There are a variety of factors that are involved in getting your mortgage approved, but few things will have more of an impact than your FICO score and the credit history that goes along with it. Instead of leaving your score up to chance when submitting your application, here are a few ways that you can boost your financial well being and leave your credit score better off than it was before.
Put More On Your Card
It’s important to put purchases on your credit card that you can afford to pay off consistently, but many people are not aware that how much debt you owe can actually positively contribute to your credit score. While it’s good to use up to 30% of your available debt load, a significantly higher percentage than this can be a signal to lenders that you are experiencing financial difficulties. By putting everyday items on credit, it will be easier to give your score an instant boost.
Clear Your Credit History
Many people who think they have bad credit are too afraid to even review it, but it’s very important to take a look at your credit history when it comes to taking control of your finances and your FICO score. If there happens to be incorrect information on your credit report, this will enable you to contact the appropriate lenders and dispute the charges so they can be corrected prior to your mortgage application. It may not seem significant, but this can actually have a marked impact on the outcome of your application.
Make Your Payments On Time
It’s often the case that those who are struggling with debt may push away the bills altogether and give up on the minimum payment, but it’s very important that the minimum is made to keep your financial health in check. It may take a few months to see the results of putting down this amount before the due date, but it will improve your credit over time and forge good habits for the future.
Your credit score is an important aspect of determining your financial health for lenders, and this means that your credit history is of significant importance when it comes to your mortgage. Instead of leaving it up to chance, ensure that you’re making the minimum payments and correct any discrepancies in your credit report.
If you’re currently in the market for a home and are considering your options, give me a call for more information – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.
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8200 N Charles Drive
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
$4,655,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,750
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6778917
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to Arizona's most prestigious real estate enclave nestled in Paradise Valley—. This four bedroom, three and a half bathroom, masterpiece boasts a stunning 270-degree panorama over Scottsdale, the McDowell Mountains, and pristine high desert landscapes. Designed with a striking mid-century modern aesthetic that seamlessly blends with sophisticated contemporary elegance, this residence is crafted by one of Arizona's premier luxury builders, creating a livable art piece. Every inch is meticulously curated, featuring an expansive view deck, walls of glass, a gourmet chef's kitchen, and an opulent primary suite. Perfect for grand entertaining or intimate gatherings, this residence offers unmatched style and captivating, sweeping views.
42159 N 104th Way
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$4,650,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
7,227
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6776319
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Desert Mountain Golf Membership available...Dramatic contemporary in prestigeous Seven Arrows Village designed by Craig Brown and built by renowned Manship Builders. Classic custom finishes . Glass walls provide Sonoran Desert beauty and Apache Peak vistas to every room in the home. The dramatic gallery-style foyer features a succulent garden and flows to the great room, formal dining, spectacular library/den and luxury primary retreat. The great room opens to covered outdoor living & dining, a magnificent hearth, and a resort patio with forever Valley views of sunsets and city lights. Chef's kitchen, sit-up bar and sunny breakfast room complete the main living level. The lower level is accessed by elevator AND from the main foyer by an elegant artisan-crafted limestone staircase with wrought iron rail, with it's own gallery walkway to the lower level amenities... wine tasting room with wine cellar, workout studio, two large ensuite Bedrooms with patios and pool access, powder room, laundry, flex room for home theater or simulator, and abundant storage. The home has an oversized garage with workshop area, separate storage and tandem 3-car parking. For owners and guests who prefer no steps, the garage is at grade level, with a secondary grade-level formal entry foyer that's part of the lower level art-walk leading to lower level amenities and the grand staircase. All in Fabulous Desert Mountain community with seven golf courses, 10 restaurants, HealthSpa/ Fitness center, pickleball, tennis, bocce and croquet courts, 20+ miles of private hiking trails, and a myriad of year-round planned activities. Club membership application/approval process is 30 days
6296 N Lost Dutchman Drive
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
$4,650,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,392
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6692691
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Spectacular Camelback Mountain Views are laying at your patio at expansive pocket doors in this low maintenance recently highly updated home in The Village at Mountain Shadows. MANNED guard gated - and newly installed EDGE wireless alarm system - operate from your cell phone or IPAD. Block constructed home w/contemporary styling with state-of-the art updates: Wolf Gas Range/Beverage Cooker/SubZero Drawers/Miele Coffee Maker/Steam Oven/Warming Drawer/Scottsdale Icemaker/Waterstone Endeavor Wheel pulldown faucet. Kitchen opens to expansive windows that open to pull up courtyard bar for wrap around patio entertaining. Dining Room/Handmade Hillard GLASS chandelier - conveys. Relax and unwind in sumptuous primary suite & primary bath/FIRST FLOOR - (cont'd).. Robern lit medicine cabinets/custom cabinetry/WI shower with new showerhead/towel bars/Toto Washlet water closet/WI closet w/custom cabinetry/addt'l custom storage cabinetry. So many details and customizations: Temperature controlled wine cellar/sunshades with wind/sensor remotes/Minka Ceiling Fans & remotes/flex room coffee snack bar with Subzero refrigerator drawers/upgraded kitchen cabinet hardware/whole house water filtration system/firepit/air conditioned 3-car garage w/EV outlet/workbench/epoxy floors/storage cabinetry. Laundry w/Miele washer/dryer/folding counters & Sink. ELEVATOR is conveniently located! NEWLY LANDSCAPED LOW MAINTENANCE YARD - WITH PUTTING GREEN & large privacy trees! PLEASE VIEW OUR HD VIDEO FOR A SPECTACULAR VIEW OF THIS CUSTOM HOME!
