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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16868 N Stoneridge Court Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$1,099,000

3 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,556 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6766844

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream oasis in the heart of Fountain Hills! This beautiful two-story home offers an ideal blend of luxury, comfort, and captivating natural beauty. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by an expansive open-concept living area filled with natural light and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the iconic Fountain Hills fountain. The spacious living room features high ceilings, large windows, and elegant finishes, making it perfect for both relaxation and entertaining. Retreat to the serene primary suite, complete with a luxurious en-suite bathroom featuring dual vanities, and a walk-in shower. Additional bedrooms are generously sized and can easily accommodate family or guests. Step outside to your beautifully landscaped backyard, where you can unwind on the patio while taking in stunning sunset views. The space is perfect for outdoor gatherings, complete with a fire pit and plenty of room for your favorite activities. Located in a quiet, friendly neighborhood, this home is just minutes from Fountain Hills' vibrant parks, shops, and restaurants. Enjoy the community's outdoor lifestyle, with hiking trails and golf courses at your doorstep. Don't miss the chance to make this beautiful home yours and experience the magic of Fountain Hills living!

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12248 N 60th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,099,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,324 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6772400

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful home in a highly sought-after location. NO HOA. Large backyard with low-maintenance desert landscaping, large sparkling pool, and covered patio. 4 well-sized bedrooms with one currently being used as the perfect office space, Recent energy-efficient upgrades include upgraded insulation, AC ducts, windows, and roof with PAID OFF solar panels. Remodeled home with special touches such as vaulted ceilings, temperature controlled garage, reverse osmosis, hybrid water heater, and more. Excellent home for entertaining, with a beautiful wet bar and ½ bath off the pool. Parks, horse facility, shopping, and restaurants nearby.

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1545 E Myrna Lane Tempe, AZ 85284

$1,099,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,382 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6777945

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

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8525 E Clarendon Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85251

New

$1,099,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,150 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6782849

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Turn the key on this polished, modern South Scottsdale remodel and you're home. From your first step in the custom frosted pivot door, you're welcomed into a spacious living area & luxury kitchen with matte black finishes throughout and a stunning design perfect for entertaining. BRAND NEW LG appliance package. Primary and 2nd bedrooms ft. ensuite bathrooms. Storage is plentiful w/ a generous walk-in pantry, mudroom, custom drop station & laundry room to keep things organized. Slide open your stacking accordion doors to your private backyard & open to a beautifully redone pool with water feature & solar heating, a built-in BBQ, and a cozy outdoor fireplace. At this price?! Only if you run for it.

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10345 E Sahuaro Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$1,099,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,860 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6775643

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home in the desirable Bent Tree community of Central Scottsdale. This beautifully remodeled 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath residence features a 3-car garage, pool and a meticulously landscaped lot, all with no HOA. Step inside to discover a light-filled interior with soaring vaulted ceilings and brand-new Milgard high-performance black-framed windows, creating an inviting and modern atmosphere. Every detail of this exquisite remodel has been thoughtfully designed, ensuring a luxurious living experience. The chef's kitchen is a culinary delight, showcasing a Thermador induction cooktop, double ovens, sleek white cabinetry, and elegant Caesarstone countertops. It's the perfect space for entertaining or enjoying family meals. Outside, a charming updated storage building with .. electricity and lighting offers endless possibilities. Transform it into a gym, art studio, or craft space to suit your hobbies. Whether you're hosting gatherings, celebrating special occasions, or simply unwinding, this home provides ample indoor and outdoor spaces. Enjoy the formal living and dining areas, a large family room, and an extended covered patio with outdoor fireplace for alfresco entertaining. If you're looking for an ideal combination of location, lifestyle, and value, your search ends here. Don't miss the chance to make this stunning home your own!

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10328 W Avenida Del Sol -- Peoria, AZ 85383

$1,099,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,842 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6652572

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

2 Homes situated on over an acre of Horse Property. Large 4-bedroom 2.5 bath home with covered patios in the font & back of the home. Fire Sprinkler's throughout the home, Security Camera's, Water Softener, 74 Solar Panels, 2 A/C in Main House, 2 Hot Water Heaters in Main House, 3 Car Garage, RV Parking with Gate, Shared Well, 2 Septic Tanks, Chicken Coop, and 2 sheds. Guest home is 2-bedroom 1.5 bath appx 1142 sq ft. Great opportunity for Remodelers, Flippers, or Do it Your Selver's.

