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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3708 E Laurel Lane Phoenix, AZ 85028

$655,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,592 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6776421

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to the original Paradise Valley! Your new home has been sandblasted back to exposed brick for that old school feel. You'll notice the low sloping roofs popular of the mid-century modern homes. This is a Jeffries built home which means quality in construction. From the the first step in this Star of Paradise home you will notice the raised ceiling in the kitchen and dining areas, the gourmet gas oven range in the kitchen and the easy transition to the over sized backyard patio; the seller completed a full pool and deck renovation in 2021 complete with a 400K BTU pool heater for year around swimming, you will easily extend your indoor living to the vast outdoor space. Don't forget to check out the fun detached insulated and air conditioned laundry room. You will love this home!

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7748 E San Miguel Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$655,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,490 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6764057

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Bright, clean, lightly used, single-level townhome in 85250 with 2 bdrms, 2 baths, 1490 sq ft, Brkfst rm/Fam rm, living room w/fireplace and Pella doors to back patio. Large, main en-suite with soaking tub, separate tiled shower and double vanity, walk-in closet and Pella doors to back patio. Second bdrm has access to full guest bath with walk in closet, Pella doors to private patio. Kitchen has stainless appliances and a wine frig. Brkfst rm/Fam rm off the kitchen can be a bonus space w/ a sleeper sofa/murphy bed. Pella doors to courtyard patio. Skylights replaced. White, wood shutters throughout. 2 Car garage w/ room for storage. Wonderful front court yard. Front yard views to sunsets and Camelback Mtn. Hard to beat this quiet location near Old Town. Newer Roof Coating 2022, HVAC 2018.

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3429 E Poinsettia Drive Phoenix, AZ 85028

$655,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,112 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6762301

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

HEATED POOL! STUNNING NORTH PHOENIX HOME, NO HOA, WITH BACKYARD OASIS! This fully updated home features an open floor plan, 4 bedrooms (each fits a king bed), 2 bathrooms, bonus game room, 2-car garage, heated pool with Aqualink, paved fire pit area, separate storage room, putting green, and the BEST LOCATION in all of Phoenix! Tile and laminate flooring throughout (no carpet). The kitchen features stainless steel appliances with quartz and butcher block counter tops. The home is solar powered, and is conveniently located close to Paradise Valley, Kierland Commons, and Scottsdale Quarter. Easy access to the 51, only a 15-minute drive to the Mayo Clinic or the Sky Harbor Airport, and 20 minutes to Old Town Scottsdale. The primary bedroom hosts a pristine private bathroom with a floor-to-ceiling tiled shower. The entertainer's backyard features a putting green, a Ramada, multiple paver patios, a fire pit, and a sparkling blue pool. Everything you're looking for, you'll find it here!

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22155 N Cline Court Maricopa, AZ 85138

$655,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,880 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767476

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

***No need to wait for mortgage rates to decrease—you can start saving hundreds of dollars a month on your mortgage payments now!! Secure next year's rate today with a 1-0 buydown, offered by the seller.*** This exceptional property boasts a vast 16433 square foot golf course lot with a 3880 square foot home, complete with a dazzling heated pool and a 4-car garage! Meticulously crafted by Hacienda builders, the 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home features 2x6 framing for structural integrity and deep insulation. Discover exquisite cabinetry in the spacious chef's kitchen and great room, a luxurious downstairs owner's suite, generously sized bedrooms with walk-in closets, two separate loft areas, and a versatile den/family room. Step out onto the balcony that stretches the length of the house, offering breathtaking views of the Rancho El Dorado golf course and the San Tan Mountains. The expansive backyard beckons with its inviting pool, outdoor kitchen, dining space, spa, and a tranquil water fountain. Don't miss the opportunity to make this stunning property your own!

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10918 E San Tan Boulevard Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

$655,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,912 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6758871

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Lovely custom Palacia floor plan on golf course in Palo Verde. 18th FAIRWAY! Come into this spacious open concept. Great for entertaining. The great room includes the living room, formal dining room and kitchen. The kitchen is a chef's dream- large granite island, stainless steel appliances, plenty of cabinets. 2 Bedrooms, 2 baths. Spacious Primary Suite features separate sitting area . Ideal for an office. Primary bath features 2 vanities, large walk in closet. Guest bedroom has walk in closet. Laundry room including washer and dryer and cabinet space. 2 car garage and golf cart garage. Enjoy the large screened in patio or exterior covered patio overlooking the desert landscaping and golf course. A MUST SEE!

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787 W Rock Needle Trail Apache Junction, AZ 85120

$654,990

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,607 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6750732

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Up to 3% of base price or total purchase price, whichever is less, is available through preferred lender plus additional 2% of base price or total purchase price, whichever is less, is available to be used toward closing costs, pre-paids, rate buy downs, and/or price adjustments. The Livorno floor plan offers a stylish single-story design with four bedrooms, an All Gen suite, and a spacious flex area ideal for an office, TV room, or study. The home includes front yard landscaping and will be ready for occupancy in October. Conveniently located near community parks, grocery stores, and a variety of dining options.

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37510 W Nina Street Maricopa, AZ 85138

$654,990

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,240 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6762871

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Don't miss your chance to own this amazing home! This Sedona plan home features a flexible activity room AND home office! Your expansive gourmet kitchen is designed with stacked cabinetry, buffet-style lowers, gas cook top, and double ovens! The bright great room with multi-slide glass door is ideal for gathering with family and friends. The Primary Suite is expertly designed with a resort like bath with freestanding soaking tub. Take out the toys from your THREE CAR GARAGE! Say hello to luxury, Maricopa and see why K. Hovnanian is the First Name in Lasting Value!! ^^Up to 6% of Base Price can be applied towards closing cost and/or short-long term interest rate buydowns when choosing our preferred Lender. Additional eligibility and limited time restrictions apply.