8115 N 68th Street
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
$4,650,000
5
Beds
7
Baths
6,303
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6674293
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Experience ''Old Arizona'' through the creative vision of Master of the Southwest artist Lash McDaniel. The charm, comfort, & quietly elegant design of this special property offers abundant beauty and tranquility, a million mental miles from the hustle and bustle of modern life. This private residence has NEVER BEEN ON THE MARKET, so this is your first opportunity to witness this Arizona masterpiece! The main home consists of 3 en suite bedrooms + 2 powder rooms, a Great Room, Library, Dining Room w/ wet bar, Gourmet Kitchen w/ Sitting Area, & both expansive and intimate patios. There are 7 fireplaces overall. The full Guest House offers 2 bedroom suites, a kitchen and dining area, and beautiful outdoor private patio. The grounds of this property are as enchanting as the home itself!
40 Roadrunner Lane
Sedona, AZ 86336
$4,645,000
7
Beds
5
Baths
4,630
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6770446
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
PRICE REDUCTION! STR PERFORMING WITH OVER $457k WORTH OF RESERVATIONS from October 2023 until August 2025! Step into luxury living with this exquisite 7-bedroom, 5-bathroom home, perfectly situated in the heart of Sedona with NO HOA! Boasting a modern design, this property is a true entertainer's dream, offering the perfect blend of sophistication and comfort. As you enter through the grand foyer, you'll be greeted by a spacious open-concept great room and kitchen, creating a seamless flow for social gatherings. The split floor plan ensures privacy, with the primary bedroom boasting a luxurious walk-in shower, deluxe soaking tub and also features a spacious walk-in closet. The primary also has direct access to the pool area.
10208 N Palisades Boulevard
Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
$4,600,000
5
Beds
10
Baths
8,837
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6784757
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Indulge in luxury living at this spectacular Firerock residence, offering breathtaking views over Phoenix from nearly every room. Spanning an impressive 8,837 sq. ft. on a 1.1-acre lot, this estate boasts 5 spacious bedrooms, each with a private balcony with for sweeping, unobstructed vistas, and an astounding 10 bathrooms. The interior is designed for ultimate entertainment and relaxation, featuring a state-of-the-art 12-seater cinema room, a gym, and both steam and infrared saunas. For those who enjoy entertaining, the chef's kitchen is a masterpiece, equipped with floor-to-ceiling custom cabinetry, three ovens, two dishwashers, and an expansive island with bar seating. Step outside to your private oasis where a negative-edge pool and spa blend seamlessly with the desert horizon The resort-style backyard includes a fire pit, gas BBQ, misters, heat lamps, and meticulous landscaping maintained by a state-of-the-art irrigation system. Recent upgrades totaling $250,000 include a new roof, a heater for the pool and spa, and a fresh balcony with outdoor heaters to enhance outdoor experiences. Nestled within the exclusive Firerock community, you'll appreciate the tranquil ambiance, undisturbed by nearby Shea Road. Plus, as part of the Firerock Country Club, enjoy access to a premium lifestyle right at your doorstep. Optionally, there's space to add a custom wine cellar, further elevating this home's luxury offerings. This home encapsulates elegance, privacy, and the Arizona lifestyleexperience unmatched luxury and schedule your private tour today.
10512 E Cholla Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85259
$4,599,000
6
Beds
4
Baths
6,575
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6673888
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
**PRICE IMPROVEMENT**SELLER WILL ENTERTAIN ALL OFFERS!**Luxury home on 2.2 acres of gated property with additional outbuildings. NO HOA! Main house boasts over 5400 sq ft with high end features and carefully crafted appointments to offer high end style in this flexible floorplan. Six bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 18+ ft ceilings in main rooms, Media Room, Office, Teen Room/Bonus Room off Secondary Bedrooms. Stunning mountain views, private courtyards in the front and back of the home. Beautiful oasis pool with water slide and water feature, outdoor built-in BBQ, fireplace and large grassy yard. 4-car attached extended garage with excess storage. The remainder of the property offers flexibility for your lifestyle - additional 1100 sq ft 2BD/1BA original residence with so much future potential. Sport court with basketball hoops. Additional detached 4-car garage could be used as workshop. Great bones to bring this former horse property back to a working horse property - original 14-stall block wall covered barn with wash area/auto-water/hay storage, a large grassy area which would be a perfect pasture, sport court could be demolished to install a riding arena next to grassy pasture. Main house appraised sq footage 5493. Guest house is original residence.
