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

18248 W Desert Sage Drive Goodyear, AZ 85338

$1,224,900
5 Beds
4 Baths
3,500 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6749741
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This stunning 5-bedroom, 4-bathroom home is a true gem, offering luxury living in a desirable neighborhood! Built in 2019, it's the last home completed in the subdivision, is situated on an oversized lot and right on the golf course. The grand entrance welcomes you into a spacious open concept living area with high ceilings, gorgeous 12x24 neutral tile floors, and large windows that flood the space with natural light. Smart home enabled, this home comes equipped with a Ring security system and four cameras, all light fixtures and fans are custom made and plantation shutters throughout. The gourmet kitchen features top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances, Espresso colored shaker cabinets, granite countertops, herringbone subway tile backsplash, and an oversized butler pantry. The primary suite is true retreat with a spa-like en-suite bathroom, which includes dual vanities, and a large, upgraded walk-in closet with built-in California closers. Enter the backyard through remote controlled power blinds on the sliding glass doors to your beautifully landscaped oasis that includes a covered patio, fireplace, built-in kitchen with grill and refrigerator, which are all perfect for outdoor dining and entertainment. Enjoy your pool and spa all year around, that are heated with both gas and electricity. This home has been fitted with gutters that drain out underground and did I mention there is solar with a back-up battery, and it's paid in full!! Located in a prime location and just 25 miles from downtown Phoenix, Estrella provides a lakeside mountain oasis nestled in the Sierra Estrella Mountains in the Sonoran Desert Valley. The community offers more than 500 acres of parks and open space, including 72 acres of lakes for boating, fishing, and hiking. Estrella is home to a Nicklaus-designed championship golf course along with pickle ball, volleyball and basketball courts. Estrella offers a Yacht Club and three different Residents Clubs that feature resort-style pools, state-of-the-art fitness centers and a variety of sports courts, outdoor seating, dining, and more. Last but not least, within the Estrella community, they have five schools that focus on the arts, science, sports, civics, and citizenship which offer well-rounded education. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to own a luxurious home with every detail thought of in this sought-after neighborhood.

5312 N Sierra Hermosa Court Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$1,220,000
6 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,824 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6749766
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Move in Ready property located in the gated community of Dreaming Summit at Barrington Estates! 6 bedrooms + loft/game room, office on first floor with separate entrance/exit, 3.5 baths, 4,824 square feet, 4 car garage on an oversized cul de sac lot (1.172 acres), huge first floor master bedroom with French doors leading to the backyard, dual vanities, separate tub & walk-in shower, his & hers walk in closets, gourmet kitchen boasts Dual-Viking ovens, gas cooktop, Sub Zero refrigerator, kitchen island, ample cabinets & counter space, granite counters, family room has gas fireplace with stone mantle, 5 bedrooms upstairs, plantation shutters, backyard oasis awaits you that includes children's playground, Playhouse with air conditioning, trampoline, large covered patio, RV gate, large grass area, pool for those hot Arizona summers, built in BBQ with gazebo, outside fireplace, sport court, walking path, close to freeways, shopping, entertainment, too much to list here, see this home today!

13733 E Laurel Lane Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$1,220,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,769 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773004
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
VIEWS VIEWS VIEWS! 24/7 Guard Gated community in highly prestigious Scottsdale Mountain. Single Level home w/ direct south facing Mountain , sunset and city light views features 3 full bedrooms plus a large den, 3 full bathrooms, and a three-car garage! Premium south facing corner lot backs to natural desert and offers exquisite mountain views and city lights. Kitchen includes granite counter tops, SS appliance, plenty of storage space and eat in kitchen! Scottsdale Mountain community features pickleball, tennis, heated spa and plenty of access to the many hiking trails within the McDowell Mountain Preserve. Home is located close to the Basis Schools, Mayo Clinic, golf and much much more!

