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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2614 N 15th Street Phoenix, AZ 85006

$639,900

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,972 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6735434

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This exceptional home offers quality and low-maintenance living in the heart of Coronado. Completely rebuilt in 2016, the home was taken down to the studs and updated with all-new electrical, plumbing, insulation, and premium finishes throughout. The thoughtfully designed floor plan includes an inviting library with raised ceilings and floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, a spacious primary suite with vaulted ceilings and a luxurious en suite bath, and a gourmet kitchen equipped with a breakfast bar, pantry, and high-end AGA range. Modern upgrades include dual HVAC systems with WiFi thermostats, energy-efficient dual-pane windows, hardwood flooring, a tankless water heater, and a robust whole-house water filtration system. Additional features include a dedicated laundry room, an upgraded garage with a 220V line for EV charging, hanging storage, and extra outlets. Enjoy entertaining on the wraparound porch amidst lush landscaping, including fruit-bearing trees and large shade trees, or retreat to the custom-designed great room with a hardwood bar and ample amenities. With paid-off solar panels, an average electric bill of only $120, and a prime location near parks, restaurants, and the Oak Street Alley Murals, this home offers the perfect blend of charm, convenience, and efficiency. Don't miss out on this standout property, recently featured in the 2024 Coronado Home Tour!

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17425 W Tara Lane Surprise, AZ 85388

$639,900

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,185 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6737950

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Seller is offering a $10,000 credit toward rate buy-down or closing costs with a full-price offer! This stunning, one-of-a-kind home has been fully remodeled with over $100K in upgrades, making it an entertainer's paradise! Located on a massive 12,000 sq ft lot, enjoy your private pool and spa in a resort-like setting. The home features 4 spacious bedrooms, 2 luxurious baths, a versatile bonus room, and a secured large dog run with a convenient doggie door for your furry friends. Host gatherings in the fabulous great room with bifold doors that seamlessly open to the outdoors, a formal dining room, and an eat-in kitchen perfect for entertaining. Step outside to find a built-in BBQ under a stylish shade structure, a putt-putt green, and a pergola with a projection system for games or.... family movie nights. The backyard is the ultimate retreat for both relaxation and entertainment! This home truly has it all.

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17724 W Ocotillo Avenue Goodyear, AZ 85338

$639,900

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,718 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6754137

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Experience mountain living in this beautiful, gated semi-custom TW Lewis home in Estrella Mountain Ranch. Located on a spacious corner lot just under 1/3 acre, this home is filled with luxury upgrades. The master bedroom offers an extended patio and elegant single lite door, while the master bath features a tiled snail shower. The cozy living area includes a fireplace with custom media niches, and the 3-car garage provides ample space with a service door. Enjoy energy-efficient solar shades, security doors, and a pebble stone driveway. The expansive backyard is ready for your dream pool or oasis.

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7805 W Noble Prairie Way Florence, AZ 85132

$639,900

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,541 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6757218

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

**This is the one!!** You'll be hard pressed to find another home like this in Anthem at Merrill Ranch. Absolutely immaculate with amazing upgrades and a private Oasis for a backyard. You can tell as you pull up to this house that it stands out...amazing custom design landscape with a front courtyard to enjoy your morning coffee. Enter through a high-end custom front door to a large, open floor plan with designer finishes. Everything from the flooring to the ceiling presents custom finishes and top of the line hardware. The open floor concept combines the kitchen, eating and living space that opens up to a beautiful, over-sized backyard with resort style finishes and no neighbors behind! This includes extras such as outdoor LED lighting... WIFI controlled landscape irrigation, natural gas fire-pit and outdoor covered kitchen with grill, lighted water feature, custom remote controlled fans, custom windows coverings, Quartz countertops and oversized kitchen island, crown moulding, ceramic tile backsplash, custom pendant lighting, walk-in pantry and Butler pantry, extensions for more room in the eating and master bedroom space, and much more. This floor plan also features a den/office that could be utilized as a 3rd bedroom. This is a must see home if you are looking for one of the premier homes in the community. Combine this home with the award winning community of Anthem at Merrill Ranch and all of it's amazing amenities and you have absolute paradise! BONUS...this home can be purchased furnished.

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318 N Washington Street Chandler, AZ 85225

$639,900

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,675 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6759421

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Walking Distance to Thriving Downtown Chandler In Silk Stocking Historic Neighborhood, Many opportunities for this Updated Duplex on a 7,449 Sqft Lot Across AZ Ave from Historic Chandler High School and Chandler Center of the Arts. Currently One Unit is MTM at $1950. The other is Ready For either Long Term Market Rents, Owner/User With Income. Both Units are 2 Bed 1 Bath/Tubs with Laundry, The back Unit has An Extra 450 sf Room with Its Own Outside Entry Door That Can Be Used for a Third Bedroom, Office Or Workshop with Air. Laminated Flooring in all living and Bedrooms with Tile in Kitchens and Baths. Security on All Doors and Keyless entry pads on Front Doors. All Facts and Figures are Approximate, Buyer to Verify to their own Satisfaction

