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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22635 N 45th Place Phoenix, AZ 85050

$1,100,000

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,196 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6774400

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This stunning home sits on a spacious .24-acre lot and offers the perfect setup for multi-generational living, featuring 2 bedrooms and a full bath on the lower level. Located just blocks away from PVUSD elementary and middle schools, it's an ideal location for families. Surrounded by a pristine natural desert wash, this elegant home provides exceptional privacy from its prime position on an oversized semi-cul-de-sac lot. Step inside the beautiful foyer, where dark wide-plank flooring and muted white walls create a sophisticated ambiance. The gorgeous living room boasts tall windows, plush carpeting, and soaring vaulted ceilings. A chandelier-lit formal dining room adds an extra touch of elegance.The stunning kitchen features an abundance of silver and gray cabinetry, exquisite exquisite countertops, and upscale stainless steel appliances, including a deep farmhouse sink. A casual dining/breakfast room flows seamlessly into the family room, which is anchored by a dramatic luxury wood-framed fireplace, media wall, art-display niches, and twin shutter-trimmed windows. Upstairs, a spacious loft/library area leads to big secondary bedrooms and a romantic primary suite. The primary suite offers a slightly elevated sleeping area, a large sitting room, a luxurious bath, an enormous walk-in closet, and a cocktail balcony overlooking the backyard's alfresco amenities. Outside, enjoy a sparkling freeform pool, sprawling lounge decks, an expansive grassy lawn, a barbecue island, and just the right amount of flowering shrubbery. The home was fully remodeled in 2019, is exceptionally quiet, and shares a fence with only one neighbor for ultimate privacy.

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6102 E Charter Oak Road Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,100,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,276 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6779014

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Outstanding half acre home located within 85254 zip. The main house has 3 bedrooms(3rd and 4th bedroom combined), and 2 bathrooms. The property also offers a huge detached workshop with just under 1,000sqft providing full utilities and one bathroom. The workshop also has private access from the front of the home with custom RV gates, pavers and security windows & doors all around the property. NO HOA and plenty of space to store all of the toys.

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32029 N 20th Lane Phoenix, AZ 85085

$1,100,000

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,019 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6752163

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

5 bedroom and 4.5 bathroom, two story home with a private lot and pool. Completely remodeled. New kitchen, bathrooms, showers, all new flooring including hard and carpet. New cabinets, new paint inside and outside, lighting fixtures and fans, fireplace, high end appliances, laundry upstairs and downstairs, and so much more! You will have plenty of space to entertain inside the home as well as outside around the pool. Quiet, gated community and home sits on a cul-de-sac. Solar panels for cost savings of 50% or more on electric bill. Community includes walking paths, pool, spa, and fully remodeled clubhouse and new amenities! This home will truly amaze you and it's a must see.

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3818 E Stacey Road Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$1,100,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,122 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6773153

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to a masterpiece of modern luxury living, boasting over $250K in upgrades and situated on a nearly one-acre lot. From the moment you arrive, the impressive $40K paved driveway and circular drive catch your eye, surrounded by elegant wrought iron fencing that offers privacy and style. Step inside and be greeted by real oak wood flooring, soaring 14-foot ceilings in the primary living area, and upgraded art showcase recessed lighting, creating a spacious, airy ambiance. The double sliding glass patio doors open to the large paved patio and backyard, making indoor-outdoor living seamless and perfect for hosting. The kitchen is a true chef's delight, featuring $75K rustic maple cabinets imported from Oregon, complemented by $25K in granite countertops. The centerpiece is the grand stone-covered island, providing ample counter space for cooking and entertaining. Additional features include new stainless steel appliances, extended cabinetry for optimal storage, and a walk-in pantry complete with a separate standing freezer. The $10K stylish backsplash in the kitchen and bathrooms adds a sophisticated touch, while the upgraded lighting and electrical packages ensure every detail shines. The primary suite is nothing short of a private sanctuary, offering a luxurious soaking tub, a massive tiled shower with a built-in bench, and multi-function rain and adjustable hose showerheads. The suite also boasts a huge walk-in closet with direct access to the spacious laundry room featuring custom cabinetry. Throughout the home, plank-style tile flooring in the bathrooms, spray-in foam insulation for lower utility costs, and dual AC units enhance both comfort and energy efficiency. With an extended length three-car garage and no HOA, this home is the perfect blend of luxury and practicality.