781 N Bristol Lane Gilbert, AZ 85234

$1,220,000
5 Beds
4 Baths
4,036 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773389
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover this spacious home in the Bristol Square community in Gilbert, Arizona, offering a blend of comfort, flexibility, and convenience. Improvements: Roof Underlayment Two HVAC Systems LVP Flooring & Carpet Water Heater Interior/Exterior Paint Renovated Balcony Floor & Railing Basement Remodel Updated Kitchen *The total square footage of the home including the basement, is approximately 4,692 square feet. *Verified by appraisal service. This home includes a 655-square-foot finished basement filled with natural light, a full bathroom, kitchenette, utility room/walk-in closet, & its own HVAC system. This versatile space could potentially be an additional bedroom, playroom, or theater room. Another highlight is the nearly 700-square-foot recreation room with a separate HVAC system and an exterior door to the driveway. This flexible area could serve as storage, a guest suite, home gym or a blend of it all. Upstairs, you'll find generously sized bedrooms, including the primary suite that has a walk-in closet with a standard closet across from it. Primary bathroom is large, has a toilet room, and a two person shower. The private balcony, accessible only from the primary suite, has the Superstition Mountains in sighta great spot to relax. Three of the four bedrooms are spacious enough to accommodate a standard king-size bed. One full bathroom with quartz countertop and dual sinks. The main floor features an open floor plan with vaulted ceilings, two large living spaces, laundry room, a ¾ bathroom with quartz countertop, two car garage and the recreation room. The updated kitchen with quartz counters is perfect for entertaining, offering both formal & informal dining areas. With an office/bedroom on this level it adds even more versatility. The exterior has low-maintenance landscaping and a spacious driveway. The 35' x 50' rear side yard could be ideal for RV/trailer parking or a variety of other uses, additionally, the pool presents options for renovation, fill-in, or relocate to optimize the outdoor space.

966 E Desert Lane Gilbert, AZ 85234

$1,220,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,801 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6772023
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover the best that Gilbert has to offer - a lush, irrigated farm property on 1.14 acres with a tasteful, remodeled home just minutes from downtown Gilbert. The property itself offers year-round greenery, creating a serene backdrop for your daily life. Picture sipping your morning coffee on the porch as you watch your horses roam freely in the sunshine! Inside, you'll be captivated by the modern design & thoughtful upgrades throughout. Charm meets luxury with exceptional touches like picture frame molding and red brick accents. The open-concept living area is perfect for entertaining, while each of the 4 bedrooms offer a private retreat at the end of the day. Every detail has been considered in the remodel, from stylish fixtures to a large primary walk-in closet & new primary bath ...with tub and shower, plus double vanities. A true delight is the library with built-in bookcases and fireplace. Perfect for horse enthusiasts, this property features stalls with commercial lighting and water, a picturesque red barn approximately 800 sqft, and well-maintained corrals, providing everything you need for your equine companions. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to own a piece of paradise! Most of remodel completed in 2022, including a new electrical panel 2022, luxury vinyl tile and carpet in bedrooms, 12 new windows and three new doors in April 2022, AC new in July 2023.

41717 N Moss Springs Court Anthem, AZ 85086

$1,220,000 - 3Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Anthem Country Club Unit 2a Cypress Point 2 Amd, Anthem
Open House
$1,220,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,191 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6767856
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Golf course, mountain, pond & wash VIEWS! Endless & changing views from this Anthem Country Club home. Located behind the pond, directly behind Persimmon's hole #8 green, looking up to the ever-changing Daisy Mountain. NEW exterior paint! 1 NEW A/C, other 2012, 3/4 of roof has new underlayment. NEW epoxy garage floor. Open kitchen & family room. Updated kitchen, entertainment center & office. Charming primary bedroom & bathroom. HIS & HER closets & vanities. Large living & dining room. Neutral colors throughout. Light & bright Conveniently located by the main gate. SOLAR lease at low rate. Anthem amenities are outstanding. Come & enjoy ''2 of everything''. 2 golf courses, tennis facilities, club houses, restaurants, pools, fitness centers, just 2 much fun! Sellers are owner/agents.

