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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634 E County Down Drive
Chandler, AZ 85249
$1,100,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,599
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6738354
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Nestled within the upscale gated community of Fieldstone Estates, this pristine home showcases an ambience of Arizona living throughout. This premium north/south facing property situated on a 1/3 acre greenbelt lot in Chandler is an entertainers delight. A gated front courtyard leads into a formal living room featuring an elegant two-way fireplace and views directly showcasing the outdoor resort oasis. This desert gem highlights ultimate living with an impressive gourmet Chef's kitchen including a deluxe island with breakfast bar, double ovens, gas cooktop, stainless steel appliances, built in fridge, warming oven, built in microwave and a large walk-in pantry. The primary suite boasts an abundance of natural sunlight offering direct outdoor access to a spacious covered patio. Custom wood shutters and two stone accent walls amplify the exquisite nature of the room. The luxe bathroom with his and her separate vanities is complete with a soaking tub, private double shower and a considerable walk-in closet. This luxurious home boasts 4 bedrooms including a guest suite/den with built-in Murphy bed and desk, a formal office with impressive bookcase and additional cozy theatre room perfect for entertaining or relaxing. Exclusive outdoor living space offers a resort style heated pool with waterfall and elevated spa backing to a vast common area. A wooden slat pergola covers a fully functioning outdoor kitchen complete with built-in BBQ, dual gas burner stovetop, electric deep fryers, wood burning pizza oven, kegerator and sink providing a significant space perfect for open-air dining. Additional lower level outdoor patio with impressive wood burning fireplace provides ample seating areas for tranquility & relaxation. Don't miss out on this exclusive property designed for superior indoor and outdoor enjoyment!
30939 N Roller Coaster Lane
San Tan Valley, AZ 85144
$1,100,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,868
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6740905
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Recently annexed into San Tan Valley, this stunning 4 bed, 3 bath residence is better than a new build. Close to all the Queen Creek shopping and activities you will absolutely love this fantastic property. Pulling up you're greeted with massive circular paver driveway, beautiful facade w/brick accents, 1.25 acres fully landscaped featuring a desert botanical walk path, water feature, fire pit, 3 car side garage, 2 RV gates, and HUGE detached RV garage! Inside you will find a spacious open floor plan w/elegant wood-look tile flooring, several custom built-in's, a warm fireplace, wooden shutters, and neutral palette throughout. The gourmet kitchen is comprised of white cabinetry w/crown moulding, a walk-in pantry, quartz counters, subway tile backsplash, recessed & pendant lighting, SS appliances, and an island complete w/a breakfast bar. The primary bedroom showcases soft carpet, private outdoor access, a walk-in closet.Don't forget about the cozy den, ideal for a reading nook. Also including an expansive backyard w/a covered patio, water features, and an extended seating area w/a fire pit, this home is simply a dream come true! What are you waiting for? Act now!
7200 N 34th Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85051
$1,100,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,065
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6744364
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this charming 3-bed, 2-bath home featuring a convenient food cellar in the laundry room. Additionally, there's a 1-bed, 1-bath guesthouse complete with a living area and kitchen, all situated on a secluded 1-acre irrigated lot in the heart of the city. With a gated entrance, this property has been maintained by the same family for 60 years, showcasing true pride of ownership and beautifully kept grounds. The main house offering a comfortable living space, while the cozy 480 sq. ft. guesthouse is perfect for guests or extended family. Outside, enjoy your own private oasis with a sparkling pool surrounded by lush, green grass. The spacious garage is tall enough to accommodate a full-size RV, multiple cars, a boat, or even serve as an impressive workshop. A unique property!
28301 N 154th Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$1,100,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,818
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6758363
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your new custom home in Scottsdale! This home was built with solid 2 X 6 construction and has gorgeous solid pine interior doors throughout. Sitting on a full acre, this 2,818 sq ft property has plenty of space for everyone with 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. The large garage is perfect for multiple vehicles, storage, or even a workshop. Just over one acre for your horses, or room to add a pool, garden, or outdoor entertaining space. Located in a quiet neighborhood, this home is close to schools, shopping, and parks and offers incredible views of 4 peaks mountains! Inside, the open floor plan offers a comfortable living area that connects to the kitchen, which features ample counter space and cabinets for all your needs, granite counters and pantry. The master suite includes its own bathroom, walk-thru shower and his & hers walk in closets. Beautiful natural stone in the showers and baths. The other bedrooms are spacious and can serve as extra bedrooms or an office.
