Get All the Facts about PMI

Get All the Facts about PMI | Simplifying The Market

When it comes to buying a home, whether it is your first time or your fifth, it is always important to know all the facts. With the large number of mortgage programs available that allow buyers to purchase a home with a down payment below 20%, you can never have too much information about Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI).

What is PMI?

Freddie Mac defines PMI as:

“An insurance policy that protects the lender if you are unable to pay your mortgage. It’s a monthly fee, rolled into your mortgage payment, that is required for all conforming, conventional loans that have down payments less than 20%.

Once you’ve built equity of 20% in your home, you can cancel your PMI and remove that expense from your mortgage payment.”

As the borrower, you pay the monthly premiums for the insurance policy, and the lender is the beneficiary. Freddie Mac goes on to explain that:

“The cost of PMI varies based on your loan-to-value ratio – the amount you owe on your mortgage compared to its value – and credit score, but you can expect to pay between $30 and $70 per month for every $100,000 borrowed.” 

According to the National Association of Realtors, the average down payment for all buyers last year was 10%. For first-time buyers, that number dropped to 6%, while repeat buyers put down 14% (no doubt aided by the sale of their home). This just goes to show that for a large number of buyers last year, PMI did not stop them from buying their dream homes.

Here’s an example of the cost of a mortgage on a $200,000 home with a 5% down payment & PMI, compared to a 20% down payment without PMI:

Get All the Facts about PMI | Simplifying The Market

The larger the down payment you can make, the lower your monthly housing cost will be, but Freddie Mac urges you to remember:

“It’s no doubt an added cost, but it’s enabling you to buy now and begin building equity versus waiting 5 to 10 years to build enough savings for a 20% down payment.”

Bottom Line

If you have questions about whether you should buy now or wait until you’ve saved a larger down payment, let’s get together to discuss our market’s conditions and to help you make the best decision for you and your family.  Give me a call – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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9972 E Mission Lane Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$2,495,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,400 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6762342
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
WOW! The long wait is over! Nestled on a massive cul-de-sac lot in the coveted Scottsdale Ranch, this 5-bedroom gem is the epitome of luxury living. From the moment you arrive, the residence impresses with a 3-car side garage, RV gate, circular driveway, and striking stone accents. Step inside to a mesmerizing interior that features wood-look floors, vaulted ceilings with exposed beams, pre-wired surround sound, and a formal dining area perfect for hosting gatherings. The spacious great room exudes warmth with a cozy fireplace, while the sleek kitchen shines with stainless steel appliances, wall ovens, custom cabinetry, a walk-in pantry, and an oversized island with a breakfast bar... The main bedroom is a true retreat, complete with a two-way fireplace that connects to the cozy sitting room. The spa-like ensuite offers backyard access, dual sinks, a soaking tub, a large shower, and an expansive walk-in closet. The additional bedrooms are generously sized, and a versatile den is perfect for a media room or extra living space. Outdoors, enjoy the serene private courtyard, or relax in the tastefully divided backyard featuring a covered patio, built-in BBQ, outdoor fireplace, lush lawn, and a sparkling pool. This exquisite residence truly has it all! Come and experience the charm for yourself!

6530 N 29th Street Phoenix, AZ 85016

$2,495,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,324 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6746151
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Meticulously remodeled in Biltmore Hillside Villas! 24-Hr Guard-Gated Community! Enjoy 28-foot ceilings, natural light, light oak hardwood flooring and motorized solar shades throughout. Wolf appliances and quartz countertops. Junior Suite/Office on first level with en-suite bathroom. Spacious Primary Suite on the second floor with dual closets and MOUNTAIN VIEWS from the spa-inspired bathroom and private patio. Three additional bedrooms upstairs. Low maintenance backyard with one of the largest swimming pools in the neighborhood. 3 car garage, downstairs laundry and lots of storage space. Enjoy tennis courts, hiking trails and proximity to golf, dining and shopping!

