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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4935 E Dale Lane Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$975,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,942 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6752925

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Located in the highly desirable Tatum Ranch, this true 5-bedroom, 3-bath home is perfectly positioned with ideal north/south exposure on a corner lot. The home features spacious living areas, including a large eat-in kitchen with a beautiful gas cooktop. The backyard is a true Arizona retreat, offering unobstructed sunset views around an oversized fire pit, and an elevated spa adds a touch of luxury. The property also boasts a three-car garage with built-in storage cabinets and plenty of additional storage space. This home is a total win!

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14017 N Whispering Lake Drive Sun City, AZ 85351

$975,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,617 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6749068

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

STUNNING doesn't begin to describe this house & its lake views. Spacious and bright, from the gorgeous Mahogany front entry to the gourmet kitchen that boasts 2'X 4' porcelain floors, crown molding, granite countertops with a 9' island, custom cabinetry, microwave & refrigerated drawers, & a wall of windows. Primary suite features glass sliders w/ breathtaking lake views, an oversized walk-in closet, a spa-like bathtub & trustone shower, double sinks, custom vanity, laundry closet w/ hybrid W/D combo & a private patio entrance. There are two ensuites & a 4th BR/den for guests. A hybrid water heater cools the garage while heating water. Boat, kayak or wind surf from your own dock, enjoy the swans from a covered patio or take the spiral staircase to the observation deck for a lake panorama!

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3129 S Honeysuckle Court Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$975,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

3,300 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6757432

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

RARE 4 BEDROOM VILLA IN SUPERSTITION MOUNTAIN! MAIN VILLA HAS 2 BEDROOMS AND 2 BATHS. TWO GUEST HOUSES, ONE WITH A LIVING, KITCHENETTE AND SEPARATE BEDROOM AREA. THE OTHER IS ON THE SECOND LEVEL WITH IT'S OWN PRIVATE BALCONY. MAIN HOUSE HAS AN OPEN GREAT ROOM, KITCHEN, DINING AREA LAYOUT. NEWLY PAINTED INSIDE. NEW VINYL FLOORING IN 3 BEDROOMS. EXPANSIVE BACK PATIO INCLUDES A DINING AND SITTING AREA AND A SEPARATE SIDE PATIO WITH A FIRE PIT. GREAT LOCATION-WALKING DISTANCE TO THE FITNESS AND CLUBHOUSE. TWO JACK NICKLAUS GOLF COURSES. NOT A GOLFER? ENJOY PICKLE BALL, BOCCE, TENNIS, HIKING ANY MANY OTHER ACTIVITIES COUNTRY CLUB LIVING AT ITS BEST! CLUB AMENITIES UNDER A SEPARATE AGREEMENT. 35 MINUTES TO SKY HARBOR AND 20 MINUES TO MESA GATEWAY AIRPORTS. BUYER AND OR BUYER'S AGENT TO VERIFY ALL PERTINANT INFORMATIONA INCLUDED SQUARE FOOTAGE.

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4021 S Tumbleweed Court Chandler, AZ 85248

$975,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,558 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6773940

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover the Unexpected - Your Next Chapter Awaits in Fulton Ranch! Nestled on a corner lot in a quiet cul-de-sac with only one neighbor, this home offers a rare blend of luxury & smart living. Imagine elegant crown molding, a custom stone entertainment wall, & a state-of-the-art Control4 system w/surround sound. Step into a kitchen with R.O. & instant hot water, while app-controlled smart features make everyday life effortless. The owner's suite offers a luxurious space to unwind, and the private backyard with a covered patio is perfect for outdoor living. With thoughtful storage, including 4 ceiling-suspended bins & 3 poly resin cabinets, there's space for everything. **Bonus: All furniture & appliances included, plus a lifetime warranty on Moen fixtures! You have to see it to believe

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14765 N Brenda Road Prescott, AZ 86305

$975,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,351 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6768488

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Gorgeous Home Nestled in the scenic beauty of Williamson Valley, this home exudes charm with its tongue-and-groove ceilings, creating a cozy, rustic feel. The chef's kitchen is a dream, boasting a double oven, gas cooktop, and ample space for meal prep and entertaining. The primary suite features a spacious walk-in closet and opens directly to an expansive deck, offering breathtaking views of the city and surrounding natural beauty.In addition to a two-car garage, the property includes a large RV garage and a separate workshop, perfect for hobbies or storage. For equestrian enthusiasts, the property offers a two-stall barn with a wash and tie area, electric and water, a large turnout, and an arena, providing the perfect setup for horses. This property shares a well, ensuring a reliable water source, and is located in a wonderful neighborhood, where wildlife is a common sight in your own backyard.

