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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3790 E Chickadee Road Gilbert, AZ 85297

$580,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,174 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6776177

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautifully Remodeled Contemporary Home - Move-in Ready! Discover this freshly updated home featuring modern upgrades and elegant finishes throughout. New interior and exterior painting sets the tone, while luxury vinyl flooring adds style and durability. Step into a fully remodeled kitchen showcasing a custom wood range hood, high backsplash, and a farmhouse undermount sink for a sophisticated touch. Enjoy a dedicated wine area and all-new stainless steel appliances. The open-concept layout is enhanced with recessed LED lighting and stylish new fixtures, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. Relax in the luxurious, fully remodeled bathrooms designed with contemporary finishes. Rest easy with new AC and furnace units, a new water heater, and a recently tuned-up roof, ensuring ensuring comfort and peace of mind. This home combines style and functionality, ready to welcome its next owner. Don't miss the opportunity to own this thoughtfully renovated gem!

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27386 W Osprey Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$580,000

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,557 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6739338

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Why wait to build when you can make this stunning nearly new JOURNEY model yours today! This elegantly appointed 2,557 sqft, 2 beds, 2.5 bath, Den with French doors, Flex space, Great room, charming Courtyard & Golf cart garage home will not disappoint. The Kitchen is an entertainers delight with Granite countertops, sleek back splash, Gas cooktop with DOUBLE ovens, Soft close drawers, Pull out Shelves, Reverse Osmosis, magnificent Executive Island perfect for storing all of the small kitchen appliances and gathering loved ones or friends. Wooden shutters throughout & Media wall in the Great room. Owner's suite bathroom with its modern Tile Walk-in shower, Double sinks & Granite counters. Private walled lot, Extended Travertine Patio, Built-in gas BBQ & low maintenance Turf. See it today!

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17106 E La Pasada Drive Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$580,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,522 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6748601

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home! This exquisite 4-bdrm residence w/den is situated on a spacious lot in the highly sought-after Fountain Hills community. Every inch of this home has been thoughtfully remodeled to offer the perfect blend of modern luxury & timeless charm. Enjoy 4 generously sized bedrooms plus a versatile den, ideal for a hm office/additional living space. Experience contemporary living with high-end finishes, sleek fixtures, and a state-of-the-art kitchen. The large lot provides ample space for outdoor entertaining, gardening, or simply relaxing; endless possibilities! Nestled in a tranquil neighborhood w/ access to all the amenities that Fountain Hills has to offer, including seasonal art/wine festivals, Fountain park, dining and the iconic Fountain.

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2438 W Clearview Trail Phoenix, AZ 85086

$580,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,338 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6762744

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

**SELLER HAS 4.99% CONVENTIONAL LOAN THAT IS ASSUMABLE** Home, sweet home! This 3-bedroom, 2-bath residence features a 2-car garage and eye-catching stone accents. Discover a spacious living/dining room with 10' ceilings, a soothing palette, classic plantation shutters, sunscreens, recessed lighting, and a blend of wood-look and tile flooring. The kitchen comes with abundant wood cabinetry with crown moulding, stainless steel appliances, a handy pantry, and a two-tier peninsula with a breakfast bar for casual dining. You'll also find a versatile bonus room perfect for an office, lounge, or play area. The cozy main bedroom is complete with soft carpeting, an ensuite with dual sinks, and a convenient walk-in closet. The enchanting backyard includes a covered patio, pristine artificial turf, and a sparkling pool, built by Presidential Pools, for cooling down on hot days. Make this yours! Whole home water filtration system installed in 2021

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19063 N 265th Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85396

$580,000

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,864 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6707112

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

ASSUMABLE 3% FHA MORTGAGE WITH $285,000 DOWNPAYMENT, or fund a second! Get a pool, owned solar, golf and mountain views at a great price. This highly upgraded Sanctuary model with approximately 1,864 sf. has two suites, a half-bath, and a den. The home has a 2-ft. rear extension and 2-ft. extended garage which is air-conditioned. Upgraded Taupe cabinets, dark granite counters and a stainless-steel gas cooktop create contrast and brighten up the living space. An electric fireplace with a framed and tiled mantle, and accent wall paint, complements the hardwood floors in the gathering room. From the pool you can enjoy a view of the White Tank Mountains & the green at the 9th hole on the Mountain Course at Sun City Festival, Arizona's premier 55+ community.

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20903 S 185th Way Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$580,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,920 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6770353

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This incredible home is MOVE IN READY!! Comes complete with refrigerator, hot tub, and large shed!! You're going to love living in this open concept home with 10 ft ceilings and large windows with a backyard perfect for lounging, entertaining or relaxing in the hot tub! RV Gate with extra concrete drive for parking, and additional storage space behind the gate! Air conditioned garage space with epoxy floors and loads of cabinets is perfect for parking or working on projects! With kitchen and bathroom updates, and new flooring this home is in excellent condition and you're going to love living here! Located on the Gilbert/Queen Creek border you're just minutes from QC Marketplace and San Tan Village shopping, dining & entertainment options! Don't let this one get away!

