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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28524 N 102nd Way Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$635,000

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,711 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6702531

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

This 2br/2.5ba unit is located in the resort community of Troon North. The open floor plan includes a great room w/ high ceilings, updated kitchen and a cozy gas fireplace. Add'l features include brand new roof, appliances, hot water heater, and HVAC. Convenient direct entry 2-car garage. Upstairs you will find two primary suites with walk-in closets, dual sinks and private showers. Both rooms feature balconies for enjoying views of the desert landscape and Pinnacle Peak. Low property taxes and HOA dues make this easy desert living! Conveniently located near the Troon Clubhouse and Sonoran Mountain Preserve trail system.

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17603 N Lindgren Avenue Sun City, AZ 85373

$635,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,999 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6712021

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautifully Remodeled including the windows. Open Floor Plan, Golf Course Property With Pool. Kitchen Includes Newer Upgraded Custom, Hickory Cabinets, Stainless Steel Appliances and Newer Wood Tile Flooring. Walk-in Closets In Both Bedrooms. Fully Remodeled Guest Bathroom. Air Cooled Laundry Room/pantry Off Garage With Extra Storage, Bonus Den/office off Main Bedroom. and there are 2 walk-in closets in this room. The main bedroom has a door to the outside. The Pool is Solar Heated with an additional heating feature. The Pool has a pebble-tec type coating.. There is a lovely Waterfall Feature. The backyard landscape has Astro Turf. The front courtyard is fully fenced for a cozy retreat. Come see this lovely cheerful house, just waiting For You to Call it Home! Owner/Agent

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14027 N 32nd Street Phoenix, AZ 85032

$635,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,197 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6742734

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this charming Phoenix home! With its inviting curb appeal, RV gate, and delightful fountain, you'll feel right at home from the start. Inside, you'll find stylish wood-look floors and a soothing color palette in a spacious great room featuring a chic chandelier and cozy fireplace. The pristine white kitchen boasts shaker cabinets, stainless steel appliances, a beautiful tile backsplash, quartz counters, and a breakfast bar island. The romantic primary suite offers a walk-in closet and a private bath. Relax on the covered patio with mountain views and entertain in the expansive backyard

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15530 N 78th Avenue Peoria, AZ 85382

$635,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,026 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769251

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Seller may consider buyer concessions if made in an offer. Welcome to your dream home, featuring many desirable attributes. The neutral color scheme and fresh interior paint create a calming ambiance. The kitchen is a cook's delight with a central island. The primary bedroom includes a walk-in closet and an en-suite bathroom with double sinks, a separate tub, and a shower. Enjoy cozy evenings by the fireplace. The fenced backyard is perfect for entertaining, with a private in-ground pool, a covered patio, and a storage shed. Our lawn is adorned with low maintenance landscaping, allowing you to enjoy the aesthetics without the additional work. This home offers comfort, convenience, and style in equal measure.

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26233 N 133rd Avenue Peoria, AZ 85383

$635,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,005 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6776183

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Built in 2022! 4 bed 3.5 bath home w/ a loft & a 3 car garage located in Rancho Cabrillo community in North Peoria. Paver driveway & double side gate. Wood-like tile in the main traffic areas. The kitchen is open to the family room & includes a huge island, quartz counter tops, gas range, premium stainless steel appliances & a pantry. The primary suite is over-sized & the primary bathroom includes a huge shower, dual sinks, quartz counters & a large walk-in closet. Backyard is a blank canvas, plenty of room for a pool. Open greenspace across the street & beautiful mountain view from the backyard! Walking distance to A+ schools & parks.

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4512 W Stoneman Drive Anthem, AZ 85086

$635,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,822 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6775656

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

**Stunning 5-Bedroom Home with Solar and Pool!** Welcome to your dream home! This beautifully recently painted residence boasts 5 spacious bedrooms and 3 full baths, offering plenty of room for everyone. Enjoy the convenience of two new AC units, ensuring year-round comfort, and a central vacuum system for easy cleaning. Step outside to your private oasis featuring a refreshing pool, perfect for relaxing and entertaining. The excellent layout includes a loft that can be customized to fit your lifestyle—think home office, playroom, or media space! Located within walking distance to a highly-rated middle school and a fantastic park, this home combines tranquility with accessibility. Plus, with solar panels, say goodbye to high APS bills and hello to energy savings!