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2402 W Sunrise Drive Phoenix, AZ 85041

$1,100,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,162 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6766383

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath, ground level master bedroom home with a brand new roof, nestled in an amazing mountainside location offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the mountains and city lights! 20 acres of South Mountain, south of the home were just incorporated into the preserves. Enjoy city views of the valley from the north facing kitchen and while dining. Every room is designed to maximize the stunning scenery, from the endless vistas in the master bedroom to the mountain view from your office. Featuring a spacious upstairs balcony for even more panoramic enjoyment. Quality craftsmanship shines throughout! Situated on 3 acres of land, there's ample space for horses or simply experiencing the rural lifestyle—all just minutes from downtown

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8052 E Mcdowell Road Mesa, AZ 85207

New

$1,100,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

3,100 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6773536

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover this exceptional private custom home with no HOA on a sprawling .968-acre lot in Mesa's sought-after County Island. Offering stunning mountain and city light views with pristine desert landscaping, this location truly has it all. This meticulously built single-level home features beautiful architectural details like coffered and tray ceilings, crown molding, wood flooring, and 4'' baseboards. The formal living and dining room offer great flex space, while the family room, enhanced with shiplap and an electric fireplace, seamlessly opens to the kitchen. Enjoy knotty oak cabinets, ample counter space, and a spacious walk-in pantry. The master suite includes a full bath, and all bedrooms come with walk-in closets. Outdoor amenities include a covered patio, BBQ area, gated backyard, and an additional gated space perfect for your toys and cars. Sellers have invested over $144K in upgrades over the last year and a half, including a new sparkling pool completed in November 2024. New carpet throughout. Both front and backyards have been fully cleared, excavated, and graded. Some interior walls were moved to create an open floor plan, plus a bonus room perfect for a home office or business. The powder room was converted into a full bathroom. Energy-efficient windows were added along with new window treatments. Fresh interior paint and several kitchen appliances. Conveniently located near the 202 HWY, shopping, lakes, and hiking trails. Benefit from city water. Don't miss this unique opportunity!

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3931 E Crest Lane Phoenix, AZ 85050

$1,100,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,538 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6758481

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Located in the highly desirable Aviano at Desert Ridge community, this stunning Spanish-style villa is perfectly positioned on a premium north/south-facing lot with no neighbors behind for added privacy. This beautifully crafted home offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, 2 versatile lofts, a dedicated office, a sparkling pool, and a spacious 3-car garage. It also boasts a powerful owned 9.2kW solar panel system, providing substantial energy savings. The heart of the home is the open-concept kitchen and family room, featuring elegant white cabinetry, granite countertops, a gas range, a large island with stylish pendant lighting, and a striking stone backsplash. The entire upstairs has been updated with brand new wood-look luxury vinyl flooring. The oversized primary suite is a true retreat, complete with a cozy fireplace and a separate seating area. The expansive primary bathroom offers dual vanities, a luxurious marble shower, a soaking tub, and a beautifully designed custom closet. Outdoor living is elevated with two distinct spaces: a pool area perfect for relaxation and a separate entertainment area with a paver patio, built-in BBQ, and an outdoor fireplace. This home is just a short walk from the exclusive community amenities, including the clubhouse, gym, community resort style pool with swimming lanes, tennis and basketball courts, parks, playgrounds, and more. Located minutes from major freeways, top-tier Desert Ridge market place and dining, parks, farmers markets, American Express, and Mayo Clinic Hospital, this home blends luxury, convenience, and resort-style living.

