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

930 W Maryland Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85013

$1,250,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,922 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6771148
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Your dream corner lot home is finally here! This 3-bedroom gem boasts fantastic curb appeal with a 3-car garage, a circular driveway with a canopy, and an immaculate lawn. Fall in love with the delightful open floor plan with soaring ceilings, recessed lighting, a soothing palette, and 24x48 Italian tile flooring. The gourmet kitchen comes with quartz counters, modern flat-panel cabinetry, pendant lighting, a stylish tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, a handy pantry, and a large center island with a breakfast bar for casual dining. The primary bedroom features a romantic fireplace, direct backyard access, a lavish ensuite with double sinks, and a spacious walk-in closet. Outdoors, the enchanting backyard showcases a covered patio and a refreshing pool. Make this gem yours!

15921 E Primrose Drive Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$1,250,000
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,200 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6775263
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Imagine waking up to the soft glow of dawn as the sun rises over Four Peaks while you cozy up with a cup of coffee. That is just a glimpse of what awaits you in this designer-inspired semi-custom 2022 built contemporary Fountain Hills home. Experience the rich blend of casual elegance & eclectic comfort accentuated with soaring 20' vaulted ceilings and views that stretch for miles. The striking open concept great room, dining room and kitchen flow effortlessly and are ideal for family gatherings or entertaining with direct patio access to experience Arizona's coveted indoor/outdoor lifestyle. Natural light abounds through 8'x8' windows and sliders throughout, complemented by wood-look tile floors. The great room's contemporary linear LED fireplace is framed by art niche shelving and accent lighting. The dining room offers a 10' dry bar with generous cabinetry, floating shelves and wine and beverage refrigeration. Here, the kitchen truly is the heart of the home with a 12 foot waterfall edge island with seating for six. The culinary enthusiast will appreciate the attention to detail with quartz counters, soft-close white shaker cabinets, a Samsung appliance package with multiple ovens and a pot filler for those family spaghetti dinners. It is from the sanctuary of your primary retreat where you'll watch the sunrise over the city and mountains beyond or step onto the secluded backyard patio. The split floor plan provides four additional bedrooms. The first guest room offers an ensuite, two more bedrooms share a jack-and-jill bathroom. The fifth bedroom is utilized as a light and bright office with perhaps the best views of all. Movie nights can be enjoyed in the media room. The laundry and powder rooms complete your single story living. Down the stairs you'll find a three car air-conditioned garage and storage room. The owners have ensured the paver driveway is ideal for easy garage access with thoughtful expansion. Your tiered backyard is private and offers a heated spa and resort feel, plus your four-legged friends have their own fenced space. The front patio is expansive and your guests will arrive as they ascend paver steps with a sleek iron rail. This is your exclusive opportunity to experience the Arizona lifestyle and all that Fountain Hills has to offer, with its world famous fountain, world-class golf, hiking, biking, arts and culture all out your door.

7635 E Camino Vivaz -- Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,250,000 - 3Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Paseo At Pinnacle Peak, Scottsdale
New
$1,250,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,220 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6788784
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This gorgeous, single story 3 bed, 3 bath home is located in the boutique, gated community of Paseo at Pinnacle Peak. Newly built in 2022 and upgraded to the fullest extent, at home you'll enjoy 12' ceilings, a chef's kitchen with custom cabinetry, GE Monogram appliances and waterfall counter tops, and upgraded bedrooms and bathrooms throughout. Featuring sweeping mountain views to the East, the yard was designed to be comfortable and low maintenance with an automatic drip system in the front and turf in the back. Numerous restaurants, retail shops, golf courses walking paths and hiking trails are all within 5 minutes!

26715 N 168th Street Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$1,250,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,594 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774784
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to Whispering Canyon - a breathtaking 3.5-acre desert retreat in Rio Verde Foothills! This luxurious 3-bedroom, 3-bath property, complete with a charming guest casita, is perfect for a family compound or serene getaway. The main home features an open layout w/ high ceilings, abundant natural light, and elegant finishes. The gourmet kitchen boasts premium appliances and a spacious island, ideal for entertaining. The master suite offers a spa-inspired bath, walk-in shower, and ample closet space. Outdoors, enjoy stunning views, a covered patio, & pristine desert landscaping. Whispering Canyon is equipped with a 5,050-gallon water tank by Dynamite Water & permanent water service approved by EPCOR, ensuring reliable access. Embrace the ultimate desert lifestyle in comfort & style.

