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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20597 W Walton Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$579,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,785 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767346

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful 4/3 Craftsman home in Verrado. Great location with tree lined streets and close to park. Relax on beautiful patio in this welcoming community.

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9101 E Nacoma Drive Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

$579,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,252 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6750314

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

UPDATED Extended Palacia Plus Model w/ Energy Efficient (Solar) & NEWER HVAC in the GATED, ADULT COMMUNITY of Oakwood. Featuring NEW FLOORING & GRANITE COUNTERTOPS with an OPEN kitchen & TONS of Storage. Completely REMODELED Primary Bath. Vaulted ceilings in the great room makes space feel much larger. Also wired for stereo system. New VERY Bright can lights throughout & new dimmers & ceiling fans. 2 sliding glass doors which all give great natural light to the home. The 2.5 car garage has tons of storage. The RV electric hookup is also a nice feature. Don't miss this AMAZING opportunity in Sun Lakes w/ Guarded gate entry for more security and all of its amenities including golf, tennis, pickle ball, pools, fitness center, clubs, social activities, restaurants & so much more!

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2511 W Queen Creek Road Unit 425 Chandler, AZ 85248

$579,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

1,584 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6755740

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

Experience true luxury living in this stunning 2-bedroom, 3-bathroom loft-style residence located in the prestigious Cays Downtown. Boasting one of the best floor plans in the entire subdivision, this spacious and stylish home offers an open, modern layout with soaring ceilings, abundant natural light, and high-end finishes throughout. Loft used as 3rd room with murphy bed. Each bedroom features its own en-suite bathroom for ultimate privacy and comfort, while the third bathroom provides added convenience for guests. The sleek, contemporary design complements the vibrant downtown lifestyle, with easy access to upscale dining, shopping, and entertainment. Whether you're relaxing in the expansive living spaces or enjoying the urban energy of downtown, this home is the perfect blend of sophistication and convenience. Don't miss your chance to live in one of the most sought-after addresses at The Cays Downtown!

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17675 N Coconino Drive Surprise, AZ 85374

Open House

$579,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

2,393 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6780723

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Absolutely stunning move-in ready home exudes elegance and comfort! This beautifully maintained, 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom residence boasts an open floor plan, perfect for entertaining and everyday living. The gourmet kitchen features granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and ample storage. The spacious living room is perfect for entertaining. The primary suite is a true retreat, offering a large walk-in closet and luxurious en-suite bathroom with dual sinks, jetted soaking tub and separate walk-in shower. This beautiful home also features a versatile bonus room perfect for a home office. The beautifully landscaped backyard is an oasis, complete with a large patio, perfect for outdoor dining and relaxation. Golf cart garage, stamped concrete drive and pathways, crown molding and mor

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233 E Angela Drive Phoenix, AZ 85022

Open House

$579,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,808 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6774515

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This charming home features three bedrooms and two bathrooms, providing ample space for family or guests. The updated kitchen boasts modern amenities, making meal preparation a joy. All the windows are energy-efficient low-E windows, complemented by new doors throughout the home. Two of the bedrooms are particularly spacious, with the master bedroom offering a large walk-in closet for plenty of storage. The master bathroom includes a beautifully tiled walk-in shower, adding a touch of luxury. For those who work from home, there's a dedicated office space, perfect for productivity. The family room is a cozy retreat, complete with vaulted ceilings and a warm fireplace for those chilly evenings. Step outside to a backyard oasis, where a sparkling pool invites relaxation. The expansive covered patio offers a fantastic space for outdoor living and entertaining, with a lush grass area and a paver front entry adding curb appeal. Additionally, art lighting highlights your favorite pieces, and a large laundry/storage room adds functionality to the home.

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21263 W Sycamore Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$578,999

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,903 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6775817

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this beautifully designed 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home located in the heart of Buckeye's highly sought after Verrado community. This home features an inviting open floor plan with soaring ceilings and plenty of natural light. The gourmet kitchen is perfect for the modern chef, offering granite countertops, matching appliances, a large island, and plenty of cabinet space. It flows seamlessly into the living and dining areas, making it perfect for entertaining. Step outside to enjoy the beautifully landscaped large low maintenance backyard, complete with a covered patio, perfect for outdoor dining and relaxing. Situated in the vibrant Verrado community, you'll have access to incredible amenities such as parks, community pools and spa, children's playground, walking trails, golf courses, and a bustling Main Street with shops and restaurants that is walking distance from the property! Top-rated schools and easy access to major freeways make this location unbeatable! Don't miss out on the chance to live in this highly desirable neighborhood! Buyers currently living in Maricopa or Pinal County ask about an ADDITIONAL $7,000 home buyer credit available via the Community Promise Program. Rate Relief Rebate Program: Benefit from a 2% seller credit to reduce your mortgage payments by Approximately $591/month in year 1 and $303/month in year 2. This exclusive offer makes homeownership more affordable now, while you await potential rate decreases.