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5473 N Dakota Drive Eloy, AZ 85131

$635,000

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,070 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6778944

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Highly upgraded Fresco model with partial mountain views. Enjoy soaring 10- and 12-foot ceilings, tile flooring, 8-foot doors, and plantation shutters, with views of the beautifully landscaped backyard. The kitchen features upgraded cabinets, stainless steel appliances, a farmhouse sink, full-height backsplash, and quartz countertops. The spacious family room includes a built-in bar area, perfect for gatherings. Additional storage is built into the laundry room and garage. Step out back to a private oasis with a built-in BBQ area, Blackstone grill, extended pergola, and 15x30 turf for relaxation and entertainment. Don't miss this gem!

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16420 N Thompson Peak Parkway Unit 1009 Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$635,000

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,640 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6783419

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Prime elevated location within the complex, this 2-story end-unit townhome boasts picturesque, views of lush landscaping. An inviting great room, complete with a cozy fireplace, flows effortlessly into the dining area & sliding doors open to a private patio, ideal for outdoor relaxation. On the lower level, a versatile office space can double as an additional sleeping area. The primary bedroom offers a private balcony overlooking the beautifully curated desert landscape, while an en-suite guest room provides comfort and privacy. The community offers exceptional amenities, including a well-maintained pool, spa, & workout facility, along with access to the renowned McDowell Mountain Ranch community amenities. Cachet is conveniently located close to the 101 and popular dining spots.

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10736 W Paso Trail Peoria, AZ 85383

$635,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,190 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6781741

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Impeccable home In great area. All new plank tile flooring installed in 2023 - Large walk in master shower remodeled with tile in 2023 - Great room concept with island kitchen and granite counter tops - Build in upgraded stainless steel appliances - Stainless steel refrigerator - 36'' gas cooktop - 42'' staggered cabinets - Double door exit into back yard - Split floor plan - Large master suite with double sinks - walk in shower - private toilet room - very large walk in closet - Large laundry room with extra cabinets and laundry sink - Paver drive way in front and paver patio in back yard - Backs up to common area with view fencing

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13325 W Luke Avenue Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$635,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,432 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6782771

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This home in the gated Dreaming Summit community of Litchfield Park is move-in ready! The property features 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, a separate den, and an inviting front courtyard. The main living area boasts upgraded plank flooring, fresh paint, and plantation shutters. The stylish kitchen includes recessed lighting, ample cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, a stunning upgraded island with breakfast bar, and plenty of counter space. The primary suite has a private exit, luxurious bath with dual sinks, a tub, shower, and walk-in closet. The large backyard offers an extended patio, built-in gas BBQ, private pool, and double gate—perfect for Arizona living! Located near Luke AFB. Just 7 miles from Westgate entertainment district, State Farm Stadium, and 4 Spring training stadium

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1612 E Julie Drive Tempe, AZ 85283

$635,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,204 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784114

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This beautifully updated home, in the heart of Tempe welcomes you with wood-look tile flooring throughout. Updates include removal of popcorn ceiling, installation of flush mount lighting in formal and informal living and dining areas, updated bathrooms and bright, open, updated, kitchen. The primary suite is spacious and boasts a bath with a separate vanity/dressing area, as well as a private exit to the backyard. The den/office is crafted with double French doors for privacy. The no-maintenance, spacious, backyard features a beautiful, sparkling, pool, as well as plenty of space for playing or lounging. New windows & electrical panel 2021, new HVAC 2022. All of this in a spectacular location convenient to shopping, dining, golf, ASU, the Loop 101, the SR 60, I-10 and the Loop 202!

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5100 E Rancho Paloma Drive Unit 2026 Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$635,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,990 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6766794

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Discover this beautifully upgraded townhome in the highly sought-after Rancho North community, renowned for its privacy and breathtaking mountain and desert views. The spacious great room layout features two generous bedrooms, a large den, two full baths, and a two-car garage. The interior showcases stylish white cabinets, quartz countertops, a gas stove, and a spacious primary bathroom with an oversized shower. A neutral color palette creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Two large sliding doors lead to a private balcony, ideal for enjoying the tranquil desert ambiance and unobstructed mountain vistas. With large picture windows that flood the home with natural light, this townhome offers a bright and airy feel. The community boasts fantastic amenities, including a heated pool, spa,BBQ area and workout facility. You'll also be conveniently located near shopping, dining, and outdoor activities like hiking and biking. This home is Energy Star Certified and features smart home technology, including WiFi door and garage locking and thermostat control, along with an EV charging station. Don't miss this exceptional opportunity!

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