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

10231 N 38th Street Phoenix, AZ 85028

$1,300,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,102 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774097
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Introducing an extraordinary opportunity to own a move-in-ready estate on over an acre of pristine land—without the restrictions of an HOA. This exceptional horse property presents an unparalleled blend of natural desert beauty, privacy, and charm. Huge driveway, mature shade trees, and breathtaking desert views, this home offers both seclusion and convenience in an enviable location. Step inside to discover a rustic-inspired interior that exudes warmth and character. The spacious open-concept living area features wooden panel walls, warm paint tones, decorative light fixtures, & wood-burning fireplace. Newly upgraded kitchen is equipped with granite counters & viking stove, beautiful wood cabinetry, a pantry, built-in appliances, and a breakfast bar for casual meal. For those seeking flexibility, the guest quarters offer a perfect blend of comfort and privacy. Complete with its own kitchenette, bathroom, and closet space, this self-contained suite provides a welcoming space for guests or could serve as a potential rental or in-law suite. Whether you envision keeping horses on the expansive property, building additional structures, or simply enjoying the wide-open space, the possibilities here are endless. This remarkable estate is perfect for those who appreciate the finer things in life, offering a seamless blend of luxury, functionality, and natural beauty. Don't miss this rare chance to own a piece of desert paradise.

210 White Tail Drive Sedona, AZ 86351

$1,300,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,612 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6763188
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Luxury home embraced by the 11th fairway of Gary Pank's championship Sedona golf course boasting views of golf course,Red Rocks,& mesas.Elegance found in this newly interior painted 4BR/3BA single level open floor plan, corner golf course lot.New energy efficient owned solar panels,H2O heater,dishwasher,RO system in '24. Lock & leave options include the latest technology w/Ring security cameras & ADT monitoring.Separate building adjacent to the pool/backyard provides unlimited potential for casita/studio/office.Resort style backyard w/hot tub providing cascading waters flowing into pool providing ambient amethyst lighting at night. Favorable Seller financing is a consideration as well as furnishings via a separate bill of sale.Obviously this one won't last long

5606 E Desert Winds Drive Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$1,300,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
4,125 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6766944
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Amazing SW style home located on over 2 acres prime N Cave Creek Spur Cross area with amazing mountain views! This home features a split floorplan with lots of windows, tile flooring, and a fireplace. Owners have added a large walk in closet plus a 2 story library with spiral staircase leading to upper level and balcony! This home also features a hard to find 1600 SQFT separate 3 Car garage/workshop with AC and full bathroom, sink, counterspace, and lots of room so it could easily be converted to a guest house if desired. Relax in the courtyard area in between the home and seperate garage, or enjoy the views on covered back patio with Ramada. This home will not last long.

2002 S El Mirage Road Avondale, AZ 85323

$1,300,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
6,083 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773391
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
A gorgeous home that welcomes you with a circle drive and a grand door poised to impress. This charming home offers unique features unlike other cookie cutter homes. This home includes five bedrooms and six bathrooms. The chef's kitchen offers an expansive gas range, double ovens, built in over-sized refrigerator, dual dishwahers and plenty of counter space. You have a variety of dining areas for your family and to entertain dinner guests. Enjoy the enormous game room or simply go to your private theater and catch a movie or your favorite sporting event. The resort style backyard is the perfect spot to unwind and relax. Concerned about the high cost of utilities? The owned solar generates approximately 30,000 KW annually reducing your utility bills exponentially. Take a look today!

4526 E Vista Bonita Drive Phoenix, AZ 85050

$1,300,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,342 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780803
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
A fantastic 4 bed, 3 bath residence in Sanctuary at Desert Ridge loaded with upgrades including an OWNED solar system! Featuring a beautiful facade w/stone accents, low-care landscape, 3 car tandem garage, and a paver driveway,! Huge iron door with privacy glass leading you into the grand entry. Spacious great room & a formal dining room w/high ceilings and a giant Island, perfect for hosting a dinner party. Hone your cooking skills in the gourmet kitchen, 42'' upper cabinetry w/crown molding, a walk in pantry, granite counters, subway tile backsplash, gas cooktop and stainless steel appliances. Upstairs you will find a Large loft and e additional bedrooms. Guest bedroom downstairs has built in custom cabinetry for an amazing office. The yard has a spectacular pool, gas fireplace and turf The primary bedroom showcases soft carpet, a walk-in closet, and a lavish ensuite w/dual vanities. Also including a lovely backyard w/a covered patio, artificial turf, an outdoor fireplace, and a sparkling blue pool, this home is a dream come true! Don't miss out!

