Home Mortgages: Rates Up, Requirements Easing

The media has extensively covered the rise in mortgage interest rates since last fall (from 3.42% last September to the current 4.1% according to Freddie Mac). However, a less covered aspect of the mortgage market is that requirements to get a mortgage have eased while rates have risen.

The Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) quantifies the availability of mortgage credit each month with their Mortgage Credit Availability Index (MCAI). According to the MBA, the MCAI is:

“A summary measure which indicates the availability of mortgage credit at a point in time.”

The higher the index, the easier it is to get a mortgage. Here is a chart showing the MCAI over the last several months as rates have increased.

Home Mortgages: Rates Up, Requirements Easing | Simplifying The Market

Have requirements for attaining a mortgage actually eased?

Yes. Here are two examples:

  1. FICO® Score – the credit score which helps determine a buyer’s eligibility. The score required to attain a mortgage has been falling over the last five months:

Home Mortgages: Rates Up, Requirements Easing | Simplifying The Market

  1. Down Payment Requirement – the percentage of the purchase price necessary to place as a down payment on a home. To make this point, let’s look at the percentage of first-time buyers who have put less than 5% down over the last several years as compared to the 1st quarter of 2017:

Home Mortgages: Rates Up, Requirements Easing | Simplifying The Market

Bottom Line

Whether you are a current homeowner looking to move to a home that will better serve your family’s current needs, or a first-time buyer looking for a starter home, it is easier to get a mortgage today than it has been at any other time in the last ten years.  Even if you’re just curious what you will qualify for give me a call – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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16683 W Saguaro Park Lane Surprise, AZ 85387

$609,990
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,605 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6745142
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.'' Discover the sophistication of the Coventry floorplan, offering 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, and an additional kitchen with living space. Noteworthy structural details include a step-free shower, 8' interior doors, and a spacious 3-car garage. The home is further enhanced with built-in appliances, quartz kitchen countertops, a gas-ready kitchen, a BBQ-ready backyard, and a laundry area equipped for a gas dryer.

37630 W Padilla Street Maricopa, AZ 85138

$609,990
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,765 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6749647
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Move in FAST to this completed home! Say hello to luxury, Maricopa! The captivating Jerome floorplan features an expansive great room, 15ft multi slider, home office, and stunning kitchen appointed with stacked cabinetry, gas stove top, double ovens, and matte black hardware! Relax in your freestanding tub, host on the patio, or take out the toys from your FIVE CAR GARAGE! With 10ft ceilings, 8ft doors, and 8,750 sq ft homesites, come see why K. Hovnanian is the First Name in Lasting Value! ^^^Up to 6% of Base Price can be applied towards closing cost and/or short-long term interest rate buydowns when choosing our preferred Lender. Additional eligibility and limited time restrictions apply.

5317 W Rainwater Drive Laveen, AZ 85339

$609,990
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,550 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769244
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MLS#6769244 January Completion! Discover The Turquoise at Tierra Montana Encore, a spacious two-story home that greets you with a charming front porch entry. Upon entering, you're welcomed by a light-filled foyer that leads to a versatile study. Entertain in the formal dining room, then flow seamlessly into the open kitchen, casual dining area, and gathering room. The private owner's suite offers a luxurious retreat with a spa-like bath and a large walk-in closet. Upstairs, you'll find four additional bedrooms, two full baths, and a generous loft, perfect for family living or recreation. Structural options include: tub at owners bath, garage service door, paver front porch, laundry room sink.

3365 E Aris Drive Gilbert, AZ 85298

$609,990
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,122 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6751289
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
POSSIBLE ASSUMABLE CONV LOAN 3.49% Stunning 4 bed/2bath home is perfectly situated on a corner lot in the sought-after community of Marbella Vineyards. As you step inside, you're greeted by a spacious front living and dining room, ideal for hosting guests or enjoying quiet evenings at home. The heart of the home is the modern kitchen, boasts an oversized island, perfect for both meal prep and entertaining. Modern floor tiles flow throughout the entire house, providing both style and easy maintenance. The owner's suite offers a tranquil retreat with a cozy sitting area complete with a bay window. The secondary bathroom offers double sinks for added functionality. Extended 2.5-car garage provides ample space, featuring built-in cabinets and overhead racks to help keep everything organized Step outside to the low-maintenance backyard, lush turf and an open fence, creating an oasis with only one neighboring property. Additionally, the home comes equipped with leased solar panels, enhancing its energy efficiency and reducing utility costs. This home truly has it all, from its modern finishes to its thoughtful design, ensuring comfort and convenience at every turn.

