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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312 E Windsor Avenue Unit 13 Phoenix, AZ 85004

$899,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,400 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6652435

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Our eyes are made to see forms in light: light and shade reveal these forms. Rising like the sun over Midtown Phoenix is Soleil. Inspired by Original Modernism; built for connoisseurs of live, work, play. There's a renaissance going on in PHX and you can be close to it all. Uber or light rail yourself to 3 rd Street Promenade and into secluded hidey holes! And when you need to unwind? You're 15 minutes away from exciting, desert hiking trails. It's here you'll witness sun-setting colors pour and splash themselves all over the Sonoran Desert.

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15448 E Palomino Boulevard Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$899,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,371 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6684857

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your timeless retreat in Fountain Hills! Nestled into a coveted boulevard, this 3 bed, 2.5 bath home, constructed with concrete blocks in 1984, offers 2,371 square feet of luxurious living space. Master bath has walk in shower with a glass block wall. Enjoy panoramic Four Peaks AND McDowell mountain views from your North-facing backyard, seamless indoor-outdoor one level living. Relax in the recently refinished pebble tech pool. Attached two-car garage. Close to Adero Canyon trailhead.. Live the Arizona dream! Tour this beautiful home today!

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7234 E Las Palmaritas Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$899,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,626 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6693292

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautifully updated home in the desirable community of Briarwood 6. You are welcomed by the charming courtyard and custom entry door. Entering the home, you will find soaring ceilings and bright sun filled rooms. The spectacular, custom kitchen is the jewel of the home but only the beginning of upgrades/improvements, which include: new LVP flooring, fully remodeled hall bath, new pool equipment and pebble tec resurfacing, two new HVAC systems (2021 and 2022), custom media wall in den, smart lighting, new landscaping and so much more. The primary bedroom is a sanctuary. Spacious room with fireplace and direct access to the rear yard/pool. Spa like bath with soaking tub and beautiful shower. The breakfast room is charming. This home is the perfect blend of indoor/outdoor living.

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7141 E Rancho Vista Drive Unit 4007 Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$899,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,425 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6706306

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

Spectacular Optima Camelview Remodel Opportunity. Perfect for an investor or end user. Welcome to this lovely 2 Bed 2 Bath 1425 SF unit featuring TWO private parking spaces. This property boasts a massive private terrace perfect for relaxing or entertaining and a very desirable floor plan with a huge master suite. You'll also find an abundance of floor-to-ceiling glass windows and lush community views. A true value for the price, set up a showing today and make this amazing property your own! All found within the luxurious Optima Camelview Village, with it's unbeatable location & state of the art architecture/amenities. Amenities include: Two Outdoor Zen Pools, Spas & Bbqs One on each side of the community (heated year round). 24,000 sq. ft. Fitness Center (Recently Remodeled). Mens & Womens Locker Rooms w/ Steam Rooms, Showers and Private Lockers. Indoor Lap Pool & 2 Spas (Heated year round), On-site concierge, Putting green, Hybrid Basketball / Pickle-ball Court, Racquet ball court, On-site restaurant (metropolis), conference room, 24/7 Security, Reservable party room and multi-purpose fitness/yoga room.

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5540 E Dahlia Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$899,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,086 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6713147

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful home with tons of space in 85254! Home is well appointed and Move In Ready! **Seller offering $8,000 credit toward Buyer's closing/loan rate buy down costs if needed** Interior wood shutters, newer appliances & granite counters in bathrooms. All appliances convey! Huge lot with room for everything. Diving pool, jacuzzi and plenty of space for entertaining. Pride of ownership is on display! Includes these big ticket updates: Renewal by Anderson windows NEW in 2018, Roof replacement in 2020, Full AC/HVAC replaced in 2020 with York 5 ton/16 seer unit, Pebble tech pool resurfaced in 2020, Exterior painted in 2021. Perfect for a Buyer to move right in and make this your new home. Thank you for your interest!

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9837 W Lariat Lane Peoria, AZ 85383

$899,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,199 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6728829

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

INSTANT EQUITY OPPORTUNITY! Appraisal completed on 7/24 at $935K—priced below market value! Welcome to your dream home, a luxurious sanctuary nestled on a premium view lot in the prestigious gated community of Stonebridge Ranch, located in the highly desirable 85383 Peoria neighborhood. From the moment you enter the private courtyard through the elegant iron gate, you'll be captivated by the charm and sophistication of this residence. This popular split floor plan features 4 spacious bedrooms, a versatile den, and 2.5 beautifully appointed bathrooms. Designed for modern living, the home boasts energy-efficient prepaid solar, ensuring sustainable and cost-effective living. Step inside to find a freshly painted interior and many upgrades throughout, including coffered ceilings in the main entryways, living areas, and the owner's suite. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's delight, equipped with gas cooktop, under-cabinet lighting and a stunning 12-foot slider door that seamlessly connects indoor and outdoor living spaces. The resort-like backyard is an entertainer's paradise, featuring a built-in fireplace, meticulously landscaped yard, and two separate pergolas complete with a barbecue and bar area. At the heart of this outdoor oasis is a gorgeous heated swimming pool with a unique glass finish, offering breathtaking desert mountain views and access to the most beautiful sunsets you have ever seen. For your peace of mind, this home has been thoroughly inspected with all repairs completed, and a home warranty is offered. Accessibility is a key feature, with handicapped accessible doorways and a roll-in shower, ensuring comfort for all residents and guests. Conveniently located near shopping centers, nationally recognized schools, and just 10 minutes from Lake Pleasant, this home offers an unparalleled lifestyle. This home has it all and so much more. Don't miss the opportunity to make it yours

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5269 Wellness Way Prescott, AZ 86301

