-Suite marble bathroom with luxurious closets. A master patio with gas burning fireplace completes the Primary bedroom experience. Entertaining in this home is a delight with the 20-foot panoramic sliding glass doors leading to the exquisite white limestone patios, a resort-style pool, and a spa with a backdrop of McDowell Mountain views. How about a game of pickleball, you have your very own flood-lit sports court and your own private putting green to practice your putting skills. It truly is a one-of-a-kind luxurious resort. No detail or expense was withheld on this superior one-of-a-kind remodel. Custom furnishings professionally designed can be available via a separate bill of sale, this can be a turn-key investment, just bring your personal items and enjoy.

4000 E Granite Dells Road Payson, AZ 85541

$6,750,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
5,340 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773310
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover the ultimate getaway on 80 acres of breathtaking beauty; this majestic land offers endless possibilities. Surrounded by National Forest on all 4 sides, solitude and beauty abound with mountains and lush, tree-lined areas. A serene escape perfect for outdoor fun and adventure, yet only a short drive to the center of Payson, or a mile walk to The Rim Club. All utilities in place, including a private well, APS switching station and multiple transformers for future residential development. Special use permits could be obtained for events like weddings or corporate retreats. Forest access, abundant wildlife, internal trail system combine secluded tranquility. Includes a detached clubhouse/garage for storing toys and entertaining. Inside is also a recreational bunk house. The home is designed by popular architect Jack DeBartolo with modern architecture as to incorporate the home into the beauty of the property. Pool house and work barn are additional structures with added value depending on desired use. Pool house can be converted to single family home. Other notables: Roughly 25 acres of very flat land. Years ago, this property was designed for 38 custom lots as part of a high end equestrian facility. Massive infrastructure upgrades include but aren't limited to: Private well with 5,000 gallon storage tank and multiple pressure tanks. Water has been piped over ½ mile to both ends of property. APS switching station with multiple transformers for possibility of over 15 homes. Road system created within entire property Extensive grading and drainage to minimize the effects of seasonal runoff and erosion. Internal trail system Solo access to Forest Service gate on Granite Dells Road. Extensive front wall and gate on West entry of property.

10080 E Filaree Lane Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$6,750,000
5 Beds
6 Baths
6,700 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6709946
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Golf Membership Available! Welcome to an unparalleled living experience in the prestigious Desert Mountain Village of Mountain Skyline, Lot 71. This exclusive property offers a unique opportunity to own a contemporary masterpiece designed by Beau Graffin and built by the renowned Black Stone Custom Homes. Nestled amidst the serene beauty of the Sonoran Desert, this luxurious new build is perfectly situated to capture breathtaking mountain views, providing a tranquil backdrop for your daily life. Spanning 6,700 square feet, the thoughtfully designed split floor plan ensures privacy and comfort for all residents. The master suite, office, and Flex room/Game Room/Junior Master are conveniently located on one side, while three spacious guest ensuites occupy the other, offering the perfect blend of togetherness and solitude. The heart of the home is the expansive great room, featuring walls of glass and multi-slide door systems that seamlessly connect the indoor and outdoor living spaces. Indulge your culinary passions in the gourmet kitchen, equipped with the latest high-end appliances, scullery room, and sleek, modern finishes. From there, step out to the enormous patio space, where you can enjoy the pool, spa, and cantilevered metal covered outdoor kitchen with bar seating, outdoor lounge, TV, and dining area, and firepit all located along a desert wash adding privacyideal for entertaining guests or unwinding in the desert breeze with sunset, mountain and city light views! Plenty of storage for cars or outdoor adventure gear in the 5 car garage. Pre construction opportunity, there is still time to personalize the finishes and make this home truly your own. Whether your style leans towards sleek minimalism or cozy rustic touches, our team is here to bring your vision to life. The property comes with a coveted golf membership, granting you access to the finest amenities Desert Mountain has to offer. An exclusive opportunity awaits the new buyer to enjoy an updated rental property nearby during the construction of their new home, they will have the privilege of residing in this charming home, rent-free. This unique arrangement not only offers the convenience of a temporary residence but also provides the chance to immerse oneself in the serene ambiance of the Sonoran landscape. Explore over 20 miles of multi-use trails, perfect for hiking and biking. Tee off at one of seven world-class golf courses, each with its unique challenges and stunning views. For dining and socializing, the nearby clubhouses, including Chiricahua and Cochise Geronimo, offer gourmet cuisine and a variety of social events. Stay active at the Sonoran community fitness facility or indulge in a relaxing spa treatment at the Desert Mountain Spa. Desert Mountain boasts seven clubhouses and seven golf courses, ensuring endless options for leisure and entertainment. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, culinary delights, or a peaceful retreat, this community has something for everyone. Don't miss out on this rare opportunity to create your Desert Mountain dream lifestyle. Schedule a private tour today and experience the unmatched beauty and luxury that await you in the heart of the Sonoran Desert.