2200 E Aquarius Place Chandler, AZ 85249

$1,250,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,315 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6783026
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to an exquisite residence nestled within the prestigious gated community of Windermere Ranch, where unparalleled luxury meets modern sophistication. Built in 2019, this opulent 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom haven offers a grand living experience, perfectly crafted for those with the most discerning tastes. Boasting the largest lot in the community, this home combines expansive space with intimate comfort, epitomizing the pinnacle of lavish living. Set within a serene enclave, this property boasts impressive street appeal with a custom iron entry door that welcomes you into a charming front courtyard adorned with a gas fireplace, all elegantly appointed with 12x36 inch porcelain tiles. The expertly designed landscaping and hardscaping, paired with WiFi-controlled waterfalls, create a tranquil ambiance that frames this remarkable home. Step inside to discover an interior filled with high-end upgrades and sophisticated design choices. The extended kitchen is a culinary masterpiece, featuring quartz countertops, a custom backsplash, state-of-the-art appliances, and ample cabinetry enhanced with undercabinet LED lighting. The island, complete with an integrated sink, makes for a functional yet chic space, perfect for entertaining. In the living room, soaring 12-foot ceilings and a stunning 60 linear gas fireplace, surrounded by custom Italian tile, create an expansive and luxurious gathering area. Enhanced with 5.1 speaker wiring and dimmable downlighting, the room is perfectly suited for both relaxed nights in or lively social gatherings. The primary bedroom suite is a sanctuary of relaxation, boasting an extended space with serene views of the backyard oasis. The primary bathroom is a spa-like retreat, featuring upgraded porcelain tiles and exquisite finishes throughout. Every detail has been thoughtfully curated, from the upgraded carpets in the bedrooms to the custom window shades in the music room and den. A central vacuum system and whole-house water softener ensure convenience and comfort at every turn. Outside, enjoy a lavish outdoor living space with a raised patio area tiled with 12x36 inch porcelain. Unwind under the expansive 19' x 20' pergola, or gather around the built-in linear gas firepit for unforgettable evenings under the stars. For the ultimate indulgence, a heated spa nestled on its own concrete pad awaits for soothing relaxation. This estate is a harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor living, finished with thoughtful touches such as upgraded exterior lighting fixtures, shade sails in the front courtyard, and a motion-activated pantry light. The complete exterior has been recently repainted, offering the perfect finishing touch to this distinguished home. With its formidable array of bespoke features, enhancements, and a prestigious location in Windermere Ranch, this exquisite residence stands as a testament to refined living. It is more than just a home, it is a lifestyle choice for those who seek the extraordinary.

27808 N Desierto Drive Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$1,250,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,090 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784559
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
NEW IN 2022 - 4 BDRM, 3 BA, SINGLE LEVEL CUSTOM HOME, GREATROOM FLOORPLAN, FIREPLACE, DESIGNER KITCHEN CUSTOM SUBZERO W/DRAWERS, MONOGRAM GAS OVEN & COOKTOP, MONOGRAM MICRO DRAWER, BOSCHE DOUBLE OVENS, THERMADOR DOUBLE REFRIG DRAWERS, HINKLEY DECOR LIGHTING, FANS IN BDRMS, WINDOWS HAVE SHADES, 16' SLIDING DOOR TO OUTDOOR LIVING, COVERED PATIO, ALL PORCELAIN 2'x4' TILE, NO CARPET, AMMENITIES, GOLF, PUTTING GREEN, BOCCE BALL, OLYMPIC HEATED OLYMPIC SIZE POOL/SPA, FITNESS CTR, 18 HOLE PUTPUT, MESQUITE RESTAURANT ON LAKE. Tonto Verde has 2 championship golf courses owned by members. This is an active, vibrant community with biking, hiking, swimming and beautiful streets for walking. Families welcome.

7788 E Main Street Unit 1003 Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,250,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,115 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6772687
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.

733 W Moon Valley Drive Phoenix, AZ 85023

$1,250,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,932 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6768910
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Totally renovated and remodeled 4 bedroom, 3 bath home located on the 10th fairway of the Moon Valley Country Club championship Golf Course.

