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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17966 W Highland Avenue Goodyear, AZ 85395

$650,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,343 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6726612

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to Alicante at Sedella, a luxurious gated community! This 4 bedroom, plus den is the popular Lark model which is a unique single story home featuring a social living area. One of the bedrooms includes its own bathroom making a perfect ensuite. The kitchen opens into the great room and dining area for entertaining!! The owners chose to upgrade the living room and master bedroom with 16 ft multi sliders. With wall to wall sliders on the rear of the home, you can be sure there is no lack of natural light!! The oversized private backyard features a large salt water pool, an 8ft RV gate and RV parking. YES the HOA does allow you to park your RV or trailer behind it! Come take a look today, the photos don't do it justice!

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5674 N 12th Street Phoenix, AZ 85014

$650,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

2,404 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6729008

Property Type Townhouse

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Completely renovated single-level, open contemporary floor plan, with 2 huge bedrooms & bathrooms in North Central Phoenix. Everything has been updated from electrical, plumbing, HVAC, roof, & beautiful new landscaping. High End upgrades include chef's kitchen with huge island, quartz countertops, custom cabinets, porcelain tile flooring, soundproof windows with blackout shades. Relax in either the front patio with soothing waterfall fountain or private & spacious back patio with glass firepit. Immaculate and meticulously maintained. Prime Central Phoenix location with top rated Madison school districts, close to Biltmore high end shopping and top rated restaurants, hiking & biking trails, within Eruv. No HOA - would make an amazing primary residence and/or long or short term rental!

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4323 N 129th Drive Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$650,000

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,623 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6732968

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This palatial estate in the exclusive Bel Fleur gated community is a must see! Within the 4,623 sq ft of this vast home, you will find 5 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, a luxurious open kitchen, separate formal living and dining spaces, a sizable family room, and a spacious loft. The home features ample natural light, soaring ceilings, 3 fireplaces, new A/C units in 2023, and tasteful touches throughout. The primary suite is located downstairs, with double sinks and separate tub/shower in the bathroom, and an expansive walk-in closet. The 3 car garage has abundant space. The home backs to common area and offers a quiet retreat from the city while still being just a short drive to the Wigwam, golf, restaurants, parks, schools, and everything that Litchfield Park has to offer. Priced to sell now!

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20857 E Arrowhead Trail Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$650,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,325 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6735444

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome home! Right in the heart of Queen Creek, just minutes from Queen Creek Marketplace, Costco and all of the shopping and entertainment that Queen Creek has to offer as well as quick freeway access. This gorgeous 4 bedroom, 3.5 bathroom home has been beautifully upgraded. Outdoor areas includes a large side patio with pavers and the backyard features a heated pool and spa that is perfect for swimming and entertaining all year long. Interior features tile flooring, a gourmet kitchen with quartz countertops and under cabinet lighting! The living room features a custom entertainment center with an electric fireplace as well as automated shades for the rear sliding door. You must see this home to appreciate its beauty!

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320 E Joan D Arc Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85022

$650,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,229 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6734382

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to Moon Valley! This 4-bedroom home is on a huge cul-de-sac lot boasting an RV gate with a large slab for parking your boat, RV, or other toys. The tiled covered patio overlooks the grass lawn and pool. Enjoy the winter evenings by sitting on the patio near the wood-burning fireplace. The kitchen has granite counters and stainless-steel appliances. Relax in the family room in front of the beautiful stone fireplace. In addition to the formal dining room, there is a breakfast room next to the kitchen. The en suite master bedroom has a large walk-in closet and the bedroom has a Jack & Jill bath. This home is conveniently located with easy access to I-17 and the 101.

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9821 E Glencove Street Mesa, AZ 85207

$650,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,249 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6738100

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled in gated community, this home has 9+ceilings. Maple 42''cabinets, in 2023 painted inside throughout, added new stove, dishwasher, microwave & Italian stone tile (wide wood plank look). Pavers in back yard extends from covered patio & sidewalk to RV gate. Mesquite trees shade back yard. The owners added an electrical box/outlet to add hot tub in future. Split 4-bedroom floorplan with family & formal living area. Kitchen has granite countertops open into family room. The 2-bathrooms are upgraded & insulated doors in 3car garage. Community Park with playground, volley & basketball courts, walking trails & green belts add space between homes. Enjoy east Mesa close to: The salt river, Usery Park, Hiking, Kayaking, Fishing, 202 north, shops & restaurants. 7 miles from the 60.

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3932 E Shaw Butte Drive Phoenix, AZ 85028

$650,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,029 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6745223

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Gorgeous home, great location and plenty of updates! What's not to like??? This beautiful 4 bedroom, 2 bath home offers a renovated pool, owned solar, updated AC, dual pane Low-E windows, granite throughout, a stunning kitchen and more! Centrally located with easy freeway access. Schools, parks, and abundant shopping nearby. Not to be missed!

