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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13431 W Los Bancos Drive Sun City West, AZ 85375

$609,900

2 Beds

2 Baths

2,423 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784214

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to serene living nestled within the prestigious gated community of Corte Bella Country Club. This elegant detached single-family home is a sanctuary of comfort and style, perfect for those seeking leisure in an exclusive setting. With an expanded Cambria floor plan, this home offers a unique blend of space and sophisticated design ideal for those who value both functionality and luxury. The home features two spacious bedrooms, with a bonus room that can effortlessly transform into a third bedroom or a private home office, depending on your needs. The heart of this home is its chef's kitchen, designed for culinary enthusiasts. Enjoy the convenience of double ovens, a new refrigerator, built-in microwave, and thoughtfully upgraded cabinets with pullouts. Adjacent lies a butler pantry for added storage and efficiency, flowing into a formal dining room that promises memorable gatherings. A separate laundry room adds to the home's functionality, making everyday tasks a breeze. With recent upgrades like new A/C units, furnaces, hot water tank, recent roof inspection and more, this home offers modern comfort with peace of mind. The expansive 22' x 31' garage includes a workshop area and golf cart parking, catering to hobbies and hobbies alike. Outdoors, an extended double covered patio overlooks lush landscaping, creating a private oasis for relaxation or entertaining. This outdoor living space feels like an additional room to the home. Life in Corte Bella extends beyond the home, offering access to a private fitness center, indoor spa, outdoor heated pool and spa, and beautifully maintained courts for tennis, pickleball, and bocce ball. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the on-site course, and residents the community's renovated restaurants invite you to dine without venturing far. Convenience is at your doorstep, with key community amenities just a short distance away. Embrace an active lifestyle or enjoy the tranquility of this exclusive community and embrace the ease with its move-in ready condition.

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15333 W Sells Drive Goodyear, AZ 85395

$609,900

4 Beds

3 Baths

3,611 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6702222

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Situated in the heart of Palm Valley, this beautiful home features more than 3300 sf of space with four bedrooms, three full bathrooms and a separate den/office. The kitchen features granite counters, ss appliances, large island with breakfast bar, double ovens, a huge walk-in pantry, and a breakfast nook. The primary suite is expansive with a gorgeous master bath and walk-in closet. Two of the additional bedrooms are HUGE and feature a ''Jack and Jill'' bath. The guest room is split from the others and is just off the third full bath. A three car garage offers plenty of space for cars, storage, or toys. Close to highly rated schools, shopping, dining, Wigwam Resort, spring training, golf, Goodyear Rec Center, Westgate Entertainment District and more make this a must seem home!

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5312 W Saint John Road Glendale, AZ 85308

$609,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,122 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6763486

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Experience luxury living in this beautifully remodeled home located in the Touchstone community. This stunning property features white shaker cabinetry and quartz countertops throughout. Enjoy the elegance of Luxury Plank laminate tile flooring paired with oversized baseboards & fresh interior paint. Updated lighting fixtures illuminate the entire home. The open floor plan showcases 10-foot ceilings, a formal living and dining room, and an eat-in kitchen, perfect for entertaining. Both bathrooms have been recently remodeled, with the master bath boasting a barn door for added privacy and a real marble tile surround. The versatile office/den can easily be converted into a fourth bedroom. Step outside to the fantastic backyard oasis, featuring a beautiful pool. This turnkey home won't last!

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25125 N 171st Lane Surprise, AZ 85387

$609,328

5 Beds

4 Baths

3,185 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6762106

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MLS#6762106 January Completion! The versatile Victory floor plan at Asante boasts an open-concept design, where the kitchen seamlessly connects to the great room, complemented by a nearby dining area. The first-floor primary suite offers a spacious walk-in closet and a well-appointed bath. The main level also includes a full bathroom, an additional half bath, and a flexible space perfect for a home office or playroom. Upstairs, you'll find secondary bedrooms, a full bathroom, ample storage, and a loft, providing additional space for relaxation or entertainment. Structural options added include; Gourmet kitchen,12' x 8' sliding glass door, paver front porch and walkway, bedroom 5 with bath 4, and garage service door.