36492 E Cactus Lane Tucson, AZ 85739

$1,217,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,699 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6754708
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This luxury home, perfectly situated along the 8th fairway of the prestigious Preserve Golf Course, offers a harmonious blend of sophistication, class, and casual elegance. Nestled within the highly coveted community of The Preserve at SaddleBrooke, this residence boasts a thoughtfully designed split floor plan, featuring three spacious bedrooms and three luxurious baths. Dual master suites provide unmatched privacy, ideal for guests or family, while a versatile bonus room easily transforms into an office, workout room, craft room, or additional guest suite, thanks to a convenient built-in Murphy Bed. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, equipped with top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances, custom cabinetry, and gleaming granite countertops, all enhanced by sophisticated lighting. The kitchen opens up seamlessly to the expansive great room, dining area, and breakfast bar, creating an ideal space for both entertaining and everyday living. A custom fireplace set into a striking chiseled granite feature wall elevates the living room's aesthetic, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere. This exquisite home also offers high end custom retractible sun shades that protect from UV on the homes interior as well as a top of the line Surround sound entertainment system built in! The covered patio will invite you to relax and enjoy panoramic golf course views, with breathtaking sunsets as the backdrop. The yard is equipped with a state of the art remote watering system controlled from your phone! Whether you're an avid golfer or simply seeking a serene lifestyle in a vibrant, active community, this home offers the perfect combination of luxury, comfort, and practicality.

3111 E Red Oak Court Gilbert, AZ 85297

$1,215,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,639 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6745436
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Magnificent Toll Brothers home nestled in the heart of one of Gilbert's most prestigious areas. Every inch of this exquisite property creates a sense of luxury. Private gated courtyard entry (w/ gas fireplace), gorgeous hickory floors. Timeless granite & marble counters, crown moulding, soffited & box beamed great room ceiling; this home is unique. Spectacular kitchen boasts massive granite counters, upgraded cabinetry, breakfast bar & extended breakfast room. Luxurious owner's suite exudes elegance. The extended floor plan creates your own private retreat w/ massive walk-in closet, marble floors & counters, jetted garden tub accentuate the pampered comforts. Huge 1/3 acre lot features heated pool, private pergola & fire pit & still lots of space to personalize your private oasis. the pampered comforts of the owner's bath suite. Huge 14,000 sq ft lot allows plenty of room for the heated swimming pool, private pergola and fire pit. With so many upgrades and designer touches you'll be swept away!

8619 E Rancho Vista Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,215,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,059 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6764806
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
STUNNING modern luxury ranch single story home in a spectacular location!! The perfect place for a young family, investor, or a large family. **Comes fully furnished** This property includes a new 800sf addition that boasts 10ft ceilings in your garage and primary suite & bath, dual vanities, modern tub & large shower. No HOA, Completely rebuilt with 4 beds 3 baths (3rd bed is a secondary suite) and an extra 200sf+ AC game room!! Minutes from Old Town and Talking Stick, spectacular curb appeal, with two front lighted courtyard patios that include picturesque Camelback Mtn. sunset views! Enjoy signature Scottsdale nights and entertainment, basking in your pristine heated/chilled PebbleTec pool w/ built in fire pit alongside a 40x15 foot covered patio with commercial misters and 3 sliders.

1427 E Cherrywood Place Chandler, AZ 85249

$1,214,747
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,462 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6782159
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Furnished new single-story, model home with swimming pool in the gated community of Treeland. The home offers a Farmhouse exterior featuring 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, a den, and attached 3-car garage. The kitchen features stainless steel built-in appliances including a 36'' gas cooktop and quartz countertops with a waterfall edge at the island. Other highlights include a 12' multi-slider at the dining room, Bryant maple rye cabinets, coffered ceiling in the foyer, office and primary suite, laundry sink with upper and lower cabinets, separate tub and shower at the primary bath with tile surrounds, iron entry door, champagne bronze fixtures in bathrooms, plus washer, dryer and refrigerator. Close of escrow targeted for the end of April, 2025, or earlier at Seller's discretion with notice

15414 S 19th Way Phoenix, AZ 85048

$1,210,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
3,933 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774471
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home in the Ahwatukee Foothills, within the serene Cabrillo Canyon Preserve. This stunning 4-bedroom, 4-bathroom residence features an elegant iron door entrance. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's delight, with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, a wet bar, and a large center island—perfect for entertaining. The spacious family room includes a custom stone fireplace and bamboo flooring, creating a cozy ambiance. Dual primary suites—one on each floor—offer flexibility and comfort. The backyard is a private oasis, complete with a pool, built-in BBQ, and plenty of room for outdoor living. A 3-car garage and RV gate provide ample storage. This home has it all!

3336 E Earll Drive Phoenix, AZ 85018

$1,204,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,500 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6754375
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Appraised on 2/14/24 for $1,204,429 Fully remodeled designer oversized property with 2 master bedrooms. Split floor plan, 4 bed 3 bath 2 car garage. Gorgeous property to live in. Over $200k in upgrades from floor to the ceiling was all done.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.