23216 N 95th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$6,750,000 - 5Br/6Ba -  for Sale in Pinnacle Peak Vistas, Scottsdale
Open House
$6,750,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
6,517 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6695412
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Introducing a 6,100+ square foot modern masterpiece designed by Graffin Design Architects, nestled on nearly an acre of land boasting breathtaking mountain and city light views just north of DC Ranch. This home's allure begins with a paver driveway leading to a 3-car garage (with EV charger and dog wash station!), courtyard entry, and a grand pivoting front door. Inside the residence exudes sophistication and functionality, featuring a sleek split floor plan with 4 bedrooms and 4.5 baths on the main level, including a separate principal suite and an attached casita with its own living space. The great room, featuring a large drop down screen and projector, seamlessly flows into the kitchen and dining area, with glass walls that invite abundant natural light and panoramic views. Upstairs, a versatile space awaits, offering a sitting room/bar area, a 5th bedroom/exercise room with a full bath, and a separate view deck with a lounge area, perfect for entertaining. Throughout the home, premium finishes abound, including hardwood and tile floors, a full Wolf Sub Zero appliance package, custom cabinets, porcelain countertops, 8' solid doors, exposed masonry block, and chrome hardware fixtures all enhanced by LED lighting and controlled remotely via Control 4 smart home system. Enhancing the living experience is the seamless integration of indoor-outdoor spaces, where the backyard oasis beckons with a pebble-tec pool and spa, synthetic turf yard with custom xeriscape, and a full outdoor kitchen with built-in barbecue and pizza oven, multiple fireplaces and stunning city light and mountain views. There is also a large enclosed private dog park that could be converted into a play area or golf simulator or whatever dream project you envision! Additional features include a central vac system, owned solar panels, outdoor shower, multiple water features, auto covers for the pool and spa, and a built-in ionized water station in the fitness room. Truly there are too many extras to list here! Discover unparalleled luxury living in this meticulously crafted residence, where every detail reflects the epitome of high-end sophistication and style.

2437 Wren Cove Way Lake Havasu City, AZ 86406

$6,700,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
5,998 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781604
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled in the world-class, guard-gated community of Riviera, this extraordinary lock-and-leave, lakeside estate—brand new construction—offers an unparalleled living experience. Boasting 4 expansive bedrooms and 4.5 luxurious bathrooms, this home is a true escape to paradise, where sophisticated design meets exceptional craftsmanship. The expansive great room, highlighted by soaring 14-foot vaulted ceilings, effortlessly flows into a gourmet kitchen featuring top-of-the-line Miele appliances, custom cabinetry, and a glass-enclosed wine room with capacity for 500 bottles. Throughout the estate, exquisite touches abound—rift-cut oak walls, Italian porcelain flooring, and handcrafted solid oak interior doors add a layer of refinement to every space. The opulent master suite is a... private retreat, complete with a steam shower and dry sauna for ultimate relaxation. Equipped with a state-of-the-art Crestron home automation system, this home offers convenience and modern luxury at your fingertips. Designed to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings, the home features expansive sliding glass walls that open to an outdoor sanctuary, complete with a pool, spa, and panoramic vistas. With every detail meticulously curated, this architectural masterpiece offers the perfect fusion of elegance, comfort, and breathtaking natural beauty.

27643 N 113th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$6,700,000
6 Beds
9 Baths
10,766 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6725873
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Enter a world of luxury and sophistication with this breathtaking masterpiece of design. Nestled on nearly 4 acres of private gated land, this expansive home offers unparalleled elegance and exceptional amenities. The residence has 2 levels: the main level consists of a grand foyer entrance, a formal dining room, an office, a gourmet kitchen with eating area and an opulent great room with high ceilings. There is a private wing for the master suite with 2 master baths & closets! The opposite side has 4 bedrooms each with an ensuite & patio, there is a powder room plus a game room and bar area.The lower level features a large theater room and separate guest house with a bedroom, living area and kitchen. There is an elevator from the 8 car garage to easily access the main level. The outdoor living space is truly a personal oasis with a large covered patio, a stunning heated pool / spa featuring a swim up bar and water slide, full sized tennis court / basketball court, a ramada, a playground, lush landscaping and accent lighting. This estate is more than a home, it's a lifestyle designed for both grand entertaining and serene relaxation. Welcome to your new paradise! FYI: New roof, 3 new AC units, new wood flooring in all bedrooms and game room, there is a laundry room and also a W/D in one of the master closets - this home has it all!

4545 N Launfal Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85018

$6,695,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
5,630 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781063
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
4545 Launfal - Welcome to your own slice of paradise, located in the idyllic Arcadia neighborhood of Phoenix. Providing an unparalleled setting amidst picturesque landscapes and breathtaking mountain vistas, the home offers a lifestyle of convenience and sophistication, with proximity to upscale shopping destinations, fine dining establishments, and world-class entertainment venues, ensuring every desire is effortlessly met. Yet, despite its proximity to urban amenities, the home remains a sanctuary of serenity and seclusion, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. The home embodies luxury living with its sleek design and modern amenities. As you enter, the spacious living areas boast an abundance of natural light and elegant finishes, creating an inviting atmosphere for entertaining guests or relaxing with family. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring high-end appliances, custom cabinetry, and a large island perfect for meal preparation and casual dining. Adjacent to the kitchen, the formal dining room offers a sophisticated space for hosting dinner parties and special occasions, tastefully integrated with a wine wall that not only serves as a visually stunning backdrop, but acts as a temperature-controlled wine cellar, adding an element of refinement that elevates the overall ambiance of the space. Retreat to the spacious primary suite with fireplace and views of Camelback Mountain, complete with an expansive bathroom area, with separate commodes and large walk-in closets, for added convenience and functionality. The home not only boasts three large ensuite guest bedrooms in the main house, but also a guest casita with private entrance, offering a truly exclusive retreat for discerning visitors. Step outside to your own private oasis, where relaxation and recreation await. The expansive covered patio allows for ideal outdoor living, while enjoying a backyard that is an entertainer's dream, featuring a large salt water pool and built in spa area surrounded by lush landscaping, multiple seating areas, and numerous patio spaces perfect for outdoor dining and lounging. With its prime location, this exceptional residence offers the perfect vantage point to appreciate the natural beauty of Camelback Mountain while enjoying the ultimate in outdoor living. Whether hosting a poolside gathering with friends and family or simply soaking in the peaceful ambiance, it is truly an unforgettable setting for relaxation and enjoyment. Your dream home awaits - seize the opportunity to make it yours and discover the epitome of Arizona living.

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