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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5422 S Luiseno Boulevard Gilbert, AZ 85298

$599,900

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,108 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6758778

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Check out this Beautiful Single Level Home Located in the Prestigious Community: The Bridges at Gilbert! This Great Room Floorplan Home Features 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, Den and 3 Car Garage. The Kitchen Includes an Island, Granite Countertops, Stainless Steel Appliances, 2 Built in Ovens, Gas Cook Top and Beautiful Raised Panel Cabinets with Crown Molding! Master Suite Includes a Spacious Bathroom with a Dual Vanity, Separate Shower/Tub and Large Walkin Closet! Step into the Backyard with New Artificial Grass and Large Covered Patio, Perfect for Entertaining or Enjoying as a Family! Do Not Miss Out!!

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3010 E County Down Drive Chandler, AZ 85249

$599,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,185 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6783660

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome home to this 3 bedroom plus office, 2 bath, 3 car garage beauty in the coveted 55+ Solera at Lone Tree Golf Course Community. Enjoy the privacy of being at the end of the street, with the north/south facing maintenance free yard. Step inside to 10 ft ceilings, fresh paint, plantation shutters, new carpet, & upgraded light fixtures, making it move in ready. The great room is open to the kitchen that features an island for entertaining & dining area. Bonus: all appliances stay. Large primary bedroom offers a sitting area, while its bathroom has dual sinks, jetted tub, walk in shower & oversized walk in closet. The split floorplan offers ample size secondary bedrooms. Plenty of closet storage throughout. This home checks all the boxes.

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20613 W Hazelwood Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85396

Open House

$599,900

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,170 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6768357

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled along tree-lined streets of Phase One in Victory at Verrado is this lovely Crest Plan by Lennar with OWNED SOLAR! Imagine having a cup of coffee as you take in the relaxing view of Hazelwood Park from the front Porch. Inside you will discover a den/bedroom #3 with Murphy bed, a convenient half bath, spacious secondary office (option by builder) w/barn door, secluded bedroom #2, and a full bathroom #2. The generous owner's suite has a large bedroom, and the bathroom features double vanity sinks, a no-step tiled shower, and a custom closet for all your storage needs. The heart of the home, the kitchen, is a chef's dream with its oversized island—ideal for entertaining—enhanced by striking cabinetry, elegant countertops, and a stylish backsplash. Recent updates include a GE refrigerator, Bosch dishwasher, washer, dryer, and security system. The great room seamlessly connects indoor and outdoor living with a center-pull four-panel sliding glass door. Step outside to the expansive travertine patio, where you can unwind in the jacuzzi or savor breathtaking mountain views around the fire pit, complete with a 70-foot gas line for easy access. The covered patio, featuring a retractable awning, provides a perfect retreat from the sun. The garage is equally impressive, equipped with an epoxy floor coated with granite chips, built-in cabinets, and hanging racks for all your organizational needs, along with a LiftMaster belt drive, Wi-Fi garage door opener. Additional updates include Norman plantation shutters on all windows and center-open sliders, a master closet upgrade, and a Murphy bed frame with queen size mattress and cabinet for versatility. Other notable enhancements include the replacement of bathroom counters and sinks, four Pfister bathroom faucets, an upgraded HVAC with new damper units and a new inverter for the solar system, and comprehensive grout sealing throughout the house. Fresh paint adorns the front hallway, kitchen, and living room walls and ceiling, while a decorative cornice adds charm to the patio door. Beyond your doorstep, the Victory at Verrado community offers an impressive array of amenities, including a 7,000 sq. ft. fitness center, golf course, pickleball courts, four pools, bocce ball courts, arts & crafts, a media room, lending library, delightful dining options, shopping, a rejuvenating day spa, and even a vineyard! Experience a lifestyle of leisure and luxury in this remarkable home!

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108 W Villa Rita Drive Phoenix, AZ 85023

$599,890

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,336 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6753499

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Come see this FURNISHED 5 bedroom, 3.5 bath REMODELED home located in a quiet North Phoenix neighborhood . This home is nearly 2400 sq ft and features 2 Master Bedrooms both with ensuite bathrooms, perfect for a large family, multi-generational families or an Airbnb. No HOA. The home is currently a successful Airbnb with amazing reviews. Beautiful pool in the backyard features a built in table. The garage is oversized for additional storage or a home gym. Home is centrally located just min away from the 101 Freeway for an easy commute.

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10633 S 44th Street Phoenix, AZ 85044

$599,800

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,849 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6738373

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home in the highly desirable neighborhood of Ahwatukee. This stunning, modernized residence offers a spacious great room floor plan, perfect for both entertaining and comfortable living. With numerous recent upgrades, this home is move-in ready and boasts high-end finishes throughout. Step inside to find luxurious vinyl tile flooring that is not only stylish but also waterproof and scratch-proof, providing worry-free living for families and pet owners alike. The expanded and remodeled kitchen is a chef's delight, featuring custom white cabinetry, sparkling black quartz countertops, and top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances. Enjoy the abundance of natural light that fills the home, thanks to gorgeous Anderson High Performance windows and a sleek sliding glass

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9214 W Kerry Lane Peoria, AZ 85382

$599,700

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,258 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6757552

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Golf course gem fully renovated with nicest touch of art and harmony. 2258 square feet, 3 bed 2.5 bath gorgeous home backing to golf course with infinite beautiful views. This home has 2 car garge, room for golf cart storage, covered patio, fireplace. It's been loved from top to bottom.