6431 E El Sendero Road Carefree, AZ 85377

$2,495,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,844 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6684230
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to gated Carefree Grandview Estates-a premier address in Carefree. Exceptional custom home, nestled on 2.5 acres on Black Mountain. Sweeping views and City lights. Dramatic paver driveway & motor court, leads to distinctive residence, private guest house & Unique 9 car garage/workshop. All one level residence. Welcoming courtyard and artistic entry doors open to expansive great room with fireplace and stunning wood beam ceilings which repeat throughout home. Large wrap around patio, accessed from many rooms & provides perfect setting for entertaining & relaxing in the tranquil surroundings. Alluring, secluded primary wing with fireplace & patio. Sunny east kitchen & breakfast room open to outdoors. Private office-abundant storage. Truly Remarkable Home-See Remarks for updates. enchanting views of city lights & gorgeous desert terrain. Private, refined, & tranquil, this is the epitome of Carefree living.

9041 N 46th Street Phoenix, AZ 85028

$2,495,000 - 4Br/4Ba -  for Sale in Tatum Foothills Lot 1-49 Tr A-q, Phoenix
Open House
$2,495,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
4,051 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6762683
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This custom built modern luxury home sits in the prestigious gated community of Tatum Foothills. Set on a private interior lot this residence exudes sophistication and impeccable design. As you step inside, you'll be captivated by the breathtaking great room which features floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase the beautifully landscaped backyard, creating both indoor and outdoor living. At the heart of the room stands a striking fireplace, framed by an east-facing wall of glass that floods the space with natural light. This home features four bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms all spread over 4,051 square feet- with plenty of space throughout. The primary bedroom includes a fireplace, space for a sitting area, a remodeled master bathroom and two walk-in closets. Every detail of this home has been carefully considered, from the fully updated bathrooms to the modernized kitchen. Outside, the backyard creates the perfect setting for relaxation or entertaining, framed by the stunning natural beauty of Arizona which includes a large pool with spa, outdoor BBQ area, plenty of grass space and more! Additionally, the site plan reveals ample space to add an additional two-car garage, a private casita, and expanding the entire footprint if desired. Beyond the home's luxurious interiors, Tatum Foothills grants access to top-rated schoolsCherokee, Cocopah, and Chaparraloffering an exceptional education from preschool through high school. Residents enjoy convenient access to the area's finest shopping, dining, and recreational options, including hiking and biking trails. Plus, with Phoenix Sky Harbor and Scottsdale airports just a short drive away, as well as the vibrant cultural hub of Scottsdale, this home offers the perfect balance of luxury and convenience.

6145 E Gold Dust Avenue Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$2,495,000 - 5Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Tierra Feliz North Unit 2, Paradise Valley
Open House
$2,495,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
3,100 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6779702
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
THE 3 C's schools . HOME and garage addition have been remodeled beautifully with room to grow. 5 bedrooms including 2 primary suites. 5th bedroom can be a study or game room . The back yard is massive with mature trees and much room to dream. This property has a Paradise Valley mailing address and city services . Continuous Cali Modern finishes on the exterior and the interior. Casita? Pickleball? RV? Room for all .

11601 N 64th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$2,495,000 - 4Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Desert Estates 11, Scottsdale
Open House
$2,495,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,516 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6763215
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This is a rare opportunity to acquire a stunning, newly rebuilt estate designed by Modern Masterpieces in a neighborhood of $5M+ homes for under $2.5M. Set on nearly an acre, Serenity features a new floorplan, chef's Thermador kitchen with Italian cabinetry, a breathtaking master suite carved from quartzite slab and wood, premium finishes like 6' onyx look tile and designer fixtures throughout. Recent upgrades include a new two-bdrm addition, addtl HVAC system, new EV-ready 2 car garage, Hunter Douglas blackout shades, and a new high-capacity septic tank. Outdoors, enjoy over $250k of improvements, including the new Zen garden, citrus orchard, and professional grade outdoor kitchen. Walking distance to top schools, this estate offers perfect blend of luxury, privacy and community.