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16062 W Alameda Road Surprise, AZ 85387

$578,960

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,674 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6729568

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MOVE IN READY, BRIGHT GREAT ROOM PLAN , QUICK CLOSE!! 4 BEDROOM PLUS LOFT, 3.5 BATH , 9'CEILINGS, GOURMET KITCHEN LAYOUT, UPGRADE CABINETS , GRANITE KITCHEN TOPS, SPA SHOWER, TILED FLOORING. 2'WHITE BLINDS, CEILING FANS, FRONT YARD LANSCAPING COMPLETED, ENERGY STAR QUALIFIED HOME, INDOOR AIR PLUS. A SHORT DISTANCE FROM THE COMMUNITY POOL AREA, PICNIC AREA, TOT LOTS, BASKETBALL, PICKLE BALL COURTSAND SO MUCH MORE.

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3726 E Rochelle Circle Mesa, AZ 85215

$578,950

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,705 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6749729

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This is a to be built home being offered at Base Price plus lot premium. Price includes a nice standard feature package and an option allowance to be used at the Design Studio to personalize the home to your tastes. Features include a heavy iron front door, 2x6 ext. framing, dual pane vinyl windows, Carrier gas furnace and AC. Price includes ceramic tile in select areas. Choice of interior door styles, iron front door styles plus choice of door hardware and bathroom fixture colors. 10' interior ceilings, front porch and rear patio included! Much more. Front view picture is of an artists rendering, pics are of a upgraded former model home. Final price is determined by any other options or upgrades added by buyer at the Design Studio. Taxes are estimated. 2025 completion

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8572 W Palo Verde Avenue Peoria, AZ 85345

$578,900

5 Beds

2 Baths

2,196 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6731165

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your next business opportunity! This spacious 5 beds, 2 baths home with a sprinkler system is ideal for starting or expanding a group home business. Previously licensed for a 10-bed behavior group home, it offers ample room for residents with its professionally converted garage adding extra space. Located in a prime area with easy access to local amenities and healthcare facilities, Its turnkey nature allows for business operations, offering significant growth potential and profitability.

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9236 E Sector Drive Mesa, AZ 85212

$578,814

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,410 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6778595

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MOVE IN READY HOME! This WILSON plan features a Deluxe Gourmet Kitchen with a 36'' gas cooktop and a wall mounted gas range. This home features white cabinets with polished nickel pulls throughout, zinc quartz countertop and Santorini 4x12 backsplash with Oregon Rovere 8x36 wood-tile flooring throughout downstairs. One of the most popular floorplans for a reason, the Wilson is the perfect home for hosting visiting guests in the downstairs bedroom with full bath, have a designated office downstairs and a second living room in the upstairs loft where the rest of the family can hang out!

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19162 S 212th Place Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$578,299

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,648 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6778906

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning, brand-new home in the Acclaim at Jorde Farms community! This beautifully designed single-family home features an open floor plan, seamlessly connecting a spacious great room, dining area, and a modern kitchen with granite countertops and a central island. With 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a versatile loft, this home offers plenty of space for every lifestyle. Enjoy the charm of a neighborhood setting with planned walking trails, scenic parks, and a future community pool—a natural gathering place for residents. Conveniently close to golf courses, dining, and shopping. WELCOME HOME!

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21033 E Camina Buena Vista Queen Creek, AZ 85142

Open House

$578,065

4 Beds

3 Baths

1,994 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6771915

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Don't Miss Out on this CLOSE OUT & FINAL OPPORTUNITY to own this beautiful inventory home located in desirable Hastings Farms. BELOW MARKET RATES AVAILABLE for Fixed Rate or Rate Buydown for qualified buyers when financing with Builder's preferred Lender(s). Located close to Queen Creek Marketplace Shopping, Dining & Entertainment, this Community has Parks, Soccer Field, Basketball Courts, & 8-Mile Walking trail. This Beautiful home is located across from the park. Beautiful designer finishes including Gas Cooktop, Double Wall Ovens, 42' Upper Cabinets, Quartz Kitchen Countertop, Tiled Backsplash, Plank Tile Flooring & Window Blinds. Don't Wait, Come See This Home Today.

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