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

6832 E Stevens Road Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$2,327,500
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,656 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6708723
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
WOW..Incredible TRANSFORMATIONAL REMODEL (2022) just north of the town of Cave Creek near the Carefree border, on a very private acre lot, all on one level. This peaceful oasis features 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths 3CG, all bedrooms en suite. FULLY REDESIGNED KITCHEN with 10' quartz waterfall island, Thermador appliances, dual sinks, and a HIDDEN PANTRY with expansive storage and BEVERAGE CENTER. Luxurious primary suite with spa-like bath remodel. COLLAPSIBLE GLASS-WALL OFFICE and designer lighting and fans throughout. NEW (2022) flooring, HVAC, water treatment system, custom steel front door, premium wifi enabled garage doors, 50-amp EV charger. Huge rooms and storage abound. Large backyard with enough space to create your own personal retreat. Peaceful and private, but close to town. NO HOA NUMEROUS FEATURES, UPDATES and IMPROVEMENTS ABOUND. - High end Thermador smart appliance package with wifi connection - Package includes induction smooth top, multiple ovens, dual sinks - New high efficiency Carrier heat pumps with air scrubbers and wifi enabled thermostats - New wifi enable security system with 2 touchscreen control stations - Large extra storage space throughout, including walk-in hall closet - New premium garage doors with wifi enabled automatic openers - Garage includes: - Mini split climate control - Separate storage room and elevated storage space - 50 amp EV charger - City-approved plans for expanded backyard development - New sewage ejection pumps - Replaced pressure relief valve on main water line

8211 E Candelaria Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$2,325,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
3,218 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773922
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome home to your own, enchanting, private retreat. Located on a corner lot this beautifully landscaped, incredible home boasts an oversized private, gated courtyard, large resort style backyard and 3 car side garage. Charm and character abound in this tranquil sanctuary from the moment you enter the spacious courtyard and experience the gorgeous southwest architectural details to the stunning backyard oasis. The Great Room with soaring vega ceiling opens to the dining area and offers a fireplace and large windows overlooking the spectacular backyard. Updated kitchen captures the front courtyard and rear covered patio and opens to the family room area. Split floor plan has Primary suite with cozy sitting area and fireplace and the spa like primary bathroom has double sinks, separate vanity and large walk-in closet. Both spacious additional bedrooms have access to the private courtyard. The fabulous, lushly landscaped backyard offers true indoor/outdoor living with covered patio with fireplace, separate Ramada, pool with waterfall and spa. In addition, this special home is located close to shops, restaurants and easy access to the 101

2055 E Ranch Road Tempe, AZ 85284

$2,300,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
3,997 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784896
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to the ''Arcadia'' of Tempe. This charming and cozy Santa Barbara-style estate is located in Circle G Ranches Tempe, a custom home neighborhood boasting a tree lined entrance, private park, riding arena and large lots. Meticulously maintained, this Ranch Road Estate has a pre-listing inspection that reflects this, making the home VERY move-in ready. From the moment you pull into the circular driveway, you will be greeted by lush landscaping and a tree tunnel that lines the long westward driveway and a spacious front porch area with fountain feature. As you enter the home, you'll be welcomed by high vaulted ceilings with rich wooden beams. The open area great room, dining room and kitchen has ample storage and counter space which makes it an entertainer's delight. You will feel right at home & so will your guests! The home has a newly remodeled kitchen with updated quartz and honed granite countertops, farmhouse sink, ice maker and new Bosch induction stove. The main home has 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms and the 500+ SF casita with half kitchen and full bath is perfect for guests, a gym, office, or whatever you'd like! The backyard is inviting with its covered patio area and ample areas to enjoy the outdoors, including a private patio offset from the primary bedroom and backyard with great depth. Other amenities include Pebbletec pool, block construction, misting system, & mature orange, grapefruit, lemon and kumquat trees. This expansive property also has front and back irrigation system which dramatically cuts back water costs and has better efficiencies. Casita A/C and air handler installed 2019. Three other units new installed in 2023. High quality Milgard windows and Bella wood floors throughout the home. N/S Orientation of this Circle G abode is also ideal. Close access to airport, freeways and restaurants too!