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12814 E Dream Acres Lane Parks, AZ 86018

$1,099,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,204 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6706073

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

10 ACRE-LOG CABIN RETREAT PRIVATE BACKS TO NAT'l FOREST! It is a 1 of a kind location w/front porch views of the Valley & Snowbowl while surrounded by forest in the back yard. Stunning 3 bed, 2 bath, and a loft bedroom. Expansive kitchen w/Dining room, Laundry/mud room, vaulted tongue-in-groove ceilings w/milled beams, wrap around deck w/3 covered porches, horse/animal property, No HOA/CCNRs, Detached 2 car garage, fenced gated acre around cabin. PERFECT HOME/INVESTMENT

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35618 N 142nd Place Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,099,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,879 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6713498

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

ULTIMATE IN SECLUSION & PRIVACY! NEAR TONTO NATIONAL FOREST! 3+ ACRE RANCH OFFERING SENSATIONAL SWEEPING MT. VIEWS & MAGNIFICENT SONORAN DESERT BEAUTY!TUCKED IN AMONG ROLLING HILLS TOWERING SAGUAROS & DISTANT SUN KISSED MT'S.! THE CENTERPIECE OF THE RANCH IS THE CUSTOM-BUILT HACIENDA STYLE HM W/ ITS ROMANTIC COURTYARD,IRON/GLASS FRONT DOOR,EXTENDED COVERED PATIOS, & VIEW DECK CAPTURING BREATHTAKING SUNRISES & SUNSETS.THIS QUALITY BLT. CUSTOM HOME OVERLOOKS THE GROOMED & MANICURED 3 RAIL FENCED HORSE PROPERTY,2 STALL MARE MOTEL,2 TACK/HAY STORAGE RMS, AUTO WATERS, LIGHTS,TURNOUT,ROUND PEN.PLENTY OF ROOM TO EXPAND!GREAT RM. PLAN,NEW KIVA FP,WALL OF GLASS WINDOWS, SPACIOUS KITCH.,SOLID HICKORY CABINETS & ISLAND,RAINFALL GLASS DOOR PANTRY,APPROVED W/EPCOR WATER, TRANSFERRABLE TO NEW OWNER. GRANITE CTR TOPS, COFFERED CEILINGS,BLT-IN SOUND,SOLID ALDER WOOD DOORS,MASTR SUITE W/FIREPLACE,SOAKING TUB,WALK IN SHOWER,WALK IN CLOSET TO DIE FOR,OVERSIZED 3 CAR GAR.,NEWER EXTERIOR PAINT. NEWER FOAM ROOF, 1 NEW A/C. HOME AND PROPERTY ARE METICULOUSLY MAINTAINED. NEW WATER PROVISION AGREEMENT SIGNED WITH EPCOR, AND IS TRANSFERRABLE TO NEW OWNER! Please visit their website for more information.

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28503 N 67th Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$1,099,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,592 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6753955

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this stunning Camelot home nestled in the gated Canyon's Edge community of Sonoran Mountain Ranch. Enter through a charming Alumawood pergola-covered courtyard into 3,592 sq. ft. of thoughtfully designed living space. 4 spacious bedrooms and an office on the first floor, along with 3.5 bathrooms make this home perfect for both family living and entertaining. The open-concept kitchen is the heart of the home, boasting 42'' upper cabinets, granite counters, gas cooktop, a buffet/coffee bar, and an oversized island with breakfast bar. The great room's natural light along with the custom entertainment center add warmth and character, while oversized guest rooms provide plenty of comfort for a growing family. The owner's suite is a true retreat with backyard views and a large luxurious bathroom featuring a separate tub and shower. Upstairs, the enormous bonus/game room offers endless possibilities. With a full bath already in place, this versatile space can easily transform into additional bedrooms or be reimagined as a home theater, playroom, or entertainment area. Enjoy spectacular mountain views from your backyard complete with an extended covered patio, large outdoor kitchen, a gorgeous pool with waterfall, and a spacious synthetic grass yard. A custom built 10x20' shed adds extra storage and functionality. The spotless 3 car garage adds plenty of room for parking, storage or a home gym. Owned solar and two new primary HVAC units installed in 2023 complete this exceptional home offering efficiency for years to come. Do not miss the opportunity to make this marvelous Camelot beauty your next home!

