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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Cave Creek AZ 85331

$8,500,000

7 Beds

7.5 Baths

3,304 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6722968

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

One of a kind property with potential to create a Retreat on 318 acres in the mountains! A unique opportunity for those with a vision to restore and revitalize. While the Home is currently in need of renovation, it offers immense potential for transformation. Don't miss the chance to unlock the charm of this property. Convenient location near the charming small towns of Cave Creek & Carefree. Once a cherished winter Home with a unique Hacienda design, the Great room, Kitchen, & each of 6 Suites open directly into a central courtyard, providing privacy for all. Embrace the potential to transform into a therapeutic Retreat focused on Healing, Wellness, or Lifestyle. This secluded location offers privacy & a tranquil, inspiring environment. As-Is sale, no repairs made by the Seller.

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9316 E Aw Tillinghast Road Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$8,500,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

5,700 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6583092

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

NOW STAKED & FLAGGED! An incredible 5 acre homesite opportunity to build a 5,700 SF residence with 3 beds, 3 baths & elevated to capture breathtaking views. You may further reimagine this home to perfection; customize it for your lifestyle. This is a very private location with views overlooking golf courses, serene mountain ranges, & stunning Desert Mountain lights that bring enchanting beauty to the environment both day & night. The Ranch & Trails provide hiking & a preserve that borders the 3 million acre Tonto National Forest. Convenient, DUAL access is available through Carefree Ranch, cutting access time in half. For an exclusive 10 acre homesite, see MLS 6583078, the adjacent 5 acre lot to the East. A membership is not included with this offering. Contact Desert Mountain Membership

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10134 E Cavedale Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$8,500,000

5 Beds

5.5 Baths

5,864 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6761870

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Remarkable views from every room of this architecturally stunning new home, but also total privacy. Electric Walls of Glass surround the Great Room to soak in the views and feel the desert breezes. Main house has 3 ensuite bedrooms + an office & wine room. Home is oriented toward mtn peaks & rock formations. Hickory floors & ceilings; Ebony, Bolivian Rosewood, & Walnut cabinets; and custom Walnut doors thru-out. The casita has 2 separate units (a guest suite and a large ensuite flex-bedroom). Everything is a single level. Electric sun shades thru-out the house and blackout shades in main bedrooms. Spacious 4 car garage. Built with exquisite quality by builder who has won numerous awards including National Home of the Year for a prior home, also in Estancia. Taliesin trained architects.

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4723 E Desert Park Place Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

Open House

$8,499,000

5 Beds

5.5 Baths

7,351 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6728915

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled on just under an acre of meticulously landscaped grounds, this luxurious single-level home completed in late 2023, boasts five suites and five and a half bathrooms. The gourmet chef's kitchen is equipped with Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, two Cove dishwashers, quartz countertops, and seamlessly integrates to the spacious great room with glass doors that can be pulled back for a seamless indoor outdoor living flow. Throughout the home, European Oak flooring and premier finishes create an atmosphere of elegance. The primary suite is a true retreat within the home, located in its own private wing. The primary bathroom offers separate his and hers areas with two vanities, two walk-in closets, and two private toilet rooms, one with a bidet, ensuring utmost comfort and privacy... On the other end of this private wing is an expansive office, keeping work and rest in perfect proximity. Step outside to discover a breathtaking backyard oasis complete with a pool, spa, BBQ area, fire pit, fireplace, mini-golf course, and thoughtful amenities like built-in misters and heatersall framed by stunning mountain views. Nestled in an exclusive neighborhood with top-rated schools and convenient access to upscale dining and shopping, this residence offers an unparalleled blend of luxury, comfort, and tranquility.

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22803 N Via Ventosa Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$8,375,000

5 Beds

7 Baths

6,800 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6681467

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

CP Drewett of Drewett Works Architecture inside Canyon Heights. North Scottsdale's most prestigious gated, hillside, view community; sides to Silverleaf without Silverleaf architectural guidelines and density. This is the last available hillside lot within the enclave. With nearly 10 acres of panoramic sunset and city light views, this elevated lot offers a rare opportunity to build your dream home. The entrance to the parcel is flat, providing acreage for endless options. A gradual slope ensues, rendering incredible Westward facing views. Sweeping views of Lost Canyon to the South. An elevated view lot of this caliber is a rare find and deserves a first in class Builder behind it; we welcome you to set up a walkthrough with Jeff at True North Builders or CP at Drewett Works.

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29211 N 53rd Street Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$8,250,000

6 Beds

5 Baths

8,700 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6609693

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

INCOME PRODUCING PROPERTY! Equestrian Estate has 25+ acres, city water, paved roads, & one of the most desirable locations for horse Training, Boarding or Breeding Facility in the Valley. This Equestrian Estate offers three well-appointed homes, perfect for multi-generational living or rental income potential. The main home, a luxurious retreat, features a sparkling pool, outdoor living space, creating an oasis of relaxation & entertainment. The property also boasts 4 spacious barns, mare motel, 2 covered arenas, outdoor arena & bridle path. Additional equestrian amenities include a round pen, multiple turnouts, hay barn, tractor storage, mister system, multiple tack rooms, ensuring top-notch facilities for your horses. There are 2 manufactured homes, the possibilities are endless.

