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.

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

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2863 N Boldt Drive Flagstaff, AZ 86001

$1,375,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,993 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6780659

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to a stunning custom home located in Linwood Heights. Situated on over an acre, this property provides both privacy and tranquility. Wake up each morning to breathtaking San Francisco Peak views from the primary suite, complete with a cozy fireplace, wet bar, and private sitting area—a true retreat within the home. The primary bath has a soaking tub and separate shower for ultimate relaxation. With an open, airy layout, and multiple deck access points, this home offers a blend of sophistication and comfort. The kitchen has granite countertops, stainless-steel appliances, and beautiful custom cabinetry. 3 car garage! As a Linwood Heights homeowner, you'll have exclusive access to the 180-acre Jesse Gregg Park and its amenities. Just minutes to AZ Snowbowl, and Downtown!

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2796 E Valencia Street Gilbert, AZ 85296

$1,375,000

6 Beds

4 Baths

4,774 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6748047

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Remodeled BASEMENT BUNGALOW in AGRITOPIA, WITH POOL! These homes don't come along very often! Ranch single story Plan 3 with full basement. Private entry porch with side yard driveway parking. Main floor features handscaped Hickory eng. flooring leading from front living room to dining room and CUSTOM kitchen adjacent to GREAT ROOM w/ Gas Fireplace. Main floor primary bedroom with large bath and OFFICE/NURSERY hidden nicely within the suite. Split on its own hallway, 2 more large main floor bedrooms and full bath. Wood flooring leads down the stairs into a LARGE GAME ROOM/ Home Theater with kitchenette and full size fridge. 3 additional large bedrooms and 2 baths downstairs, and large storage room / gym give numerous arrangements. Outside, your comfortable entertaining oasis awaits... Large Pool with Spa, Firewall and Firepit, beneath a spacious backporch. Plenty of room opposite pool for backyard games. This home just a few blocks from the large park and dog park, and just a few steps to the Agritopia U-pick orchard and Coffee Shop / Restaurants. This is your chance to get in to the neighborhood COMING SOON - preview opportunities available before market.

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3116 N 47th Street Phoenix, AZ 85018

$1,375,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,008 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6703562

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Tucked away on one of the largest lots, 10,800 sq ft, in El Coronado Estates lies this charming quintessential 3000+ Arcadia Ranch built by modern builders and remodeled by well-known local contractor Don Matteson. The Gourmet Kitchen has a commercial grade gas stove top, luxurious custom cabinets and oversized island which opens to cozy family room & dining room designed to look like her previous Calle Del Norte house. It is Perfect for entertaining & family gatherings. There are 4 spacious beds, 3.5baths, laundry room & storage one only dreams about. Imagine having coffee or a glass of wine on one of the many patios in the enchanting lushly landscaped grounds with arbors & English gardens. Top rated Arcadia Schools. This amazing neighborhood with cul de sac lots has a community pool!

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2974 E Camellia Drive Gilbert, AZ 85296

$1,375,000

9 Beds

5.5 Baths

5,979 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6700965

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Price reduction is lower than recent appraisal - get instant equity! This one of a kind home features 7 bedrooms/5.5 baths/basement PLUS a 2 bedroom casita. Open floor plan boasts a spacious living area perfect for entertaining guests & enjoying family time. Entertain in style w multiple living areas, including a formal dining, wet bar, cozy living room w gas fireplace. Primary bath has steam shower, sep tub w jets & large w/in closet. Backyard boast synthetic grass for easy upkeep. The whole family can enjoy your private pool/spa and large covered patio. Basement has plenty of space to convert into a theatre. Agritopia is known for its tree-lined streets, community gardens, and friendly atmosphere. Residents enjoy nearby amenities such as parks, restaurants & shopping.Just off the 202 fw Welcome to this charming home in the highly sought after Agritopia! Charming community has many family oriented event happening monthly. This is a rare find with the 2 bedroom guest house. 9 bedrooms total plus an office with builtin bookshelves. Walking distance to Gilbert Christian School. Rent out the 2 bedroom casita for $1850 - $2300 a month to subsidize the mortgage payments. The casita is 860 st ft, with W/D, full kitchen and a back yard which is gated. New carpet & paint in the home and guest house. Back yard is designed for low maintenance care. Close to the Freeway for easy access to anywhere is the valley.

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7740 E Rose Lane Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$1,375,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

2,178 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6743935

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Supreme location. Custom designed home. Fully remodeled. Elegant and elevated. A very rare find and the definition of luxury. No HOA. 4 bedrooms and 4 full baths. Brand new kitchen, Delta Terra quartz countertops, high end appliances, large custom hood. Soaring high ceilings. Smooth texture walls throughout. Large master bed and bath. Double laundry with one conveniently inside the master closet. New AC. Complete, resort style front and back yard. Smooth stucco exterior. Pristine large pool with tanning ledge, Baja shelf. A resort sanctuary of outdoor living. This is one unicorn of a home. Imagine yourself here!