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9016 W Tony Court Peoria, AZ 85382

$579,999

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,672 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6779455

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

HUGE REDUCTION 40,000... NO HOA NONE.!!!!! .BRING YOUR BOATS AND TRAILERS YOU CAN PARK THEM HERE AT YOUR NEW HOUSE. RV GATE WIDE ENOUGH FOR A PONTOON.THERES A PLAY POOL , HALF BASKETBALL COURT AND A HALF LEMON/ORANGE TREE OUT BACK .INSIDE THE PLACE IS SPOTLESS NEW PAINT,THAT TIES THE GENTLY USED CARPET AND TAUPE AND BROWN TILE TOGETHER DOWNSTAIRS .THERES NEW HARDWARE THROUGH OUT. LIVE IN IT WHILE YOU MAKE THOSE LITTLE TWEEKS .THERES A LIVING ROOM ,DINING COMBO AND GREAT BIG FAMILY ROOM WITH A FIREPLACE .SNUGGLE UP WAITING FOR SANTA .QUARTER BATH DOWNSTAIRS AS WELL. ALL 4 HUGE BEDROOMS AND DEN CAN BE FOUND UPSTAIRS THERE ARE LARGE WALK IN CLOSETS IN THE BEDROOMS.LARGE LINEN,SEPERATE MASTER TUB AND SHOWER. 2YR OLD AC UNITS (2). LOTS OF GARAGE STORAGE..CLEAN CARPETS DOWN.ALLOWANCE UPSTAI

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3028 E Friess Drive Phoenix, AZ 85032

$579,995

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,032 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6755440

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

-HOA- GREAT LOCATION. This home is located in a highly desirable neighborhood that offers numerous amenities for its residents. 3 bedrooms 2 &1/2 baths and a loft that opens to a balcony with views of a spacious yard and pebble tec pool. The North/South exposure provides ample natural light, and the home boasts a large family room with a fireplace, separate living and dining areas, and a kitchen with big windows and NEW appliances! The balcony has recently been updated with a new coating. The backyard is perfect for play, with a grass area, covered patio, and a beautiful pebble tec pool. Conveniently located near the 51 and 101 freeways, this home has NO HOA and is a short walk from the highly acclaimed Great Hearts Public Charter School K-12.

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4387 N 203rd Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85396

$579,990

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,670 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6786187

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home in Victory at Verrado! The spacious Bernstein floorplan greets you with a grand 12-foot entry and 10-foot ceilings throughout. The kitchen shines with white stacked glass cabinets, Quartz counters, a subway tile backsplash, a large island, and GE Profile stainless steel appliances, including a wall oven. Entertain in the coffered-ceiling great room, dining area, or on the covered patio for seamless indoor-outdoor living. The private home office offers a quiet retreat, while the luxurious primary suite boasts a spa-like bath, a large shower with a bench, and a walk-in closet. Additional highlights include pendant lighting, ceiling fans, window blinds, and owned solar. Perfect for your vibrant lifestyle! Up to $20K can be applied towards closing cost OR short / long term interest rate buydowns when choosing our preferred Lender. Additional eligibility and limited time restrictions apply.

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22685 E Saddle Way Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$579,990

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,506 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6740903

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

**This is a TO-BE-BUILT LISTING, this home is ready for personalization and can be built on your choice of homesite. This is an advertisement of our base price for this elevation and lot premiums may apply** Welcome to Ashton Woods newest community in Queen Creek - Madera Marquis - which features outstanding community amenities and convenient access to the 24 freeway and shopping. The open concept Topaz plan is highly sought after and is the decorated model floorplan with 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. Options for structural upgrades include adding a butler's pantry, teen room, 12'' sliding glass door and so much more. This home includes an open concept kitchen with granite countertops, 42'' upper cabinets, and stainless steel appliances . Amazing spa like primary suite with dual vanities, ample linen storage and separate tub and shower. This floorplan is accompanied by an oversized den and sizable secondary bedrooms. This home comes standard with 10' ceilings, front yard landscaping, paver driveway, and much more! ~There is a minimum option spend requirement on new build homes, please reach out to the sales office for additional details.~

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32405 N 122nd Lane Peoria, AZ 85383

$579,990

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,373 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6748747

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MLS#6748747~January Completion! The Erikson floor plan at Mystic Discovery exemplifies open concept living and is perfect for entertaining on both floors! The first floor is the heart of the home, with an open main living area that holds a spacious gathering room with a casual dining area and an open kitchen. The designer kitchen features a large island and step-in pantry. A downstairs guest bedroom is located at the front of the home which is perfect for overnight guests. Upstairs, the owner's suite features a garden tub and shower and a spacious walk-in closet. A loft and two additional bedrooms and the laundry room round out this lovely home. Structural options include: paver front porch, 2' garage extension, super shower at owner's bath, and soft water loop.

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16728 W Saguaro Park Lane Surprise, AZ 85387

$579,990

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,529 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6770954

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Up to 3% of base price or total purchase price, whichever is less, is available through preferred lender. The Parklane floor plan offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, a 4' garage extension, no-step walk-in shower, and 8' interior doors. Additional highlights include built-in appliances, quartz kitchen countertops, a gas stub in the kitchen, a backyard perfect for BBQs, and a gas dryer connection in the laundry.

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