2166 E Caroline Lane Tempe, AZ 85284

$2,300,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
4,870 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6779715
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Rare opportunity in this highly sought after equestrian community of Circle G Ranches in South Tempe! A one-of-a-kind, traditional, architect-designed home features brick and oak woodwork thoughout on a private oversized (approximately 2/3rd acre) lot. The home features 4 bedrooms, 4 1/2 bathrooms and a large basement with a billiards game room and rare port-cochere side entrance. As you enter this classic home you will be impressed by the beautiful large oak front door. The foyer opens to a high octagonal rotunda ceiling with a grand chandelier that will surely impress your guests. There are soaring high ceilings throughout the entire house. The kitchen has lots of cabinets space and granite countertops, and a Subzero refrigerator overlooking the massive pool. The family room has vaulted ceilings and French doors with transom windows that open to the backyard. The owners suite also has a fireplace and lovely french doors that look out on the backyard. Just adjacent to the suite is an indoor spa room and exercise area. The basement has natural light coming from the walk out patio. Everything was built with the highest of quality including the basement which has a poured cement ceiling and walls. There are three brick propane fireplaces, and three oak built-in desks in the home. The bedrooms are very spacious and all have walk in closets. There are many additional closets for extra storage. The backyard is designed to entertain with a large patio and a huge pebble tec diving pool with a soothing rock waterfall and diving rock featuring mature, lush landscaping including citrus trees. There is also a built in stainless Barbeque. There is also a 1,500 square foot, heated 4-car garage which has room for an RV or high enough ceilings for a car lift. There is also a separate interior workshop. The garage has many cabinets for all the items the buyer wishes to store or create. The home has been extremely well-cared and is often described as a comfortable home by guests. The exterior of the house and the garage interior were recently painted. Repairs and updating have been made over the years. This is a home you MUST SEE!!! As you enter Circle G there is a tree-lined entrance to the private park which houses a children's play area, tennis courts and riding arena - the community is truly special. Incredible location near highly rated schools, tech corridor, restaurants, freeway access and all that Tempe has to offer!

9958 E Graythorn Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$2,300,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,290 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6718523
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Full golf membership available. We are delighted to present an exceptional opportunity for you to become a part of the esteemed Desert Mountain community. Complete transformation by Black Stone Development, the Sonoran Cottage nestled within Desert Mountain has been meticulously renovated to epitomize luxury living in the heart of the Sonoran Desert. This remarkable residence is essentially brand new, boasting a myriad of updates and enhancements. From the kitchen to the roof, no detail has been overlooked in this renovation endeavor. Step into a home adorned with new kitchen appliances, elegantly crafted fireplaces, state-of-the-art HVAC systems, new roofing, immaculate drywall, custom cabinets, upgraded plumbing fixtures, and exquisite lighting fixtures illuminating the rich wood and tile floors throughout. Every aspect has been carefully considered to ensure the utmost comfort, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. Perched on an elevated lot, the Sonoran Cottage offers breathtaking panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains, picturesque sunsets, and the twinkling city lights below. Its thoughtfully designed three-bedroom layout, each equipped with its own full bath, provides an ideal sanctuary for both relaxation and rejuvenation. Moreover, its prime location places you at the epicenter of Desert Mountain's unparalleled amenities. From the rejuvenating retreat of the Sonoran Club spa to the exhilarating recreational offerings of pickleball, tennis, swimming, and fitness facilities, you'll find endless opportunities for leisure and wellness right at your doorstep. Additionally, easy access to all other clubhouses, championship golf courses, scenic hiking trails, and exclusive Ranch amenities ensures that every day is filled with adventure and indulgence. As a testament to our commitment to providing you with the ultimate Desert Mountain experience, we are pleased to offer a golf membership with the purchase of this exquisite property (seller would sell without membership at a lower price). Take advantage of this rare opportunity to join an esteemed community renowned for its unparalleled luxury, natural beauty, and vibrant lifestyle. We invite you to seize this extraordinary opportunity to make the Sonoran Cottage your own and embark on a life of luxury and leisure in the prestigious Desert Mountain community.