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4613 S Pearl Drive Chandler, AZ 85249

$975,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,056 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6765288

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This incredible 3,000 sq ft home offers 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and is perfectly located adjacent to Veteran's Oasis Park, with 113 acres of scenic trails. Situated on a spacious 16,259 sq ft corner lot with view fencing that looks out to the natural desert landscape of the park, providing a serene and private retreat. The house is filled with luxurious upgrades, including a 20-foot sliding pocket door, oversized travertine patio, and wood tile flooring. The chef's kitchen is a dream, featuring double ovens and plenty of space for cooking and entertaining. The primary suite is a standout, with a massive bathroom, his-and-hers closets, and elegant design. The backyard is professionally landscaped, offering a large turf west side yard and large east side yard , a covered ramada and a... designer pool. The pie-shaped corner lot provides incredible outdoor space, making it perfect for relaxing or hosting gatherings with no neighbors in sight. Additional features include a den, teen room, great room, and a large covered patio. There is also a third garage space that's ideal for extra storage. This home offers the ultimate combination of privacy, comfort, and luxury, surrounded by natural beauty.

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7840 W Freedline Drive Flagstaff, AZ 86001

$975,000

5 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,940 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6765167

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful home in Whitehorse Park sits on a 2.56-acre lot with plenty of Aspens, Pines, and a view of the SF Peeks. 5 bedrooms and 2.5 baths with a loft. Large kitchen with granite countertops and stainless-steel appliances. The concrete patio with an outdoor fireplace is perfect for watching wildlife. With a 4-car garage, there is plenty of room for vehicles and snowmobiles. This home is completely off-grid with solar power, a backup propane generator, and a 5000-gallon water cistern. Do you like to ski the snow bowel ski area is a short 15-minute snowmobile ride through the woods to the base of the restaurant and only a 25-minute drive to downtown Flagstaff. Seller may consider selling furnished. Residents currently snowplow allowing for winter access after FS closes the gate.

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18233 E Cherry Hills Place Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$975,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,568 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6766289

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Incredibly rare opportunity to own this stunning one of a kind home in the sought after area of Queen Creek! This beautiful horse property features a convenient corral along with a 2-car garage with built in storage and work bench nestled on 2.35 acres with NO HOA! The spacious open floor plan, enhanced by a wood-burning fireplace, creates an ideal layout for entertaining. A custom palette sets a welcoming tone, complemented by tile flooring and exposed beams on the vaulted ceilings. The chef's kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances,double ovens, hickory cabinets, solid surface counters, ample storage, and a center island with a breakfast bar. The versatile loft can serve as an entertainment area or in home office space. The main suite offers wood-look floors and a Jack & Jill bathroom, while an additional bonus room can be utilized as an office or media room. Not to mention, the sizable AZ room for all the activities! Wonderfully suited for family or a personal business with plenty of space for the kids and dogs to run and play. Property has a unique view of the San Tan Mountains and a fully fenced yard with mature citrus trees. Come and feel the peaceful and restful vibe throughout the home! Located in the CUSD is a little bit country in the heart of the growing city. Don't miss out on this exceptional property!

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1026 Yavapai Hills Drive Prescott, AZ 86301

$975,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

3,643 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6773675

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning panoramic views from this beautifully appointed 4 bdrm, 4-bath home in Yavapai Hills! This luxurious property features Brazilian Cherry hardwood floors & a dramatic floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace in the great rm, creating an inviting & elegant atmosphere. The kitchen boasts granite countertops & backsplash, stainless steel appliances & plenty of storage space.Enjoy entertaining in the fantastic game room, complete w/ a wet bar & adjoining guest quarters. Hobbyist's dream workshop or craft room for all your creative pursuits. Main-level living makes for easy accessibility. Laundry room comes equipped with a sink, cabinetry, & ample storage space. Nestled against common areas, this home offers added privacy & tranquil retreat. Oversized 2 car garage & easy driveway.

