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.

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:

2. 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 1^st quarter of 2017:

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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20323 E Happy Road Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$568,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,080 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6754931

Property Type Manufactured Home

Price Type --

Spacious and bright 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom modular home on just over an acre of land in Queen Creek, AZ with large bedrooms, walk-in closets and large storage closets. Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) installed throughout entire house in 2019. New roof installed September 2021. Acre is perimeter and cross fenced and within riding and walking distance of Santan Mountain Regional Park. 16' x 32' galvanized steel 2-stall shed row for horses and huge paver patio for outdoor enjoyment yet property is minutes away from Equestrian Center, Fry's Grocery, Fat Cats, Caldwell County BBQ and more.

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2438 W Hearn Road Phoenix, AZ 85023

$568,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,344 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6739186

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This 2344 SQFT home has been completely renovated, featuring all-new cabinetry and quartz countertops throughout the house. The open-concept living area is perfect for entertaining, and the brand-new kitchen shines with its modern design. All bathrooms have been redone with beautiful new tile work and contemporary finishes. The four spacious bedrooms offer ample storage and natural light. Enjoy the low-maintenance landscaped yard. Conveniently located next to the I-17 and close to amenities, schools, and parks.

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16612 N 151st Lane Surprise, AZ 85374

Open House

$568,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,856 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6710976

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this stunning two-story home warm and inviting from the moment you step through the door. Home featuring so many upgrades you won't believe this beauty, from exquisite diagonal tile flooring that runs throughout the entire first floor, leading into a gourmet eat-in kitchen with upgraded Cherry Wood 42-inch cabinets, granite countertops, large kitchen island, great for entertaining. The kitchen overlooks the backyard oasis with a sparkling pool. Second floor master suite with walk-out deck overlooking mountain views. Enormous master bath with garden tub and separate shower, large walk-in closet. All other bedrooms are abundant in size. Enormous game room can be converted into two extra bedrooms The home also features a downstairs office and can be converted into a fifth bedroom. We are just minutes away from schools, shopping, restaurants, Surprise Stadium-Spring Training, outdoor Recreation center, Surprise Aquatic Center, events and Festivals and hotels. You will enjoy this highly upgraded exquisite home, conveniently located few minutes away from the downtown Heritage district where the family fun begins.

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16455 W Avenida Del Sol -- Surprise, AZ 85387

$567,995

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,480 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6682617

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

The Townsend has a gorgeous open floor plan with Guest Suite and 10' ceilings! Large Gourmet Kitchen with Quartz Countertops. Owners Suite has a deluxe Master Bath with Walk-in rain shower. Home is on a large lot in a secluded neighborhood. Home comes with paver driveway/walk way to entry. and is complete with stone front exterior on house! A Must See!!!!

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16399 W Avenida Del Sol -- Surprise, AZ 85387

$567,995

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,506 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6702001

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover the essence of luxury in this home featuring an upgraded gourmet kitchen with quartz countertops, 42-inch cabinets, & expansive walk-in pantry. The spacious design includes 10-foot ceilings, staggered wood-look tile, and multi-slide patio doors that enhance the open, airy feel. The Primary suite bathroom features an upgraded shower with an added secondary rain shower head. Practicality meets style with 8-foot garage doors & paver driveway, offering ample space for storage and vehicles.

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16372 W Avenida Del Sol -- Surprise, AZ 85387

$567,995

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,480 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6718700

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This home features a must have Guest Suite as well as dramatic 10' ceilings throughout and a tray ceiling at entry; a gourmet kitchen with quartz countertops, 42'' cabinets, a spacious open great room with a multi-slide door; a beautiful primary suite with a generous walk-in closet. The walk-in shower features a rain shower head. This home offers stylish pavers at driveway/walkway.

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935 Calle Azul -- Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$567,900

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,884 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6722019

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful 4bed 2bath 2 car garage home with a large lot large patio RV gate with amazing views. Must see property in Wickenburg AZ.