9849 E Radioactive Drive Mesa, AZ 85212

$609,990
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,137 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6766186
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
FUNCTIONAL 4 BED + 3 FULLBATH. GREAT GILBERT SCHOOL DISTRICT. FAST GROWING EASTMARK, GREAT APPRECIATION OF PROPERTY VALUE! FULLY LANDSCAPED FRONT & BACKYARD, COVERED PATIO, PAVERS, BUILT-IN BBQ GALORE, DRYBAR, & FIRE PIT. PAVER DRIVEWAY TO ENTRY TOO! MANY UPGRADES INCLUDE: WOOD-LIKE TILE FLOORING, SHUTTERS, ELEGANT TRIPPLE-PANEL SLIDING GLASS DOOR, 8 FOOT INTERIOR DOORS, NEW LAMINATE WOOD FLOOR IN MASTERBED, LARGE SHOWER IN MASTERBATH, UPGRADED PLUMBING & LIGHTING FIXTURES & CEILING FANS THROUGHOUT, UPGRADED BASEBOARDS, APPLE KIT COMPATIBLE SMART HOME, WATER SOFTENER SYSTEM, EPOXY GARAGE FLOOR. KITCHEN FEATURES: 42'' CABINETS WITH HARDWARE, GRANITE COUNTERTOPS WITH UNDERMOUNT SINK, R/O SYSTEM, & SLATE APPLIANCES. FRIDGE/WASHER/DRYER TOO! A NEWER BUILT WITH N/S EXPOSURE = ENERGY SAVERS!

29785 N 203rd Drive Wittmann, AZ 85361

$609,900
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,142 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6770244
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Surrounded by all newer built Bellator Homes, this must be one of the prettiest streets in Wittmann! Located on a premium acre lot, this new build home is a must see. The updated and upgraded floor plan design; The Angelo, is a spacious open layout paired with stunning light fixtures, wood-look tile flooring, a neutral palette, and multi-sliding doors to the back. Your new home offers 4 beds, 2 baths and a 3-car garage. The kitchen has granite counters, subway tile backsplash, a pantry, ample shaker cabinetry, an island w/breakfast bar and an open dining area with a bay window! Plush carpet adds comfort to the bedrooms. Main bedroom has an ensuite with a soaking tub, large separate shower, dual sink, & walk-in closet.

4065 S Birch Street Chandler, AZ 85249

$609,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,722 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769615
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled within the prestigious Old Stone Ranch community, this immaculate 3-bedroom residence is a unique blend of sophistication and comfort, eagerly awaiting its next lucky owner. Designed with the utmost care by its original owner, this home welcomes you through an inviting foyer and into an expansive open floor plan that exudes warmth and elegance at every turn. The thoughtful design features ample recessed lighting that dances off lofty ceilings, illuminating the living spaces adorned with chic plantation shutters and artful archways. Enjoy quality family time or movie nights with the in-home audio system, enhancing your entertainment experience. The gleaming hardwood floors extend throughout, leading you to the serene back patio, where indoor and outdoor living beautifully meld. At the heart of this home is a stunning kitchen, a culinary enthusiast's dream. Outfitted with striking granite countertops, stylish tile backsplashes, and rich cabinetry accented with crown molding, this kitchen marries functionality with flair. A convenient pantry and breakfast bar make meals a delight, whether casual or formal. Escape to the primary suite, your personal sanctuary. Indulge in relaxation within the luxurious ensuite, featuring marble countertops and a spa-inspired bath and shower surround. The expansive walk-in closet ensures that elegance and organization go hand in hand. Don't miss your chance to own a masterpiece of design and quality in Old Stone Ranch. Schedule a tour today and embrace the lifestyle that awaits you!

