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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18029 W San Miguel Avenue Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$1,200,000

3 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,915 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784999

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

RUSSELL RANCH! Love the high 12ft ceiling throughout. Huge Formal Liv & din rms with Travertine flooring & plantation shutters thru-out. Open island chef's kitchen with tall 42in cabinets & tons of granite countertops space + walk-n pantry. Enjoy the family rm gas fireplace, wet bar area too! Master suite w dual master Elfa closets, walk-n tiled shower & jet tub! Sep. his & her toilets rms & dual vanities. Den has access to the pool & easily converted to 4th Br. Bedrooms 2-3 are good size w Private baths. Step outside to your resort style backyard, beach entry pool with water & fire pot features, raised travertine sundeck. Entertainers Ramada + gas plumbed BBQ & outdoor Fireplace kit. 16 ft Gate w extra concrete slab for the RV & toys! Extra power 120/30 plug in. Gated dog run area

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12000 N 144th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85259

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$1,200,000

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

3,287 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6788378

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Located in a cul-de-sac, backs to the open desert, very short walk to a hiking trailhead. Enter thru a charming courtyard, the spacious & versatile floorplan includes 4 ensuite bedrooms, high ceilings & tall windows throughout. Upgrades include floor-to-ceiling office built-ins, Pella windows & doors, plantation shutters, stone flooring, 8' solid core doors, granite counters in bathrooms, and recently updated & upgraded cabinetry. Close to internationally renowned Basis School and Scottsdale Schools, Mayo Clinic, golf courses, hiking trails, top valley restaurants and spectacular natural scenery. This home is a must-see! Seller Carry at 5% would be considered.

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3308 N 190th Drive Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$1,200,000

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,520 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6777544

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Situated on a cul-de-sac in the gated Litchfield Farms community, this 5-bed, 3.5-bath home on over an acre blends luxury with versatility. The property includes an 1,800 sqft shop with a 450 sqft guest quarter featuring separate AC, heat, a sink & full bath. Two large bay doors are controlled with a smart garage door opener system & camera. Property includes a 40+ ft gated RV parking & additional RV parking with hookups. The interior features tile & wood flooring throughout. The master suite offers a jetted tub, stone-tiled shower, & dual walk-in closets. There is a theater room with surround sound, billiards room, sauna, owned 9.6 kW solar, & two balconies with mountain views! Lushly landscaped backyard with putting green, pool, jacuzzi, built-in BBQ, and fire pit—your paradise awaits!

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3348 E Eva Street Phoenix, AZ 85028

$1,200,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,597 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767179

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This lovely contemporary ranch style home facing the Preserve on quiet Eva St is just steps from Trail 100. NO HOA. The landscaped backyard features a spacious covered patio including covered decking over inground pool for comfortable outdoor living and entertaining. Enter through custom steel doors to travertine floors, formal living room with mountain views, dining room with abundant built-in cabinetry, kitchen with granite countertops opening to the family room; en-suite master bedroom with 2 walk-in closets with skylight; jetted tub, walk-in shower with 2 showerheads; double sinks; privacy half wall for commode; 3 additional bedrooms; one currentlyt an office with built-in cabinetry and desks; laundry room with abundant cabinetry; bar sink; solar panels (owned) keep costs low; built-in garage cabinets; electric garage door opener; soft water (owned); drink water filtering system; glass top electric range with double ovens; 2 water heaters (master bedroom has a separate water heater); circular drive-way with pavers; solar panels (owned); well maintained home with multiple upgrades. Wonderful neighborhood with easy access to services; Hwy 51; the Phoenix Mountain Preserve; 32nd St and Shea and not far from Tatum shopping areas.

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5121 E Windrose Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,200,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,244 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6775668

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome home to this gorgeous remodel with a brand new pickleball court directly across the street from Sonrisa Park! The rose studded walkway is the first to welcome you to your beautiful new home. Through the front door, you are met with an open floor plan featuring a spacious dining room, home office overlooking the park, living room with a cozy honeycomb fireplace, and a beautiful modern kitchen. The kitchen boasts of waterfall quartz countertops, solid wood shaker cabinets and a large walk-in pantry with tons of extra storage. The primary bedroom overlooks a floral atrium, walk-in closet, custom slat barn door, and a beautiful bathroom with LED light accents. Outside the 8' accordion door, you will find a massive diving pool, mature citrus trees, and pickleball court. A MUST SEE!

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51008 W Pete Road Aguila, AZ 85320

$1,200,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

2,154 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6378759

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This Remarkable Property features a completely renovated House, a 60' x 60' Hangar PLUS 60' x 80' Hangar in a gorgeous setting! House features custom Hickory Cabinetry & solid hand-carved Hickory doors throughout. Travertine Tile countertops, Tibouron Brunito Ceramic Tile, Custom Ironwork and many other luxurious amenities. State Land across the street ensures endless VIEWS of mountains & wildlife. The professionally landscaped property showcases over 200 Trees, Shrubs & Bushes! Taxi from your fully-heated & air-conditioned Hangars to the runway for flying 300+ days per yr. Community has a 3,906' paved, lighted runway, paved taxiways/streets & community center for great gatherings. Just imagine enjoying your special get-a-away or full-time residence!

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11619 N 12th Place Phoenix, AZ 85020

$1,200,000

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,917 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6641433

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this stunning, newly remodeled 3,917 sq foot residence, seamlessly blending modern luxury with timeless elegance. Step into an open-concept living space flooded with natural light, highlighting the meticulous craftsmanship throughout. The gourmet kitchen boasts state-of-the-art appliances, quartz countertops, and a spacious island, perfect for culinary enthusiasts. Relax in the expansive master suite featuring an inspired ensuite bathroom and custom walk-in closets. Four additional bedrooms offer comfort and versatility, while the remodeled bathrooms showcase designer finishes. The home's heart is a spacious family room, ideal for gatherings and entertainment. This residence is designed for indoor-outdoor living, with glass doors opening to a private Oasis.

