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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2875 S Azurite Street Dewey, AZ 86327

$1,475,000

5 Beds

4 Baths

4,742 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6658738

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to a one-of-a-kind, fully sustainable and luxurious estate, perfect for multi-generational living, business and church retreats, or as a unique party venue, etc. Nestled on 4+ serene acres, the expansive grounds are a true oasis with the added benefit of a private pond, boasting over 2,000 fish. The lush landscape includes a variety of fruit trees and many raised garden beds to plant your favorites, while two workshops with electricity provide ample space for any hobby or entrepreneurial endeavor. Read to the END! A grandiose stairway leading to the stunning rain glass double doors entering the main house that features 4 bedrooms, including two master suites, and 3 bathrooms, AND a lower level in-law suite with 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom and full kitchen for additional privacy and comfort. The new appliances, oversized L-shaped quartz kitchen counter, and custom Forno fridge make the kitchen a chef's dream. For endless entertainment and relaxation, the indoor heated pool with diving board, jacuzzi, sauna and ¾ bathroom are sure to please. Also, offering a projector with screen and elevated deck with hood vent for BBQing. A separate 2,900 square foot guest house, along with a cozy studio apartment, provide even more space for family, friends, or potential renters. Attached is a RV garage and an oil change pit for the mechanics out there. For outdoor enthusiasts, the sand volleyball court is a fantastic addition. The electric gated entry to the partially fenced private yard, and lack of HOA and CCRs allow for a truly unique living experience. Notable features include solar power, a private well with new pump and pressure tanks and city water, brand new roof on both homes, new 5-ton and 3.5-ton AC units, and propane tankless water heater for the main house. New split units in the guest house and new electric water heater. Experience the ultimate in luxury, sustainability, and versatility in this unparalleled estate ensuring self-sufficiency and eco-friendliness. All in a breathtaking Arizona setting, only 30 mins from the Prescott Courthouse Square and 50 mins from Anthem's outlet mall.

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6918 N 178th Lane Waddell, AZ 85355

$1,475,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,834 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6762928

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Brand new home full of custom finishes throughout. Situated on an acre lot with access to flood irrigation in the backyard. NO HOA. Fully landscaped front yard with oversized driveway and plenty of room for all your needs. You do not want to miss this one!

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Show Low AZ 85901

$1,475,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,232 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6760708

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Come and experience ''Mountain Luxury'' in this meticulously maintained custom built home with breath taking views of the fairway! FULLY FURNISHED with attention to every detail. Boasting 3 Master Suites, Gourmet Kitchen w/Subzero Frig, Lg Walk-In Pantry, Game Rm w/Bar, Flex Rm/w Murphy bed & more!

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7131 E Rancho Vista Drive Unit 2011 Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,475,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,886 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6637093

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

Located near Old Town Scottsdale in the Optima Camelview, this urban residence is the essence of modern city living. Thoughtfully designed, this haven offers comfort and style bathed in natural light with floor-to-ceiling windows and captivating views of one of the community pool areas from two private balconies. Three generously sized bedrooms are perfect for relaxation while the bathrooms offer premium fixtures and finishes. The kitchen is equipped with sleek cabinetry, stainless appliances and offers plenty of space for culinary exploration. Residents of Optima can enjoy amenities such as the state-of-the-art fitness center, multiple pools and spas, and the lush landscaped gardens. The prime location is moments away from fine dining, shopping, entertainment and the best that Scottsdale has to offer. The community also offers 24-hour security and underground parking.

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32731 N 74th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$1,475,000

5 Beds

4 Baths

3,738 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6731334

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Located in the wonderfully discreet gated community of Las Piedras in North Scottsdale lies this exceptional residence. Directly across from the community pool, spa and fitness room it is accessed by a gated courtyard to the front door. The bright, spacious interiors begin with an open plan living area including the kitchen and breakfast nook, formal dining area and living room. Sliding doors open to a covered patio and private rear yard with putting green. The primary bedroom suite includes a large bedroom, beautifully appointed bathroom and fitted closet. The home is complete with 4 additional bedrooms, one used as a home office. From the front courtyard you access the guest house above the 3 car garage. Beautifully located near restaurants and shopping it offers luxury desert living.

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8020 E Del Laton Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$1,475,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,000 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6766343

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This is the home you have been waiting for! Completely reconceived with euro-modern design elements in the sought-after McCormick Ranch area! Entry wows with a tongue and groove ceiling, custom-designed frosted glass door entry, and a lovely, paved front sitting area for experiencing the beautiful AZ sunsets. Enjoy the simplicity of a Eurocentric kitchen design style with exquisite flat slab quartz, mixed wood elements, and sleek modern cabinets with under-lighting for added ambiance. Appliances that thrill any seasoned chef, and a glass-encased wine closet for the wine connoisseur to show off their prized collection. Striking custom elements set this home apart from all others, from lighted niches, French-inspired glass barn doors, and a marble floor-to-ceiling linear fireplace to enjoy quiet evenings or entertain guests. The extended glass-enclosed patio adds additional entertaining space and looks out to the large lush yard with a sparkling pool. Close to parks, bike trails, coffee shops, restaurants, and shopping. Don't miss out!

