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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2212 W Chisum Trail Phoenix, AZ 85085

$614,990

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,976 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784079

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to the Perata plan, a 3 bedrrom, 2.5 bathroom floorplan offering 1,976 square feet of elegant living space with a charming Farmhouse exterior with artificial turf in the front yard enhancing the home's curb apeal. As you step onto the pavers at the covered entry, you'll immediately appreciate the attention to detail in every corner of this beautifully crafted home. Stepping into the home, the white paint grade mission stair rail adds a touch of traditional craftsmanship while the 8' interior doors adorned create a sense of grandeur. This home's kitchen and greatroom open to a spacious outdoor space with a gas stub for BBQ ensuring the possibilities of effortless outdoor entertaining. The heart of the home, the kitchen, features stainless steel GE appliances including a 36'' chimney hood, a built-in gas cooktop with five burners, and a built-in wall oven and microwave with trim kit. There are white-painted 42 upper shaker cabinets at the kitchen perimeter and shale cabinets at the island with satin nickel and matte black hardware. A large single basin stainless steel sink with a Moen stainless steel kitchen faucet completes this chef's dream kitchen. All bathrooms feature Moen Eva 8 widespread brush nickel premium faucets. The bathrooms continue the theme of elegance with shale painted shaker cabinets and crisp white cultured marble tops with rectangular sinks. Throughout the downstairs, bath 2 and the laundry upstairs, you'll find durable 6x36 Natural wood look tile, while the primary bathroom boasts a serene 12x24 AZ Futura Tile in the shade Ivory which compliment the enlarged primary bath shower with white cultured marble surrounds and 3/8 glass, perfect for unwinding after a long day. All flooring is elegantly trimmed with upgraded 4 ¼ baseboards. This home is complemented by a soft water loop located in the garage for added convenience. Union Park offers Tree-lines streets, pedestrian-friendly sidewalks and 5,500 sq ft recreation center with resort style pool and kiddie pool, shared ramadas, parks, gathering areas, pickleball courts and basketball. Close to I-10 and 303. Walking distance to restaurants, movies, entertainment, and shopping.

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32018 N 117th Avenue Peoria, AZ 85383

$614,990

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,012 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6755506

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Larkspur - 4 bed/3 full baths. Stainless steel gas appliance package with 36'' cooktop, wall oven, microwave, glass canopy hood. Sonoma Maple Linen-off white cabinets with black hardware, 42'' kitchen uppers. Upper and lower cabinets at owner's entry, and cabs in laundry room. AZT Steel gray granite tops in kitchen and all baths. Upgrade flooring - Mohawk Wood laminate Driftwood in all areas except beds & closets and so much more. Amenity Rich Mystic includes a Resort Style community pool, Rec center with year-round events, Hiking paths & community parks. The perfect location- close to shopping, restaurants, golf, Lake pleasant and the loop 3. PHOTOS OF THIS LISTING ARE OF THE CLOVER MODEL HOME.

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11458 E Utah Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$614,990

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,474 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6787361

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to ''The Pearl,'' a stunning four-bedroom, three-bathroom farmhouse-style home featuring a guest retreat. With 10-foot ceilings and 8-foot doors, this home boasts an open, airy feel. The great room opens to a covered patio through a 4-panel center slider, perfect for indoor-outdoor living. The gourmet kitchen includes a 36-inch gas cooktop, charcoal shaker cabinets with hardware, a tile backsplash, and quartz countertops. Upgrades abound, including 6''x36'' wood-look tile in the main areas, and upgraded bathroom lighting, faucets, and fixtures. Experience luxurious living in this beautifully designed home..

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865 S Oak Street Gilbert, AZ 85233

New

$614,900

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,243 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6787824

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this delightful 4-bedroom residence in Raven Ranch! You're greeted by a spacious 3-car garage and a tasteful desert landscape. Discover a bright living room with high ceilings, a cool palette, plantation shutters, and wood-look flooring. The great room includes sliding door access to the backyard and ample windows for abundant natural light. Cook delicious meals in the spotless kitchen, equipped with wood cabinetry, recessed lighting, stainless steel appliances, a handy pantry, and a peninsula with a breakfast bar for quick meals. The serene main bedroom offers a sitting nook, an ensuite with double sinks, and a walk-in closet. Venture out onto the backyard, complete with a covered patio, lush natural turf, and a refreshing pool. Make this gem yours today!

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3043 E Rose Lane Phoenix, AZ 85016

$614,900

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,185 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6696353

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

This charming, newly renovated 2 bed, 2 bath townhome is situated on the prestigious Biltmore golf course and offers amazing views and amenities. The kitchen opens to the family room overlooking the patio and course. The bedrooms and baths are separated offering privacy. The community offers a swimming pool, spa, guard gate and tennis court. Plenty of room for parking between the single private garage and the covered public one.