10331 E Starion Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$1,300,000
6 Beds
4 Baths
4,210 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6783724
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to luxury living in the highly sought-after Eastmark community, just steps from The Mark and Great Park! This meticulously maintained home offers stunning curb appeal and a range of high-end upgrades that will make you fall in love as soon as you walk in. The coffered ceilings in the formal living room, dining room, and primary suite add a touch of elegance to the open layout. The chef's kitchen is an entertainer's dream, featuring beveled granite countertops, ample cabinetry, a beautiful tiled backsplash, dual wall ovens, and GE Profile appliances. A morning kitchen with a sink, disposal, wine fridge, and overhead glass cabinets adds both style and functionality, making hosting a breeze. Upstairs, an expansive loft awaits, leading you through French doors to the primary suite, where coffered ceilings and abundant natural light make it a true retreat. The luxurious primary bath includes granite countertops, dual sinks, a separate tub and shower, and an impressive walk-in closet. The additional five bedrooms are perfectly appointed; there is even a bedroom off the loft that serves as an additional primary suite with its own ensuite bathroom and walk-in closet, another features a private balcony, and 3 more include walk-in closets for optimal storage. This home is packed with modern conveniences, including a central vacuum, a fully owned security system with sensors on every door and window, a 50-gallon hot water heater, new carbon dioxide sensors, Cat 5 connections throughout, and a whole-house water filtration system. The 4-car tandem garage is equally impressive, with epoxy flooring, overhead storage racks, a NewAge cabinet system with a bamboo workbench, and a stainless steel sink. Step outside to your backyard oasis, featuring 2,000 square feet of travertine tile on the extended patio and around the 18x36 pebble tech pool with an integrated 7x7 heated spa. Enjoy the convenience of the Pentair wireless control system controlled through the app, while the pergola with a plumbed gas Kokomo grill, refrigerator (which is included), remote control lighting, and outdoor Bluetooth speakers makes this the ultimate space for entertaining. Lush turf completes the picture-perfect yard. Eastmark offers a resort-style lifestyle, with luxurious pools, splash pads, numerous parks, Steadfast Farm, and the state-of-the-art clubhouse, The Mark, hosting year-round events and games. This is a rare opportunity to own a truly exceptional homemake it yours today!

8310 E Devonshire Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,300,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
1,922 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6786600
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautifully furnished and rare 4-bedroom (including 2 primary suites), 3-bathroom home located in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale. Currently operating as a successful Airbnb, this property features an open and bright floor plan with split bedrooms for added privacy. Step through the custom tri-fold door to your private backyard oasis, perfect for relaxation or entertaining. Enjoy the sparkling pool, new hot tub, pergola with a firepit, and a custom Scottsdale mural. Conveniently situated just minutes from Scottsdale's Spring Training stadium, premier dining, and upscale shopping. Additional upgrades include a brand-new AC unit. This property is fully equipped for Airbnb, including future bookings, making it an exceptional investment opportunity!

2552 E Ridgewood Lane Gilbert, AZ 85298

$1,300,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,027 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6776619
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Rarely do properties like these hit the market! Here's your chance to own a stunning country retreat in the prestigious Greenfield Acres. Picture yourself relaxing on the expansive front porch, working on projects in your sprawling garages, or hosting unforgettable poolside gatherings in your entertainer's paradise of a backyard. Perfect for car enthusiasts, this property boasts two oversized garages and ample storage with multiple sheds. Inside, the spacious yet cozy layout, paired with the warmth of natural brick, creates an inviting and timeless charm. This home is designed for making memories, blending functionality with comfort—an opportunity not to be missed!