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9022 W Ross Avenue Peoria, AZ 85382

$650,000

5 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,764 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6748230

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

You will LOVE this well taken care of 5 bedroom, 2.5 bath, 3 car garage home. This amazing home has huge kitchen with granite counter tops, kitchen island and large walk-in pantry. The master suite has plenty of room to relax, with master bathroom featuring dual sinks, separate tub and shower. Upstairs features open loft area with large secondary rooms. The resort style backyard is amazing with pool, gazebo including built in BBQ on a huge lot with no neighbors behind. In last two years owners have updated AC units, pool eq, carpet, and so much more. Come check it out and fall in love. Winter grass just put in down. Home warranty included(750.00)buyers can choose company. Empty nesters ready for a new family to love this home. Best 5 bdrm for 235$ sqft in the area!!

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1205 N Sunshine Lane Payson, AZ 85541

$650,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,548 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6750801

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Alpine Heights Must See Updated Home situated on a 12000+ sq ft treed lot enhanced with a circular drive way. This 3 bedroom 3 bath home with an extra room perfect for an office offers all new kitchen and bath cabinetry with Quartz countertops. New Luxury Vinyl flooring through out, the blonde and tan color tones are gorgeous. Perfect flooring for many years to come. New baseboards, doors, hardware, lighting, fans and canned lighting, all features that accentuate the abundance of natural light the main level offers with a back drop of trees seen through the windows. Wrap around deck has two entrys into the home with one from the kitchen dining area, easy for outdoor entertaining. The lower level living with office, bath & bedroom connect to the garage with an entry to the back yard. New AC helps keep the upstairs cool in the summer months and a Fireplace for the cooler months. Enjoy the outdoors with the fenced yard for privacy. Don't miss your opportunity to see thsi home Today!

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12260 W Lone Tree Trail Peoria, AZ 85383

$650,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,908 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6758362

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this stunning 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath single-level home nestled in the highly desirable Vistancia community of North Peoria. This spacious 2,908 sq ft home sits on a coveted north/south exposure corner lot, offering a perfect blend of style, comfort, and convenience. Step inside to discover an expansive open floor plan, where a neutral color palette, oversized tile, and luxury plank flooring set the tone for modern living. The central gourmet kitchen is a dream, featuring stainless steel appliances, gleaming granite countertops, a water softener, and a large center island with a breakfast bar. The kitchen flows seamlessly into the casual dining area and great room, creating an ideal space for both daily living and entertaining. Just beyond, enjoy easy access to the backyard pool oasis, complete with a sparkling heated pool, spill-over spa, cozy firepit chatting space, and an extended covered patio, all perfect for relaxing or hosting friends and family. The owner's suite is a true retreat, offering a spacious ensuite bath with dual sinks, custom-tiled walk-in shower, a deep soaking tub, and a generous walk-in closet. Three additional bedrooms, 1.5 baths, and a versatile office with built-ins provide ample space for work, rest, and play. A formal dining room and convenient laundry room round out this fantastic floor plan. Located just a short walk from top-rated Vistancia Elementary, multiple parks, playgrounds, and the Mountain Vista Clubhouse, this home offers unbeatable access to community amenities, including tennis & pickleball courts, indoor basketball court, game room, two resort-style pools, water slides, and a splash pad. Plus, you're just minutes away from the Four Corners area, where you'll find popular restaurants, shopping, and easy access to Loop 303 for commuting. This home truly has it all - submit your offer today!

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5307 E Cambridge Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85008

$650,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,300 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6758567

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome home! This 3-bed, 2-bath property features a spacious front lawn, a convenient garage, and an extended driveway. The living room offers a soothing palette, classic plantation shutters, and attractive wood-look flooring. Enjoy delicious meals in the eat-in kitchen, equipped with skylights, granite counters with a matching backsplash, ample custom wood cabinetry, recessed lighting, stainless steel appliances, a handy pantry, and an island with a breakfast bar. The cozy main bedroom showcases a walk-in closet and a private bathroom for added convenience. Discover a sizeable backyard complete with a covered patio, stylish pavers, fragrant citrus trees, an RV gate that leads to a detached garage holding endless opportunities such as workshop or for extra living! Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to make this home yours!

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5862 N 86th Drive Glendale, AZ 85305

$650,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,726 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6765318

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning 4-Bed, 3.5-Bath Home Built in 2023 Welcome to your dream home! This exquisite property boasts modern elegance and thoughtful design, featuring high ceilings that create an airy and spacious atmosphere throughout. Step into the heart of the home, where the gourmet kitchen awaits. It showcases top-of-the-line appliances, an expansive island perfect for entertaining, and ample counter space for all your culinary adventures. The open layout seamlessly connects the kitchen to the living and dining areas, ideal for gatherings with family and friends. With four generously-sized bedrooms, including a luxurious master suite with a private bath, there's plenty of space for everyone. The additional bathrooms are beautifully appointed, ensuring comfort and convenience for all. Natural light floods the home through stylish window shutters, adding both charm and privacy. The backyard is a perfect retreat, offering a serene space to relax or entertain. Don't miss the opportunity to own this remarkable home that blends contemporary living with timeless appeal. tour today and experience all that this property has to offer!

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