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.house_f4nehsc_large_large

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

31642 N 169th Avenue Surprise, AZ 85387

$599,900
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,041 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6755049
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to 31642 N 169th Ave, a beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home nestled on a spacious 1.13-acre lot. This 2,050 square foot residence offers a perfect blend of rural tranquility and modern convenience. Step inside to find a bright and open floor plan, featuring a large living area, a well-appointed kitchen with ample counter space, and a cozy dining area perfect for family gatherings. The primary suite is a true retreat with an ensuite bathroom, while the two additional bedrooms offer plenty of space for guests or an added home office. Outside, the expansive lot provides endless opportunities for outdoor living, whether you dream of creating a garden oasis, adding a pool, or simply enjoying the Arizona sunsets from your patio. The The property also offers ample room for parking RVs, boats, or other recreational vehicles. Located just minutes from local attractions like Willow Winery, where you can enjoy tastings and scenic vineyard views, and a short drive to shopping, dining, and entertainment options in Surprise, this home is perfectly situated for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle without sacrificing convenience. Don't miss the opportunity to make this charming property your own!

1645 W Willetta Street Phoenix, AZ 85007

$599,900
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,550 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6747093
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled in the heart of the Phoenix Historic District, this enchanting 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home combines timeless charm with modern elegance in a picturesque setting. From the inviting front porch to the remodeled interior, every detail exudes warmth and sophistication. Step inside to discover an airy and bright living space enhanced by a cozy fireplace and seamless flow from the kitchen and dining area into the great room. The primary bedroom, a serene retreat, features a walk-in closet and private access to a tranquil backyard. With ample storage and community perks including proximity to public transportation, this home offers a perfect blend of historic allure and contemporary comfort.

18934 N 96th Lane Peoria, AZ 85382

$599,900
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,056 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6765093
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This beautiful entrance into Westbrook Village, Lakeview Estates is sure to impress. Green grass, trees, ponds & fountains abound. Be one of the few single family homeowners who have this coveted view from their backyard! Relax and enjoy the oversized back patio and everything Westbrook Village has to offer. 2 golf courses, restaurants, rec centers and pools. Pickleball, Tennis, etc. Over 80+clubs offer something for everyone. This home has been updated or upgraded inside and out, including a new water heater w/circulating hot water, new RO and Soft Water Systems and a new roof! Over $100,000 in upgrades. See Document Tab for upgrades and improvements, too many to mention here. Professionally cleaned, just bring your toothbrush. Located near the 101, shopping, restaurants, & P83.

41432 N Bent Creek Way Phoenix, AZ 85086

$599,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,082 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6750950
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this beautifully remodeled gem in the Anthem Golf and Country Club. Step inside to an open, airy layout with high ceilings and abundant natural light. The spacious living area shines with fresh, contemporary finishes and elegant touches throughout. The kitchen is a standout, featuring an expanded quartz countertop with a bar perfect for quick meals, along with extra cabinetry beneath the island and a large pantry for added convenience. Champagne-toned fixtures and cabinet knobs give the space a touch of modern luxury. Retreat to the master suite, a private haven with a spa-like en-suite bathroom. Enjoy a serene wood-finish vanity, sleek white quartz tiles, a soaking tub for relaxation, and a walk-in shower with modern fixtures. Dual vanities with wood-finish cabinets and a generous walk-in closet offer both style and storage. Located in the desirable Anthem Golf and Country Club community, this home offers access to the nearby Ironwood Golf Course and restaurant, along with top-rated schools, parks, and a wide range of recreational amenities. This friendly neighborhood has activities for all ages. Don't miss the chance to own this stunning home in Anthem's exclusive gated community. Come see for yourself the perfect blend of luxury and comfort!

