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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10540 N 78th Place
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
$1,099,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,682
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6768789
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
What a location!!! La Cuesta is an in demand Scottsdale location situated between Gainey Ranch, McCormick Ranch, and Starfire golf club. With all the access to upscale shopping, dining, and world class golf. Step into this gorgeous home and be wowed by the Vaulted solid wood tongue & groove ceilings. Seller recently brought the outdated sunken Living Room floor up and replaced all of the flooring throughout. The floor plan is the perfect amount of open, with formal dining area, cozy family room with beehive fireplace, kitchen with all stainless steel appliances, granite counter, and new tile backsplash. The Primary Suite has a Beehive Fireplace for cozying up on chilly mornings or unwinding in the evening. The primary suite also features updated flooring, a beautifully renovated shower, a walk-in closet, and a seperate entry to the backyard. But the real showstopper is the backyard! The newly renovated diving pool and spa, complete with a freshly coated deck and sparkling new tile, are calling you to make this beautiful Scottsdale home yours.
8055 E Cortez Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
$1,098,888
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,268
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6773524
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Experience the Scottsdale lifestyle in the desirable, guard gated community of Scottsdale Country Club in the Heart of Scottsdale! Offering 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms and nearly 2,300 Sq Ft, this well maintained residence offers vaulted ceilings with an open floor plan, low maintenance backyard, and spacious kitchen with stainless steel appliances! This property is only a few minutes away from the best shopping, dining and entertainment in Scottsdale. Enjoy the resort-like amenities in this wonderful community, with tennis courts, golf course, lakes and scenic walking trails.
7979 E Princess Drive Unit 14
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$1,098,800
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,253
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6760232
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
You will love this soft contemporary remodel in the beloved Scottsdale Princess TPC gated community. Easy to maintain patio home perfect for a second home or year round living. 3 bedrooms, plus 3 full baths and added bonus office room this is also excellent as a luxury snowbird rental with it's convenient location. The expansive great room segues into the dining space and open kitchen that invites entertaining. Large quartz Center island, abundant white oak style floors, wide baseboards, shutters throughout and tasteful fresh paint. Spacious primary with remodeled bath, plus bonus addition for an office/ work area. North/South exposure with Privately landscaped lot for backyard dinners or coffee in the Courtyard with Mountain Views. Priced well below the neighborhood average. Mature fruit trees, grapefruit, tangerine, lemon and lime and extra parking space in the cul de sac. ***This PRIME LOCATION is walking distance to TPC GOLF COURSE, FIVE STAR FAIRMONT SCOTTSDALE PRINCESS RESORT & SPA (Princess spa membership option), SCOTTSDALE SPORTS COMPLEX, & WESTWORLD. QUICK DRIVE TO SCOTTSDALE AIRPORT, AIRPARK, WHOLE FOODS, MAYO CLINIC, KIERLAND & SCOTTSDALE QUARTER FOR A VARIETY OF RESTAURANTS, SHOPPING & ENTERTAINMENT....PLUS JUST MINUTES TO THE 101 LOOP AND 51 FOR CONVENIENT TRAVEL TO THE GREATER SCOTTSDALE AND PHOENIX AREAS. THIS IS THE PLACE TO BE FOR ACCESS TO THE BEST AMENITIES SCOTTSDALE HAS TO OFFER WHILE ENJOYING THE PRESTIGIOUS PRIVATE GATED CROWN POINT COMMUNITY. MINIMAL HOA FEES, SMALL INTIMATE COMMUNITY. PROPERTIES LIKE THIS DO NOT COME UP FOR SALE OFTEN! THIS HOME IS TURNKEY AND THE FURNITURE CAN BE PURCHASED ON A SEPARATE BILL OF SALE. SEE LISTING AGENT FOR DETAILS. WOULD MAKE A WONDERFUL SNOWBIRD RENTAL AS WELL
8214 E Camelback Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
$1,098,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,070
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6759486
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome home! Rare opportunity to find a fully remodeled turnkey home in Scottsdale Country Acres. There's no HOA, and it's located in a desirable area of South Scottsdale. You'll be close to all the entertainment, shopping, and dining, but not so close that you'll be disturbed by it. Step out your door and you'll be in the renowned greenbelt system that goes for miles, taking you to multiple parks and recreation areas. The home features new flooring, lighting, quartz countertops, paint, and a large glass slider that leads to the remodeled resort backyard. The backyard has a resurfaced pool and hot tub with new equipment for peace of mind. The clean white well-laid-out kitchen features high-end Bosch and Thermador appliances and a convenient dining island. The two-car garage has an epoxy- coated floor, and the home has a whole-home water softening system and a Navien tankless water heater for added comfort. Easy to enclose/add 4th bedroom by front entry office space, inquire for info. Camelback park, Indian School park, Chesnutt park, Chaparral park all just a short walk away. Fashion Square and everything Old Town Scottsdale has to offer just a few min drive, Uber, bike or walk away. This area of Camelback rd is not a major throughway dead ends at Pima serves the neighborhood.