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3957 E Beechnut Place Chandler, AZ 85249

$1,099,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,868 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6754412

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Huge Price Improvement & Optional Seller Financing available! Remodeled TW Lewis home in the prestigious gated Pontevedra at Valencia! This BRAND NEW modern home design is meticulously executed throughout. Step through the iron privacy gate to your brand-new paved courtyard! Upon entry marvel at the impressive 10ft ceilings. High-end ultra durable SPC flooring. The kitchen boasts a wealth of upgrades including an oversized 9.5ft island with gorgeous Taj Mahal quartzite counter tops throughout. This chefs' dream kitchen features ss appliances, gas stove, built-in wine fridge, owned r/o drinking system, commercial range hood, topped with modern black fixtures complete the rich esthetic. The open concept allows for beautiful sightlines showcasing oversized 8x10 fireplace. Primary bedroom includes upgraded oversized stand-alone tub with newly designed tile surround and shower features rain shower faucet. Modern bathrooms with frameless glass shower and impressive black accent fixtures. One of the bedrooms include full bath. Home has owned soft water system. The backyard is an oasis, featuring covered patio, commercial misting system, fully travertine deck, meticulously manicured yard with sparkling pebble tech pool with an expansive baja shelf. Close to 202, A+ schools, and ample shopping.

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8731 E Columbus Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,099,000

6 Beds

3 Baths

2,852 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6756747

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

REDUCED for quick sale! Fully Remodeled 6 bedroom home that shows like model near Old Town Scottsdale, a perfect investment property. 6 bedrooms, open layout, heated pool resort yard w/putting green & fire pit. 12' accordion folding glass door connects the kitchen to large covered patio, with festive string lighting, couch and table seating, BBQ, heated pool, TV, green turf, pavers. White bright kitchen overlooks pool and features granite sit-up island, stainless steel appliances. Solar provides energy efficiency. Renovated in 2023 with wood-look tile floors throughout, smooth walls, updated hardware, lighting fixtures & contemporary easy to maintain furnishings, wall mount TVs and sleeping quarters that provide five-star reviews. Sleeps 16. Upcoming rental income conveys. Near Old Town Scottsdale a few minutes from the 101 Loop for quick access to everything in the Phoenix Valley. Minutes to Scottsdale's top evening entertainment, ASU, Golf, Casino and music venues, Kierland/Scottsdale Quarter, Princess TPC Open, West World Equestrian events and the Collector Car Auctions, and the new Ritz-Carlton Paradise Valley and Scottsdale Palmeraie, expected to be one of the top shopping, dining and entertainment districts in North America. See video walk-thru. Rent rolls/financials available upon request

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8107 E San Miguel Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$1,099,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,146 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6781365

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

NOW PRICED TO SELL. Stunning Home on Corner Cul-De-Sac Lot. Everything Is Brand NEW. Over 200K in UPGRADES. Factory Brand New Bespoke Appliances , New AC, New Black Roof, Upstairs Primary Bedroom Features Gourmet STEAM Shower and Walk-In Closet. HUGE Backyard with Amazing Pool and RV Parking. New High End Plank Flooring. Glass Garage and Front Door. Every Pipe Replaced with New Plumbing Vent Stack and Sewer Line Replacement. Any of the BRAND NEW Furniture Can Be Included. Roof Plumbing and Appliances All Under Original Warranty, Soft Water Loop. Too Many UPGRADES to List. Come See. The HVAC system has also been upgraded with a new air conditioner/heat pump and all new ducts. Smooth texture drywall throughout adds to the modern aesthetic.

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