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7326 W Villa Hermosa -- Glendale, AZ 85310

$639,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,057 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6766305

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this beautiful 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home, perfectly located in a cul-de-sac in North Glendale. This home boasts vaulted ceilings, creating an open and airy feel, and a spacious floor plan ideal for comfortable living. With a 3-car garage and an RV gate, there's plenty of room for parking and storage. The backyard is an oasis, featuring a sparkling pool and plenty of space for outdoor entertaining and relaxation. Whether you're hosting summer gatherings or enjoying a quiet evening by the pool, this backyard offers endless possibilities. Conveniently located near shopping, dining, entertainment, and with easy access to the freeway, this home provides both tranquility and convenience. *BONUS Pre-paid Tesla Solar Lease*

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445 W Grant Avenue Williams, AZ 86046

$639,900

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,332 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6770424

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

*Owner willing to carry!* Welcome to 445 W Grant Ave. One of the largest, custom homes you'll find this close to downtown Williams! Situated perfectly on a corner lot, the grand entrance ushers you in to 9ft ceilings, a grand, great room with an open kitchen and dining room. The kitchen features a gas range, an oversized island, and an abundance of custom cabinets. Step into the capacious Primary bedroom with an en-suite bath. Primary room features grand, walk-in closets and private access to the back patio. Attached bath include dual sinks, a soaking tub and a custom, oversized shower. The home also presents two additional large bedrooms, a full bath and a partial bath for all your guest needs. This house does not lack in space or storage! With multiple, oversized storage closets, abundance in cabinets and the two separate, attached, oversized garages gives you all the storage you could need. The backyard is poised perfectly for low maintenance with space to enjoy the cool mountain county. This home would make an excellent short term rental with close access to downtown Williams, or a second home for easy lock and leave!

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9237 E Sector Drive Mesa, AZ 85212

$639,900

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,224 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6774308

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

FORMER MODEL HOME! Ready for Quick Move-In. 4 BR + Loft / 3 BA. The home features a gourmet kitchen with white cabinets, black pulls throughout, quartz counter tops in the kitchen and a 'Mosaic Ripple' 2x8 brickwork stacked backsplash. This home features upgraded wood tile flooring throughout the downstairs and carpet flooring in the bedrooms. This home comes included with a Tankless Water Heater, REME Halo Whole House Air Purifying System and a Apple Pod Smart Home Kit.

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5909 E Crocus Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$639,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,416 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6702362

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Location location location in the MAGIC 85254 zip code. This single story popular Monterey model, block constructed Crane home is located within minutes of the Kierland corridor. Features include: light/bright ceramic tile, newer roof(2023), newer AC(2020), N/S facing, low maintenance landscape, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, partially updated baths and lighting, oversized laundry, plenty of storage, private patios and no HOA. Opportunity is knocking...welcome home!

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19528 N 55th Drive Glendale, AZ 85308

$639,900

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,397 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6702911

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This Home Won ''Best Home On Tour'' in the Glendale Home Tour! You'll LOVE this impressive 5 Bedroom remodel with NO HOA and upgrades around every corner. Gorgeous hickory wood floors. The kitchen has custom cabinets and granite counter tops accented by sleek stainless steel appliances. There's an island w/ seating & pendant lights! The primary bedroom is spacious w/gorgeous views of the green backyard. The primary bath has a garden tub & a glass walled shower.. You won't be disappointed out back either. The oversized backyard offers lush green grass, perimeter trees for shade, a covered patio, a flagstone sun patio, & a gas fire pit. Don't miss the built in barbeque plumbed w/ Natural gas. There's a 3 car garage, an RV Gate with concrete pad and NO HOA. Roof was replaced in 2022

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1415 E Monterey Street Chandler, AZ 85225

$639,900

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,321 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6763096

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This great 4 BR/3 Bath home is located in Superstition Ranch/AshleyPark community. It is surrounded by single level homes for privacy and has the desirable N/S exposure. The newly remodeled backyard & heated pool has artificial turf and a fun mural on the wall! New roof in 2024. New AC in 2022. Interior special features of this home are; crown molding, gas fireplace, surround sound, shutters, ceiling fans, skylight, 3 remodeled baths in 2019, water softener, RO, and stainless steel appliances.

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2604 E Joan D Arc Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85032

$639,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,015 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6760734

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your mountainside retreat! This beautifully designed 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home boasts 2,015 sq. ft. of stylish living space, nestled on nearly half an acre. Enjoy breathtaking mountain/valley views from every angle, offering a serene backdrop to your daily life. Step inside to discover tastefully done finishes that seamlessly blend comfort and elegance. The heart of the home features a cozy flagstone fireplace, perfect for those chilly evenings. The open-concept layout flows effortlessly from the living area to the kitchen, ideal for entertaining family and friends. PVUSD schools. Seller Financing Available. Buyer to verify all facts and figures

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