5221 E Thunder Hawk Road
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
$1,098,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,738
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6768707
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Exceptional single-story home. Quiet, cul-de-sac location where pride of ownership is apparent. Herringbone ceramic tile flooring in great rm that is open & bright & infused w/natural light, anchored by stacked stone fireplace. Kitchen is a knockout w/oversized island & counter space w/ample seating & exotic granite throughout. Drawer microwave, stainless steel appliances & Zline gas professional grade cook stove, upgraded lighting. Primary suite is spa like, flowing into bonus room that would be a tremendous yoga studio or additional office space. Additional guest suites are generous in size. Lush backyard oasis offers privacy, multiple spaces in which to dine or lounge by the pool. 3 car garage w/oversized storage cabinets, desirable north/south orientation, this home is move in ready.
20207 W Amelia Avenue
Buckeye, AZ 85396
$1,098,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,539
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6752900
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Stunning residence available in the highly coveted Pasqualetti Mountain Ranch subdivision. Built just a couple of years ago, this home features four bedrooms plus a den and beautiful custom interior finishes. The kitchen showcases a generous island, double ovens with Air Fryer option, granite & butcher block countertops, counter-depth refrigerator, accompanied by a mini fridge, under-counter lighting, gas stove, R/O system, and classic farmhouse sink. Other notable features are a junior suite with a private bathroom. The main bedroom offers double doors onto the patio. The main bathroom showcases a generous size rain shower. The living room is pre-wired for surround sound. The home is also pre-wired for a security system. A laundry room with a utility sink and custom cabinets, and mudroom with built-in cabinets. The garage has a beautiful epoxy-coated floor, insulated walls and attic, and a landing in the attic over the garage for storage. A tankless water heater. The home has a split floor plan layout with a spacious 3-car garage, expansive front and rear porches, and a stunning pool with a mini golf landscape. The property's front and backyard is low-maintenance landscaping for effortless upkeep. Experience the stunning mountain views from a spacious home site spanning over an acre. A true must-see!
27016 N 14th Lane
Phoenix, AZ 85085
$1,097,000
5
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,370
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6777466
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This competitively priced home simply screams ''dream home!!'' for its lucky future owner. As one of Pulte's model homes, they selected a PREMIUM lot, surrounded by views and just steps to the Sonoran Preserve for miles of hiking at your doorstep! The neighborhood of Fireside at Norterra has incredible jaw-dropping amenities, quick access to the I-17 and 101 freeways, convenient access to shopping and countless amazing restaurants, and is just minutes from several business headquarters including TSMC Semiconductor. The home itself is located on a quiet street with mountain views and privacy. From the moment you arrive you'll notice the stunning curb appeal and the desert landscaping. Imagine your life in the cozy courtyard with custom steel gate and seating area around the stone fireplace Once you step inside you'll feel the care that has been put into the home with the well-maintained details and improvements made by the current homeowners. The soaring ceiling of the living room with open concept to the kitchen are perfect for daily life, or entertaining your friends and family on special occasions, with a full-wall sliding glass door connecting the inside and outside spaces. The chef's kitchen features beautiful dark cabinetry, gas stainless stove, oversized refrigerator, butler's pantry with an additional drink fridge, and more. Speaking of the butler's pantry, what a perfect walkway to the formal dining room which opens into the courtyard for your entertaining delight. Also on the main level you'll find the primary suite, completed by a spacious primary bathroom with soaking tub, dual counters/sinks and vanity, along with two walk-in closets plus a large linen closet. The split floorplan not only features five bedrooms, but also a large loft area, office, and a separate casita/bonus room accessible through the front courtyard, so there is abundant space for everyone. The gorgeous backyard is perfect for taking in stunning sunset views, and gathering together with those you love. This immaculate home can be yours today, in addition Fireside's renowned amenities, including the community pools, newly-expanded gym, tennis courts, rock wall, and so much more. Come see it today, you'll be glad you did!
1966 E Calle De Arcos --
Tempe, AZ 85284
$1,096,950
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,968
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6733495
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
New Lower Price! Discounted $100k! Prime Location 4 Bedrooms - 1 downstairs for office. 3 full bathrooms. 3 car garage. Large grass backyard lot ¼ acre. Large covered patio with ceiling fans plus shaded pergola. Private pool with spa. Mature fruit trees. Lots of space for creative landscaping. Lots of shade. Vaulted ceilings. New flooring and carpet throughout. New paint inside and outside. 3- year old new AC units and air handlers. 2-year old premium solar power system for reduced electric. Large master bedroom suite. Large master bath with large tiled shower and travertine floor. Large walk-in closet. Large kitchen with island and breakfast dining area overlooking backyard. Formal dining room and attached living room, great for entertaining. Stained glass windows.