27222 N 64th Drive Phoenix, AZ 85083

$2,300,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
3,685 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6718683
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Gold Mountain Preserve, custom home exuding modern luxury living inside & out! This stunning 5 bed/4 full bathrooms and an elegant powder room, home and is absolutely stunning; enjoy 14' ceilings in common areas with 10' ceilings throughout rest of home, office area (or game area), 3 car garage w overheight glass garage doors, RV gate! The spectacular backyard features a dazzling heated pool with Baja entry and marble surround alongside an elevated spa, half a basketball court, over 3500sf of articial grass, putting green, built in bbq with shade for comfort, elevated area in the back of the yard for additional seating, and surrounded by lovely white rose bushes, a variety of citrus and other plants, for a dream backayrd whether you love entertaining or just love enjoying famaily time in your own resort-like backyard! Inside the home, you'll enjoy a chef's kitchen with two Monogram ovens, a steam microwave/oven, a Miele automatic coffee machine, Monogram built in refrigerator, Italian cabinetry, quartz countertops throughout, a large pantry, built in drink fridge, and lots of attention to detail you will appreciate! There are ceiling soffits with colored LED accent lights in common areas, speakers throughout the house, as well as surround sound in family room! The garage has cabinets on two walls, a storage, a door directly from exterior (near the RV gate) as well as gorgeous metallic epoxy nicely highlighted through the glass garage doors. There are three bedrooms that feature their own walk in closets and bathrooms while two other bedrooms share a jack and jill bathroom! The laundry room is very spacious with plenty of storage and counter space! There is a mud room with hooks, seating and additional storage! There is lots of attention to detail at every turn at this stunning two year old home in the gated, luxury subdivision of Gold Mountain Preserve! The subdivision itself has access to hiking trail and consists of primariy large, elegant custom homes and semi-custom homes!

11420 E La Junta Road Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$2,300,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
3,746 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6753284
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to the Troon Mountain Treasure! Wake up to breathtaking mountain views and majestic boulders in this meticulously remodeled custom home. Nestled within the prestigious Troon Village, it offers the perfect blend of contemporary design & serene natural beauty. The open-concept layout & soaring ceilings create an inviting atmosphere, perfect for entertaining. The chef's kitchen, with its oversized waterfall island and top-of-the-line appliances, is a dream come true. Retreat to the spa-like master bathroom for ultimate relaxation. Outside, the entertainer's backyard awaits with a sparkling pool, spa, and built-in barbecue. Every detail has been thoughtfully considered to create an exceptional living experience. Embrace your Vibe!

3277 N Highlands Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$2,300,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,741 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6683256
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Incredible single level custom home opportunity in Verrado. Buyer still has the opportunity to choose all interior finishes and exterior elevation design. Main house is 4,048 square feet and the detached guest quarters is 693 square feet, for a total of 4,741 square feet with a four car garage. Also includes a swimming pool, spa and outdoor kitchen. This home features a captivating great room floor plan and is situated on an large .917 acre lot. Providing the perfect canvas for your vision of luxury living. this remarkable residence promises an unparalleled level of customization and sophistication.Click on More for more information: Step into the heart of this home, and be greeted by a kitchen that is as functional as it is beautiful. The buyer has the freedom to select their desired stone for the island, countertops, and backsplash, creating a kitchen that reflects their personal style and taste. Every cabinet in this culinary haven is equipped with slow-close drawers and doors, embodying the seamless blend of convenience and refine craftsmanship. Viking appliances and a pot filler adds an elegant touch to the culinary experience, while the presence of a butler pantry with a separate food prep area allows for seamless organization and efficiency. With 42 upper cabinets and 30 lower cabinets, ample storage space is provided, ensuring a clutter-free environment. The 3cm countertop edge profile adds a luxurious finishing touch to this stunning kitchen. The elegance continues throughout the home with a choice of 12x24 or 24x36 tiles in all wet areas, creating a cohesive and visually pleasing aesthetic. The 8 baseboards and solid core doors add an extra layer of sophistication and durability. Every bathroom in this custom home features custom stone and tile showers, exuding opulence and sophistication. The master shower is equipped with dual body systems, ensuring a spa-like experience in the comfort of your own home. Satin nickel Moen fixtures add a sleek and modern touch throughout. For effortless entertaining, a wet bar area is thoughtfully incorporated, complete with a sink, refrigerator, and icemaker, ensuring that refreshments are always close at hand. Indulge in the opportunity to create your dream home with this exceptional custom residence. From the meticulously designed kitchen to the luxurious outdoor oasis, every detail has been carefully considered to provide the ultimate in comfort, style, and functionality. Embrace the chance to curate a space that reflects your unique vision and experience the epitome of elegance and refinement in this remarkable custom home. Step outside and discover an oasis of relaxation and entertainment. The outdoor space boasts a fully equipped kitchen with a grill, icemaker, and dual burner gas cooktop, offering the perfect setting for al fresco dining and culinary adventures. An outdoor wood-burning fireplace sets the stage for cozy gatherings on cool evenings. The centerpiece of the outdoor area is the stunning 25x50 swim-up beach pool with a separate spill-over hot tub, providing a luxurious retreat for relaxation and recreation.