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20637 W Rancho Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$599,590

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,528 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6753670

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Ready for move in by end of year!! Experience the epitome of Mountainside living with our Turnberry design. A welcoming open courtyard offers stunning views of the White Tank Mountains and year-round sunsets. Welcome to your new oasis! This 1,528 sq. ft. single-story stunner features 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms of pure luxury. Experience top-tier comfort with spray foam insulation, while recessed LED lighting casts a modern glow throughout. The impressive 12' sliding glass wall effortlessly merges indoor and outdoor living, and 8' doors paired with 10' ceilings create an open, airy atmosphere. Complete with a paver driveway and walkway, this home combines sleek design with sophisticated functionality. Your perfect blend of elegance and practicality awaits!

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807 Co Rd 3144 -- Vernon, AZ 85940

$599,500

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,300 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6699527

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This beautiful horse property offers breathtaking views and a range of amenities for horse enthusiasts. This property is less than a mile off the main hwy with paved access all the way. The property includes a well-maintained barn with two horse stalls, a tack room, storage room and an arena for training and riding. The spacious two-acre parcel is fully fenced and crossed fenced, providing a safe and secure environment for the horses and any other pets. Access to the property is through a gated entrance with a charming, treed circle driveway. The main residence is a spacious three-bedroom, two-bathroom home, featuring a wood burning stove, and a large master suite with two additional rooms off the master that can be used as a nursery, home gym, or office. The home boasts a large dining room and a back covered porch, both of which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you are a horse enthusiast or simply appreciate the beauty of nature, this property is sure to impress. Schedule your showing today.

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40721 W Georgia Avenue Tonopah, AZ 85354

$599,500

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,192 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6754914

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This beautiful custom home is almost ready for a family to live in this peaceful area north of I-10. It features an RV garage, modern style double front door, matching modern garage doors, 10' ceilings, open floor plan, neutral warm colors, tile flooring and carpet in all the right places, with 6'' base boards. Kitchen will feature wood expresso color cabinets, granite or quartz counter tops, oven range, hood, plus wall oven and microwave, ss appliances and refrigerator. Split floor plan has 3 bedrooms with custom shelving and 1 of the bedrooms has a large walking closet, 1 bathroom has a large garden tub/shower with double sinks. Master bedroom has large walk-in closet, custom tile shower, and double sinks. Energy efficient home with dual pane windows, 2x6 framing, spray foam insulated ceilings and exterior walls, along with batted insulated walls. RV garage and garage are fully spray foam insulated, along with 220 amp in RV garage for a mini split ac system, lift master garage door openers, 220 amp in the 2 car garage for a future electric car charging plug. A 2000 septic tank to accommodate a future guest house. 3 share wells altogether. Must see!

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8855 W Northview Avenue Glendale, AZ 85305

$599,500

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,545 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6779939

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This beautifully maintained home in the desirable Rovey Farm Estates is a true gem! With 5 spacious bedrooms, including a convenient downstairs bedroom, it offers plenty of room for the whole family. Featuring large Kitchen with granite countertops, a center island, and stainless steel appliances — perfect for the home chef! Open-concept living with a cozy family room, ideal for entertaining. Fresh interior paint and tile flooring throughout the entire first floor for a clean low-maintenance look. Expansive master suite with a private walk-out balcony, offering serene views of the greenbelt behind the home. Spacious, well-sized bedrooms ensuring comfort and privacy. Sparkling private pool, paved backyard, and plenty of space for lounging and dining, making it a perfect outdoor retreat! Minutes from Westgate District, where you can shop, dine and entertain!

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15551 N 179th Drive Surprise, AZ 85388

$599,500

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,300 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784550

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your new spacious 3,300 sq. ft. Surprise Farms gem! This fantastic five-bedroom, three-bathroom home features a sparkling pool and three-car garage! The main floor showcases stylish vinyl plank flooring, while the kitchen shines with stainless steel appliances and brand-new granite countertops, ideal for hosting gatherings and/or family meals. With a light, bright and flexible layout this home is designed to adapt effortlessly to your lifestyle. The expansive primary suite offers a luxurious en suite, creating the ultimate relaxing retreat. Step outside to your private backyard oasis with a covered patio, lush grass lawn, and an inviting pool—perfect for warm days and serene evenings. Nestled on a large corner lot with no neighbor to the south, this home truly has it all! Great location close to community parks and fields with EZ access to the Loop 303!

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1110 E Phoenix Street Payson, AZ 85541

$599,500

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,044 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6711716

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful one of a kind custom built 4 bedroom home in the highly desirable Rim View Heights Estates. Perfect for full time living or for a family getaway - there is plenty of room for everyone! It has a Great Room concept with vaulted ceilings, there is a family room as well as a formal living room. One bathroom has a walk in tub with jacuzzi jets. The home boasts 2 en-suite bedrooms with bathrooms. There is a large deck and patio to sit and enjoy the cool mountain evenings. Tall pine trees on the lot and wonderful views. Come see the brand new flooring throughout the entire house! The roof is only 5 years old. This is a lot of house for the money!

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