$899,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,380 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6731660

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

etter than new, highly upgraded, one level Dorn Organic Home set high on the largest lot in centrally located Walden Ranch with unobstructed views of Granite Dells, Mingus Mountain and San Francisco Peaks. Watch the July 4th fireworks and the moon rise from your patio. Popular Sunflower plan with post-tension slab and healthy building techniques that exceed the United States Energy Star program, making it 70% more energy efficient than the typical home. Open concept living features a central great room with vaulted ceilings, gas fireplace with blower; chef's kitchen with GE Profile appliance suite, white painted cabinets, stunning quartz countertops and 9 foot island with pendants overhead and huge walk-in pantry; formal dining area with a view; private primary suite with dreamy walk-in walk-in shower; 2 bedrooms sharing a full bath; den or office; rich engineered hardwood floors; fully landscaped and fenced backyard paradise with covered patio, grassy area for kids and pets, and paver area for al fresco dining under the stars; 3 car garage with epoxy floor; thermal blinds, Roman shades and plantation shutters; and ceiling fans in 3 bedrooms. Walk or bike to the scenic Peavine Trail, community gazebo, pickleball, 2 dog parks and bocce ball. Easy drive to both campuses of Dignity Health, public and charter schools (including Basis and Tri-City Prep), historic downtown Prescott's shops, restaurants and Courthouse Square cultural events, and Watson Lake for boating and hiking. Priced 100k lower than recent comps in the nieghborhood.

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19927 W Meadowbrook Avenue Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$899,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,130 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6732481

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

2 Acre Lot, Horse privileges, Pool & More--Welcome to your Desert Oasis! Custom Sante-Fe style home featuring 4 bedrooms & 3 bathrooms on 2 Private acres, great for privacy & enjoying the outdoors! Home has a gorgeous built-in fireplace in the great room with soaring vaulted ceiling, & wood beam accents. The kitchen includes plenty of cabinetry, granite counter-tops, stainless-steel refrigerator & dishwasher, built-in ovens, & hooded gas stove top. The primary bathroom has double sinks, spacious garden tub, & tiled walk-in shower. It has a full-length covered patio & 3 car garage and is wired for a 220 outlet. The Pebble-Tek pool has a waterfall & beautiful White Tank Mountain views. This lot has extra space to add on garages, horse stalls, & more. Come take a look at this serene oasis!

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7348 N 9th Place Phoenix, AZ 85020

$899,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,905 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6758993

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Opportunity awaits! Lovely home that checks all the boxes in a FANTASTIC location is ready for your updating! This custom built home is nestled in a quiet cul de sac in the highly sought after North Central Corridor and Madison school district. Set on a 1/4 acre serene lot, and offering ultimate privacy. Spacious throughout at just under 3,000 sq ft and offering 5 bedrooms (one on the main floor) and 3 baths. Also featuring a huge 3 car garage with extra storage, RV gate and no HOA! Backyard oasis offers pebble tec pool, built in hot tub and gorgeous mature trees. This unique home has been loved by the original owners and in need of some TLC and updating. See private remarks about financing and sold AS-IS. Hurry- priced to sell!

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7272 E Gainey Ranch Road Unit 70 Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$899,000

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,777 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6751553

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Introducing a sophisticated and timeless renovation in the highly coveted Pavilions at Gainey Ranch. This property showcases meticulous attention to detail throughout. The chef's kitchen is equipped with premium cabinetry, exquisite quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, wine chiller, updated plumbing, light fixtures and new energy-efficient windows and sliding glass doors.. The open floor plan enhances the sense of spaciousness, while the fireplace in the living area adds a warm, inviting ambiance complemented by numerous decorative elements. The residence features elegant flooring with carpeted bedrooms and boasts twin master suites, each with private balconies, in addition to a loft area suitable for an office or den. Enjoy beautifully designed walk-in showers and creatively designed walk-in closets. Private floor plan with no neighbors living above or below. Experience luxurious resort-style living in the prestigious Gainey Ranch community, with convenient access to Gainey Village's shops and restaurants, community clubhouse, fitness center, pool, pickleball and tennis facilities. This exceptional opportunity should not be missed.

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2801 W Windsong Drive Phoenix, AZ 85045

$899,000

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

3,731 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6737926

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Highly desirable Ahwatukee Foothills Home. Open Desert behind this oversized lot with a Diving pool, Waterfall, Built in BBQ and bar, Gas firepit surrounded by a travertine patio. RV Gate. First floor ensuite bedroom, den with built in desks. Huge kitchen island, gas cooktop, wall ovens with large family room. Upstairs is a large master suite with private balcony over looking the serene desert, plus a separate sitting room perfect for quiet time reading a book or baby room. 2 bedrooms with Jack and Jill bathroom. 3rd bedroom and bath plus a Large bonus room with pool table and built in shelving. Proposed park project for the Foothills Reserve in 2024. Amenities may include; Pickle Ball court, splash pad, Covered Playground, Outdoor fitness area, 1/2 College BB Court, Swing Set and Ramada.

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29619 N 60th Street Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$899,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,828 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6756706

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Back on the market due to buyer's failure to perform. Santa Fe Style, 3 bedroom, 2 bath home. This horse property sits on a 49,484 square foot lot. Do you have horses? We have horse stalls, corrals, and runs. This home has been updated with new flooring, new HVAC(S), and a new roof. We also have city water which means you wont be sad because of a dry well or empty cistern. The pool has been replastered, new sand filter, and pool motor. Easy access to trails, Reach 11, schools, and shopping. This home sits on unincorporated land with no HOA so you have the freedom to do what you want with the land if horses are not your thing. Plenty of room for a multi generational life style or bed and breakfast/Airbnb.

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