10831 N Pulve Court
Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
$4,595,000
4
Beds
7
Baths
7,770
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6783325
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Perched on a prime corner lot in the prestigious gated community of Crestview, this stunning estate offers unparalleled privacy and sweeping views of city lights, majestic mountains, and the serene desert landscape. Beyond the tranquil courtyard, step inside to soaring ceilings, designer finishes, and walls of glass that frame breathtaking vistas. The open-concept living room flows seamlessly into a chef's dream kitchen, featuring dual Sub-Zero refrigerators, three ovens, a built-in espresso machine, expansive granite countertops, and a sunlit breakfast nook. The master suite is a private sanctuary, complete with a cozy sitting area, Cantera fireplace, spa-like bath with dual vanities, soaking tub, walk-in shower, and a colossal custom closet. Three additional en-suite bedrooms, a formal dining room, spacious office, and bonus room with a wet bar ensure comfort and versatility. Entertainment is taken to the next level with a game room, wine cellar, and state-of-the-art movie theater. Outside, the backyard oasis features a stunning negative-edge pool, spill-over spa, firepit, built-in BBQ, and expansive decks to embrace the beauty of every Sonoran season. This home is a rare blend of luxury, functionality, and timeless designa true trophy among Fountain Hills' finest estates.
135 Desert Holly Drive
Sedona, AZ 86336
$4,590,000
6
Beds
8
Baths
8,377
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6765446
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Enjoy breathtaking red rock views from this 8,377 sq. ft. fully remodeled luxury home, completed in fall 2024 and located in a premier gated subdivision in West Sedona. The property features resort-style living with a heated pool, hot tub, water feature, private guest casita (house) with a kitchenette, and a circular driveway leading to an enclosed front courtyard with a Feng Shui water feature. Inside, the home offers a well-appointed gourmet kitchen with new appliances, new temperature-controlled glass-enclosed wine wall, entertaining wet bar, and a cozy fireplace in the family room. Enjoy movie nights in the home theater and stay active in the fitness gym with its own private bathroom. The primary suite includes a sitting room and a spacious walk-in closet. Truly exceptional!
11952 E Casitas Del Rio Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$4,590,000
4
Beds
5
Baths
5,000
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6714760
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Just completed in 2024, this contemporary masterpiece is located within the gated community of Troon Highlands Estates within Troon Village. The private corner lot backs to 18 acre HOA owned preserve featuring extensive views of the McDowell Mountains, Tom's Thumb, and natural rock formations. Modern, yet timeless architecture and meticulous custom construction resulted in a stunning home complete with masonry walls, steel accents, extensive white oak millwork, floor-to-ceiling windows, and sliding glass walls. German-crafted Eggersmann kitchen featuring Miele and SubZero refrigeration and Wolf cooking appliances. The open-concept kitchen features two waterfall islands, dual sink stations, a patio pass-through, vast organization including an integrated pantry system, and a roll-up.. appliance garage. Fifteen illuminated crystal orbs are suspended over a 10-person dining area located between the kitchen and the great room. A glass walk-in wine storage incorporates independent temperature control. The private master suite features a wellness spa-inspired wet room, dual floating vanities, and large his and her's custom-finished wardrobes. A full guest suite offers mountain views from a private patio and a separate entrance. The large flex room is complete with SubZero and Fisher Paykel drawers, bar seating, and a sliding glass wall is perfect for entertaining. Two additional bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, a large office, pool bath, and a powder room complete the guest wing. Exterior features include a large lap pool with Baja shelf, negative edge spa, natural limestone pavers, glass railings, double-sided fireplace, putting green, several cactus gardens, and a large BBQ area. A temperature controlled showroom garage sits across from an oversized 3 car garage allowing for a total of 4 full-sized vehicles to be parked inside. Integrated technology includes advance lighting and shade automation from Lutron HomeWorks, convenient whole-house audio via Sonos, and prewired for an advanced surveillance system. The project was built-to-suite for a discerning client who intended on living in the residence. With that said, no expense was spared and the home features best-in-class upgrades comparable to finishes seen in much more expensive homes.
