5 Mortgage Rules You Should Know by Heart

If you’re buying a house or refinancing your loan, here’s what you need to know.house_f4nehsc_large_large

For millions of Americans, a mortgage is the biggest debt they’ll ever have to repay. Unfortunately, as anyone who’s ever gone through the process can attest, mortgages involve pages and pages of legal documentation that can be nearly impossible for most people to comprehend. To simplify mortgages, there are some basic guidelines that anyone can learn and commit to memory. Below, we’ll go through five useful rules about mortgages.

Rule 1: Keep your mortgage payment to 25% or less of your income.

Housing costs are typically the largest expense item in your household budget, but that doesn’t mean you can afford to break the bank. Lenders look closely at your income to determine how much you can truly afford to pay for a monthly mortgage payment, and one simple guideline they use is to take your available income and multiply it by 25%. If a mortgage would require larger payments than that, after taking into account both the loan itself and associated payments like property taxes and insurance, then a lender will generally be less comfortable in giving you the loan.

Rule 2: Avoid private mortgage insurance by making a 20% down payment.

Mortgage lenders typically require borrowers to obtain private mortgage insurance or PMI if they make a down payment that’s less than 20% of the value of the home. PMI protects lenders against the risk that the value of the home will fall below the outstanding principal balance on the mortgage, leaving the borrower “underwater” on the loan. For borrowers, however, it’s an added expense that essentially provides no value to them. As difficult as it can be to save up a 20% down payment, the hundreds of dollars in PMI that it will save you could make the difference between being able to afford a slightly more expensive home and having to settle for less.

Rule 3: Understand how adjustable rate mortgages work and what risks are involved.

Fixed mortgages are easier to understand because the interest rate that they charge never changes, so you can count on monthly mortgage payments remaining constant throughout the lifetime of your loan. That’s not the case with adjustable rate mortgages or ARMs, which only remain fixed for a set period. Most lenders refer to ARMs with two numbers, such as 5/1. The first number refers to how long the initial rate remains in place. The second number describes how often the rate adjusts after the initial rate ends. For a 5/1 ARM, the initial rate stays in place for five years, and then changes every year after that. When rates change, they’ll also change your monthly payment, so make sure you understand the illustrations that your mortgage documents will provide so you don’t get a nasty surprise at the end of the initial term.

Rule 4: Know whether you’ll actually be able to deduct your mortgage expenses.

Many people look forward to being able to deduct mortgage interest, property taxes, and other key expenses of owning a home. But one thing to keep in mind is that all of these tax breaks are only available if you itemize deductions on your tax return. If the cost of your interest and taxes isn’t enough, when combined with other itemized deductions, to exceed the standard deduction you’re entitled to receive, then buying a home won’t do you any good from a tax perspective. That shouldn’t necessarily stop you from making a purchase and taking out a mortgage loan, but it should inform you as to the true cost of doing so.

Rule 5: Be careful diverting retirement money toward a home purchase.

The tax laws governing retirement accounts allow you to make withdrawals from an IRA of up to $10,000 toward a first-time home purchase without having to pay the typical penalties for early withdrawal of your retirement savings. However, just because you can use IRA money toward a home purchase doesn’t mean you should. First, even though you won’t owe penalties, you will owe income tax on the money you withdraw, potentially leaving you with a big tax shortfall at the end of the year. More importantly, diverting that money from your retirement savings will leave you in a less favorable position in the long run with the size of your nest egg. As a potential source of down payment money, tapping an IRA can seem like a smart move, but be aware of the long-term consequences before you pull the trigger.

Buying a home will probably be the biggest purchase you ever make. Being smart about the debt you incur to buy your home is essential to avoid the mistakes that so many homeowners made during the financial crisis. Keeping these rules in mind will take you a long way toward a better understanding of the mortgage process and your mortgage loan.