7471 E Sierra Vista Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$2,490,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,206 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6785358
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to the swanky sophistication of this guard gated Lincoln Place stunner. From the moment you walk through the front door you will fall in love with this jaw dropping contemporary masterpiece. Impeccably renovated over the past few years this home oozes personality. It's walkable to all of the best restaurants and retail that Scottsdale has to offer. Step through the impressive glass entry with sweeping views of the living room, dining room, family room, kitchen and media room/office. The layout is incredible with multiple living areas separated by a spectacular 440 bottle climate-controlled wall of wine which feels like art. The front living area has great views of the fabulous backyard and the covered patio with stunning gold chandelier, salt water pool and jacuzzi. The great room is an entertainer's delight with large dining and living areas, chef's kitchen including huge island with seating, stainless appliances, 2 beverage refrigerators, warming drawer, pot filler and gorgeous marble and quartz counters. The dreamy media room can also double as a home office with a wall of glass doors overlooking the living areas. The two guest bedrooms both with ensuite baths are split leaving the large master suite with loads of privacy. Incredible luxury master bath has sumptuous soaking tub, large his/her vanities and walk-in closet. $100k Crestron Smart Home system. A 3-car garage is the final bonus. Wow....and welcome home!!!

6147 E Alta Hacienda Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$2,489,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,491 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6703124
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
THIS CONTEMPORARY HOME BUILT IN 2022 HAS IT ALL, STARTING WITH GREAT CURB APPEAL AND LOCATED IN THE LUXURY GATED SIGNATURE AT THE PHOENICIAN COMMUNITY WHICH IS CENTRALLY LOCATED IN THE CAMELBACK CORRIDOR AT THE SOUTHERN BASE OF CAMELBACK MOUNTAIN. ENTER THROUGH THE FOYER AND INTO THE SPACIOUS GREAT ROOM FLOOR PLAN THAT FEATURES AN OVERSIZED RETRACTABLE SLIDING GLASS DOOR LEADING TO THE COVERED PATIO AND BRINGING THE OUTSIDE IN, PROVIDING TONS OF NATURAL LIGHT INTO THE SPACE. THE CONTEMPORARY CHEF'S KITCHEN WITH A SLEEK AND MODERN DESIGN OPENS TO THE GREAT ROOM AND BOASTS DUAL TONE CABINETRY, QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS, DESIGNER TILE BACKSPLASH, STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES, DUAL OVENS, A GAS RANGE, AND A CABINET FACE REFRIGERATOR THAT PROVIDES A SEAMLESS, CLEAN LOOK. THE OVERSIZED WATERFALL CENTER ISLAND OFFERS PLENTY OF EAT-UP BAR SEATING, PERFECT FOR ENTERTAINING FRIENDS AND FAMILY. INDULGE IN THE OPULENCE OF LUXURIOUS WOOD AND TILE FLOORING GRACING EVERY CORNER, ENSURING EFFORTLESS MAINTENANCE. REVEL IN THE GRANDEUR OF HIGH CEILINGS AND THE SUBTLE ALLURE OF RECESSED LIGHTING THAT GRACEFULLY ILLUMINATES THE SPACE. THE MASTER SUITE FEATURES A SLIDING GLASS DOOR TO THE BACKYARD. THE SPA-LIKE MASTER BATH BOASTS DUAL FLOATING VANITIES, A SPACIOUS GLASS ENCLOSED WALK-IN SHOWER WITH A BENCH AND A LUXURIOUS DESIGNER SOAKING TUB, PERFECT FOR RELAXING AND UNWINDING. ADDITIONAL BEDROOMS ALL FEATURE WOOD FLOORING. THE SPACIOUS LAUNDRY ROOM OFFERS A FRONT-LOADING WASHER AND DRYER, AS WELL AS PLENTY OF BUILT-IN CABINETRY FOR AMPLE STORAGE ALONG WITH A CONVENIENT UTILITY SINK. OUTSIDE YOU'LL FIND A COVERED PATIO ADORNED WITH EXTENDED PAVERS, CREATING A FLAWLESS SPACE FOR AL FRESCO DINING AND RELAXATION. EASY CARE SYNTHETIC GRASS TIES INTO THE SPACE, CRAFTING A SERENE SETTING FOR YOUR ENJOYMENT. LOCATED JUST MINUTES AWAY FROM WORLD-CLASS SHOPPING, DINING AND RECREATION. COMMUNITY AMENITIES INCLUDE A PRIVATE POOL, WELL-APPOINTED FITNESS CENTER AND STYLISH OUTDOOR GATHERING SPACES.