7360 E Rustling Pass Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,250,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,040 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6785627
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This beautiful 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath home in the desirable Monterey Park neighborhood of Grayhawk is a true standout. Perfectly positioned on a north/south corner lot, it enjoys the added bonus of backing to a walking path and being adjacent to a community park. The thoughtfully updated interior features an open floor plan with a kitchen that flows seamlessly into the family room, and a stunning stacked stone fireplace. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, equipped with a Viking professional gas cooktop, stainless steel appliances, and stunning Quartz countertops. Modern light fixtures and surround sound throughout the home and backyard enhance the ambiance. The downstairs primary bedroom overlooks the backyard through a large picture window that invites an abundance of natural light, creating a bright and tranquil retreat. Upstairs offers three additional bedrooms, a loft with a built-in desk, and two full bathrooms, including a Jack-and-Jill bath between two of the bedrooms. Outside, a large private pool awaits, creating the perfect space for relaxation or entertaining. Buyers, take note! Added features of this home include a roof that was updated in recent years, brand-new AC units installed in 2021 (including a high-efficiency Trane model for the upper level), and a garage upgraded to be EV-ready with a 240V outlet. Grayhawk offers exceptional amenities, walking paths, tennis courts and sport courts, Grayhawk Park, and two championship golf courses. Ideally located in the heart of North Scottsdale, this home is just minutes from the 101 Freeway and close to world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Experience the best of Scottsdale living in this exquisite Grayhawk home!

5910 Velvet Valley Lane Flagstaff, AZ 86004

$1,250,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
4,006 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6744334
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
TRULY AMAZING PROPERTY THAT BRINGS UNDEINIABLE VALUE! Beautiful Home, Oversized RV Garage, and a Studio / Showroom / Workshop that is Second to None! ALL OF THIS ON 2.5 ACRES! Come Unwind and Experience Heaven on Earth While Relaxing Next to the 175,000 Gallon Fish Pond or Work from Home in your Custom 2200 SF Expansive Workshop w/ Private Bath. Your Custom Built 1806 Sq Ft Home is Only Steps Away Including a 1200 Square Foot RV Garage, Horse Set Up / Stall and Additional Out Buildings. This Meticulously Maintained Property Shines and Pride of Ownership is an Understatement Featuring New Roof, Wood Grain Tile, High Vaulted Ceilings, Corian Countertops, Malapai Rock Accents, HUGE Primary Closet and So Much More. This Perfect Property is Absolutely the Most Ideal Home / Office Scenario!

32874 N 74th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$1,250,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,544 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6769027
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
FIRST TIME ON MARKET!!! Indulge in luxury at 32874 N 74th Way in Las Piedras, North Scottsdale, a 2544 sq ft residence nestled near Whisper Rock and The Boulders. This single-level home showcases desert views, a gated courtyard, full casita bath and casita prep room. Outdoor bliss awaits with two private patios, and a gas fireplace behnd the privacy of custom entry doors with speakeasy windows—perfect for entertaining amidst breathtaking Arizona sunsets. This end lot provides a full view of the beautiful desert mountains that are literally at the end of the culdesac! Custom flooring creates a warmth throughout the home. Towering ceilings and countless windows create for a light and airy environment. Custom cabinetry and a huge island make family gatherings perfect! All of this situa within a private gated community in one of the best neighborhoods in North Scottsdale. Home office can easily be converted into a 4th bedroom. Don't forget to visit the heated community pool/spa. The wait is over!!!! Come visit this masterpiece in the desert!

4471 S Gold Court Chandler, AZ 85248

$1,250,000
5 Beds
4 Baths
4,353 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6766306
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Highly upgraded home with a fantastic layout - see the additional docs tab for a FULL list of upgrades included OWNED solar & private home office! Not only is this home located in Fulton Ranch's Gallery neighborhood, it has a 2.875% ASSUMABLE VA loan - anyone, veteran or non-veteran can assume this loan! The home is well equipped for both entertaining & relaxing as your own private sanctuary - the kitchen is well equipped with a Viking cook top, GE Monogram oven, microwave & dishwasher, extra large island with breakfast bar seating, upgraded granite slabs, custom cabinetry, wine fridge, wine rack, upgraded step stone backsplash & and oversized pantry. The master en-suite is extra spacious, the bathroom features a custom walk-in shower, deep Kohler (click MORE for more features) deep Kohler soaking tub, private toilet room & large walk-in closet. The backyard truly is an oasis with mature landscaping (see upgrade list for details), heated pool with therapy jets, bubbler, waterspouts, waterfall, private outdoor fireplace, full-size covered patio, USA built-in Lynx grill, gas fire pit & larger travertine deck area! This home is not just about all the awesome features, the Fulton Ranch community has 2.5 miles of walking trails, 32 acres of lakes & waterfalls & grassy common areas for you to enjoy. If you're a golfer, you'll be close to nine different courses including 27 holes at the Ocotillo Golf Club which is a mile away from the home. It's located in Arizona's top school district with A+ Schools like Hamilton High School, CTA & Basis within 2 miles! The community is next to Intel and Price Rd technology Corridor with Intel, Northrup Grumman & other top employers close by. It's located about 25 mins from Sky Harbor and just minutes from downtown Chandler with its many great shopping areas restaurants.

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