 

Source:  http://www.fool.com/investing/2016/05/28/5-mortgage-rules-you-should-know-by-heart.aspx?source=iedfolrf0000001

7222 E Gainey Ranch Road Unit 136 Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$1,395,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,776 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6757539
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
NEWLY REMODELED, SINGLE LEVEL, ON THE GOLF COURSE, WITH NO OTHER UNIT ABOVE YOUR MAIN LIVING AREAS. EXPANSIVE VIEWS ACROSS TWO FAIRWAYS, MOUNTAIN VIEWS AND AMAZING SUNSETS! The perfect Scottsdale Retreat! This combination doesn't come up very often. Don't miss this 2 bedroom, 2 bath, plus den with no steps and 2-car attached garage. Beautifully finished with New Flooring, Remodeled Bathrooms and Kitchen. Enjoy the premier community in Scottsdale with all its resort style amenities . . 6 tennis courts, 4 pickleball courts, gym, 25 meter pool, and nestled within the 27 holes of championship golf at the Gainey Ranch Golf Club! Walk to the Hyatt Resort and the Shops at Gainey Village. Enjoy the resort lifestyle in Gainey Ranch.

9457 N 115th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$1,395,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,126 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6755174
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover the pinnacle of elegance and modern luxury in the prestigious, guard-gated community of Stonegate. Recently transformed through a comprehensive remodel completed in 2022, this home showcases impeccable taste and sophistication. Set on a spacious 10,000 square foot lot, it offers a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor living. At the heart of the home is a beautifully redesigned gourmet kitchen featuring high-end custom cabinetry, designer hardware, quartz countertops, and premium Fisher & Paykel appliances. Culinary enthusiasts will love the state-of-the-art induction cooktop. The built-in 62'' refrigerator and freezer, along with a wine fridge, add to the kitchen's functionality. The sleek cabinetry creates cohesion throughout the home, tying each room together with a sophisticated, modern aesthetic. The open concept living and dining areas are highlighted by soaring ceilings over 10 feet high and designer lighting, creating a welcoming ambiance perfect for both relaxation and entertaining. Step outside to experience a fully renovated Pebble Tec pool, new landscaping, a built-in BBQ, and breathtaking mountain views, all designed to enhance your outdoor living experience. Residing in a community that offers an Olympic-style heated pool, tennis, pickleball and basketball courts, and a wealth of recreational facilities, this home delivers more than just living space it offers a luxurious lifestyle. Conveniently located near top-rated schools, shopping, and hiking trails with easy access to the 101 freeway, every detail of this home has been thoughtfully curated for an unmatched living experience in Stonegate. This is more than just a home; it's a masterpiece waiting to be appreciated.

12271 N 74th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$1,395,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,250 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6786017
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled in the prestigious Buenavante neighborhood, surrounded by multi-million-dollar estates, this modern home has been spectacularly remodeled inside and out. The exterior showcases top-of-the-line EIFS stucco, a new garage door, upgraded front door, and stylish lighting fixtures. Inside, the sleek kitchen features stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, and a double waterfall island. Luxurious bathrooms offer spa-like finishes, including a serene courtyard view from the primary ensuite. Major updates include new flooring, cabinetry, lighting, windows, doors, and essentials like a newer roof, A/C, and water heater. The lush backyard boasts a sparkling pool, gazebo, patio, and mature landscaping. Steps from Cactus Park and close to premier shopping and dining, this is a rare opportunity in one of Scottsdale's most exclusive neighborhoods.

5952 E Adobe Drive Phoenix, AZ 85054

$1,395,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
3,505 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6713904
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Lesser price than recently sold in the neighborhood. Discover the exquisite Shea 5016 floor plan home in the exclusive Talinn gated community. This upgraded residence features 4 bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms, located within 3 miles of Desert Ridge Marketplace, High Street Mall, and Scottsdale Quarters. Upon entering, you're greeted by an elegant accent wall and marble-look flooring. The gourmet kitchen includes quartz waterfall countertops, a matching backsplash, upgraded cabinets, and a custom-built refrigerator. The first floor has a guest bedroom and a den with double doors, ideal for a home office. The living area boasts high ceilings, creating a grand atmosphere. Upstairs, find three additional bedrooms and a versatile loft for entertainment or relaxation. The private backyard oasis features turf and limestone landscaping, a built-in fireplace, pergola, built-in BBQ, separated plants, and mountain views with no neighbors behind. Prime Location: Minutes from Desert Ridge Mall, Scottsdale, Mayo Clinic, High Street, JW Marriott, and major IT hubs like American Express and PayPal. Nearby Desert Horizon Park enhances the appeal. Interior highlights include large-format marble-look tiles, soaring ceilings, over $300,000 in upgrades, a waterfall quartz countertop, and zebra shades. The entertainment-ready backyard has a large pergola, TV wall, bar with refrigerator, BBQ, two fireplaces, a sink, and a gas stove. Luxurious bathrooms feature quartz countertops and upgraded showers. The master suite offers custom-built closets. Modern amenities: state-of-the-art security, smart home capabilities, a three-car garage, high-efficiency water drop RO system, and water softener. Provisions for a projector in the main living area and multi-colored paint themes add personalized touches. The premium lot offers park views and no neighbors behind, ensuring privacy and prestige. Community features include gated access, parks, biking trails, a swimming pool, and a gym. Make this luxurious home yours today!

