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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9026 W Villa Lindo Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$1,049,900

6 Beds

3 Baths

3,669 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6595438

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Acre lot paradise! North Peoria, 85383! No HOA! RV gate! RV parking! Mountain views! Private pool! Remodeled inside and out! Notice the new stucco and paint as you drive up to the house. Pull into the four-car Porte Cochere in the U-shape driveway, with space for plenty of other parking if needed. Notice all the custom wood work as you enter in through the French door main entrance. The kitchen has been fully updated with new cabinets, white marble quartz counters, stainless steel appliances, a stainless steel vent hood with a matching Farmhouse sink. As you walk to the house, you'll notice several areas with natural light from the skylights built into the ceilings and Wood-like tile making cleaning simple. The main living room has been remodeled with custom A-frame vaulted wood ceilings. The home is equipped with new HVAC, and dual pane windows, making the home very efficient. As you step into the backyard, you'll notice large open spaces with modern landscaping updates, great for entertaining! There are three pergolas, three covered patios, and a covered RV area that has been used for large events. There is a hot tub by the primary bathroom exit and an inviting pool, great for the hot summer months.

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26595 N 86th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,049,900

3 Beds

3 Baths

3,140 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6677531

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Seller has invested over 200k in upgrades. A competitively priced retreat nestled on the tranquil cul-de-sac of Vistana is a dream come true! A spacious 3-car garage with an extended driveway will greet you upon arrival. Discover a captivating interior showcasing gleaming wood-look floor, soothing color palette, high ceilings, & bountiful natural light. The spotless kitchen boasts white cabinetry with crown molding, pantry, SS appliances, quartz counters, recessed lighting, & a center island for extra space. The large main retreat features soft carpet throughout, private access to the balcony, & a lavish ensuite complete with dual sinks. Prepare to be impressed by the oversized backyard, offering a covered patio, a sparkling swimming pool, & picturesque blue sky! Don't miss this rare gem!

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7520 E Mcknight Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,049,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,148 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6724563

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Opportunity Zone! Excellent buy and hold Short term rental or Development opportunity! Incredible,fully furnished 3 Bed 2 Bath home in Old Town! Brand new renovation with all new modern finishes and designer furniture. New Cabinetry, Stainless steel appliances, porcelain tile, granite countertops, New electrical, plumbing, roof, Hvac, owned solar! Unbelievable location in downtown Old Town, Scottsdale's Entertainment District ! Walking distance to hundreds of restaurants and entertainment options. Zoned Downtown Overlay, Please see proforma from GoodNight Stay for Short term rental as well development proforma for 4 units.

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1411 E Carob Drive Gilbert, AZ 85298

Open House

$1,049,900

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,361 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769919

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to Waterston: Community Lives Here! Step into Luxury & Comfort with this stunning 5 Bed/ 3.5 Bath home located in a Prestigious, Secure & Gated Community. From the moment you enter, you'll be captivated by the elegant design, open floor plan, and high-end finishes that set this home apart. The property rests on a Premium lot providing plenty of privacy in the backyard. Features You'll Love: $115k in Recent Upgrades;Fabulous Resort-Style Pool,Spacious Living Areas, Master Suite Retreat, Security and Privacy, Amazing Community Amenities. This home in Waterston is not just a place to liveâ''it's a lifestyle! Whether you're relaxing by the pool, entertaining guests, or enjoying the amenities the community has to offer, you'll love every moment.

