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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96 E Lindsay Way
Sedona, AZ 86351
$1,062,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,840
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6775849
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Charming Turnkey Oasis in VOC: A Dual Purpose Dream Welcome to your new sanctuary-an impeccably maintained single-level home nestled in the vibrant Village of Oak Creek, where the breathtaking beauty of Castle Rock and Courthouse Butte greets you daily. This STR-friendly gem is more than just a home; it's a gateway to the perfect balance between personal retreat and investment opportunity, all without the burden of an HOA. Step inside and be enveloped by the spaciousness of the bright, open split floor plan, where stylish tile flooring create a seamless flow. The inviting Great Room features soaring high ceilings and an abundance of custom glass windows that bathe the space in natural light, highlighting the stunning wood beams that crown the room. The decorative entry door, flanked by gymnasium glass, welcomes you into this cozy sanctuary. Marvel at the intricate inlaid tile circle in the foyer and the shimmering tile surround of the fireplace design elements that set the tone for the custom finishes throughout. At the heart of this home lies the chef's kitchen, a culinary paradise equipped with granite countertops and a full backsplash. Stainless steel appliances, Samsung Fridge, Bosch Dishwasher, GE5-burner gas cooktop, a built-in microwave, compactor and custom cabinets including a charming wine rack make entertaining a delight. Enjoy meals in multiple dining areas, whether it's in the light-filled interior or al fresco under the covered patio just steps away. Retreat to the primary bedroom suite, a haven of tranquility featuring a luxurious bathroom adorned with tiled accent walls and Venetian plaster finishes. Indulge in dual vanities with raised stone sinks, a separate walk-in shower, and an oversized jetted tub, all complemented by an exquisite wall of glass and charming saloon-style doors to the water closet. Two cozy guest bedrooms share a beautifully designed full bath, and the bedroom adjacent to the kitchen, currently serving as an office, offers flexible space for your lifestyle needs. Step outside to your private covered patio, where entertaining takes center stage. Fire up the gourmet grill and savor the stunning vistas as you unwind in the shade, equipped with pull-down sun screens for those sun-drenched afternoons. With ample space for a pool, hot tub, and game area, this oversized lot is your canvas for outdoor living. Situated in a neighborhood perfect for walking, jogging, and wildlife spotting, this home is ideally located between two world-class golf courses and just moments from community amenities, including a dog park, grocery store, dining, shopping, and fitness options. Sold fully furnished.complete with tasteful decor, art, and wares: this home is ready for you to move in and make it your own. (Note: personal items in the garage do not convey.) Whether you seek a primary residence, a getaway retreat, or a lucrative investment opportunity, this VOC charmer is the perfect place to call home. Embrace the lifestyle you deserve in a home that seamlessly blends comfort and opportunity.
6924 E Canyon Wren Circle
Scottsdale, AZ 85266
$1,060,000
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,444
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6719525
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Move In Ready home in gated Terravita Golf & Country Club. This 2 bedroom + den home boasts custom southwest upgrades with custom designer touches. It sits on an easy care, premium, corner lot that backs & sides natural desert. It's just a quick walk, or drive, to the Country Club with workout room, restaurant, pool, tennis, pickleball & more! The greatroom overlooks the covered patio & beautiful desert. Both bedrooms are en-suite with walk-in closets, and the Master bedroom has a separate exit to the backyard. Enjoy entertaining guests in your private yard with a built-in bbq. RECENT UPGRADES: granite counters in kitchen & bar area, roof 2019, Main HVAC replaced Nov 2023, A3 Home Security, microwave, R/O, BBQ refurbished, irrigation. All furnishings available on separate bill of sale
16716 W Holly Street
Goodyear, AZ 85395
$1,060,000
4
Beds
4
Baths
3,134
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6757908
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to an exquisite retreat in the heart of PebbleCreek. This home exudes sophistication from the moment you arrive, boasting a seamless blend of contemporary and classic charm. Gourmet kitchen features top-of-the-line appliances, a generous island, and a butlers, walk-in pantry. In addition to the main residence, this property features a beautifully appointed casita. This charming guest house provides a private retreat for visitors or could serve as a versatile space for a home office, gym, or studio. The meticulously landscaped backyard is an entertainer's paradise, complete with a built-in BBQ area and oversized covered patio. With its unparalleled amenities and prime location in the prestigious PebbleCreek golf community, this home represents the pinnacle of desert living.
