Investing in a Vacation Property? Learn What You’ll Need to Have to Get A Mortgage Approved

With approximately one million people having purchased vacation homes in the last year, this type of residence is gaining popularity for those who are interested in a home in a beach setting or a vacation hot spot. However, while a second home can seem like a great purchase and solid investment opportunity, there are different requirements that go into this type of purchase. If you’re considering a vacation home, you may want to be aware of the following financial factors.

The Down Payment Amount

If you currently have a primary residence, you may be aware that you don’t need to put down 20% or even 10% in order to make a home purchase, but things are different when it comes to a vacation home. Because you will be taking on an additional mortgage, there is greater risk involved, and this means you will likely have to put in at least 10 percent. Because of this, many homebuyers utilize the equity they have in their first home to make up the down payment.

About The Credit Score

Most people that have a credit score of more than 500 have the ability to use a mortgage product and purchase a home, but if you’re buying a second property, you’ll need a higher credit score in order to facilitate the purchase. Because there is more risk involved, lenders will want to make sure you’re a good bet. In addition, if you do have a lower credit score, lenders like Fannie Mae may also expect you to put more down to decrease the risk involved for them.

The Income Required

Since you’ve been through the mortgage process for your first home, you’re probably aware that you debt-to-income (DTI) ratio needs to be a certain amount in order to qualify for a mortgage. While your DTI for a primary residence may be a little bit higher since it’s your only payment, this ratio will be lower for your vacation home since it’s higher risk. This means you’ll require a slightly higher income than for your primary residence in order to get approved.

Deciding to purchase a vacation home can be a very exciting concept for many people, but there are a number of different financial requirements that go along with buying another residence. If you’re in the market for a vacation property and are curious about what’s involved, give me a call to get you on the right track – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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7738 N 185th Avenue Waddell, AZ 85355

$1,999,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,300 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6735714

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MUST SEE sprawling ranch style estate/compound on irrigated 2 acre lot. Newly constructed 2300 sf, 4 BR 3.5 BA main house and remodeled 1300 sf, 3BR, 1BA guest house. Perfect for visiting friends/family or private separate inlaw or older child suite. Newly build main house features upgraded Frigidaire appliances and granite counter tops throughout. Stained concrete floors. Custom cabinets and extra large walk-in pantry. Mud room/dog shower in the laundry room. 6 car garage 40x28 w/ additional attached RV garage 41x50. Tons of covered space for extra cars, RVs, boats and more. Huge pool with built-in outdoor kitchen and fireplace for entertaining friends and family. Backyard boasts a motel, tack shed and covered shaded areas for horses. Gated entry. RV hookup and dump capabilities.

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6875 E Lone Mountain Road Scottsdale, AZ 85266

Open House

$1,999,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

4,260 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6706812

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to over 2 acres of North Scottsdale privacy, beauty, and serenity! This fully custom home has it all. Enjoy your resort like backyard, balconies and patio spaces, Sub-Zero chef's kitchen, mountain views, and thoughtful upgrades throughout. All the work has been done, so you can truly make this space your home. Need room for cars or toys? A 4 car garage with extra storage room awaits. New roof, new windows and doors, all new pool equipment with pool/spa heater, and new garage doors and openers are just naming a few of the upgrades. The timeless modern desert design flows seamlessly with this truly one-of-a-kind property. Come experience this lot privacy and beauty aided by a built-up 20 ft berm along Lone Mountain Road.

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30600 N Pima Road Unit 58 Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$1,998,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,595 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6754414

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

SELLER FINANCING AVAILABLE conditional upon lender approval! Immerse yourself in desert tranquility at this Luxurious desert estate on over an acre lot. Bright & open SPLIT floorplan w/2nd master creates seamless flow between the living, dining & kitchen spaces, creating the perfect ambiance to relax or entertain guests. Gorgeous Chef's kitchen features pro-grade stainless appliances, quartz counters, ample cabinetry, walk in pantry, built in dining & gorgeous large island w/seating. Elegant primary suite features spa-like bath w/designer finishes & private patio w/fireplace creating a tranquil escape. Enjoy the beautiful outdoors in one of the many exterior seating areas, or by the sparkling pool w/ fireplace for those chilly desert nights.

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10120 E Topaz Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$1,995,888

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,516 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6768103

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

ENJOY THE PRIVILEGE OF LIVING IN SCOTTSDALES PREMIER WATERFRONT COMMUNITY WITH SPECTACULAR LAKE AND MOUNTAIN VIEWS.RELAX IN YOUR PRIVATE BACKYARD WITH COCKTAILS ON AN EVENING CRUISE ON LAKE SERENA WITH ACCESS FROM YOUR PRIVATE BOAT DOCK. GREAT ROOM HAS SOARING WOOD BEAM CEILINGS HIGHLIGHTED BY A WALL OF WINDOWS OVERLOOKING THE WATER.PLANTATION SHUTTERS,WOOD FLOORING, VAULTED CEILINGS, CUSTOM CABINETRY ARE JUST A FEW OF THE MANY AMMENITIES. SHOWN BY APPOINTMENT.

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8400 E Columbus Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,995,800

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,254 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6751625

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This like new single level home just minutes to Downtown Scottsdale & Scottsdale Fashion Square shopping and restaurants! This boutique community features just 13 homesites and selling fast. This Spacious single level home has 4 bed + den, 3.5 baths, large bonus room or formal living/dining + Den/Office. The spectacular kitchen opens to the Great Room. Primary bedroom includes large soaking tub, separate large walk- in shower and 2 closets, Split ensuite Guest bed rooms .