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12700 N Stella Road Prescott, AZ 86305

$1,049,500

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,324 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6744015

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Where every day feels like a vacation! REDUCED & priced below appraised value 9/24! Why wait to build! Gorgeous home on a .84 acre lot in Whispering Canyon GATED community is like-new & move-in ready! Completed in Jan 2022 w/over $90k in upgrades! Pride of ownership shows in the 3 bedrooms+ flex space, 2.5 bath UPSCALE home. Enjoy Panoramic Mountain views. Backs up to Forest trees w/easy access to hiking trails. Open concept floorplan with inviting foyer leads you to the great room featuring 10'+ soffit ceilings w/beam accents & gas fireplace. Dining area w/sliding door window wall to ext covered back patio. Special touches include custom pet wash, barn doors & many extras. Stunning chef-inspired gourmet kitchen featuring soft-close cabinets, high-end marble backsplash, quartz countertops, large working island, stainless appliances and walk-in pantry. Split floor plan has a spacious primary ensuite that shows beautifully w/tray ceiling, hanging pendant lighting & garden door with access to patio. The luxury primary bathroom offers a tiled walk-in spa shower, double vanity & spacious W/I & linen closets. This property feels tucked away. Enjoy the feeling of privacy in the tranquil outdoors through wrought iron view fencing in this low maintenance designed backyard complete w/fire feature, pavers & artificial turf. Close to hiking trails, Embry Riddle University, Willow & Watson Lakes and Antelope Hills Golf Course. Less than 30 minutes to downtown restaurants, shopping and nightlife. This could be your Home Sweet Home in Arizona!

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940 E Saddlehorn Road Sedona, AZ 86351

$1,049,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,188 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6625101

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Great potential for those looking for a picturesque home OR a vacation rental investment. Prior owners operated a successful VR and plans are provided to convert RV/workshop structure (1568 sq ft) into ADU (see pictures). Main house is freshly painted. Surrounded by nature & wildlife, waterfall in back yard adds serenity to your Sedona retreat. Includes whole home generator, EV charger, patio with gas grill hookup, both AC & Evap cooling, and private well so no water bills! Massive circular drive and additional parking, all pavers. Kel Fox trail and Coconino National Forest literally in your back yard, and other popular trails like Bell Rock in your front yard. Great restaurants, shops, and golf all within 1 mile. Location provides easy access to Phoenix - you can have it all!

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20802 N Grayhawk Drive Unit 1162 Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,049,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,305 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6757472

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Nestled in the highly sought-after guard-gated community of Avian at Grayhawk, this absolutely gorgeous golf townhouse offers both luxury and location. Situated on a prime north-south lot backing to the 2nd fairway of Grayhawk Golf Course, you'll enjoy sweeping golf course and mountain views from your private patio, which backs to a beautiful desert landscape (NAOS). Step inside to an open great room concept, where the remodeled kitchen overlooks the spacious living area—perfect for entertaining. The unit was completely remodeled in 2021 with the latest high-end designer upgrades. New engineered hardwood flooring runs throughout the main living areas, complemented by new interior paint and plush newer carpeting in the bedrooms. The custom kitchen features brand-new cabinets, Alaskan granite countertops, and premium stainless-steel appliances by Dacor and KitchenAid. The fireplace in the great room has been re-stoned, and the space is illuminated by custom light fixtures, canned LED lighting, and a large ceiling fan. The home offers 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, including a split master suite for added privacy and a convenient Jack & Jill layout upstairs. The master suite boasts designer upgrades with an expanded shower w/stunning golf course views, a built-out closet, new vanity, custom mirror, new backsplash, and porcelain floors. Enjoy the comfort of a new ceiling fan and custom lighting in the owner's suite. The Jack & Jill bathroom upstairs has been completely remodeled with new cabinets, granite countertops, new sinks, and tile. The powder room features new lighting, designer wall paper and an added linen cabinet. All new window treatments downstairs and six new replacement windows enhance the home's aesthetic and energy efficiency. For peace of mind, a new roof and Trane HVAC system were installed in 2023. Located near upscale dining, shopping, world-class golf, tennis, and scenic walking trails, with easy access to Loop 101, this home is both beautiful and functional.