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26441 N Trails End -- Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$1,475,000

3 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,444 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6768882

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Views. Views. Views. Perfect location on the Quail Run golf course with expansive fairway panoramas. Contemporary design with many architectural enhancements. (Please see Virtual Tour under Photos Tab). Huge family room with convenient, bright and open kitchen for easy entertaining. Family room opens to patios and the great outdoors. Three bedrooms and four full baths plus a powder room. Huge laundry/hobbies room. Office with built-in cabinets. Full three car garage with built in cabinets. Rio Verde is a planned community for active adults over 55. Golf, tennis, swimming, hiking, biking, fresh clean air, starry nights in the friendliest golf community in Arizona. Come enjoy the fun

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5485 W Bruno Canyon Drive Prescott, AZ 86305

$1,475,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,608 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6773967

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Luxurious custom home on a .80-acre corner lot with captivating Granite Mountain views. This impeccable 3-bedroom plus office offers high-end finishes throughout and is located near the clubhouse. The exterior boasts upgraded landscaping, a front fenced courtyard, an extended rear patio, a gas fire pit, and a large covered patio. Inside, enjoy a spacious kitchen with custom cabinets, GE Profile appliances, and a walk-in pantry. The primary suite features a sliding door to the patio, a walk-in shower, soaking tub, and direct access to the laundry room. Plus, an oversized 3-car garage with a sauna. Talking Rock is a gated private community for members only. Amenities include: award winning Jay Morrish designed Golf Course, The Ranch House restaurant and bar, Coop's Coffee House fitness center, bocce, pickle ball courts, tennis court, pool and dog park.

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10613 E Diffraction Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$1,475,000

6 Beds

5.5 Baths

5,704 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6663410

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This BEAUTIFUL home w/CASITA is OVERFLOWING w/DESIGNER upgrades!! GOURMET kitchen w/granite countertops, HUGE island w/sink, tiled backsplash, 42'' cabinets + stainless appliance suite w/wall ovens! Open concept great room w/GORGEOUS built-in entertainment center w/STONE gas FIREPLACE! PRIVATE owner's suite w/sitting room + ensuite bath, BIG walk-in shower + soaking tub! Separate den! Loft! Media room! CASITA w/kitchen, bedroom, living room, bath, laundry + separate entrance! SO many living options in this multi generation home! FANTASTIC backyard OASIS w/built-in swimming pool w/waterfall, fire features, pergola w/sunken kitchen + swim up seating/counter, gas fire pit, pavers/faux grass + covered porch & balcony! This is true LUXURY LIVING! Located in award winning EASTMARK! WELCOME HOME

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9381 E Vah Ki Inn Road Coolidge, AZ 85128

$1,475,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

3,241 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6672171

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

A unique luxury horse property that offers both a serene lifestyle and an exciting investment opportunity. 12 irrigated acres with a custom fully remodeled 3-bed, 2-bath home that seamlessly blends modern luxury with rustic charm. The interior has custom wood flooring, marble countertops and fireplaces throughout. The estate doesn't stop at the main house. A cozy 2-bed 1-bath guest house provides comfortable accommodations, while an 8-bed bunk house awaits your creative touch to transform it to additional living space or unique rental opportunity. 8 fully covered 30x15 stalls, complete with a tack room, lighted arena equipped with an automatic roping chute. This property has tons of potential to provide you income or enjoy as your own cowboy paradise.

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2224 W Speer Trail Phoenix, AZ 85086

$1,475,000

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,133 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6725677

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Situated on over an acre of pristine horse property, this exquisite custom home has been entirely remodeled in recent years, boasting upscale finishes throughout. The brand-new kitchen features Euro-style double-stacked cabinetry, stone countertops, a Wolf range, Scotsman ice maker, and elegant pendant lighting. The master suite has also been transformed, offering a luxurious bath and an expansive walk-in closet equipped with all the desired amenities. For a comprehensive list of upgrades, please refer to the documents tab. Beyond its stunning interiors, the property is equestrian-ready with four covered horse stalls, a dedicated tack room, covered storage space, and a wash area. Additionally, it includes both a round pen and a rectangular pen, making it ideal for the horse enthusiasts.

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8449 E Sage Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$1,475,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,269 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6735431

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Seller Now Including 2 Year Home Warranty!!! What Are You Waiting For?! Entire PICKLEBALL Court, HEATED Pool, HUGE 1.5 PARCEL with PRIVACY Wall. GE Cafe Appliances With Built In Ice Machine. New PEX Plumbing + Sewer Line REPLACEMENT. Entire Roof BRAND NEW with Warranty. All New Black Cap Windows, New SMOOTH Texture Drywall, New WATERPROOF Wood Based Flooring, EXTRA THICK Quartz Countertops, 3 LUXURY Bathrooms, New TRANE A/C & DUCTS. Huge PAVERED Driveway with GLASS Garage Door and EV Charger. Synthetic Turf Throughout Home With Custom Side Gates. Glass Iron Entry Door. So Many Upgrades It's SURREAL. Home Will EASILY Generate over 200K on Airbnb or VRBO. You Can't Replicate This Property and YOUR Guests Will Pay YOU Top DOLLAR If You're Looking For The BEST Investment? Stop By:)

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