4055 N Smithsonian Drive Florence, AZ 85132

$599,900
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,385 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6765379
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
AMAZING LOT, AMAZING HOME! Enjoy the affordable luxury and RESORT STYLE LIVING with this remarkable ''Journey'' model. Located on a spectacular PREMIUM WASH LOT with an abundance of outdoor entertaining space that offers an extended paver patio, gas fire-pit, built-in BBQ, hot tub, pergola and BEAUTIFUL DESERT VIEWS. Every detail has been masterfully added for your consideration starting with the chefs kitchen cabinet layout w/granite counter tops, roll-out trays, soft close drawers, stainless appliances w/ newer Bosch dishwasher and fridge, RO system and water softener. Enjoy the butlers pantry w/beverage cooler, entertainment/media center, surround sound, custom closet in primary, gorgeous wood flooring, golf cart garage, A/C in garage w/additional outlets and a 4ft garage extension. You can't build this home on this LOT, with all these UPGRADES and OPTIONS at this PRICE. STUNNING HOME THAT NEEDS TO BE SEEN TO APPRECIATE! Merrill Ranch also offers the Anthem Grille, The Poston Butte Golf Club, a learning center and all the festivities, activities and amenities a Sun City community has to offer. Remember you are buying a lifestyle that goes beyond the homes property lines.

1059 W Caroline Lane Tempe, AZ 85284

$599,900
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,486 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6758794
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
You'll LOVE this beautiful 4-bed, 2.5-bath home in Tempe Village! Its charm starts with a 2-car garage & a manicured landscape. Be greeted by a welcoming living room & a formal dining room, separated by a graceful archway! Continue onto the inviting family room that opens to the kitchen, allowing a greater traffic flow. The large kitchen has granite counters & backsplash, staggered cabinetry, a huge island, a breakfast nook, and built-in appliances w/cooktop elec. Natural light filled the spaces, complemented by designer paint, tile & wood-look floors downstairs, and plush carpet on the bedrooms upstairs. Main bedroom boasts an ensuite with dual sinks, separate tub/shower, & a walk-in closet. Discover the backyard with a paver-covered patio, artificial turf, & a splash pad! Move-in ready!

18835 N 16th Place Phoenix, AZ 85024

$599,900
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,259 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6761517
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this beautifully updated home in the heart of North Phoenix! This charming property in a gated community, boasts an open, airy layout that fills the space with natural light, enhanced by fresh, modern paint throughout. The kitchen features sleek white cabinetry, creating a clean and inviting space for cooking and gathering. Situated on a large lot, this home offers ample outdoor space, perfect for relaxation or play. From the upstairs bedrooms, enjoy breathtaking mountain views, adding a serene and picturesque backdrop to your daily life. With Mountains and trails just minutes away, this home is an ideal retreat for nature enthusiasts seeking both comfort and adventure.

18578 E Pine Barrens Avenue Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$599,900
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,931 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6765313
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this spacious and inviting 2,931 sf single-level home in popular Sossaman Estates, ideally located at the Gilbert/Queen Creek border! Designed with a modern open floorplan and 10 ft ceilings, this home offers comfort and plenty of space for everyday living and entertaining. The kitchen is ready for every chef's needs, featuring double wall ovens, a prep island with cooktop and breakfast bar, ample counter space, and plenty of cabinets. A bright breakfast nook with bay windows, an extra-large dining area, and a butler's pantry with built-in wine racks add even more charm and functionality. French doors from the living room open up to a sizable backyard complete with a covered patio, pergola, and mature trees. Side yards offer potential for an RV gate and additional storage space. The spacious primary suite provides a relaxing retreat with two walk-in closets, access to the backyard, a garden tub, a large shower, and dual vanities. Additional highlights include three well-sized bedrooms, a versatile bonus room, and built-in workstations perfect for work-from-home or study areas. The large laundry room with folding counter and plenty of storage space adds convenience. Set on almost 1/3 acre on a corner lot, there's a 2-car garage and slab parking for up to four vehicles, ideal for families and gatherings. This home's location is a dream, with easy access to greenbelts, walking trails, shopping, dining, schools, and the 202 freeway. As an estate sale, it's priced generously under market value for potential instant equity! Recent updates include: *NEW BLINDS: In Kitchen, Dining Area, Living Room, Master Bedroom, & Bedroom 4. *PLUMBING: NEW Water Softener. Water Lines Flushed. New Valves/Cartridges in Kitchen, Bathrooms, Laundry Room, & Hose Bibs. Repaired Toilet/Shower Head Leaks. *ROOF: Repaired Cracked/Slipped Roof Tiles/Mortar Caps. *HVAC: NEW Condensers w/10 yr warranty. *MISC: Repaired Bathroom Fans & Sink Stops. Secured Toilet Tank, Kitchen Cabinet & Door Thresholds.

