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

23 County Road 1320 -- Greer, AZ 85927

$1,250,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
3,751 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6783284
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This can be your Dream Log Cabin in Greer. It has everything, 4 bedrooms, 4 baths, open living, dining and kitchen area. Wood fireplace, custom wood cabinets throughout. Upgraded appliances, tile floor & Berber carpet. Master bedroom, full size bath, walk-in closet w/ access to walk out deck. Master & one bedroom on main floor. Living area has access to walk out deck. One bedroom w/ full-size bath & loft upstairs w/ walk-out deck. Full size basement with one bedroom and full-size bath. Wood fireplace. Large family room and pool table. Single car garage. Within walking distance to Greer Village, abundance of wildlife and fishing in area. Greer Lakes minutes away, Sunrise Ski Resort 15 minutes away.

Litchfield Park AZ 85340

$1,250,000 - 6Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Dreaming Summit, Litchfield Park
New
$1,250,000
6 Beds
3 Baths
2,857 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6787434
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Listing includes 3 additional parcels 508-10-481 501-63-018-J 501-63-018-Z

16032 E Dale Lane Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,250,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,124 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6715378
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning NEXTGEN Builders contemporary just starting. Car collectors and Serious RVers will appreciate this luxury plan offering oversized40' deep 3 car tandem plus 49' deep RV gar. all paved streets, 4 BD, plus office, 4.5 BA, grand kitchen, guest suite w/private living room, owners suite with free-standing tub, walk through shower, & oversized walk-in closets, quality 90/10 smooth walls, 8' doors, quartz countertops throughout, 12' ceilings in the great room and kitchen, Amazing views. Quality build with Energy efficient Spray foam insulation, 2x6 framed exterior, fully sheathed, post tension foundation, Pictures are from model home. Buyer to verify all facts and specs.

3007 E Calaveros Drive Phoenix, AZ 85028

$1,250,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,576 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774557
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Highly sought after Heritage Heights remodel. Enter the home through custom Wrought Iron Double Entry Door with double operable insulation glass and step on tile that looks like real wood. This oversized lot in a cul-de-sac w/ a north/south exposure has fab mountain views and is walking distance to the trails at the Phoenix Mountain Preserve & Piestewa Peak.. The gorgeous kitchen features updated quartz countertops w/ glass back splash, top of the line stainless steel Samsung appliances w/ a gas stove and pantry. Bathrooms with double sinks and granite countertops, huge primary room with a generous walk in closet sports a shower with 2 heads and a warming heater and a separate soaking tub. Cozy fireplace in the family room, formal dining and a separate great room. (see more) Newer low-e dual paned windows. Community has a pool (heated part of the year), tennis, pickle ball, game room in the rentable clubhouse. The Memorial Day Parade and other fun activities make for one of the most cherished neighborhoods in the Valley (see under documents). Back yard has a large covered patio with tongue and groove ceiling, a built in firepit, fabulous BBQ with seating, large side yard with garden and another large side yard with view, shed and an RV gate for storing items such as boats and toys. Safe stays as it is part of the home. Good size 2 car garage with epoxy flooring on this elevated lot. Easy access to the SR-51, restaurants, shopping and more. Fabulous mountain views!!

7788 E Main Street Unit 1002 Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,250,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,115 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6772692
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
BUILDER financing available. Up to $10,000 in closing costs. Will consider lease to own. This resort style community features 21 units, each with its own spacious two car garage and rooftop balcony. The elegant contemporary exterior architecture, and careful attention to detail & design, make Seneca Luxury Condos an inviting community atmosphere. Your new conveniently located home in Old Town Scottsdale awaits! As you walk up to your home in Seneca, you experience a luxury private gated vestibule leading you through the cobblestone paver patio to a custom modern glass and iron front door for each unit. Entering the home, you will immediately take in the sophisticated and livable design! The interiors combine luxury with urban contemporary. Elevators are an option for these beautiful townhomes. From the premium selected base package including solid core hardwood flooring, the executive Thermofoil kitchen cabinets, natural Quartz counters, beautiful European fixtures, for the chef or the entertainer, this kitchen will be difficult to say no. Each unit has 3 ample sized bedrooms and 3 baths with complete attention to detail such as touchscreen, backlit , LED mirrors, intricate stone design in showers and baths, walk in closets and full patio or balcony offering outdoor privacy in every room. Through the custom contemporary open stairways featuring hand cut stairs and railings, you will access the remote-operated skylight with stairs leading to your exclusive roof-top outdoor deck space with composite wood plank flooring. The impressive 500 sq ft rooftops come plumbed for gas and water allowing future owners the opportunity to get a complete outdoor kitchen, perfect for enjoying Arizona's beautiful sunsets and year-long warm weather. Come visit today and take advantage of year end pricing and incentives.