43 E Desert Hills Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85086
$1,100,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,058
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6755034
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Looking for a private estate on an acre with no HOA and room to expand, park your toys and trucks? Look no further than this fully renovated home in Desert Hills with City water! Step into the great room which has lots of natural light and is perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Enjoy the spacious kitchen with stainless steel appliances and workspace galore. The split floorplan has 2 bedrooms with a jack and jill bathroom setup, another bedroom with its own bathroom on one side; and the master retreat with its own fireplace on the other. The master bathroom is resort-like! Wanna cool off and enjoy some mountain views? Take a dip in the relaxing pool. Take advantage of the acreage to park your toys, build an RV garage, guest house and just feel like no one is around you.
6996 E Mighty Saguaro Way
Scottsdale, AZ 85266
$1,100,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,360
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6756730
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover the beauty of this 2,360 sq. ft. Stella model in the prestigious guard-gated community of Terravita in Scottsdale. This single-level home offers a spacious and thoughtfully designed layout, perfect for easy living and entertaining. The large windows fill the home with lots of natural light and great view of the backyard oasis. Kitchen includes updated appliances with just enough space to entertain. Some of the updates: Primary and 2nd bathroom have been beautifully updated, Newer roof, pool resurfacing, pool pump and remote shades on some windows. Residents of Terravita enjoy access to top-tier amenities, including a world-class golf course, tennis courts, Pickleball, fitness center, community pool, and scenic walking trails. Don't miss the chance to own this exceptional home in one of Scottsdale's most desirable communities!
270 Long Branch
Prescott, AZ 86303
$1,100,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,966
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6680664
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Prepare to be utterly captivated as you approach this extraordinary property, where opulence intertwines with breathtaking views and serenity at every glance. From the iconic Thumb Butte to the sparkling Prescott city lights to the majestic Granite Mountain, the vistas are simply mesmerizing. A grand pavered driveway welcomes you to the expansive flagstone atrium entry, setting the tone for the unparalleled experience that awaits. From the custom stone hearth fireplace to the million-dollar mountain views to the unexpected privacy and the convenient dumb waiter from the garage to the kitchen, this home epitomizes a lifestyle of unmatched refinement. Nestled among towering pines, the oversized homesite spans just over a half-acre, offering ample room to roam and revel in nature's splendor. The upper/main level of the home showcases a master suite, guest bedroom suite, laundry facilities, and an expansive great room where custom hickory flooring and knotty alder cabinetry exude warmth and sophistication. The gourmet kitchen is a culinary haven, boasting stainless steel appliances, a vast granite island and countertops, and space for both formal dining and casual meals in the breakfast nook. Venture downstairs to discover two additional bedrooms, a Jack-and-Jill bath, an oversized family room, and convenient garage access. Throughout the home, custom window treatments and wooden blinds add a touch of refinement, while the nearly 800 square feet of exterior decks offer unparalleled views of the natural surroundings. Additional highlights include a 50-year roof, a 3.5 car garage, and zoned heating. Although there is no AC downstairs, the partially underground setting ensures natural cooling during warmer months. For those in pursuit of the ultimate luxury living experience, this home presents a rare opportunity to immerse oneself in the finest that Prescott has to offer. Don't let this chance slip away to make this extraordinary property your own. Some furnishings are available for sale outside of escrow.
4464 E Campbell Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85018
$1,100,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
1,573
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6733217
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this luxurious modern home where elegance meets comfort in this stunning residence nestled in one of Phoenix's most coveted neighborhoods, Arcadia, known for its lush landscapes and Mountain View's. This contemporary design with clean lines offers an open and airy atmosphere throughout. With 3 spacious bedrooms and 3 beautifully appointed bathrooms featuring modern fixtures and luxurious finishes. A chef's kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances, custom cabinetry, countertops and a peninsula perfect for entertaining. An expansive living area seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living with a large, multi panel sliding door providing abundant natural light and a perfect view of Camelback mountain. A private, low maintenance backyard oasis ideal for relaxation and gatherings. A serene master suite with a spa-like bathroom, soaking tub, oversized shower, walk-in closet and sliding, Arcadia door with another beautiful view of the scenic surroundings. The attached tandem garage has a lift that can fit 3 cars of the appropriate size, a two person infrared sauna, tool box, sink and a stacked washer/dryer. It is air conditioned and has a window, could be converted into livable space for modern convenience. There is a new metal roof with a warranty and insulation as well as an air filtration system for energy efficiency. Arcadia is renowned for its excellent schools, gourmet dining, and proximity to hiking trails and recreation spots like Camelback Mountain. Enjoy a lifestyle that combines urban convenience with a tranquil suburban feel.