6108 W Stony Quail Way Florence, AZ 85132

$609,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
2,067 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6770315
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
SUN CITY ANTHEM at Merrill Ranch 5 years new. Southeast facing - Energy Efficient HERS 55 rating - 2 bdr + den Large corner lot block privacy wall - 10 foot ceilings WiFi ceiling extendrs. Custom window coverings throughout - Main Bth has huge walk in shwr. Bay Windows kitchen & main bdrm- Upgraded Kitchen Granite Counters w/Chef Lux Alder Cabinets soft close drawers-dual flush toilets - Ceiling fans in all rooms & patio. Total home AquaSana million gal water filtration system. Custom Pool 36' x 19' w/Travertine deck rock waterfall + UltraTemp Pool Heater 145K BTU. Epoxy coating in entryway, patio & garage 4 ft garage extension & workshp area w/service door & utility sink Pavers on driveway & walkway, Seamless rain gutters. Some home furnishings may be available for purchase

13431 W Los Bancos Drive Sun City West, AZ 85375

$609,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
2,423 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784214
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to serene living nestled within the prestigious gated community of Corte Bella Country Club. This elegant detached single-family home is a sanctuary of comfort and style, perfect for those seeking leisure in an exclusive setting. With an expanded Cambria floor plan, this home offers a unique blend of space and sophisticated design ideal for those who value both functionality and luxury. The home features two spacious bedrooms, with a bonus room that can effortlessly transform into a third bedroom or a private home office, depending on your needs. The heart of this home is its chef's kitchen, designed for culinary enthusiasts. Enjoy the convenience of double ovens, a new refrigerator, built-in microwave, and thoughtfully upgraded cabinets with pullouts. Adjacent lies a butler pantry for added storage and efficiency, flowing into a formal dining room that promises memorable gatherings. A separate laundry room adds to the home's functionality, making everyday tasks a breeze. With recent upgrades like new A/C units, furnaces, hot water tank, recent roof inspection and more, this home offers modern comfort with peace of mind. The expansive 22' x 31' garage includes a workshop area and golf cart parking, catering to hobbies and hobbies alike. Outdoors, an extended double covered patio overlooks lush landscaping, creating a private oasis for relaxation or entertaining. This outdoor living space feels like an additional room to the home. Life in Corte Bella extends beyond the home, offering access to a private fitness center, indoor spa, outdoor heated pool and spa, and beautifully maintained courts for tennis, pickleball, and bocce ball. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the on-site course, and residents the community's renovated restaurants invite you to dine without venturing far. Convenience is at your doorstep, with key community amenities just a short distance away. Embrace an active lifestyle or enjoy the tranquility of this exclusive community and embrace the ease with its move-in ready condition.

15333 W Sells Drive Goodyear, AZ 85395

$609,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,611 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6702222
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Situated in the heart of Palm Valley, this beautiful home features more than 3300 sf of space with four bedrooms, three full bathrooms and a separate den/office. The kitchen features granite counters, ss appliances, large island with breakfast bar, double ovens, a huge walk-in pantry, and a breakfast nook. The primary suite is expansive with a gorgeous master bath and walk-in closet. Two of the additional bedrooms are HUGE and feature a ''Jack and Jill'' bath. The guest room is split from the others and is just off the third full bath. A three car garage offers plenty of space for cars, storage, or toys. Close to highly rated schools, shopping, dining, Wigwam Resort, spring training, golf, Goodyear Rec Center, Westgate Entertainment District and more make this a must seem home!

5312 W Saint John Road Glendale, AZ 85308

$609,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,122 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6763486
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Experience luxury living in this beautifully remodeled home located in the Touchstone community. This stunning property features white shaker cabinetry and quartz countertops throughout. Enjoy the elegance of Luxury Plank laminate tile flooring paired with oversized baseboards & fresh interior paint. Updated lighting fixtures illuminate the entire home. The open floor plan showcases 10-foot ceilings, a formal living and dining room, and an eat-in kitchen, perfect for entertaining. Both bathrooms have been recently remodeled, with the master bath boasting a barn door for added privacy and a real marble tile surround. The versatile office/den can easily be converted into a fourth bedroom. Step outside to the fantastic backyard oasis, featuring a beautiful pool. This turnkey home won't last!

25125 N 171st Lane Surprise, AZ 85387

$609,328
5 Beds
4 Baths
3,185 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6762106
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MLS#6762106 January Completion! The versatile Victory floor plan at Asante boasts an open-concept design, where the kitchen seamlessly connects to the great room, complemented by a nearby dining area. The first-floor primary suite offers a spacious walk-in closet and a well-appointed bath. The main level also includes a full bathroom, an additional half bath, and a flexible space perfect for a home office or playroom. Upstairs, you'll find secondary bedrooms, a full bathroom, ample storage, and a loft, providing additional space for relaxation or entertainment. Structural options added include; Gourmet kitchen,12' x 8' sliding glass door, paver front porch and walkway, bedroom 5 with bath 4, and garage service door.

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