38718 N 24th Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85086

$1,250,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,926 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6719991
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Your future sanctuary, a stunning custom home in the serene Desert Hills community, scheduled for completion in early 2025. This exceptional 2,926sf residence offers unparalleled luxury and functionality, designed to cater to your every need. The expansive great room features a formal dining area and views through a wall of windows, flooding the space with natural light and offering a seamless connection to the outdoors. With 4 bedrooms PLUS DEN and 3.5 bathrooms, this split floorplan is the perfect size. The fourth bedroom features an en suite and walk-in closet, providing flexibility and privacy for guests or multi-generational living. The luxurious owner's suite is a true retreat, with a private exit to the backyard and large bathroom boasting a spacious shower & separate freestanding tub. A large walk-in closet with built-in organizers ensures ample storage and effortless organization. A gourmet Kitchen is the heart of the home, featuring large double islands with slab granite countertops and a striking full-height backsplash. Equipped with upgraded stainless-steel appliances, a pot filler, a gas range, and custom cabinets, this kitchen is a chef's dream. A large walk-in pantry offers ample storage for all your culinary needs. Recessed lighting, upscale pendant and chandeliers, as well as above and below cabinet lighting add a touch of sophistication and ambiance. Each full bathroom is adorned with tiled surrounds, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication. A conveniently located half bath is perfect for guests, and features stylish fixtures and finishes. Included is an oversized super garage, with an extended length 2.5 car garage and 8ft-high door, as well as an attached RV garage, providing ample space for vehicles, storage, and hobbies. Crafted with care and precision by local builder, Dynamic Desert Homes, who's known for their commitment to quality and excellence in home building. Built with 2x6 construction and spray foam insulation on a post-tension slab, this home is designed for durability and energy efficiency. Nestled on a generous 1-acre lot, there's plenty of space for outdoor activities, gardening, or even adding a pool. No HOA! Bring the toys! Horses, boats, trailers are all welcome here. Located in the serene rural area of Desert Hills, this home offers a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city, yet remains conveniently close to the essential amenities. Taxes are estimated and not yet assessed by county. PHOTOS AND VIRTUAL TOUR ARE OF ANOTHER PROPERTY OF SAME FLOORPLAN. SOME FEATURES, COLORS, FIXTURES AND DESIGNS WILL VARY.

13621 W Tuckey Court Glendale, AZ 85307

$1,250,000
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,921 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6681963
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
* VA ASSUMABLE LOAN * Must-see STUNNING CUSTOM LUXURY property nestled on a desirable cul-de-sac lot in Luke Ranch Estates! Rare 5 bed/3 bth/2 half bth/3-car garage home has everything on your wishlist and more! Pristine interior features neutral tile floor, dazzling chandeliers, plantation shutters, & 9+ high ceilings. Grand welcoming foyer leads to spacious great room for gatherings, formal dining room for hosting holidays, and the perfectly-sized den for a home office. The bright great room highlights multiple sliding glass doors merging indoor and outdoor entertaining. Chef's kitchen is fully equipped w/ wood staggered cabinets, mother-of-pearl tile backsplash, Sub Zero refrigerator w/wine cooler, Wolf appliances, kettle faucet, ice maker, 2 islands, and 2 sinks for a kosher kitch Septic Tank without leach field and conveniently marked with pavers for easy access. Double doors open to the sizable primary suite with separate backyard access, an accent wall, an immaculate ensuite w/dual vanities, and walk-in closet which also connects to laundry room! 4 of 5 bedrooms have walk-in closets! 5th bedroom makes a great game room and has attached 1/2 bath with access to backyard. Enjoy entertaining in this expansive backyard showcasing a relaxing extended covered patio, mature landscaping, sparkling oversized pool, outdoor shower, pergola, BBQ grill, built-in benches, electric and water RV hookups, RV gate, and gorgeous mountain views! This gorgeous gem is conveniently located near Luke AFB, White Tank Mtn Regional Park, shopping, and so much more! Call for a private tour today!