3191 E Marlette Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85016
$1,100,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,948
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6757221
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Nestled in the highly sought after Biltmore Greens community, this Mediterranean style home offers stunning views of Piestewa Peak. The spacious, bright living room welcomes you with maple hardwood floors and a soaring ceiling with a cozy fireplace to complete the inviting ambiance. The recently remodeled kitchen features Miele and Bosch appliances, cherry butcher block counters by Boos, and warm painted cabinets and backsplash. The primary suite overlooks the serene backyard. It boasts dual vanities, a walk-in closet and large shower. The secondary bedrooms offer flexible space and beautiful views. Step outside to a private, newly landscaped yard, pristine pool, heated spa, views of Camelback, and endless sunset, star-filled nights.
5116 N 190th Drive
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
$1,100,000
5
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,310
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6736228
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Step into your luxurious 5-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom haven nestled in sought-after Litchfield Park, where breathtaking mountain vistas and captivating sunsets await you in your entertainer's paradise of a home! Your 2022 fully renovated outdoor oasis boasts a heated pebble tech pool, a built-in BBQ, a synthetic turf cornhole court, mini-golf amenities, and a cozy gas fire pit surrounded by seating. Added privacy with no rear neighbors, offering a serene retreat. Stepping inside through the double slider door, the entertainment continues in the grandeur of the great room, featuring an inviting electric fireplace, sleek polished concrete floors, and soaring ceilings. The kitchen, the heart of the home, beckons with its stainless steel appliances, double wall ovens, quartz countertops, and a convenient breakfast bar. The first floor primary bedroom boasts a grand entryway overlooking the pool, a lavish ensuite with two separate sinks, a large soaking tub, a spacious rain shower, as well as a sizable custom walk-in closet seamlessly connecting to your laundry room. The first floor rounds out with a built in custom wet bar area and additional entertainment space that welcomes the party inside. Guests have a seperate half bath on the first floor as well. The additional four bedrooms found upstairs are anchored by a generous loft and game room area along with space to build workstations in the hall area for additional work or school from home flexibility. The home features a three-car garage and is thoughtfully set back from the street to provide additional private parking in the extended driveway. INVESTORS take note, This home is an active short term rental with successful reviews and rental history and stays already booked that can transfer to you! You will want to see this one!
1975 Flicker Drive
Forest Lakes, AZ 85931
$1,100,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,441
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6751125
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Coming Soon! Discover a rare gem in Forest Lakes Estates with this newly listed single-level custom cabin at 1975 Flicker Drive. This 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home offers 2,441 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, combining comfort, style and functionality. The property's striking curb appeal is enhanced by a grassy front yard leading to a deck with metal railing, perfect for pet owners. Inside, the great room showcases vaulted tongue and groove ceilings, a stately stone fireplace, built-in bookshelves, and an inviting wet bar. The kitchen is a chef's delight, featuring knotty hickory cabinets, chiseled edge granite countertops, and black stainless steel appliances. Multiple seating options, including spacious countertop seating, a breakfast nook, and a large dining area, make this space ideal for entertaining. The generous primary suite boasts an ensuite bathroom with a walk-in shower, custom rustic vanity with dual vessel sinks, and ample storage. Two additional large guest bedrooms, one with a murphy bed, offer versatility for office or workspace use. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the covered front and rear decks, perfect for enjoying monsoon storms or winter snowfalls. The low-maintenance yard features an auto watering system, horseshoe pit, and fire-pit for stargazing evenings. One of the property's standout features is the immaculate oversized 3-car garage, which includes a designated workshop area with built-in cabinets and countertops. Practical amenities include a 500-gallon owned propane tank, automatic backup generator, and propane forced air furnace, ensuring year-round comfort. Located in a vibrant community with no mandatory HOA, residents enjoy access to trout-stocked lakes and numerous recreational activities. Experience the tranquility of Ponderosa Pines while remaining within reach of Phoenix's amenities. This exceptional property offers a unique opportunity to embrace a cooler climate and an active lifestyle in a picturesque setting.
324 W Northern Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85021
$1,100,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,940
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6766133
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Spectacular, one-of-a-kind Al Beadle masterpiece located in the heart of Central Phoenix! This classic contemporary has it all with floor to ceiling windows lining the back of the home, exposed steel beams, gas fireplace, gorgeous stained concrete floors, vaulted ceilings, fully renovated kitchen and bathrooms and a 179 sq ft detached office/studio. The impressive 13,856 sq ft lot showcases a sparkling diving pool, built-in gas fire pit and bbq conveniently located under a towering ramada. The front gate and custom block wall give the property a private, estate like feel. Down the street from the Murphy's Bridle Path, Phoenix Mountain Preserve access and excelling private and public schools, this is an extremely rare opportunity to claim this architecturally significant gem as your own!