11867 N 118th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$2,485,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
4,350 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6781789
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
EXECUTIVE SINGLE LEVEL HOME WITH IDEAL FLOOR PLAN & SPECTACULAR MOUNTAIN VIEWS. The Sellers impeccable eye for detail remodeling the home in 2022 combining elements of modernism with a touch of sophistication attracts the eye & excites the soul. The Primary wing includes a ensuite bedroom that is now an office with a private entrance, The spacious Primary bedroom has an updated spa bathroom. Opposite are 3 additional bedrooms with remodeled ensuite bathrooms for family members or to accomodate visitors. The Gourmet kitchen has been remodeled with top-of-the-line appliances & new countertops for a a sleek, modern feel. It opens to the family room & game room beyond. Expansive doors make indoor to outdoor living seamless. The exterior landscaping & hardscape have been completely redesigned with the addition of a built-in Traeger grill, outdoor refrigerator, there is a fire pit for chilly nights, forever green grass with breathtaking golf course & majestic McDowell mountain views perfect for family fun & entertaining. PLEASE NOTE THAT THE CHANDELIERS & SOUND BARS/FLAT SCREEN TVS & SONOS EQUIPMENT ARE NOT INCLUDED IN THE PURCHASE. In prestigious 24 Hour Guard Gated Ancala Country Club with true sense of community and a very active HOA making it easy to get to know your neighbors. Close to desirable Scottsdale & BASIS schools, hiking & biking trails, fine dining & shopping, the Mayo Clinic & easy access to Freeways. ANCALA COUNTRY CLUB MEMBERSHIP IS OPTIONAL. Ancala, a par-72 championship golf course was designed by Perry Dye. The remodeling was extensive including new high-quality hardwood flooring throughout the entire home for a cohesive, refined look. A new HVAC system has been installed, improving the home's energy efficiency & climate control. See The updated list in documents.

10905 E Oberlin Way Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$2,479,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,835 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6655766
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Serene is brand new gated enclave of 21 cutting edge single level contemporary homes designed by Swayback Architects & Planners and built by Sonora West Development. Each Serene home brings a new definition to the ''Lock and Leave'' lifestyle with open Great Room floor plans perfect for both entertaining and everyday living. There are four different models to choose from with lavish interior finishes created by renown interior designers Est Est. This Model C has a 2 car garage and alternate dining available only on lots 12 & 13. Price shown includes lot premiums and 25K pool and a 25k landscape allowance, Sub-Zero & Wolf Appliances & BBQ. Backing to the North side of Pinnacle Peak Mountain in N Scottsdale Serene..

5314 N 41st Place Phoenix, AZ 85018

$2,479,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
4,013 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6752736
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
The kitchen showcases a stunning view of Camelback Mountain & the Praying Monk. This beautifully renovated home features an open, entertaining plan with an inviting entry by way of a charming conversation patio. Spanning over 4,000 sq ft, enjoy 5BR/3BA, handsome library, LR, formal dining and great rm/family rm - complete with a breakfast bar & en suite eating area. The spacious split master suite occupies the entire south wing - 2 access doors to pool/patio areas - one right off the gym room. Resort-style backyard with a heated pool & spa, plus a freestanding 3-car garage equipped with a mini-split. Four private patios, one of which features an automated screen. There are surprises & vignettes everywhere. Please review the detailed list of features & improvements found in the docs tab.

28118 N 109th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$2,475,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,875 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6655632
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Serene is brand new gated enclave of 21 cutting edge single level contemporary homes designed by Swayback Architects & Planners and built by Sonora West Development. Each Serene home brings a new definition to the ''Lock and Leave'' lifestyle with open Great Room floor plans perfect for both entertaining and everyday living. There are four different models to choose from with lavish interior finishes created by renown interior designers Est Est. This Model C has a 2 car garage and available only on lots 14, 15, 20 & 21. Base price shown includes lot premiums and 25K pool and a 25k landscape allowance, Sub-Zero & Wolf Appliances & BBQ. Backing to the North side of Pinnacle Peak Mountain in N Scottsdale Serene..

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