3611 N 197th Court Buckeye, AZ 85396

$1,250,000 - 3Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Pasqualetti Mountain Ranch, Buckeye
New
$1,250,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,786 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6785530
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This meticulously maintained Pasqualetti Mountain Ranch home features 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, a 2-car extended garage with built-in cabinets, and an attached 42' RV garage (buyer to verify). The great room and kitchen are the heart of the home. The beautiful kitchen is complete with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances (including an induction cooktop), and knotty alder cabinets. The resort-style backyard boasts a sparkling diving pool, a travertine pool deck, an expansive covered patio, and an outdoor kitchen. The move-in ready home features recently replaced air conditioner (2019). The solar system is Paid off!

2637 W Frontage Road Amado, AZ 85645

$1,250,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,596 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773124
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Huge Opportunity for your ideas for financial growth. This stunning new built home sits on 18 sprawling acres, offering the perfect blend of luxury, tranquility, and creativity. Featuring a modern design 4-Bedroom, 2.5 bath spacious high-end finished home with spacious living areas, a gourmet kitchen, and large windows that flood the space with natural light, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding Mountain Views and Arizona countryside. Outside, the expansive property offers endless possibilities for outdoor living, farming, room for 4 more custom homes, build a guest lodge or simply enjoying the peace and privacy of rural living. Perfect for those seeking a serene escape while still being close to local amenities. Your dream home and future financial opportunity awaits

23008 E Galveston Street Mesa, AZ 85212

$1,250,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
3,039 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6764340
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
*SELLERS WILL PAY 10K- BUYERS CLOSING COSTS/ RATE BUY DOWN* Nestled in Rancho Apache this non HOA home sits on over an acre of land, surrounded by nature and grandiose custom homes. Near fwy 24, Eastmark, and the famous sports complex. This location is unbeatable, very close to shopping, dining, and entertainment! This home features 13ft ceilings, custom floor to ceiling windows and glass doors throughout, which makes it spacious and open. A great kitchen with large waterfall island perfect for entertaining. 3ba and 3bd plus a flex room which can be used as a 4b/ office/ den, all bd have exterior access. The 3 car garage is overextended and spacious, also features RO and water softener. And a large workshop in the back. This home is ready to make your own!

2211 E Camelback Road Unit 506 Phoenix, AZ 85016

$1,250,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
2,074 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6768074
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
UNOBSTUCTED Mountain VIEWS! Immaculate, updated condo. 2 bed/2 bath - Wood floors throughout. Murphy bed and desk in guest bedroom. Open floor plan with views from every room. Fully updated kitchen. Washer/dryer included. Lots of storage throughout. Fully equipped gym, Roof top heated swimming pool/jacuzzi and 2 BB pits. Surround sound music throuoghout common areas. HOA fee includes everything except electriity. Fully equipped state of the art gym. Building business office with 2 terminals and high speed internet/fax/copier etc. Club room with huge. TV/Fireplace/Piano/Library. Available for immediate occupancy. Beautifully updated! Also available for lease.

7734 E Adele Court Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,250,000
6 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,281 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6767959
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled in the coveted North Scottsdale 85255 zip code! Entering be captivated by soaring ceilings & upgraded flooring. This unique layout offers 2 master suites one upstairs & the other on the main level providing ultimate comfort & privacy. while an additional main level bedroom offers extra space for guests. The gourmet kitchen offers premium Viking appliances, double oven & island perfect for culinary creations & entertaining. The large great room invites relaxation, Upstairs, you'll find 4 additional bedrooms. The second master suite serves as a personal retreat! Step outside to a beautiful yard with a sparkling pool & backing to a natural area for added privacy. Conveniently located to upscale shopping, fine dining, world-class golf & vibrant entertainment epitomizing luxury living.

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