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33094 N Northstar Circle Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$8,000,000

5 Beds

6.5 Baths

7,460 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6773912

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Presenting a stunning new build in Whisper Rock Estates with approved plans , this high-quality contemporary residence boasts 7,460 sqft of luxurious single-story living. A thoughtfully designed floor plan includes 4 bedrooms, a dedicated exercise room, & a versatile flex room, centered around an expansive kitchen & great room. The attached casita adds an extra layer of comfort & privacy. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame breathtaking views of the resort-style backyard, complete with a pool, spa, & water features. The surrounding natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert, Winfield Mountain, & distant Chiricahua Mountain vistas create a serene backdrop. Perfect for entertaining, the home features a wet bar with retractable glass walls, a spacious covered patio with a fireplace, & an outdoor more kitchen with a built-in BBQ, blending indoor and outdoor living effortlessly.The primary suite is a private retreat, featuring a tranquil, spa-like bathroom with custom Copenhagen cabinetry, limestone countertops, a marble shower, dual water closets, and a freestanding soaking tub. Guests can enjoy their own 903 sq ft 1-bedroom guest house, complete with a kitchen and living room, offering ultimate privacy and comfort. Premium finishes are showcased throughout, including a Wolf and SubZero appliance package. The 5-car garage and ample parking provide the perfect space for a luxury car collection. This home exemplifies contemporary elegance, surrounded by the beauty of the desert landscape. This property is ready to break ground with builder.

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20908 W Durango Street Buckeye, AZ 85326

$8,000,000

8 Beds

8 Baths

5,512 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6688287

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

One of a kind commercial vet clinic/breeding facility including two residential homes and 30 acres of prime land in one of the fastest growing cities in the country. The subject property presents an exceptional opportunity for multiple uses. Its location creates an optimal environment for multi family, commercial and many other uses just minutes from ''The Landing'' near I-10 and Verrado Way. This area is primed to be the West Valley's newest entertainment, employment and residential hub of Buckeye. Don't miss this golden opportunity to become one of Buckeye's prime destination spots. Two beautiful 4 bedroom 3 bath slump block identical homes, huge barn with apartment, detached garage, multiple pastures, flood irrigation and 60 covered stalls with turnouts. Opportunity of a life time!!!

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7646 E Hidden Canyon Street Mesa, AZ 85207

$7,999,950

5 Beds

7 Baths

9,000 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6760394

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Exceptional Modernterranean Estate at framing stage by Micela Builders. Like no other, the pad offers unparalleled privacy within the exclusive gated community of Hidden Canyon at Las Sendas. Backing onto the Tonto Forest, this single-level home features walls of glass for seamless indoor-outdoor living experience and boasts exquisite marble accents, a two-way fireplace, and en suite bedrooms. The resort-style backyard offers a negative-edge pool, spa, and rooftop deck with stunning mountain views. Its 1,600 sf air-conditioned garage accommodates 6-8 car parking. The home embodies meticulous craftsmanship and architectural brilliance.

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6619 E Stallion Road Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$7,995,000

4 Beds

8.5 Baths

8,000 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6656548

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Amazing luxury estate blended in at the base of Mummy Mountain and a rare find in the heart of Paradise Valley. Imported materials include reclaimed cobblestone from Rome, Italian marble, handcrafted furniture style cabinetry and masterful craftsmanship throughout home. Expansive covered patio, barbecue kitchen area, synthetic grass, pool, spa and fireplace. Mature landscaping accents the Santa Barbara-Tuscan Architecture. Split floor plan with 4 en-suites, office including a fireplace. Master suite has separate water closets; one with a bidet. A soaking/jetted tub in the center of the bathroom and large pass-through shower with dual rainforest shower heads. Stunning home is a must see.Bring us an offer. Thank you.

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4743 N 54th Street Phoenix, AZ 85018

$7,995,000

5 Beds

6 Baths

7,828 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6762489

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover your own paradise on the south side of Camelback Mountain. This Spanish-style gem boasts captivating design, cityscape vistas, and architectural elegance. Be enchanted by the warmth and spaciousness of this home. High ceilings and abundant natural light welcome you into an open layout. With its gourmet kitchen, wine cellar, and wet bar, this home is a perfect setting for entertainers. Each bedroom provides an en-suite bathroom. The owner's suite, a wing of its own, features a spacious closet, a marble-filled bathroom, a private office, and a balcony with stunning views. Step outside to your private oasis, complete with a pristine pool, an outdoor kitchen, and ample relaxation space. A guest house accommodates visitors or extended family.

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6737 E Exeter Boulevard Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$7,995,000

5 Beds

7 Baths

6,876 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6650382

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This brand new custom home is a true showstopper. The amazing team at Caniglia Development has created an absolute masterpiece combining classic elegance with a modern vibe. The exceptional design, architectural excellence and superior construction will impress anyone with an eye for quality and style. The kitchen will be gorgeous with top-of-the-line appliances, oversized prep spaces and custom cabinetry, the great room will be exquisite with soaring ceilings and a chic fireplace, the office will make working from home the preference, the game room will be a perfect spot for kids and adults alike, and all the bedrooms and baths have their own unique elements including a breathtaking owner's suite with a spectacular bathroom. The grounds will be every bit as impressive as the home with

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