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6120 N 31st Court Phoenix, AZ 85016

$1,995,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,735 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6760379

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful, remodeled house with NO INSIDE STEPS, in guard gated Biltmore Greens that Boasts: decorative front gate, custom front doors, gorgeous eucalyptus wood floors throughout, tile flooring in the bathrooms & closets, quartz countertops on the kitchen perimeter cabinets while the island & bathroom countertops are a beautiful matching granite, large kitchen that has Thermador & Sub Zero appliances, built in ice maker, enlarged primary bathroom and closet, All new, cabinetry throughout, crown molding, custom closets, lighting & plumbing fixtures. Outside fire pit, pool, and a great covered back patio with automatic sunscreens, built-in BBQ and a view that looks out to the desert through the wrought Iron fence. The garage has tile flooring and extra storage behind a locking door.

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6166 N Scottsdale Road Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$1,995,000

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,353 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6745430

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

Fully furnished highly upgraded corner unit at the Enclave at Borgata with spectacular mountain views of the McDowell Mountains & Pinnacle Peak. Beautifully finished with hardwood flooring, custom cabinetry, rich marble countertops, Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, designer wall coverings, great light fixtures and Crestron home automation. The primary bedroom is also large with a sitting area, spacious bathroom and walk-in closet. The den features beautiful custom millwork and built-in desks and bookcases. The Enclave is a gated luxury community with fantastic amenities including heated community pool & spa, well equipped fitness center, 24 HR security, owners club room and maintained dog park. Walking distance to AJs, Trader Joes and many top tier retail & restaurants.

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3812 E Camelback Road Phoenix, AZ 85018

$1,995,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

3,671 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6746292

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Located at the end of a cul-de-sac at Biltmore Sanctuary, this is a must see home! Beautiful and immaculate this 3671 sf, 4 bedroom, 4 bath home has clean lines and high ceilings which create a light and open atmosphere drawing you into the home. The kitchen is well appointed with walk in pantry and gas stove. The large primary bedroom is accentuated with spa-like bath. Two of the additional berdrooms are ensuite as well. One of 3 garages is pre-wired and plumbed allowing for easy conversion to a Casita. Convenient to Scottsdale, Paradise Valley and downtown, you will be walking/biking distance to some of the finest dining in Phoenix like The Global Ambassador, Postinos, Tarbell and The Henry.

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3410 N 45th Place Phoenix, AZ 85018

$1,995,000

6 Beds

4.5 Baths

2,723 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6775354

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This beautifully remodeled home in the highly desirable Arcadia Osborn area offers a perfect blend of modern luxury and timeless charm. The property boasts a newer roof, AC, and updated electrical, ensuring peace of mind for years to come. The convenient split floorplan features 2 Jack & Jill bathrooms, a lovely powder room, and a separate pool house (or guest house), perfect for entertaining or relaxing by the pool. The home is packed with high-end & eco-friendly upgrades including Control 4 home automation, surround sound, pool automation, security cameras, and a tankless water heater. You'll love the vaulted ceilings, spray foam insulation, and wide-plank wood floors throughout. The chef's kitchen is outfitted with a 66'' commercial fridge and an outdoor kitchenfor seamless indoor- outdoor living. Step outside to enjoy mature landscaping, a sparkling pool with deck jets and a Baja shelf, automated misting, and a back porch with automated shades. The property also comes equipped with electric car chargers and garage storage. TVs & appliances convey with the sale, making this home truly move-in ready!

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6908 E Mariposa Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,995,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

2,756 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6777726

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, 6908 E Mariposa Dr offers a captivating blend of classic allure and modern luxury. This ''Old Hollywood'' inspired retreat boasts spacious, beautifully designed interiors that echo a timeless aesthetic, perfect for those seeking a stylish escape. Home features, 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, all new interior and exterior finishes, and heated pool! Each room is meticulously curated, balancing luxury and comfort, creating an inviting atmosphere for relaxation and entertainment alike. Located just moments away from Scottsdale's world-renowned shopping, dining, and cultural hotspots, this property offers unparalleled access to Scottsdale's best! Don't miss your chance to own a piece of Scottsdale's iconic charm!

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308 Calle Linda -- Sedona, AZ 86336

New

$1,995,000

3 Beds

4 Baths

3,473 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6779632

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled in the prestigious gated community of Casa Contenta in the heart of Sedona, this elegant Southwest-style home offers breathtaking red rock views and seamless indoor-outdoor living. Featuring 3 bedrooms and 4 baths, the main level boasts an open-concept great room, a combined living and dining area, and a beautifully designed kitchen with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a spacious center island. The primary suite and a guest suite are also located on this level for convenient, single-level living. Downstairs, you'll find a generous family room, a kitchenette, and an additional guest suite, all with scenic views and access to a covered patio. The home is adorned with Pella windows, rich hardwood floors, tile, and cozy carpet in the bedrooms. Located near Sedo

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6629 E Monterosa Street Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,995,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,683 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6727398

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Currently rented, property access may be limited. Nestled within the coveted Arcadia neighborhood, this enchanting ranch-style residence has been thoughtfully remodeled to harmonize timeless tradition with modern comforts. Boasting four generously appointed bedrooms, including a master suite that redefines luxury living, this home is a sanctuary of both style and function. Upon entering, you'll be greeted by a sense of warmth and elegance, with an inviting layout that seamlessly blends the old-world charm of traditional design with the fresh allure of contemporary updates. The heart of the home unveils an expansive living space, perfect for both intimate gatherings and grand occasions. Buyer to verify all facts and figures.

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