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5366 E Juniper Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,100,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,781 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6650821

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

: EXQUISITE! Stunning North/South home in sought after location. Four bedrooms and three and a half bath, two level home. This home has been completely remolded and redesigned. Fabulous kitchen with new cabinetry and quartz counters. and newer stainless appliances. All new windows throughout the home. Formal dining room, living room and family room, with high soaring ceilings. Downstairs suite with own bath. Three large bedrooms and two full baths upstairs. Half bath off living. Separate laundry and 3 car garage. Master bedroom has walk-in closet and its view balcony. Beautifully redesigned master bath with soaking tub and large open shower. Landscaping is beautiful with care free artificial grass, sparkling pebble-tech pool, fruit trees galore, two covered patios and a louvered extension

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16014 E Glenbrook Boulevard Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$1,100,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,965 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6683581

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Looking for a home with a casita in the NorthEast Valley? Look no further than this updated home on over an acre corner lot! Spectacular mountain and sunset views from backyard! Primary home consists of 3 bedrooms, 2 baths. Open and inviting ''circular'' floorplan with soaring ceilings and custom fireplace. Updated kitchen with oversized island, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances. Beautiful views from large master bedroom complete with remodeled bath and walk-in closet with shelving. Casita has two additional bedrooms (one with a murphy bed for easy space conversion,) a kitchenette, and laundry hookups. Inviting patio off casita great for grilling with built in sink and counter space. New exterior landscape lighting adds ambiance to your outdoor retreat. Owners invested over $25k to add new landscaping to compliment the easy-care turf. New PVC watering system with auto timers installed in front and backyards and hard-wired retractable awnings in back. Too many additional features to list: brand new water heater (9/24,) plantation shutters, electric wireless roll-up blinds at sliding doors, smart home nest thermostat and ring doorbell, RV gate, 4 car garage, with storage room and attic, water softener, fully fenced backyard, newer pool equipment. No steps, wheelchair friendly doors and hallway. Prior owner installed new dual pane windows and doors, added sunscreens, remodeled baths, recoated roof, and updated AC, air handler, and ductwork. Seller offers loan programs to make this home more affordable for you! Inquire within.

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38730 N Donovan Lane Phoenix, AZ 85086

$1,100,000

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

5,065 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6690310

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

WOW Breathtaking Vista's from every room Enjoy the City lights from your own home. So much privacy, no neighbors in front of you or looking in your backyard! Unbelievable indoor ,outdoor entertainment. Courtyard w/ Fireplace to enjoy in the winter and evenings. Travertine stone flooring throughout the downstairs. Hand scraped hardwood floors nested in the family room w/ a fireplace to enjoy.Gorgeous Granite counter tops & stone backslash in your Kitchen. Soaring ceiling in the dining area. Mutigerenational living ensuite downstairs. Huge master bedroom upstairs to enjoy the amazing views with plus huge closet. Bonus room w/ cabinets in it. Perfect for a family fun room. Bonus downstairs where a 4 car garage was.A man cave or arts / craft room. RV gate. 5 bed & 4.5 bath. Owner Agent

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360 S Golden Meadows Trail Williams, AZ 86046

$1,100,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,582 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6714945

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful custom 5 bedroom, 3 bath home! Featuring vaulted ceilings, wood flooring, fireplaces, conservatory & Spectacular views in the Pines! Open concept floor plan makes this home perfect for entertaining & two Skylights keep everything light & bright! Gourmet kitchen is a cooks delight w/ gas cooking, ample cabinet space, Stainless Steel appliances & double ovens! From Kitchen & Dining areas expansive views of the San Francisco Peaks! Primary bedroom has oversized bath w/ 2 closets, walkin shower & jetted tub! Nestled on a 1.1 acre lot surrounded by majestic pine trees and 2 minutes from Elephant Rocks Golf Course. Several outdoor sitting areas to enjoy Williams weather and views! Close to hiking trails, lakes, Route 66 and shopping! A place to call home in the Pines!

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8259 E Mulberry Lane Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,100,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,883 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6740353

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover this beautifully upgraded home, featuring an open-concept main house w/ over $120k in enhancements. The property includes a separate 695sf guest house + an enclosed climate control AZ room for a total of 2883sf - below current appraisal! The guest house features a living area, kitchen & 1 bed/1 bath, perfect for guests or rental income. The main house offers 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and an AZ room that leads to an outdoor space designed for entertaining. Enjoy a pool, outdoor kitchen & bar, putting green, and palm trees. Located close to Old Town Scottsdale, ASU, sports venues, and major highways, this home offers convenience and a vibrant lifestyle. Recent upgrades include a climate-controlled wine cellar, new roofing, windows, & hardwood floors.

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