9768 E Balancing Rock Road Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,395,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,964 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6713491
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Indulge in luxury desert living in this beautifully remodeled home within the Golf Community of Balancing Rock at Troon North. Enjoy panoramic views of Pinnacle Peak & unique boulder outcroppings. With 4 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, every detail exudes elegance. The kitchen, now seamlessly integrated with the great room, boasts quartz countertops, newer cabinetry, & an induction cooktop. Entertain in the formal dining area or retreat to the separate office/den. The split master suite offers privacy, enhanced by plantation shutters, wood-like tile planks & leads into the ''spa like'' bath with an abundance of closet space.. Outside, a heated spool, built-in BBQ, and fireplace create a resort-style oasis. Experience the ultimate in desert living, embracing nature's beauty from your own backyard.

7127 E Rancho Vista Drive Unit 4012 Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,395,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,448 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6722940
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
This incredible luxury renovation is expected to be completed by November 1st 2024. Welcome to this breathtaking Optima Camelview luxury renovation masterpiece. This property features 2 bedrooms 2 baths, 1448sqft, two private parking spaces and a massive private patio. Boasting a breathtaking organic modern design throughout, you'll find custom raw stone & wood works, premium lighting designs, exquisite quartzite slab living room fireplace accent wall, thermador & wolf appliances, sonos surround sound, automated blinds and so much more. All found within the luxurious Optima Camelview Village, with it's unbeatable location & state of the art architecture/amenities. Amenities include: Two Outdoor Zen Pools, Spas & Bbqs One on each side of the community (heated year round). 24,000 sq. ft. Fitness Center (Recently Remodeled). Mens & Womens Locker Rooms w/ Steam Rooms, Showers and Private Lockers. Indoor Lap Pool & 2 Spas (Heated year round), On-site concierge, Putting green, Hybrid Basketball / Pickle-ball Court, Racquet ball court, On-site restaurant (metropolis), conference room, 24/7 Security, Reservable party room and multi-purpose fitness/yoga room.

1075 E Ranch Road Payson, AZ 85541

$1,395,000
9 Beds
8 Baths
3,690 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6746854
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover your next investment with Mountain Meadows Cabins! Just minutes from Christopher Creek, this nearly 2.7 acre property in Gordon Canyon offers a beautifully remodeled home and six cozy rental cabins. Each cabin features a fireplace, kitchenette, and air conditioning, with three boasting indoor spas/hot tubs and two private outdoor spas/hot tubs. A perfect retreat that doubles as an income-generating property! Property comes with main home (3/2 b/b, 1792 sq ft) and 6 cabins (sq ft as follows: 424, 3 cabins at 320, and 2 cabins at 256). Property can be split into 2 parcels later if Buyer holds ability to later split into 2 parcels with the county if desired.

8927 E Wethersfield Road Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$1,395,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
3,116 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6750382
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
One of the best values in Cactus Corridor!! Charming 3 bedroom/3 bathroom home including separate entry guest casita located in a private gated community of 35 homes. Features include walk-in closets for each bedroom, custom cabinetry, granite counter tops, tile flooring throughout the great room/kitchen, open floor plan and spacious rear yard for entertaining. A gorgeous resort like pool with covered spa area make this hard-to-find home in a sought after Scottsdale location a one of a kind. Come see for yourself and make it yours today!

