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

2095 W Harbour Drive Chandler, AZ 85248

$585,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,755 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6770630
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home! Nestled in the highly sought after Harbour Club in the Ocotillo Lakes community, this stunning property offers a perfect blend of luxury and comfort. You will love all the MANY upgrades that include: a BRAND NEW HVAC installed in 2023, fully remodeled bathrooms, saltwater pool, new energy efficient windows in the bedrooms, new sliding glass door and many more (see full list below!)! As you step inside, you'll be greeted by an expansive open floorplan with vaulted ceilings and lots of natural light. The kitchen is a chef's delight, featuring granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a spacious area perfect for entertaining. The master suite is a true retreat, complete with a spa-like bathroom featuring a jetted tub, dual vanities and a walk-in closet. Additional bedrooms are generously sized, providing ample room for family or guests. Step outside to your private oasis where a sparkling pool and lush landscaping await. The covered patio is perfect for alfresco dining and enjoying Arizona's beautiful weather year-round. Located in the heart of Chandler, this home is just minutes away from top-rated schools, shopping, dining, and entertainment. Nearby attractions include Ocotillo Golf Club, Chandler Fashion Center, and a variety of eateries such as the Living Room Wine Cafe & Lounge and CHoP Chandler. Don't miss an opportunity to make this exquisite property your forever home. **LIST OF UPGRADES BRAND NEW! HVAC system installed in 2023 Freshly painted Landscaped front and backyard Brand new fans and lighting throughout Front door electric code entry and new door handles Electric fireplace installed in living room New sliding glass door to backyard in 2018 Replaced windows in bedrooms with energy efficient windows in 2019 Stainless steel kitchen appliances (fridge, microwave, dishwasher, and stove) 2018 Replaced all cabinet handles New disposal system (Oct. 2024) Hall/Guest Bathroom had complete remodel in 2020 with a Walk-in shower, new flooring, new vanity, fixtures, mirror, and new lighting, Added energy efficient exterior door to patio from master bedroom in 2019 Complete remodel of master bathroom in 2020 which included a new jetted tub, tiled shower, replaced shower glass, new vanity, fixtures, mirrors, lighting, and new chandelier. New side entry door installed in the garage New garage door opener Kinetico soft water system installed in 2018 Garage Storage shelves built Landscaped/added plants around pool in backyard Stone fire pit added Replaced wood on side gate Sprinkler system installed and maintained New stack stone added to patio (in 2023) and grill area (in 2018) Cool decking around pool replaced in 2018 Upgraded to a salt water pool in 2022 New LED pool light 2019 Updated code-approved water returns in pool 2018

3609 E Ludlow Drive Phoenix, AZ 85032

$585,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,530 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773988
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
*Location* Location* Right off the 51 freeway and Thunderbird Rd., this home will not disappoint! Fully remodeled down to the drywall finish this home has endless new features such as low maintenance landscape with new synthetic grass, new flooring throughout, full bathroom remodel, complete kitchen remodel, low energy LED lighting throughout, double pane windows, and new appliances!! Don't hesitate, don't delay, seller is ready to sell!

10952 W Tropicana Circle Sun City, AZ 85351

$585,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,196 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6776995
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Golf course lot! Completely renovated and move-in ready. Open floor plan with formal dining room, spacious kitchen open to great room, 3 bedrooms plus den, 3 baths, 2 car garage. Highly upgraded with plank tile flooring t/o, carpet in bedrooms, custom cabinets, Quartz counter tops, Stainless steel appliances including fridge, and wine fridge, breakfast bar, pendent lights, tile back splash. New light and plumbing fixtures, new interior and exterior paint, dual pane windows. Master suite offers his and hers walk-in closets, double sinks. Inside laundry, oversized utility room with golf cart parking, epoxy garage flooring, new garage door, new gas water heater, roof 2008, HVAC 2012. Home warranty!