21207 E Domingo Road Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$599,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,188 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769045
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home in Nauvoo Station! Has SOLAR!! This meticulously maintained 4-bedroom residence offers a spacious, open-concept design with surround sound in the great room, elegant tile flooring, plush carpet in select areas, and modern light fixtures throughout. The chef's kitchen features pristine white cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, a pantry, and a large island with a breakfast bar, perfect for casual dining or entertaining. The primary suite includes a generous walk-in closet and a beautifully updated en-suite with dual sinks. Outside, enjoy the serene backyard with a putting green, lush lawn, and private pool, ideal for outdoor relaxation. This home is a true gem—don't miss your chance to make it yours!

24129 N 165th Lane Surprise, AZ 85387

$599,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,599 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6762704
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Next Gen living at its finest in the master-planned community of Asante in Surprise. This exceptional residence features a unique Next Gen Suite with its own entrance, kitchenette, and living space—perfect for multi-generational living or a home office. The main home offers an inviting layout with 3 spacious bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, 10-foot ceilings and luxurious vinyl plank flooring throughout. The gourmet kitchen showcases white antique-style cabinets, stainless steel appliances, a gas range, and a generous walk-in pantry. The great room features a faux whitewashed block wall and double sliding doors capturing natural light in from the backyard. The owner's suite is accented with a charming shiplap wall, private access to the backyard, walk-in closet and a beautifully appointed en-suite bathroom with dual sinks, granite countertops, and a tiled walk-in shower with rain shower head. Two additional bedrooms share a guest bathroom with granite counters and a tub/shower combo. The Next Gen Suite offers a private setup complete with a kitchenette that includes a full-size refrigerator, dishwasher, maple spice cabinets, and a conventional microwave. The living and dining area leads to a bedroom, walk-in closet with washer and dryer hook-up, plus a bathroom making it ideal for accommodating parents, adult children, guests or workspace. Additional highlights include the Puragain water purification and softener system and reverse osmosis. The backyard oasis is perfect for outdoor gatherings or relaxation, featuring a covered patio, extended pavers, and low-maintenance synthetic grass. Come tour this Next Gen home today!

2560 N Lindsay Road Unit 66 Mesa, AZ 85213

$599,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,151 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6763255
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
SELLER IS OFFERING BUYER CONCESSIONS with a competitive offer!! This beautifully remodeled 4-bed, 3-bath home in Mesa is a must-see! Designed by the renowned Maverick Design, the home boasts modern elegance throughout. The primary bathroom is a true showstopper with a brand-new floor-to-ceiling tiled walk-in shower, featuring double shower heads for a spa-like experience. The spacious kitchen is perfect for the home chef, complete with new stainless steel appliances and stunning granite countertops. Downstairs, the finished basement offers a private retreat with its own bedroom and full bathroom. The home is outfitted with new luxury vinyl floors and upgraded baseboards, adding a touch of sophistication. Two brand-new HVAC systems ensure year-round comfort!!

2427 E Marmora Street Phoenix, AZ 85032

$599,900
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,249 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6772891
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Rare opportunity to own a remodeled 5 Bedroom, 3 Bathroom home, Mountain Views in North Phoenix. OWNED SOLAR!! Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring throughout, gorgeous high end kitchen, fireplace, remodeled bathrooms with the latest styles! Excellent open concept main living room, spacious primary suite, and your bonus ''Arizona'' room has endless possibilities. Low maintenance backyard featuring turf and a great amount of patio space. 3 Brand new HVAC & Electrical Panel! Just a short walk to schools, mountain preserves, 51 freeway, and a few miles to the new reimagined PV in Phoenix.

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