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5023 E Campo Bello Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85254

Open House

$654,990

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,958 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6778883

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Discover Arabella, a community located in Arizona's desirable 85254 zip code. Our ''Little Rock'' floor plan offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and a spacious loft, along with a 2-car garage and a private yard. Inside, you'll find modern Ash-Brown cabinetry, elegant quartz countertops, wood-like tile flooring, and plush carpeting. This home features pre-plumbing for soft water, smart home technology, and upgraded stair railing. Currently under construction, with an expected completion date in Nov/Dec 2024, Arabella is conveniently situated near Loop 101 and is just a short drive from Scottsdale Quarter, Kierland Commons, and Desert Ridge Marketplace, and Paradise Valley shopping and dining. We are in our final opportunities!!

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4444 E Bethena Street Gilbert, AZ 85295

$654,900

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,420 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6751104

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this charming 2-story home in the popular community of Cooley Station. It features a lush, well-manicured front yard with an inviting front porch with flowers all around. Step into a spacious living room with lots of light. The kitchen is light and bright and includes white cabinetry, recessed lighting, granite counters, stainless appliances, wall ovens and center island with breakfast bar. There are expansive sliding doors and an adjacent dining area that look out onto the sunny courtyard. The travertine patio has been extended and the artificial turf is low maintenance and aesthetically vibrant. The spacious primary bedroom is on the main floor and has a view of the courtyard. The primary ensuite bathroom boasts a large tub, separate shower, dual vanities and walk in closet. Off the living area, and down the hall, there are two bedrooms and a full bathroom on the main floor. There are also two large closets in the hallway for added storage. The laundry room has upper and lower white cabinets and windows and is located off the kitchen across from the generous pantry. Up the stairway, you will find a huge loft area that can be used as an additional living space or as a separate living space for mother-in-law, teen, etc. There is an additional bedroom, closet, and full bathroom upstairs. The 2-car garage and 2 car driveway are in the back of the house and provide space for storage as well as two large vehicles. The location can't be beat with walking distance to the basketball courts, kids playground, bbq area and fields. The community pools, Fry's Marketplace, Crust, and multiple other eateries are a short bike ride away. Come see this fabulous neighborhood!

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615 Andante Drive Sedona, AZ 86336

$654,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,622 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6773472

Property Type Manufactured Home

Price Type --

Location, location, location! Your Sedona retreat awaits you at this newly renovated, updated home located near soaring Thunder Mountain, Chimney Rock and Coffee Pot. Move-In Ready or Short-term rental possible (buyer to confirm) New roof August 2024 to ensure years of weather-ready living. Vaulted ceilings throughout and dormers in the main living spaces add to the open and airy feel. Easy-to-care-for LVP floors - with custom baseboards throughout. Modern Zebra blinds brighten windows in all rooms across the front of the house; new, woven, honeycomb blinds are found at windows across the back. You will surely enjoy entertaining in the charming, sunlit, well-appointed, eat-in kitchen with newer appliances and lighting. Formal dining is also an option, and views of the red rocks (More) from both rooms. Centered in the living room is a wood burning fireplace with new tile and an electric blower for added winter warmth. Designer bathrooms have been fully upgraded with new tile, showers, sinks, granite countertops, lights and mirrors. The primary bathroom also boasts a stand-alone soaker tub from which mountain views can be enjoyed while soaking away the stress of the day. (Bedrooms currently feature new smart TVs and Arizona-made, Brooklyn Bedding mattresses, CA King in primary, head-and-foot adjustable Queen in second, and bunkbeds with twin and full in third bedroom.) You'll also find large closets, fresh paint and upgraded fans in the bedrooms. The third bedroom could also function nicely as an office/den/library, or nursery. The laundry room is outfitted with a heavy-duty Whirlpool washer and dryer, two lockable storage closets and a built-in desk/folding counter. More storage is found in the backyard shed with a new roof, easily transformed into a Mancave or Sheshed. This one-level home offers 1,621 square feet of comfortable living space. Two huge, front and back decks with new, built-to-code railings - add considerably to outdoor living, and with ample space to practice yoga, entertain or simply relax and enjoy the weather and beautiful views of the Red Rocks! This property is close to a network of forest hiking and biking trails, the Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park - all this away from the hustle and bustle - yet just minutes from shopping, restaurants, theaters and galleries. Location, location, location, indeed!

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28234 N 134th Avenue Peoria, AZ 85383

New

$654,774

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,489 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6788571

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

A soon to be complete single-story Mercury with a Mid-Century Modern exterior elevation style. This 4-bedroom home plus a flex room offers 3 baths and a 2.5 car garage. The kitchen features stainless steel appliances and stylish Mocha colored cabinetry and beautiful white quartz countertops. Throughout the home, find upgraded baseboards and wood-like tile. The home and community are at the base of a mountain and are near Vistancia. Home warranty included.

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617 S Paradise Drive Gilbert, AZ 85233

Open House

$654,490

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,156 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6742305

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to Paradise! This Home is move in ready & located in The Gated Falls Community (only gated waterfront community in the Islands). This Home backs up to the most gorgeous waterfalls! The interior of this home boasts vaulted ceilings, a formal dining room, and a kitchen with stainless steel appliances. The formal dining room can only be beaten by the incredible view as you gaze through the windows. Amenities include Private Falls Pool, Hot Tub & Gazebo w/ BBQ, sink entertainment area, restrooms, & lake access to fish (catch/release).kayaks, paddle boards. The HOA takes care of front and back yard landscaping and paints the exterior of the home..

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