1779 E Kaibab Drive
Chandler, AZ 85249
$1,060,000
7
Beds
5
Baths
5,818
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6768175
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
SELLER CARRY BACK AT LOW INTEREST RATE AVAILABLE!! Come explore this spacious 7 bedroom, 5 bathroom estate in the exclusive gated community of North Barrington in south Chandler. Spanning 5,818 sqft on a massive 12,325 sqft lot, this home features a private, newly resurfaced pool, new turf, and expansive indoor/outdoor living spaces. Inside, enjoy a modern open floor plan, stunning bamboo flooring, and south-facing windows that flood the home with natural light. A main-level primary suite, guest suite, dual laundry rooms, and upgraded finishes throughout elevate the experience. Recent updates include a new pool surface, A/C units, and granite countertops. Don't miss this dream home!
4055 N Recker Road Unit 40
Mesa, AZ 85215
$1,060,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
3,176
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6733651
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Disregard days on the market,,,Buyer's contingency expired Discover this exquisite custom home nestled within the gated community of Country Club Estates at Red Mountain Ranch. Perfectly positioned on the 17th green, this residence offers stunning views of the signature golf course and breathtaking mountain vistas. Spanning over 3,100 square feet, this single-story home boasts soaring ceilings and a thoughtfully designed layout, featuring 3 bedrooms, a custom office with built-in cabinetry, and 3 full bathrooms. Step into the inviting great room, where formal dining and expansive windows create a seamless connection to the backyard oasis. The chef's kitchen is a culinary masterpiece, complete with custom cabinetry, a large island with seating, a Viking gas stove, Thermador double ovens, a built-in microwave and a KitchenAid wine fridge in the bar dedicated area. Adjacent to the kitchen, the cozy family room with a fireplace provides excellent views and a warm ambiance. The luxurious primary bedroom offers an oversized retreat with a large walk-in closet, sitting areas, and direct access to the backyard. The ensuite bathroom is a spa-like haven, featuring a massive marble shower, dual sinks, a private toilet room, custom cabinetry, and ample storage. The additional bedrooms are thoughtfully separated, each with walk-in closets and access to a beautifully appointed full bathroom.The outdoor space is a true sanctuary, featuring travertine pavers, an extended covered patio, a sparkling heated pool renovated in 2020, a gas firepit, and a built-in BBQ with an eat-up bar. This meticulously maintained property has it all! Enjoy the amenities of the Red Mountain Country Club, including a golf course, clubhouse with a restaurant, workout facilities, a pool, tennis, and pickleball courts. With so much to offer, this home is a rare find. Don't miss your chance to own this exceptional property!
9026 E Casitas Del Rio Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$1,060,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,900
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6758221
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Eloquently remodeled home! Thoughtfully redesigned, modern finishes,high-quality materials,custom cabinetry,upgraded lighting & enhanced storage solutions,resulting in an aesthetically pleasing environment.The updates provide enhanced comfort,style & value to the home. 5 bdrm.,3 baths,1 bed & bath downstairs.Loft has home office/kids work station area.Backyard is an entertainer's paradise, w/sparkling pool,soothing cascading waterfall,blt.in BBQ and cozy firepit, perfect for hosting cookouts or enjoying meals under the open sky.Whether you're taking a refreshing dip or lounging poolside,the combination of the inviting water & lush desert landscaping creates a serene oasis for relaxation & fun!Short walk to coffee shops,grocery store & fine dining!Click on more for list of upgrades. The following list show the extensive remodeling and upgrades performed throughout the home. Each area of the home has been thoughtfully redesigned with modern finishes, custom cabinetry, upgraded lighting, and enhanced storage solutions. Special attention was given to the balance between functionality and aesthetics, with premium materials and craftsmanship evident in every room. * Installed designer tile flooring throughout the main level, providing a cohesive and modern look. * Redesigned the staircase with a modern curved design, featuring iron railings and high-end finishes. Work completed by AZ Stairs. * Living Room- Removed old arches to create a more open and contemporary space. Installed designer lighting to enhance ambiance and modernize the room. * Dining Room- Added a built-in bar with custom cabinetry, featuring glass shelving from Rejuvenation. Integrated a wine rack display, ice maker, and wine fridge for a functional and stylish entertainment area. * Family Room- Installed new sliding glass doors. Upgraded the fireplace with a new design, creating a feature wall for added visual appeal. * Kitchen- Expanded the space with new custom wood cabinetry and an island. Installed quartz countertops and a matching backsplash. Added new appliances including a refrigerator/freezer, double convection ovens, gas cooktop, and a chef's sink. Enhanced with designer lighting and expanded the pantry with faux panel tiles, shelving, and outlets for small appliances. * Downstairs Bathroom- Upgraded with new shower tile, a vanity backsplash, a glass door, and designer lighting from Arhaus. * Laundry Room- Installed custom cabinetry. Added two side-by-side double stack washer and dryers for increased laundry capacity. Included a dog bath, mounted rod, and a folding ironing board for convenience. * Den/Bedroom- New tile flooring and designer lighting. Added wainscoting for a refined look. The closet was fitted with outlets and wide shelving for office equipment. * Upstairs- Installed upgraded vinyl tile flooring * Third Bedroom- Enlarged the closet for additional storage. Added mirror doors and a new fan/light fixture. * Fourth Bedroom- Improved the closet storage with enhanced organization solutions. * Bathrooms- Added faux tile panels that are removable, offering a stylish yet flexible design solution. * Master Bathroom- With the exception of minor updates, the original design was maintained. * Loft- Installed a custom cabinet desk area for a functional workspace. Added a new light fixture to brighten the area. * 3 Car Garage- Applied epoxy flooring for a clean, durable finish. Added a fridge and overhead storage to maximize functionality. * Backyard Upgrades- Installed designer lighting to enhance the ambiance. Re-stained and painted the cool deck for a refreshed look. * Cleaned up the landscaping in both the front and back yards for improved curb appeal. * Previous owner painted inside and outside and installed top of the line Lennox HVAC units.