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11234 E Oberlin Way Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$975,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,826 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6772080

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this stunning 5 bedroom/3 bath home nestled in a serene cul-de-sac of the coveted Echo Ridge neighborhood in Troon North, Scottsdale. The home boasts a spacious floorplan complemented by vaulted ceilings and lots of windows offering an abundance of natural light. The backyard is a private and peaceful oasis with its heated, saltwater pool, exquisite gas firepit, extended covered patio and SPECTACULAR DESERT VIEWS. The spacious primary bedroom with its private balcony that overlooks the desert, is truly a PRIVATE SANCTUARY of its own. This meticulously maintained home not only offers aesthetic beauty and comfort, but practical updates such as a new roof underlayment (2021), HVAC systems (2020,2021), water heater (2023), sunscreens (2023), under counter RO system(2022), a 3-car garage with an extensive built-in storage system and workbench, and low maintenance yards. A fresh coat of exterior paint is scheduled for November 7th. 2x6 construction with fiberglass insulation makes for an energy efficient home that modern homeowners desire. This gorgeous turnkey home has easy access to scenic hiking trails, The George 'Doc' Cavalliere Park, restaurants, shopping and highway. Don't miss your chance to own a piece of paradise in Scottsdale.

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36425 N 10th Street Phoenix, AZ 85086

$975,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,136 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6773406

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Fantastic Desert Hills property is a Horsemans Dream. Built by a Horseman. Charming home has been updated with Solid wood doors, dual pane windows and blinds, warm wood Laminate easy care floors, 2 baths feature granite and ample storage, 2/3 Beds with a Open concept Living & Kitchen area. Fenced & Landscaped courtyard with a patch of turf for your fur pets. Property is landscaped with easy care plants. First class Roping facility 150x250 arena 2 Steer Pens Round pen. Privacy fence, gated with a circle drive for big rigs. 2 large turnouts with water and shade even has a 25'x33' goat/dog pen! Big 6+ stall mare motel, lights & room for storage 15x12 Tack Room has revolving Tack Door, porch & tie rack, wash rack. 2 full RV spots (rented) Property is 2 parcels and both are included in price.

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2827 W Adventure Drive Anthem, AZ 85086

$975,000

5 Beds

4 Baths

3,807 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6775806

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Home, sweet home! 3.25% Rate comes with current assumable loan for VA and non VA! Solar to convey and Seller's will pay off the balance at closing. Virtually no monthly electric bills.This amazing 5 bed, 4 bath residence in Anthem Parkside is looking for its new owners! A stunning facade w/stone accents, 3 garage spaces, a manicured landscape, and a welcoming front porch are just the beginning. Discover a spacious dining & living area w/soaring ceilings, perfect for entertaining. Elegant flooring, dazzling light fixtures, and custom palette throughout! Continue into the sizeable family room, boasting an impressive stone fireplace to keep you warm and cozy. The fabulous kitchen is equipped w/upgraded cabinetry, quartz counters, subway tile backsplash, a pantry, and stainless steel appliances. Home is equipped with whole home water filtration, RO and water softener. Double doors open up to the grand primary suite, showcasing outdoor access, a walk-in closet, and a lavish ensuite w/dual sinks. Upstairs you'll find a cozy loft plus a large bonus room w/balcony access and soft carpet, ideal for an entertainment center! Lastly, the wonderful backyard includes a covered patio, view fence, extended paver seating area, a fire pit, built-in BBQ, putting green, a refreshing pool, and the most beautiful views that are even better in person! New roof above great room / kitchen. Hop on I-17 to head up north for wine tasting or camping in Sedona, Prescott, or any of the northern Arizona vacation getaways. Lake Pleasant is 19 miles, within approx. 30 minutes for a relaxing day on the water. Anthem is a family centric community with sports courts, catch and release fishing, community train, huge water park, gyms, coffee shops, restaurants, libraries, grocery stores, hiking, biking, walking, dog park, and tons more.The home of your dreams is here, act now before it's gone!

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