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21225 W Wilshire Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$614,900

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,322 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6713534

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Picture yourself enjoying the fall sunsets on your private patio next to your heated pool, perfect for entertaining family and guests, or maybe just your own quiet time This stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom gem with a den features a modern design and an open floor plan, perfect for both family life and entertaining. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's delight, boasting contemporary appliances, a large island, sleek tile backsplash, quartz countertops, and ample cabinetry. Step outside to your private oasis with a fully landscaped yard and a luxurious heated pool, perfect for year-round enjoyment. The home also offers a three-car tandem garage, solar system for energy savings, and double gates to conveniently park your toys. Nestled on a desirable corner lot, this home is an absolute must-see

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3948 E Gold Mountain Avenue San Tan Valley, AZ 85143

$614,857

4 Beds

3 Baths

3,146 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6776756

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Enchanting new home featuring designer selections, a split floor plan, and north/south exposure. Located in Bella Vista Farms, homeowners have access to their community pool and playground. The kitchen boasts a GE Executive kitchen appliance package including double ovens and a gas cooktop, there are also Delta Terra Quartz Zinc countertops and Aristokraft 42'' cabinets in Benton White. Other highlights in the home include a frameless walk-in shower at the primary suite and Vicinity White 6 x 36 Matte Wood like tile flooring. Utilities for this home include: Mesa Gas, EPCOR Water, and Rural Metro.

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917 W Desert Hills Estate Drive Phoenix, AZ 85086

$614,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,600 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6750600

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Looking for trail options to ride your horse from home? This horse property has three desert trailhead options within a mile of the home. This well-maintained, single-owner 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home spans 1,600 SF on a spacious 1.125-acre lot, offering the perfect blend of rural charm, and modern conveniences. The property features a horse corral, a one-horse mare motel, and a detached 24x14 Tuff Shed/tack room, ideal for a tack room or storage. Situated on a private road with only two other residences, you'll enjoy unparalleled seclusion with an untouched natural desert lot to the north. Breathtaking mountain views and a serene country lifestyle. This move-in-ready home includes a two-car garage and an outdoor water feature that adds a soothing touch to your outdoor space. The open floor plan seamlessly connects the kitchen, dining, and living areas, while the split layout ensures privacy for the master suite. The master bedroom boasts dual sinks, a private toilet, and a tiled walk-in shower. Recent upgrades include a new roof in 2022, a new AC unit in 2017, exterior paint in 2021, and a new septic system in 2023. The home also features all-new windows (except the garage) installed in 2021, New kitchen counter tops, kitchen sink and faucet 2021, and newer appliances including a 2021 refrigerator, built-in microwave, a 2022 dishwasher, and a 2018 washer. The well is a 4 share well. This North Phoenix rural horse property offers the tranquility of country living while being conveniently close to the Carefree Highway, I-17, restaurants, shopping, and other amenities. Horse riding trails into the vast desert is a short 4,000 feet away. Don't miss out on this exceptional opportunity!

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646 W Naranja Avenue Mesa, AZ 85210

$614,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,039 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6738172

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

***UPDATE...With an Accepted Offer, Seller will pay off Solar Lease before close of escrow.**Price Reduced** $10k Below Market value and ready to sell, Seller says bring an offer!! Welcome to your dream home, a beautifully remodeled gem located in desirable Mesa neighborhood. This stunning residence has been thoughtfully updated both inside and out, combining modern luxury with functional design. The updated kitchen is a chef's delight, featuring sleek stainless steel appliances and elegant quartz countertops that make meal preparation a pleasure. Crown molding throughout the downstairs and in the primary bedroom adds a touch of sophistication, while all-new fixtures and custom shutters with faux blinds enhance the home's refined aesthetic. Step outside to enjoy your private oasisa sparkling pool perfect for cooling off on hot summer days. The front and back yards are zero-scaped, providing beautiful, low-maintenance outdoor spaces that are as practical as they are attractive. This home isn't just a place to live; it's a lifestyle upgrade. Don't miss out on this exceptional opportunity, schedule a showing today and experience the perfect blend of elegance and convenience!

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7437 W Bloomfield Road Peoria, AZ 85381

$614,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,935 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6765758

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Rare Opportunity to own a 17,942 sq foot lot size, No HOA,RV Parking,Separate additional 2 car garage(detached) with guest room and that is Move in Ready. Home boast nice tile flooring, updated kitchen with white quartz countertops, stainless Steel Appliances. and plenty of cabinet space with beautiful white plantation shutters. Ceiling fans in all bedrooms and living room. Great Sized backyard with pool that was recently resurfaced.There can be 6 Additional parking spaces in the backyard that can fit RVs and trailers. High concrete wall offers more privacy.Exterior of home has fresh new paint, newer water heater and master bathroom has been recently updated. Come view now before it's too late!

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22647 E Avenida Del Valle -- Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$614,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,799 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6773273

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This beautifully designed 5-bed, 3-bath home in the Meridian community offers 2,799 sqft of modern living space, built in 2018. Featuring tile throughout the main areas, with carpet in the bedrooms, a massive family room, and a 3-car garage, this home blends style and functionality. Plus, the paid-off solar provides excellent energy savings! Enjoy Meridian's 5,000 sqft pool, parks, and scenic trails, along with the nearby Frontier Family Park offering playgrounds and picnic areas. This stylish, move-in ready home is a must-see in one of Queen Creek's most desirable communities!

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25742 N 103rd Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$614,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,172 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6760450

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Amazing View lot with all the incredible features you dream of! To start, you enter into this home with soaring 10-foot ceilings, then into the large open kitchen with an entertainers Granite countertop, stainless appliances, 16 Inch tile throughout, gas fireplace, large family room, extended covered back patio looking out over the horizon and awesome mountain views! Split floorplan with very private master Suite with exit onto the patio, Garage is extended with a service door leading to an RV parking area and RV gates. This is a well sought after community in the Peoria public school district, and only a few miles of Several National Acclaimed Charter Schools. Easy access to loop 303-I-10 AND the 101. This home is a MUST SEE!! Don't miss your opportunity 2 Own this one!

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