18624 W Cathedral Rock Drive
Goodyear, AZ 85338
$1,056,428
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,316
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6782315
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Former model home of the Orion is a 3,316 square feet floor plan with 4 Bedrooms + Study + Casita, 4.5 Baths, and a 3 Car Garage. Offering a generous Master Suite, the Orion includes a large Walk-In Shower. The secondary bedrooms are designed to be on the opposing side of the home giving everyone their own space. This home also offers a gorgeous porch, courtyard, and an extended covered patio to enjoy these areas when guests are coming over. This home is loaded with high end, model home options! Bring your pickiest buyers!!
12325 N Petra (lot 243) Circle
Prescott, AZ 86305
$1,050,196
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,557
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6652431
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF BUILDER INCENTIVES! $20,000 BUILDER OPTIONS CREDIT or 1 YEAR INTEREST RATE BUY DOWN TO 5.99%. Whispering Canyon new construction release in Prescott! Natural setting, lush topography on over 1/2 ac with RV Garage. Open great room design w/ 10' ceilings throughout. Standard features include tile & carpet in common area, carpet in bedrooms, windows galore, soffit ceiling, chef kitchen w/ breakfast bar island, granite & cabinet options, pantry, appliances & access to covered back patio. Owner en suite has walk in shower, large closet & dual sink vanity. 2 guest bedrooms share full bath, + large office/den (or 4th bedroom), & 1/2 bath. You select builder options/design finishes. Front landscaping is included. Covered paver patio & driveway standard. VISIT OUR MODEL HOME.
32568 N 142nd Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$1,050,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,025
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6604868
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
*TO BE BUILT OR WE CAN BUILD YOUR DEAM HOME ON THIS GREAT LOT WITH INCREADIBLE VIEWS!! . THE SPACIOUS 4 BDROOM, 3 BATHS HAVE 3025 SQUAREFEET., LARGE ISLAND, 4 CAR GARAGE **PICTURES ARE OF A PREVIOUSLY BUILT 3025 PLAN AND MAY CONTAIN FEATURES OR UPGRADES NOT INCLUDED.
14117 E Aloe Vera Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$1,050,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,025
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6604864
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
**TO BE BUILT OR WE CAN BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME ON THIS GREAT LOT WITH INCREDIBLE VIEWS!. PICTURES ARE OF A PREVIOUSLY BUILT 3025 PLAN AND MAY CONTAIN FEATURES OR UPGRADES NOT INCLUDED
32442 N 142nd Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$1,050,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,025
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6604869
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
*TO BE BUILT OR WE CAN BUILD YOUR DEAM HOME ON THIS GREAT LOT WITH INCREADIBLE VIEWS!! . THE SPACIOUS 4 BDROOM, 3 BATHS HAVE 3025 SQUAREFEET., LARGE ISLAND, 4 CAR GARAGE **PICTURES ARE OF A PREVIOUSLY BUILT 3025 PLAN AND MAY CONTAIN FEATURES OR UPGRADES NOT INCLUDED.
Show Low
AZ 85901
$1,050,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
3,080
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6761552
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautifully appointed single-level custom home in the highly sought after Sierra Pines. Nestled on cul-de-sac 1+/- acre lot in the tall pines. Upgrades include new roof in 2021, A/C in 2023, water heater in 2024 & back deck redone in June 2024. Boasting Gourmet Kitchen, Office/Flex Rm with a separate entrance, Spacious Bd Rms, Great Rm + Den, Formal Dining Rm, Clawfoot Tub in Guest Bath, Separate Tub/Walk-in Shower in Master Bath and the list goes on.