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4585 San Cristobal -- Sierra Vista, AZ 85635

$609,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,629 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6736231

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to 4585 San Cristobal! This beautiful custom home is perfect for those who love to entertain. The spacious great room is perfect for gatherings of all kinds, and the formal dining room is ideal for more intimate occasions. The kitchen is a chef's dream, with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a walk-in pantry. The master suite includes a large walk-in closet, dual sinks in the bath, and an oversized tub. The 4th bedroom would make a great in-law suite or guest quarters, it is split and has its own bathroom. Need a 5th bedroom? This plan has also been built with a 5th bedroom where the formal dining room is located! The large, covered patio at the back of the house is the perfect place to sit and enjoy your morning coffee decompress at the end of the day. The four-car attached garage with built-in storage shelves and extra workspace is perfect for the hobbyist or car enthusiast. Come see everything this amazing home has to offer today!

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7527 E Elderberry Way Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$609,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

1,900 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6753890

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your new AZ home! Everything is here (except your personal belongings & items to fill kitchen cupboards). 3 bedroom (split floorplan) & 2 bath home has ALL the furniture & appliances included PLUS comes with a 1 bedroom / 1 bath casita with it's own entrance making it a total of 4 bedrooms/3 bath home. Owners have been diligent about upgrading & maintaining their winter home(used approx. 3 months a year). Kitchen has granite counters & newer appliances. Garage has built in cabinets, sink, overhead storage racks, water softener, & epoxy flooring. Enjoy the gas fireplace on those chilly nights or mornings, and when outdoors, enjoy entertaining outdoors by the gas firepit , cooking by the grill, or just enjoying the view. List of improvements in document section.

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1710 W Winchester Way Chandler, AZ 85286

$609,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,808 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6757286

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

EXCEPTIONAL SO CHANDLER BEAUTY in the coveted, Master Planned Community of Silverton Ranch! Buy now & move in before the Holidays! This 1-Story Home has been Meticulously Cared for & Upgraded. 3Bed+Den/ Office/ Library ( easy to make this a 4th Bedroom) NEWER Upgrades&Improvements: Wood-look Tile Plank Floors., Cabinets, Appliances, Granite, Ceiling Fans, Baseboards, Door Hardware, Window Treatments, Master&Guest Baths, Interior /Exterior Paint, Water Heater, Video-recording Doorbell. Backyard: Irrigation piping conver. + multi-port emitters, Shade, Pavers, Raised Garden., Vrble Spd Pool Pump. Artif Turf so you can enjoy your yard w/ easy-care Landscape. All this & more makes this your perfect Staycation Home! Conveniently located to many So Chandler great Amenities. See Photos!

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7632 E Bonita Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$609,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,026 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6763467

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

*AMAZING Villa Monterey Home *Three Bedrooms, three bathrooms, over 2000 square feet of space *COVETED DOUBLE CARPORT! *Low HOA fee of just $650 annually! *Scottsdale Historic District *Age 55+ Community *REMODELED KITCHEN with maple cabinets, GRANITE countertops, granite backsplash, NEWER APPLIANCES *Main level features spacious living room, in-ceiling lighting, formal dining space, breakfast nook, laundry utility room, primary bedroom & full bath, additional bedroom and hall bath *Upper level features loft style bedroom, full bathroom, balcony with mountain views, walk-in closet and BONUS SPACE (can be used as office, hobby area, pet area) *Wood laminate flooring *CONVENIENT door from living room to primary bedroom suite * *Large laundry room with extra storage and side-by-side washer dryer which conveys! *Pretty PANED WINDOWS on back of home *Super nice north facing covered patio mature citrus tree, PAVERS and two fans *Home is in great condition and has been VERY WELL MAINTAINED by owners of many years *Sparkling community pool & spa *Minutes to Fashion Square Mall, Scottsdale's Waterfront, Old Town Scottsdale, Fifth Avenue Shops & Galleries, Spring Training Venues, fine and casual dining venues and SO MUCH MORE!