9731 E Torino Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$585,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,987 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6766264
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Gorgeous single level home in the highly sought after Cadence at Gateway community. This upgraded 3 bed + flex room, and 2 bath home has a great open floor plan; ideal for both living and entertaining. Step inside the front door to a flex room, perfect as an office or additional living space, and two additional bedrooms. The flex room has a beautiful barn door and a board and batten wall. Head over to the spacious and open concept living space featuring: the kitchen, dining space, and main living room. The gourmet kitchen has an extended island with quartz counters and pendant lighting with enough seating for at least five people. Stainless steel appliances, soft close cabinets, and pullout shelves in the pantry. The kitchen opens up to the main living room with a custom built entertainment center and extended patio sliding doors. The dining space area is fit for a 6-8 person table. Step outside and relax in the backyard under the covered patio or next to the built in fire pit, custom garden boxes, or built in BBQ station. The primary room easily fits a king sized bed, two night stands, and dresser. It features a large walk in closet and ensuite bathroom. Patio pavers surround the perimeter of the home. Tandem 3-car garage with overhead storage and water softeners. Home is situated with no rear neighbors giving the ultimate feel of privacy. Cadence at Gateway is known for their incredible amenities: community center, game room, grills, resort-style pools and hot tub, tennis/basketball/bocce ball courts, indoor workout center, walking paths, multiple playgrounds, and more. Fantastic location! Minutes from the 24 and close to everyday conveniences such as: restaurants, QT, Target, Safeway, and more.

4906 S Bannock Avenue Sierra Vista, AZ 85650

$585,000
5 Beds
4 Baths
3,946 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6705022
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This is it! Come home from a long day to this incredible property with million dollar mountain views and breathtaking sunsets! Far enough out of town to enjoy peace but with easy access to downtown Sierra Vista. Two of the bedrooms are easily used as a separate studio with its own kitchenette and entrance if desired. The peaceful koi pond features several large koi. The backyard patio comes with the inground pool we all crave during hot summer BBQ. Enjoy bird watching, hiking, views of the famous Carr Canyon waterfall & the nighttime sky! Bonus detached workshop! Whether it's peace, creativity or practicality you crave, this house has it all, it is so unique that you'll really have to come see the character and comfort that it offers! Welcome home.

1448 W Shellfish Drive Gilbert, AZ 85233

$585,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,171 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780572
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Don't miss out on this rare opportunity to live in a community that blends beauty, convenience, and comfort. This beautifully maintained home, featuring a brand-new roof, seamlessly combines modern upgrades with low-maintenance living. Step outside to your serene backyard, thoughtfully designed with artificial turf and a private gate that opens directly to a lush greenbelt—just steps from the sparkling community pool. Enjoy the luxury of poolside living without the upkeep! Inside, the primary suite is nothing short of a sanctuary. Vaulted ceilings w/ open feel while the en suite bath offers a spa-like experience with double vanities, a separate soaking tub, & a walk-in shower. Unwind on your private balcony, where peaceful greenbelt views ensure ultimate privacy & relaxation. Catch and release fishing permit $10/per year for residents Watercraft $25/per lifetime of watercraft The Islands Community offers a wealth of amenities, including: 74 acres of lakes (North Lake: 25 acres, Mid Lake: 18.73 acres, South Lake: 30.55 acres) 30 acres of lush grass Basketball court Sand volleyball court Bocce ball court Playground Facility rental options Community dock Special events Full-size exercise track (4 laps = 1 mile) Shaded ramadas with picnic tables and charcoal grills

1246 E Laguna Drive Tempe, AZ 85282

$585,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,865 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6724419
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Classic ranch home nestled in the heart of Tempe is perfect for anyone seeking a stylish and convenient living space and would make a great location for ASU students. Key Features: •Completely Remodeled: This home has been meticulously renovated from top to bottom, featuring brand new plumbing, wiring, and state-of-the-art finishes. •High-End Finishes: Enjoy the elegance of premium materials and fixtures throughout, including gourmet kitchen appliances, sleek countertops, and designer bathrooms. •Spacious Living: With four generously sized bedrooms, there's plenty of room for family, guests, or a home office. •Prime Location: Situated in a desirable Tempe neighborhood, this home is just a short walk away from a lovely park, perfect for outdoor activities and relaxation.

893 W Chilton Avenue Gilbert, AZ 85233

$585,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,702 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774136
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this stunning remodeled home located just a short walk from downtown Gilbert! This exceptional property, remodeled within the last year, sits on a corner lot next to a prestigious multi-million dollar residential community. Step into the backyard and experience your own private oasis, complete with a sparkling pool, tranquil waterfall, enchanting string lighting, a cozy propane fire pit, and breathtaking views. With neighbors on only two sides, you'll enjoy a remarkable level of privacy. The home features a spacious kitchen with an inviting island and top-of-the-line appliances. Throughout the kitchen, dining, and family rooms, you'll find soaring vaulted ceilings that create an open and airy ambiance.