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27234 N Javelina Trail Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$1,049,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,991 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769557

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Tranquil and private location in the gated golf community of Tonto Verde. Great room, open kitchen, formal & casual dining, two bedrooms, den/office, and multi purpose room/3rd bedroom. Two & half baths, large laundry room, view windows w/ Hunter Douglas window coverings. Fully equipped gourmet kitchen w/ Viking appliance. Propane cooktop/double oven. Primary suite with access to patio & heated spa. Ensuite guest bedroom, bath with tile shower & single vanity. Back patio has beehive fireplace, built in BBQ, wrap around patio with shaded areas for dining & relaxing. Front courtyard with mature landscaping and views of the 16th hole on the Ranch course. Some Furniture and Golf Cart included. Golf Memberships available for two championship golf courses. Pickle Ball courts to open soon.

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3048 Ponderosa Road Overgaard, AZ 85933

$1,049,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

3,248 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6773845

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Find your own Sanctuary on 3.01 acres right in Overgaard on paved street. This 3-br/3-ba home has an attached 2 car garage. Also, a 1,500 sf steel, insulated garage workshop with drive through rollup doors. Matching 20' Connex allows everything to have its shelter. Granite countertops, 14' ceilings, double-sided fireplace, tongue and groove, front and back decks, laminate flooring, large loft with pool table, completely fenced and lots of mature pines, juniper and cedar. Remodeled and refinished. Paved drive and RV parking, zoned heating, HVAC A/C, pellet stove and brick fireplace. Property can be split. Buyer to verify material facts of interest, Home warranty included. Seller is licensed real estate agent in Arizona.

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4556 E Madre Del Oro Drive Cave Creek, AZ 85331

New

$1,049,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,879 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6771627

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

**LISTING LAUNCH ON WEDNESDAY 11/20 WITH STAGING, PICTURES AND VIDEO WALKTHROUGH** The BEST corner lot in Tatum Ranch! This meticulously maintained 5 bed, 3 bath home is ideally located near Tatum Ranch Golf Club and Cave Creek's top dining and shopping. Relax in the salt water pool, which is rare to find! The large backyard oasis also features a custom 3-hole putting green, new low-maintenance turf, and a new paver walkway. With no neighbors to the front and located on a circle drive, enjoy the stunning uninterrupted sunset views. A whole house RO system and water softener, installed in 2022, is a must-have in Phoenix and already done for you! Perfect for anyone wanting to enjoy the golfing, nature, and proximity to local hot spots - don't miss your chance to make it yours!

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7010 N 13th Place Phoenix, AZ 85020

$1,049,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,010 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6677302

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

REDUCED!! EXTENSIVE UPDATES: Matte Glazed Porcelain Tile Throughout, Updated Baths, Updated Electrical, SmartTechnology, Extensive Updated Landscaping, Addition of 3 Windows, Full Primary Custom Closet Organizer System & SO MUCH MORE! With its unique floor plan, this home offers a refreshing departure from the ordinary. Inside you will find 4 bedrooms & 3.5 baths. The Primary is a retreat unto itself featuring custom wallpaper, multiple seating areas and a truly luxurious closet. Feel that fresh breeze in your very own Backyard Oasis! Dive into the Sparkling Pool to cool off on warm days, rinse off under the refreshing Outdoor Shower & gather around the cozy Fire Pit as the sun sets. Embrace the joys of indoor/outdoor living & create lasting memories. Fetured in Haven Lifestyles Magazine.

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16132 E Andrew Drive Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$1,049,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,897 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6741508

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Motivated seller ! Great interior .36 acre corner lot in the heart of Fountain Hills! Owned 2024 solar system-cost for May-Sept averaged only $99/mo! Great home for entertaining! High ceilings thruout. Formal living & dining + great room style kit & fam rm. Island kit offers 42'' cabinets, stainless appliances, granite counters & lg walk-in pantry. Dine on the lg covered patio or relax in the pool & rear yard w/ multiple patios. Primary bd suite has sitting area, rear yard access & bath w/dual sink vanities, walk-in shower, soaking tub & custom closet. Plantation shutters thruout, water softener, R/O, Instahot faucet, security door, newer garage doors, garage cabinets, sun screens, gutters, fruit tree. New drip system. NEWER roof & ext paint. Most furniishings avail on sep bill of sale

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