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3130 S Weeping Willow Court Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$1,200,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,418 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6665810

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

FORMER MODEL located in prestigious Superstition Mountain. 3 bedrooms and 3 baths. OPEN GREAT ROOM, DINING AREA, KITCHEN LAYOUT! NEWLY REMODELED! Gourmet kitchen with Viking appliances, quartz countertops, extended 11'' island, new solid wood cabinets. Two new high efficient AC's and furnaces. VIEW FEATURE SHEET IN THE DOCUMENT SECTION FOR A FULL LIST OF FEATURES AND UPGRADES. Multiple patios for relaxing, dining and entertaining! SE orientation offers abundant sunshine with beautiful sunrises and sunsets. Premium lot abuting a wash area and overlooking the 17th tee box of the Lost Gold course. 24 HOUR GUARD GATED COMMUNITY. Two Jack Nicklaus golf courses! Not a golfer? Enjoy pickle ball, bocce, tennis, hiking and many other amenities. Country Club living at its best. Club amenities under a separate agreement. 35 minutes to Sky Harbor and 20 minutes to Mesa Gateway airports. Buyer and buyer's agent to verify all pertinent information including square footage.

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3051 W Sousa Court Anthem, AZ 85086

$1,200,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,704 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6738775

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Be prepared to be impressed! Located in the heart of Anthem, Arizona, this home exemplifies modern living at its finest. Step inside this beautiful home and be greeted by new carpet throughout, custom paint, shutters, and custom light fixtures. In the master suite you'll find a home office, rod iron divide, custom curtains, and custom closets from California closets. In the kitchen you'll notice custom granite and backsplash, double ovens, updated microwave, fridge, and stove, plus reverse osmosis. In the living room there is a custom built in entertainment center and custom fireplace mantel. Laundry room custom cabinets from California closets. Added theater room with soundproofing, blackout room, projector, and speaker. Surround sound through the house. Home is set up to be a smart home. There is a second home office plus additional bedroom/den and kids study/desk area. Home could be made into 6 bedrooms with the office and den. Formal dining, breakfast bar, and great room in the home. In the garage you'll find custom garage cabinets, tank-less water heater, and soft water system. On the exterior there are 3 air conditioners, one original, one 7 years old, and one 5 years old all in good working condition. Roof was replaced 7 years ago. Plus UV sun shades on windows. In the backyard turf has been added, outside kitchen and seating area with fireplace, 2 grills, place for 5 TV's, pool 10 ft deep and spa with slide and waterfall, plus added exterior gates. Courtyard and intercom system in the front plus home set up for a security system. Replaced/repaired windows in the entire house. Added more rock and repaired the drip system and landscape clean up. Replaced almost all ceiling fans. Replaced all door handles. Owners have been in the home for 22 years and took great care of it.

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10804 N 146th Avenue Surprise, AZ 85379

$1,200,000

6 Beds

3.5 Baths

5,167 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6756033

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to the rapidly growing city of Surprise! This 5,167 sq ft home on a one-acre lot is perfect for a family and entertaining! It features a massive 6ft deep pool, jacuzzi, bar/grill area, and a private 18-hole golf course with 2 sand pits. Inside, the open kitchen has custom cabinets, stainless steel appliances, a built-in fridge, granite countertops, an island, and a butler's area for food preping. The massive owner's suite offers a sitting area, dual sinks, and a large walk-in closet. Upstairs, there are 5 more bedrooms, game and media rooms, and recessed lighting throughout. With a solar roof, security cameras, 10+ 30ft palm trees, a 4-car garage, and built-in storage, this home has it all!

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1540 E Sharon Drive Phoenix, AZ 85022

$1,200,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,900 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6657328

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Make yourself at home in Moon Valley's privately gated Views at Mountainside enclave! Enter this custom home through the enchanted courtyard with the peaceful sounds of the water feature as you enjoy the view from the front patio. When you open the door to this home, you will see and feel a bright and inviting atmosphere complete with elegant soaring ceilings, travertine flooring, dedicated formal dining and two spacious living rooms. The eat-in kitchen provides granite countertops, ample custom cabinetry, double ovens, and a cozy breakfast nook. Utilize the wet bar as you host effortlessly with two large back covered patios, a built in BBQ and a sparkling swimming pool wrapped with captivating views of the surrounding Lookout and Phoenix Mountain Preserve. The expansive primary suite has the perfect space for reading, working out or simply enjoying the mountain views. The primary bathroom has a large soaking tub, dual vanities and a large walk-in closet. Enjoy the perks of an extended 3-car garage with additional storage. This home has only had one owner and offers easy access to a wide variety of world renowned golf courses, hiking + biking trails, restaurants, Paradise Valley Mall and Mayo Clinic. This gem truly has it all!

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4072 E Zion Way Chandler, AZ 85249

$1,200,000

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

3,628 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6764001

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Won BEST HOME ON TOUR! November 2024! Breaking news! The seller is offering $40k towards a pool (renderings in the photo section) with an accepted and executed full asking price contract. Stunning 5-Bedroom Home with In-Law Suite in Premier Chandler Neighborhood! A beautifully designed residence that offers space, luxury, and versatility, perfect for today's modern lifestyle. The heart of the home, the open-concept kitchen and living room offers a spacious, airy feel. The living room flows seamlessly, creating a welcoming space for family and friends. The 2nd primary bedroom is ideal for multi-generational living or extended guests, this suite includes its own private living room separate from the bedroom, offering comfort and privacy.

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