17903 W Solano Drive
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
$1,095,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,114
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6734160
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This is your opportunity to live in desirable gated custom home community of Russell Ranch, nestled in the foothills of the White Tank mountains. Tuscan inspired home with large courtyard entry to greet you. Fresh interior & exterior paint & two brand new AC systems. Boasting four bedrooms & 4.5 baths, this split floorplan features formal dining, two living areas, office/study, two stone gas fireplaces & gourmet kitchen. Highlights of the kitchen include lots of beautiful custom cabinets, two wall ovens, built in microwave, gas cooktop, stainless steel refrigerator, granite tile countertops with backsplash, island with prep sink & breakfast bar. Those who like to entertain will appreciate the separate bar/buffet area that conveniently opens to flex/living room. Enclosed butler's pantry provides extra storage & features cabinets with glass doors. Breakfast nook with views to back patio. Kitchen is open to family room where you can enjoy a gas fireplace with stone surround. Relaxing Owner's retreat also has stone surround gas fireplace & double door entry as well as French doors to back patio. The ensuite includes split double vanities, jetted tub, walk in travertine shower, private toilet room & spacious walk in closet. Private office located adjacent to owner's suite has exterior door access to front courtyard. Expansive curved covered rear patio perfect for entertaining. Grass & mature palm trees highlight the landscaping on this large pool sized lot. Double RV gate & 3 car garage with lots of exterior parking on corner lot. Recent improvements completed July 2024 include exterior paint, interior paint & two new 5 ton, 14 Seer, Goodman A/C Systems. Easy access to freeways, shopping, dining, hiking, golf and schools.
19732 W Mulberry Drive
Buckeye, AZ 85396
$1,095,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,602
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6714538
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Unparalleled Multi-Generational Oasis. Welcome to your dream home where every member of the family finds their perfect sanctuary. Conveniently located in a family-friendly community with top-rated schools, parks, shopping, and dining options nearby. Plus, with easy access to major highways, commuting is a breeze. Ideal for extended families, in-laws, or savvy investors, this property offers a unique blend of luxury, comfort, and versatility. The residence spans over 4,600 square feet, this Maracay-built masterpiece boasts 5 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, 3-car garage and RV parking. Enjoy breathtaking mountain views from the oversized .42-acre lot. Step inside to discover an executive gourmet kitchen featuring an oversized granite island, stainless steel appliances, and a custom walk-in pantry The open concept living area is perfect for gatherings, while 16' stackable patio doors seamlessly connect indoor and outdoor spaces. The NextGen Suite is attached to the main house but with a separate entrance, the 750 square foot Generation Suite offers privacy and independence. Complete with a living and dining area, kitchenette, laundry room, and a spacious master bedroom with an en-suite bathroom and walk-in closet, this suite is perfect for aging parents, guests, or young adults seeking autonomy. Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU), escape to the 850 square foot detached casita nestled in the backyard oasis. This fully equipped space features a living room, dining area, kitchen, laundry room, bedroom, and luxurious bathroom. With high-end finishes and thoughtful design, it's an ideal retreat for visiting family, friends, or potential rental income. In the outdoor paradise you will experience resort-style living with an automated saltwater pool, fountains, lush landscaping, and covered patios spanning over 1,300 square feet. Whether you're relaxing by the pool or hosting a barbecue, this outdoor haven is perfect for year-round enjoyment. This incredible property has it all including Google Alexa SmartHome controls, stage 2 - 220V / 40 Amp EV car charger connection, Green Living: This home is LEED Certified, offering healthy, highly efficient, and cost-saving green living. With three 16 SEER Lennox A/C systems, LG Mini Split A/C's in bedrooms, and a tankless gas water heater, comfort and sustainability go hand in hand. Don't miss the opportunity to own this unparalleled multi-generational oasis. Whether you're seeking a forever home for your family or an investment opportunity with multiple revenue streams, this property offers endless possibilities. Schedule a showing today and prepare to be amazed!
6616 S Bridal Vail Drive
Gilbert, AZ 85298
$1,095,000
5
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,825
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6742793
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to Seville in Gilbert, AZ, a luxurious master-planned community featuring high-end homes, lush landscaping, and resort-style amenities, including the optional Seville Golf & Country Club with golf, pools, and fitness facilities. This home in Seville is positioned beautifully on the golf course and corner lot in a gated golf course community. It features a fun, relaxing backyard that can entertain guests with lots of space, a private swimming pool, a cabana, and a built-in BBQ grill with all the amenities. This home also features a split four-car garage, and one of the bays is tandem, giving you plenty of space for a larger vehicle or a boat, etc. The inside of the house features a split floor plan, and a large great room is in the middle. The chef's delight gourmet kitchen has two built-in stoves, a beautiful gas cooktop, and a large kitchen island. The master bedroom features a separate exit to the backyard, dual closets, dual sinks, and a separate shower and tub.