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1449 W Islandia Drive Gilbert, AZ 85233

$609,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,846 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6768896

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Move-in ready! Fantastic opportunity to own this wonderful 3-bed, 2-bath home with a sparkling pool! Great curb appeal with nice desert landscaping, a covered front porch, and a 3-car garage. The welcoming interior offers a spacious living & family room, soaring vaulted ceilings, soothing palette, ceiling fans, soft carpeting, archways, a wood-burning fireplace, and beautiful laminate flooring. The kitchen is fully equipped with sleek granite counters, a mosaic tile backsplash, track lighting, lots of white cabinetry with crown molding, and two windows with great views of the backyard. Don't forget about the large dining area with a bay window perfect for entertaining family & friends. The main bedroom offers an ensuite bathroom with a separate tub & shower, dual vanities, and a walk-in closet. The remaining bedrooms are an ample size and share the hall bathroom. Laundry inside with utility sink. Enjoy the outdoors with a large covered concrete patio, artificial turf, additional desert landscaping and a refreshing pool. Make this gem yours today! The exterior of the home was painted in 2023.

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32828 N 228th Drive Wittmann, AZ 85361

$609,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,403 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6757577

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Set on a full acre, this 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home is a striking combination of modern updates and rural charm. With a 2023 refresh that includes new flooring and updates to the kitchen and bathrooms, the interior feels fresh, cool, and contemporary. The open floor plan flows effortlessly, creating a spacious and inviting atmosphere that's perfect for both entertaining and everyday living. The property is ideal for those with hobbies or larger projects, featuring a massive 30' x 50' x 14' detached, insulated shop, fully equipped with electrical and offering 10' x 10' and 10' x 12' doors, providing ample room for up to six vehicles or larger equipment. The 10' x 16' wood shed with a window AC unit adds additional functional space, perfect for storage or a small workshop. Backing up to... state trust land, this property offers expansive views and exceptional privacy. For pet owners, the fenced dog yard includes a dig-proof kennel, giving peace of mind and security for your pets. This home perfectly blends modern conveniences with the freedom and space of rural living, offering a lifestyle that's as practical as it is peaceful.

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2449 E Inglewood Street Mesa, AZ 85213

$609,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,038 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767409

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Fully professionally/beautifully updated 3 bed/2 bath in one of the cutest neighborhoods in Mesa. No HOA!! Huge 10,633 sqft private lot with substantial RV parking/gate, swimming pool, covered patio and cozy outdoor settings to relax in the evenings. Attention to detail on the design in the home will make anyone feel like they are on vacation. Open concept floorplan, spacious master bedroom with en-suite bath and much more. All new flooring/lighting/quartz counters/custom backsplash, stainless appliances/custom 5'' baseboards/new paint inside and out. Minutes to the 202 with great entertainment and shopping nearby. Close to Mesa and PHX airports. This one is a must see!

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1609 E Montecito Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85016

Open House

$609,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,362 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6759860

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This stunning property is nestled in the desirable Biltmore/Camelback corridor and is surrounded by an array of shopping options, and some of the city's finest restaurants. This beautifully designed two-story residence features three spacious bedrooms and two bathrooms, providing ample space for relaxation and privacy. The master bedroom is conveniently located on the first floor. The property boasts modern finishes and an open floor plan that enhances its inviting atmosphere, with a stylish kitchen, bright living spaces, and a lovely outdoor space, perfect for family gatherings or the addition of a pool. Large laundry with ample storage. Two car carport with a Tesla charging station. Easy access to highways and public transpiration. Do not miss this one!

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