38440 N 95th Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$4,565,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
5,056
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6772972
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Desert Mountain Golf Membership Available! 38440 N 95th Street, Scottsdale, AZ 85262. Construction started September 2024. View Estate on an elevated lot in the top-ranking private golf community of Desert Mountain. Dramatic Mountain, Sunset and Community Night Light Views. Single level home with finished floor elevation at 2,734. Fresh architectural design with bold accents create a striking silhouette against the mature high Sonoran Desert landscape in the foothills of North Scottsdale's Continental Mountain range. Offering interior courtyards, water features, soaring ceilings, clerestory windows, open floor plan, glass walls, executive office and 4 car garage. Buyer still has time to make interior selections. Peace and tranquility on .81-acre elevated homesite with dramatic views. Conveniently situated close to golf courses, restaurants, Sonoran Fitness and Spa and near the front guard gates. This new home is designed by J. Core Architecture and being built by multi-award-winning luxury home builder Platinum Companies, which have built over 100 homes in Desert Mountain alone. Offering what today's buyer is looking for with great views, open floor plan, spectacular outdoor living and luxe finishes. Buyer can make interior selections if they purchase now. Home Highlights Sunset, Mountain and Community Night Light Views Great Room Design Split Floor Plan Four Ensuite Bedrooms (4th is the Casita) Guest Retreat Lounge Single Level (No Steps) Primary Bath - Two Private Dressing Rooms Second Washer/Dryer in Primary Suite Executive Office / Den Interior Courtyard (1,100+ Sq Ft) Deep Covered Patios 4+ Car Garage 0.81 Acre Lot Located away from main roads *Optional Water Feature shown in Courtyard Desert Mountain, an over 8,000-acre guard-gated, luxury private golf community, is in the foothills of the Continental Mountains in North Scottsdale. The higher elevation delivers miles of sweeping views and cooler temperatures than the valley below. Desert Mountain Club defines unparalleled championship desert golf. Offering members, the world's largest collection of private Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Courses along with the newest course addition, Seven. Seven is a USGA-rated, championship par-54 golf course, designed to challenge and entertain both experts and beginners alike. Dining venue options abound, within the guard-gated community. Offering 10 distinctive restaurants and grills. Savor the fresh, thoughtful takes on Tuscan Italian, Southwestern, classic steakhouse and seafood specialties, and modern gastropub fare. The Sonoran Clubhouse and Spa is the club's swim, pickleball, tennis, and fitness hub. Along with a Cafe, there are eight new pickleball courts, golf croquet and multiple bocce ball courts to enjoy. Known as the Wimbledon of the West, the Desert Mountain Tennis Complex features five state-of-the-art Har-Tru green clay tennis courts, three fast-playing hard courts, and a spectacular stadium grass court. This remarkable amenity adds tremendous value and enjoyment to the community's Club Members along with an array of other fun activities. Renew and restore your body in complete tranquility at the Sonoran Spa. Located within the sprawling 42,000-square-foot Sonoran Clubhouse, a beautifully appointed Spa offers a wide range of services, including therapeutic massages, repairing facials, haircuts and color, and even acupuncture treatments. Adjacent to the Tonto National Forest (the second largest in the United States) is the Desert Mountain private trail system encompassing 20 miles of panoramic desert scenery and lush mountain flora. Explore the eastern slope of the Continental Mountains, views of Tucson's Catalina Mountains, and a 4,100-foot summit that overlooks landmarks like Skull Mesa, Elephant Butte, and Harquahala Peak. Desert Mountain Club Golf Membership is available for transfer from the Seller. Desert Mountain Club Membership Application Review is a 30-day and Board approval process that is required for the Buyer. See Documents Tab for Desert Mountain Club information. *Construction has started *Discount if Seller's Desert Mountain Golf Membership is not included. *Property taxes are quoted on vacant lot *Buyer to verify all information independently as information is subject to change. *Renderings (Architect/Artistic) and final views from home may vary. *Image(s) are architectural and/or artistic renderings and the final product may differ based on final selections and/or changes. *Seller holds an Arizona Real Estate License. * Desert Mountain Club Golf Membership is available for transfer from the Seller. Desert Mountain Club Membership Application Review is a 30-day and Board approval process that is required for the Buyer. **HOA Capital Reserve Fund Fee of 0.45% fee on the purchase price paid at Closing by Buyer.
7501 E Palo Verde Drive Unit 8
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
$4,559,000
3
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,415
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6758018
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Nestled among well-established neighborhoods just north of downtown Scottsdale, Palo Verde Lane is like no other community in the greater Phoenix area. While the architecture is desert modern, the home manifests the enduring characteristics of the materials used to create them: the warmth of wood, the permanence of masonry, and the openness of glass. The last in the community to be built, this home is the icing on the cake sitting on almost a 1/2acre lot and boasts a 3 car garage. The 3 spacious bedrooms are all ensuite, plus an office and a gym! Though only a stroll from upscale restaurants and shops, Palo Verde Lane honors its desert heritage. From its very inception, the community has been designed to harmonize with the environment and cultivate neighborliness among its residents.