1813 E Mallory Street Mesa, AZ 85203

$1,300,000
5 Beds
4 Baths
3,964 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6768387
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this CHARMING 5-bedroom custom home in NE Mesa, where classic elegance blends seamlessly with modern comforts. Overflowing with character, this home invites guests into formal living & dining rooms with large windows that offer picturesque views of the expansive front porch and yard. Everyday living is a delight in the open & airy spaces featuring a family room with a brick fireplace, spacious dining area & beautifully remodeled kitchen(2020) with white cabinetry, quartz countertops, huge island, built-in refrig/freezer & double ovens. The backyard is designed for entertaining with a large covered patio, fenced diving pool, putting green & built-in BBQ. This rare find with NO HOA offers a perfect blend of charm, modern upgrades, & functional living spaces. The home's split floor plan includes 3 bedrooms and 3 baths on the main floor (including the primary suite) and 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom upstairs. The spacious laundry room features a built-in desk for work or crafting, laundry sink, 2nd pantry, and extra space for an additional refrigerator or freezer. An extended length garage offers built-in cabinetry and a fantastic workshop. The property also features an RV gate plus a separate storage room above the garage which could be reimagined as living space. This home features so many upgrades including: French oak luxury vinyl plank throughout the living spaces, new HVACs ('22,'23), new water heaters ('22,'24), lifetime metal roof and more! This is a truly special place to call home!

6109 E Brilliant Sky Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$1,300,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,718 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6725585
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
TERRAVITA STELLA WITH CASITA. 3 BEDROOMS, 3.5 BATHS AND CASITA WITH SEPARATE ENTRANCE - THREE CAR GARAGE. GOLF COURSE VIEWS - Entrance to home has flagstone and fountain. Interior entrance tiled and open. Great Room has large window to bring in Arizona outdoor beauty and with a south view lots of light. Entertainment center with niches, fireplace, hearth area. Kitchen and dinette with seating room area all open and with lots of windows with fairway views. Double doors to patio. SS appliances with gas range. Peninsula island. Primary bedroom and bathroom spacious. Windows for golf views in bedroom. Bathroom has double vanities, walk-in shower and soaking tub. Floor Plan under Doc Tab click More tab for additional information. Second bedroom carpet, spacious with single vanity bathroom and combo tub/shower. Third bedroom/game room has built-in desk, carpet and multitude of options. Hallway cabinetry for additional storage. Large den with wall of built-in shelving and work counter. Powder room with pedestal sink. Casita has separate entrance with carpet in bedroom area and bathroom with single vanity and tub/shower combo. Laundry has ample cabinetry upper and lower and counter. A backyard paradise - golf course views, flagstone and rock, covered patio, outdoor grill/kitchen with decorative tiled counter area and a corner fireplace. Make it your dream home!

3414 E Virgil Drive Gilbert, AZ 85298

$1,300,000
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,239 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6785032
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home! This incredible basement home overlooks the 14th green of Seville Golf and Country Club. Spanning 4,239 sqft, this home features five bedrooms, three and half baths, an office and plenty of storage. The kitchen is a masterpiece of design and functionality, boasting wood cabinetry, granite counters, a large island and a walk-in pantry. The main bedroom is spacious and has a spa-like ensuite with dual vanities, a soaking tub, a huge snail shower and walk-in closet. The rest of the main floor has two additional bedrooms, a full bathroom and large hall closet. The basement stays cool during the summer and with the kitchenette/bar, makes it the perfect place to entertain while watching movies or the big game. The basement also has two spacious bedrooms and one full bathroom. The backyard is an oasis with plenty of space to entertain with a covered patio, built in bbq, heated pool and spa, all with amazing golf course views. THIS HOME IS A DEFINITE MUST SEE!

105 E Claremont Street Phoenix, AZ 85012

$1,300,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,984 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780206
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled in the desirable North Central Corridor, this inviting single-level home offers modern comforts combined with classic appeal. Sitting in a private cul-de-sac, this home boasts a large front yard with mature trees and a peaceful sitting area. Inside, find a spacious open floor plan with updated kitchen and living areas. With 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, plus a cozy casita that adds 121 sq ft, there's ample space for all. The sizeable backyard is a true oasis, featuring play-pool updated in 2021, water feature, and new equipment. An expanded covered patio with Travertine tile is perfect for entertaining or relaxing. Additional features include split floorplan, new concrete tile roof, driveway with pavers, 2 fireplaces, no HOA, proximity to Bridal Path and many coveted schools, and opportunity to add your personal touch. Well-priced and in a prime location, this home is a remarkable find.

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