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17775 E Veit Springs Drive Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$1,375,000

3 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,681 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6760283

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Absolutely stunning newly built SHEA HOMES property with endless on-trend features located in the 55+ gated Trilogy at Verde River community. This massive 9567 sqft golf course lot has breathtaking mountain views of Four Peaks and no rear neighbor for optimal privacy. As you approach you are greeted by a relaxing private courtyard with a charming stacked stone fireplace. The chef's kitchen has a formal eat-in area and boasts custom cabinetry, stainless appliances, granite counters, large island with breakfast bar, backsplash, wine fridge, R/O system, and a gas cooktop with hood. Relax in the spacious great room with oversized sliding doors to create the perfect indoor/outdoor space for entertaining. The luxurious master suite has a private patio slider, large walk-in closet, and a full bathroom with dual sinks and a walk-in shower with glass enclosure. Other features include Smart Home technology, gas water heater, home office den, owned water softener, laundry space with built-in desk, 3 car garage, and an underground 250 gal propane tank. Utilize the separate guest casita as the perfect spot for hosting family or friends. The resort style backyard has a sparkling heated pool and spa, wrought iron view fence, faux grass lawn, raised fire pit seating area, and a large covered patio with a custom heater, privacy screen, mounted TV, and a full BBQ kitchen area. Don't miss out on this perfect property that has everything today's market seeks!

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7055 E Brilliant Sky Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$1,375,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

1,687 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6748816

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This gorgeous Novus plan has been completely transformed by the talented crew at Scottsdale Investment Props. All new everything from the cabinets to the floors & counters this split plan great room home has high flat ceilings w/large pocket door for indoor/outdoor living AND detached casita. Located on a south facing lot backing open space & a quick walk to the club makes this an ideal location far from any busy streets. Finishes are top notch including engineered hardwood & tile floors, raised panel 42'' cabinets w/hardware, satin plumbing fixtures, quartz counters, custom gas fireplace w/large format tile surrounds, ceiling fans, LED lighting throughout, ss appliances, etc. Back yard features covered patio, fire pit, b-in bbq, & tiled decking w/low maintenance landscaping.

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900 E Peach Tree Place Chandler, AZ 85249

$1,375,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,754 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6725095

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled in the small, exclusive gated community of Mission Estates, this exquisite home is the perfect setting for both indoor and outdoor living and entertaining. Entering thru the private courtyard into the home, you are greeted with an impressive wall to wall slider providing a view of the newly renovated backyard, exhibiting an abundance of natural lighting. The lofty 12 foot ceilings amplify the sense of space and luxury showcasing the natural wood flooring and custom designed wainscoting all adding to the feel of luxury living. The heavily upgraded chef's kitchen includes a large island, custom cutout for ample stainless steel fridge and freezer, double ovens, farmhouse sink, sizable walk in pantry and spacious butler's kitchen. The primary suite features an elegant chandelier, separate his and her closets customized by California Closets for floor-to-ceiling organization and an oversized luxe bathroom with a private expansive shower. This home has 4 bedrooms, including a built in Murphy's bed and storage in guest room and an intimate gym with newly padded flooring. Additional game room has plenty of flexibility to customize the space to suit your needs, whether it be a cozy media room, craft room, playroom for the kids or a private retreat for guests. Substantial 3 car garage encompasses additional overhead storage. The private outdoor retreat embraces an impressive backyard with a built in BBQ, fire pit, half court sports area, expansive turf play area & multiple seating spaces creating an ideal environment for both everyday living and entertaining guests. This premium north/south facing home on a large (nearly 1/3 acre) lot allows for both privacy and tranquility offering the perfect backyard brimming with family appeal and balance of location & Arizona lifestyle.

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14810 E Valley Vista Drive Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

Open House

$1,375,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,742 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6783943

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

New Build from the Ground Up! This single-story new build home will be starting construction in Summer 2024 and be completed for move in Fall 2025. This open floorplan showcases the protected easement behind the home with 8' windows and 12' ceilings. Amazing canyon views! Select your finishes and build your dream home now.

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2190 E Nolan Place Chandler, AZ 85249

$1,371,587

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,610 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6755382

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Quick Move-in Ready Home! McKinley Glenn is an intimate gated enclave of luxury single-level homes offering modern home designs by Cachet Homes. This Aspire Plan 1 is situated on a North/South lot and features 3,610 SF, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, a 4-car garage, den, and an open-concept kitchen with two large islands and quartz countertops. Additional upgrades include desert front yard landscaping, Shaker Maple painted and stained cabinets, luxury vinyl plank wood look floors, and more!

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20478 E Marsh Road Queen Creek, AZ 85142

Open House

$1,370,995

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,004 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6766178

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Spectacular open floor plan with attached casita! An oversized pantry and expansive kitchen island create an entertainer's paradise! The soaring ceilings in the kitchen and great room are open and airy, taking you right out to your generous back yard through stacking multi-slide doors! This large North-South home site is perfect to capture the coveted Arizona indoor/outdoor lifestyle!

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915 W Ardmore Road Unit 11 Phoenix, AZ 85041

$1,370,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

2,870 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6783771

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

The model most aligned to the traditional farmhouse, the Joplin offers a uniquely intimate space that divides naturally into two wings. Three garage bays Formal front porch 3-5 Bedrooms Gen suite option available Master backyard available Large attic available

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