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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20293 N 83rd Drive Peoria, AZ 85382

Open House

$640,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,634 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6779384

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this STUNNING , recently updated home that combines modern elegance with comfort! As you step inside, you'll immediately notice the fresh, neutral paint and beautiful new flooring throughout downstairs. The spacious layout features a welcoming living area enhanced by ceiling fans and abundant natural light. The heart of the home is the impressive kitchen, complete with a large island, new white cabinets, new counter tops, stainless appliances, perfect for entertaining or casual meals. Adjacent to the kitchen, the inviting loft space offers additional room for relaxation or play. Retreat to the luxurious master suite, which boasts dual sinks in the bathroom for added convenience and privacy. Step outside to the large covered back patio, an ideal spot for outdoor gatherings or pe or peaceful mornings. The sparkling pool is a fantastic addition, perfect for cooling off on hot days and enjoying the sunshine. Don't miss the chance to make this beautifully updated property your own! MUST SEE!!!

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20461 W Briarwood Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

Open House

$640,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,514 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6771287

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover this stunning 2,514 sq ft home in the heart of the Verrado. Built in 2017, this beautifully updated property offers 3 bedrooms, a den, and 2 bathrooms. The spacious, open-concept floor plan features a gourmet kitchen with an oversized island, white staggered cabinets, and plenty of space for entertaining. The home has new carpet, fresh paint, and a backyard with newly planted trees, making it feel brand new. Outside, enjoy your private heated pool and built-in spa, perfect for year-round relaxation. A 3-car garage and owner's entry with extra storage add to the home's functionality. Located near several parks and Verrado's community pool, this home offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience in one of Buckeye's most sought after neighborhoods.

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12733 W Banyan Drive Sun City West, AZ 85375

$639,995

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,890 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6759547

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your Sun City West 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom oasis! Are you looking for 2 master suites, golf course lot, split floorplan & a fully updated home? We got all that for you and more! Enjoy coming home and entertaining in your gorgeous kitchen with an oversized island that is open to your dining room & family room. Soft close cabinetry. Dual sided fireplace compliment living spaces and give a gorgeous focal point. Luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout home. Bathrooms have fantastic upgrades including stunning tile, cabinetry & fixtures. 2 car garage with attached cabinets. New roof. Dual pane windows. Come see all the home & community have to offer!

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1438 W Coral Reef Drive Gilbert, AZ 85233

$639,995

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,289 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6726941

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

PREMIUM WATERFRONT W/EXPANSIVE LAKESIDE VIEWS! One of the best lots; wth extended & private dock to enjoy breathtaking sunsets, evening boat cruises or morning kayak trips, fishing too, and steps from the community pool! Inside, dramatic soaring ceilings greet you. Kitchen w/updated cabinets, , stainless-steel appliances, RO system. Convenient half bath downstairs and under-stair storage. Your oversized main suite features multiple upgrades & Balcony w/ Lake views 2 other upstairs bedrooms have balconies, PLUS loft Acts as a perfect bonus room. ,2 new HVAC, . Abundant community amenities & events. Bike to Downtown Gilbert. COME LIVE THE SWEET LIFE

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37565 W Padilla Street Maricopa, AZ 85138

$639,990

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,240 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6699191

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to luxury, Maricopa! It's time we embrace the magnificence of new home construction previously seen in Scottsdale and the East Valley. Introducing the captivating Sedona floorplan, offering both a flexible activity room and a media room to suit your lifestyle. Your expansive gourmet kitchen is adorned with stacked cabinetry, buffet-style lowers, a gas cooktop, and double ovens. Retreat to your indulgent Ultra Spa Shower, entertain on the patio, or access your recreational gear from the THREE CAR GARAGE! Ready for immediate Move-In! ^^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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18956 W Ocotillo Road Waddell, AZ 85355

$639,990

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,561 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6739341

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

QUICK MOVE-IN HOME! MOVE INTO YOUR NEW HOME BEFORE THE HOLIDAYS! SPECIAL FINANCING WITH BELOW MARKET INTEREST RATES AVAILABLE! MOVE-IN PACKAGES AVAILABLE! PLEASE INQUIRE ABOUT THESE SPECIALS ON THIS QUICK MOVE-IN HOME AND OTHERS. ACT SOON BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE! It's the very popular Cinnabar floor plan with 4 bedrooms + study, 3.5 baths and a 3 car tandem garage. Multi slide door off the great room. Pavers at drive, walk and entry. 8' gate on garage side of home. Kitchen upgrades includes - stainless steel gas appliance package with 30'' cooktop and canopy hood. Sonoma Linen-off white cabinets with 42'' kitchen uppers. DT White Ice G238 granite countertop with enhanced kitchen island, undermount single bowl kitchen sink. Flooring includes 7x 24 plank tile in all areas of the home except beds/baths. 5'' baseboards throughout and 3 1/4'' door casings. Dual sink at bath 2, soft water loop, garage service door that leads out to the backyard and so much more. Please verify all information with onsite agent. Thank you!