34083 N Paseo Grande Drive Queen Creek, AZ 85144

$2,300,000
6 Beds
5 Baths
3,714 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6736076
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Explore this beautifully remodeled 6BR/5BA gem nestled in the GATED Encanto Paseo. On an expansive 1.4 ACRES, this FULLY FURNISHED beauty boasts stunning views of the Santan Mountains and a desert landscape. This exquisite home features a fresh palette complemented by a formal dining area perfect for gourmet meals. The spacious great room, illuminated by natural light, includes bi-fold glass doors that seamlessly integrate indoor and outdoor activities. The modern kitchen is equipped with stainless steel appliances, pristine white cabinets, a tile backsplash, sleek granite counters, and a center island with a breakfast bar. The main suite offers direct backyard access and is complemented by a chic bathroom with dual sinks, a soaking tub, and a walk-in closet... Enjoy the convenience of a media room pre-wired for surround sound. The expansive backyard is an entertainer's delight, featuring a covered patio, exterior fireplace, a refreshing pool, and breathtaking mountain views. Enjoy serene afternoons or contemplate under the starry night skies from the viewing deck! Minutes from multiple A+ rated schools (Casteel Junior and HS, American Leadership Academy, & Benjamin Franklin Charter Schools) and wonderful shopping & dining options located at Queen Creek Marketplace. Experience luxury and tranquility in this gorgeous home, yours to call your own!

1112 N Center Street Mesa, AZ 85201

$2,300,000
1 Bed
1 Bath
1,694 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6742181
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
140,525 SQFT 3.226 acres These three residential parcels represent a unique redevelopment opportunity for a multi-family and/or mixed use project, just north of downtown Mesa. The central part of Mesa has been undergoing a considerable transformation and this property is well-located to continue this trend. This site offers the potential for residential rentals, condominiums for sale, and possibly commercial uses mixed with residential. 3 parcels 137-20-004-A, 137-20-010, 137-20-002

3717 N 35th Street Phoenix, AZ 85018

$2,300,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
3,110 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6749943
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
***Napa Inspired Arcadia Area Ranch***2019 Sticks & Bricks masterpiece combines the quintessential look of Arcadia on a 1/3 acre lush vineyard w/ fruit trees. Gourmet kitchen overlooks great room, dining & indoor/outdoor living. Large Carrara marble island kitchen, white shaker cabs, Wolf 6 burner cooktop, fridge/wine fridge/freezer combo, vaulted ceiling w/ beams, 2 gas fireplaces, 8'' oak plank floors, butler's pantry w/ dishwasher, icemaker, coffee station. Large laundry w/ herringbone slate flooring, granite counter, farm sink & Dutch door. Split master w/ separate tub/shower, dual marble vanities. 16 ft Heritage pass through slider to gorgeous backyard. Sparkling pebble sheen play pool/green grass. 10 minutes from airport, walk to shops, restaurants, bars. Nothing like it on market.

1525 W Maddock Road Phoenix, AZ 85086

$2,300,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,820 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6752615
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
ATTN: ALL ROPER & HORSE ENTHUSIASTS! Here's a unique opportunity to own almost 10 acres in a desirable location, 20 mins to Dynamite Arena & less than 1 hour to Rancho Rio in Wickenburg. Lazy S Bar D has everything you will need to operate as a trainers facility, commercial boarding, hold equine events or enjoy for your own personal use. Amenities include a 310' x 140' Arena under LED Lights, Priefert automatic roping chute, Priefert alley, plenty of Priefert cattle pens & turnouts, 3 mare motels w/ 40 spacious stalls, plenty of tack storage, 48' x 60' storage, 15 RV Hookups & a great producing private well w/ storage tank! The home features an open floorplan - great for entertaining, granite countertops in kitchen w/ stainless steel appliances, a laundry room w/ outdoor access, large... primary bathroom w/ jetted tub & beautiful cabinetry throughout.

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