18676 N 95th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,395,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,627 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6773200
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
The best value for a fully remodeled home in all of prime North Scottsdale 85255, priced under $1.5M! This is the home you've been dreaming of, where modern luxury and timeless design meet to create an unparalleled living experience. Step inside and be immediately captivated by the elegance of high-end finishes, from the sleek wide-format porcelain tile floors to the stunning light fixtures that cast a warm, inviting glow throughout. The expansive 20-foot bifold patio doors blur the lines between indoor and outdoor living, revealing a resort-style backyard that feels like your own private retreat. Set on a premium lot that backs up to a peaceful wash, the privacy and serenity are unmatched, offering you a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle. The vaulted ceilings and open-concept design create an expansive, airy atmosphere that invites you to entertain with ease. Imagine the heart of your home gourmet kitchen with luxurious quartz countertops, top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances, a massive walk-in pantry, and cabinetry that seems to go on forever. This is where holiday dinners, weekend brunches, and everyday moments turn into lasting memories with friends and family. The split floor plan offers the ultimate in privacy. Your primary suite is a haven of tranquility, with natural light flooding in from a private exit to the backyard. Wake up to the peace of your surroundings, and retreat to your en-suite bath, where double vanities and a walk-in shower await your daily spa-like ritual. A custom walk-in closet ensures everything has its place, making organization effortless. With three additional spacious bedrooms, a beautifully updated second bathroom, and ample room for family, guests, or even a home office, this home delivers everything you could want. Adding to the appeal, the garage features epoxy floors, combining durability with a sleek, modern look perfect for keeping your vehicles and storage in pristine condition. Perched in one of North Scottsdale's most sought-after neighborhoods, this home is surrounded by the finest dining, shopping, spas, and golf courses the area has to offer. With easy access to the 101 freeway and views of the stunning McDowell Mountains, the lifestyle here is simply unrivaled. This isn't just a house, it's the ultimate North Scottsdale dream home, where every detail is designed to elevate your life. Come experience it for yourself and claim the lifestyle you've always wanted. Schedule your showing today!

10569 N 131st Street Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$1,390,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,446 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6751143
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this charming 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home nestled in a highly sought-after Scottsdale. Located just off 131st and Shea Blvd, this spacious residence offers comfort and convenience. The living room features a cozy fireplace, perfect for relaxing evenings. The home sits on a beautifully landscaped lot, with a secure block wall providing privacy and tranquility. For those who love outdoor activities or need extra storage, the property boasts a detached RV garage, offering plenty of space for your RV, boat, or other toys. The layout offers generously sized bedrooms and bathrooms, ensuring ample room for all. This home's location is a true standout. It is just a short drive from the renowned Mayo Clinic, BASIS School, and the vibrant communities of Fountain Hills and Old Town.

6415 E Sunnyside Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,390,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,855 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6745519
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Come see this beautifully unique corner lot listing that possess a highly desired rare & scarcely available 1+acre lot size. Located in the sought after 85254 Scottsdale zip code, the existing 1962 ranch home and lot are being sold ''as-is.'' The current home is still livable, as desired by the new owner, with a new roof, floors, and bathroom updates. Found within the Desert Estates subdivision just north of Paradise Valley, this neighborhood and street contains an array of new custom homes and remodels. This lot is a must see for your new custom built Scottsdale home!

2808 W Here To There Drive Phoenix, AZ 85086

$1,390,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,050 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784852
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Wow, just wow! Extraordinary new built on a one-acre lot in a growing neighborhood with mountain views & NO HOA!!! This impeccable custom abode showcases an exquisite curb appeal with a professionally designed landscape, 2 car garage, and RV garage. Discover a large open floor boasting a sleek design paired with soaring ceilings, recessed lighting, and wood flooring, promoting a modern feel. Abundant natural light floods every corner; the living room features a fireplace & multi-sliding doors that seamlessly connect the indoors & outdoors. The sophisticated kitchen outfitted with a hidden pantry, quartz backsplash & counters, new white & gold appliances, a pot filler faucet over the gas stove, and an oversized island with a breakfast bar, is worth a chef. The butler's pantry has space for a coffee station. The spacious owner's suite hosts 2 walk-in closets and a lavish ensuite with 2 vanities & a huge walk-in shower with tub. The second bedroom has its own bathroom, and bedrooms 3 & 4 share a Jack & Jill bathroom. Mud room, large laundry room, and garage with epoxy floor & custom LED lighting are worth mentioning. The massive backyard is a blank canvas awaiting your creative touch to be transformed into an entertainer's oasis. The covered patio stares directly at the Mnts. promising colorful sunsets. No expenses were spared to make this a unique gem!

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