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18938 W Ocotillo Road Waddell, AZ 85355

$639,990

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,561 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6739870

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

QUICK MOVE-IN HOME! MOVE INTO YOUR NEW HOME BEFORE THE HOLIDAYS! SPECIAL FINANCING WITH BELOW MARKET INTEREST RATES AVAILABLE! MOVE-IN PACKAGES AVAILABLE! PLEASE INQUIRE ABOUT THESE SPECIALS ON THIS QUICK MOVE-IN HOME AND OTHERS. ACT SOON BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE! It's the very popular Cinnabar with 4 bedrooms + study, formal dining, 2.5 baths. This home is stunning with a multi slide door off the great room that leads out to the covered patio. Pavers at drive, walk and entry. Stainless steel gas appliance package with 30'' cooktop, wall oven, microwave and hood. Barnett maple Boulder-gray cabinets with 42 kitchen uppers. Pull out trash drawer with two bins. Stainless steel undermount single bowl sink. AZT Hana Sky quartz countertops in kitchen and owner's bath. Upgrade flooring includes DT Broxburn Gray 6x24 plank tile in all areas of the home except bedrooms and closets. 5'' baseboards and 3 1/4'' baseboards. Dual sinks at bath 2 and so much more. Please verify all information with onsite agent. Thank you!

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7593 W Smoketree Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$639,990

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,150 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767735

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Brand new community in North Peoria! This stunning single story home offers 2,150 sq ft of functional living space. It features 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, den, and a 3-car tandem garage. The open concept kitchen is perfect for entertaining and features a large Island, walk-in pantry and stainless steel appliances with gas range. It also offers our Timeless Palette which includes white painted 42'' cabinets, ivory quartz kitchen countertops, arctic white kitchen backsplash, and 6x24 wood looking plank tile in all the common areas. The great room offers a 4-panel center sliding glass door so you can step out into your covered patio to enjoy indoor/outdoor living in your backyard with friends and family. Great location close to dining, freeways, parks, and entertainment!

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37520 W Padilla Street Maricopa, AZ 85138

$639,990

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,240 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6695735

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Rancho Mirage 23 offers new single-family luxury homes in the fast-growing city of Maricopa, with access to neighborhood parks, walking paths and a community fishing lake. This incredible single-story home features 3,240 square feet, a tandem 3-car garage and 10' ceilings. The kitchen is decked out with stacked cabinetry, gourmet appliances and quartz countertops. The split floorplan is perfect for a family with 3 of the bedrooms adjacent to the Activity Room. Ready for immediate move-in! ^^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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37627 W Padilla Street Maricopa, AZ 85138

$639,990

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,240 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6704039

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Introducing luxury living, Maricopa! Step into the allure of this Sedona floorplan, offering both a versatile activity room and a convenient home office. Your expansive gourmet kitchen boasts stacked cabinetry, buffet-style lowers, a gas cooktop, and double ovens for culinary perfection. Unwind in your luxurious freestanding tub, entertain on the patio, or store your belongings in the spacious THREE CAR GARAGE! Discover why K. Hovnanian stands as the epitome of Lasting Value in homebuilding. Don't miss your chance to move into this home now! 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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913 W Juanita Avenue Gilbert, AZ 85233

$639,990

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,232 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6787659

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

A wonderful family home in an extremely desirable Gilbert's Cooper Ranch family friendly neighborhood! The conveniences of Gilbert's excellent schools, restaurants, shopping, entertainment and access to freeways are unmatched and close by - Open, bright and light with tile throughout - Soaring ceilngs in the living areas - A private office/den downstairs - 4 Bed/3 BA/3 Car Garage - Large and private mature backyard with a patio - Landscaped, lush and green yards - Awesome curb appeal!

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6061 S Oxley -- Mesa, AZ 85212

$639,990

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,071 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6719560

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

''Have you ever walked through a model home and wished you could buy it exactly as is? Well, here is your chance, our stunning Aster MODEL HOME is now available for your purchase! Imagine yourself living in a beautiful, sun-kissed retreat, where every detail has been carefully crafted to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Our stunning model home is a true masterpiece, boasting 2071 square feet of luxurious living space. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by the warmth of rich tile flooring, perfectly complemented by the plush carpet in the bedrooms and den. The elegant 42'''' white shaker cabinets with matte black hardware add a touch of sophistication, while the expansive windows allow natural light to pour in and illuminate the space. With its sleek panel center slide and breathtaking views, this outdoor oasis is the perfect spot to relax and unwind. This home is also situated on a perfect lot location facing the greenbelt to soak in all the stunning Arizona sunsets! d. This incredible home includes all the upgrades you've been dreaming of, including a washer, dryer, and a refrigerator! It's truly move-in ready! Don't miss out on this rare opportunity to own a piece of paradise.

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