6846 E Grandview Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$585,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,229 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6770436
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover the charm of this fantastic 3-bed, 2-bath home minutes away from Kierland and Scottsdale Quarter! Starting with a 2-car garage and a manicured landscape w/natural grass & shade trees. Interior features plantation shutters, neutral paint, vaulted ceilings, and tile flooring w/plush carpet in bedrooms. You'll love the large living & dining room combo, paired with French doors! The kitchen boasts built-in appliances, butcher block counters, subway tile backsplash, two-tone cabinetry, track lighting, a walk-in pantry, and a cozy breakfast nook w/bay window. Enter the main bedroom to find backyard access & a full bathroom for added comfort. Check out the tranquil backyard, offering an extended covered patio & a built-in BBQ! Don't miss this opportunity to own in 85254 with no HOA!

7084 W Jasper Drive Chandler, AZ 85226

$585,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,015 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6755604
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Ignore DOM. The property was off-market, while the seller had the first-floor den converted into a full bedroom, adding double doors and a closet. Take advantage of this beautifully upgraded home in the community of Rhythm. This privately gated community features a beautiful central amenity complete with a large resort-style swimming pool, kids pool, spa, shade structures, TVs, firepits, sports courts, a dog park, and a workout facility. You will feel right at home as you enter this pristine 3-story loft-style home with 3 bedrooms and 3.5 baths. The kitchen features honed quartz countertops, upgraded stainless steel appliances including a gas range, white cabinetry with crown molding, a large island for family gatherings, and extra prep space. Enjoy outdoor living with a private patio.. plus large balconies off the great room and primary bedroom. Your primary suite offers dual vanities, a large walk-in shower and loads of natural light. This home is centrally located with easy access to the I-10 and 202 Freeways, just a stone's throw away from Casa Paloma shopping center, numerous restaurants, schools, and a short drive to Chandler Fashion Center. See the floor plan in the document tab.

22422 N 99th Lane Peoria, AZ 85383

$585,000 - 3Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Meadows Parcel 12a, Peoria
Open House
$585,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,867 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6762267
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home in a sought-after community boasts recent updates and a welcoming atmosphere! Featuring updated bathrooms in 2022, this home offers modern convenience. The great room with an open floor plan is complemented by a cool paint tone, creating a cozy ambiance. The interior showcases a beautiful combination of wood-like tile and soft carpet in all the right places. The split primary bedroom offers a walk-in closet for added comfort. The kitchen includes a new dishwasher, pantry, granite countertops, kitchen island, and a breakfast bar, along with plenty of cabinets for storage. Outside, the covered back patio overlooks a low-maintenance private yard with brand new artificial turf, gravel, and trees. Community amenities include a playground, tennis courts, pool & spa, and much more!

4722 N 76th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$585,000 - 2Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Villa Monterey Unit 3-a, Scottsdale
Open House
$585,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,806 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6767821
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Beautiful 2 bedroom 2 bath single level charmer in highly sought after Historic Villa Monterey, Old Town Scottsdale's most desirable 55+ community. This home is truly special! Sitting on a highly desirable corner lot, right next to a green belt and across from the architecturally pleasing water fountain. Private front patio is a hidden gem for friendly gatherings; mature landscape, grape vines, and old world feel pavers. Interior is welcoming with hardwood flooring and extended livings space. The faux fireplace adds ambiance. Primary bedroom is customized with sought after walk in closet, side windows, and updated bath. Beautiful solid wood doors. Delightful backyard with custom seating accommodates sleeping under the stars! Small workshop/shed has electric for the hobbyist. Newer Trane 5 ton AC, roof recently recoated. Fresh interior paint. Villa Monterey is zoned Historic, and pride of ownership shows throughout this charming subdivision. Old style lamplights line the streets adding a real ''hometown'' neighborhood feel. Enjoy community pool and spa gatherings. Follow the canal path into Old Town for dining, cocktails, etc. Close to art galleries, spring training, car shows, Hayden Park and waterway; all the wonderful amenities of Scottsdale Living.

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