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8718 N 180th Drive Waddell, AZ 85355

$567,250

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,548 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6715988

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Don't miss out on this beautiful Pulte home in a Great location! Easy access to the 303, I-10 and Luke Air Force Base. This home has an amazing floorplan with the master suite downstairs and 4 large bedrooms plus a huge loft upstairs. The nice sized lot backs to a greenbelt with mountain views from the backyard. You can take this all in while enjoying some quality time under the expansive covered patio. Some of the many wonderful features you will find inside include, granite countertops, an eat-in kitchen, tasteful neutral flooring and tons of storage space. The laundry room has ample space plus a utility sink. The 3 car garage features shelving and an epoxy floor. Come see it today. This one won't last.....

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10221 S Bickwell Trail Apache Junction, AZ 85120

$567,028

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,386 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6739939

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Experience the difference at Laurel at Blossom Rock! This stunning single-story Laredo design is currently under construction and features a spacious open-concept floorplan. The heart of the home includes an inviting kitchen with an island, seamlessly connected to a bright great room that opens to a private, covered outdoor living space. With 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a convenient drop zone right off the 3-car garage, this home offers both comfort and functionality. Plus, $49,000 in premium upgrades are already included, and special financing options are available. The home is expected to be completed by November. Living at Blossom Rock means embracing the outdoors with community parks, miles of scenic trails, beautiful lakes, and signature events. Nearby the Superstition Mountains.

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2422 E Saint Anne Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85042

$567,000

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

2,599 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6743335

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this spacious 5-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom residence blends comfort, and modern living in the sought-after Arbor Subdivision. The spacious open floor plan seamlessly connects the living, dining, and kitchen areas. The gourmet kitchen features stainless steel appliances, ample cabinet space, and a large island. The home boasts five generously sized bedrooms, with the primary suite offering dual sinks, dual walk-in closets, and an en-suite bathroom. Enjoy mountain views from the beautifully landscaped backyard with a large covered patio, turf, and pavers. Additional features include a loft, office, and two-car garage. Arbor Subdivision provides well-maintained common areas, parks, and walking trails. Check it out!

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23852 N 167th Lane Surprise, AZ 85387

$567,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,016 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6781319

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning Family Home with Private Outdoor Oasis This spacious 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers the perfect blend of comfort and luxury, with an inviting front patio that welcomes you into a well-designed living space. As you step inside, you'll immediately appreciate the open, airy feel of the home with its modern finishes and thoughtful layout. The heart of the home features a beautifully kitchen that flows seamlessly into a cozy living room, making it perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. The master suite is a true retreat, offering privacy and tranquility with its own ensuite bathroom and walk-in closet. Step outside to your own private paradise. The backyard is an entertainer's dream, with a heated pool complete with a tranquil water feature, ideal for relaxing or hosting summer gatherings. Enjoy outdoor cooking and dining with the built-in BBQ area, and when the sun gets too bright, simply extend the retractable awning for shade and comfort. Whether you're lounging by the pool or enjoying a meal with family and friends, this outdoor space is perfect for creating lasting memories. With its ideal layout, stylish features, and amazing outdoor amenities, this home truly offers the best of both worlds indoor and outdoor luxury!

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2398 W Arroyo Way San Tan Valley, AZ 85144

$567,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,535 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6707047

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful single family home featured in popular community ''Morning Sun Farms' located in Queen Creek, AZ. This highly preferred [single level] home incorporates a subtle balance of contemporary finishes with a modern design. The home features 4 bedrooms, +Den/5th bedroom, 2.5 bath(s), 2,534 sq ft open concept floor plan, nicely appointed kitchen w/ granite countertops, large [eat-in] island, dual ovens, gas cooking, raised panel cabinetry, ss appliances, and walk-in pantry. Also, this home features large great room space, 9ft+ ceilings, tile flooring, modern plumbing/lighting fixtures [fans], dual pane [low-e] windows, 2'' wood faux blinds, designated dining space, and a dedicated master retreat featuring a spacious sleeping quarters, separate shower/tub, dual sinks, and large walk-in. closet. Lastly, the home features a 3-car tandem garage w/ new epoxy floors & built-in storage cabinets, and a private [resort style] backyard equipped with covered patio space, sparkling heated pool, built in BBQ [w/ dedicated gas line], mature landscaping, backyard wall raised for increased privacy, and separate RV gate --perfect for entertaining guests & family. Morning Sun Farms offers residents plenty of walking & bike paths, green spaces, and is just minutes away from great shopping, restaurants, and entertainment.

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