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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12312 E Shangri La Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85259
$4,150,000
6
Beds
8
Baths
6,657
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6719813
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Immaculately remodeled and upgraded in 2022 to embody the finest elements in today's trends, this 6,650+ square foot cul-de-sac home is spread over 1.3 acres, with an open NAOS space and mountain views - making this your very own expansive and private compound . Breathtaking Desert Contemporary AZ Estate, (AVAILABLE TURN KEY FURNISHED) combines modern elegance with the highest standards of sophisticated living. Designer Details flourish both inside/out, peaking in architectural accomplishment, blending modernity with the natural aspects that surround it. A heated pool/spa, expansive covered lanai built with entertainment in mind - w/space for over 100 people, full outdoor kitchen that redefines luxury lifestyle in every way. The 6 bed/8 bath interior exudes a luxury resort ambiance. With volume ceilings, hardwood floors, and dramatic wall and ceiling details that flow harmoniously throughout the main living areas. The exquisite quartz stone countertops complement the expansive executive chef's kitchen custom island, cabinetry, and Wolf appliances - which include a double fridge and freezer, and 60-inch range, with multi addition overs. 2 primary en-suites in addition to all bedroom en-suites, primary includes a private paradise featuring separate his/her baths, 10-foot walk-in shower and huge h/h closets and dramatic bathroom finishes, a freestanding tub, and morning bar. Additional features include Media/theatre with full quartz countertops, Wet bar and wine refrigerator, additional space for 25x25 casita, 3 fireplaces, oversized 6-car garage. Come see for yourself and enjoy this indoor/outdoor luxury experience in the heart of Scottsdale. NO HOA!
21168 W Granite Ridge Road
Buckeye, AZ 85396
$4,140,000
5
Beds
6
Baths
7,200
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6516382
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to the glass house. Nestled within the breathtaking White Tank mountains, this elevated mountain side modern estate is in a league of its own. Boasting unparalleled views of the Golf Course, White Tanks, and Sparkling City Lights. This glass stunner offers every conceivable modern luxury. Chef's Kitchen, Cinema, Gym, Elevator, Resort-Style Infiniti Pool with an under water window that looks into the game room, 20 person Spa, Over 130' of glass walls for seamless indoor/outdoor living. Indoor Basketball Court doubles as a Night Club with state of the art lighting, audio and a suspended platform for the DJ. Private courtyard includes a pristine turf area, a half pipe and two in ground trampolines. All three rooms on the first floor have walk-in closets with their own private laundry. Owners suite with 32' of glass door walls allows you to step directly onto the balcony, pool or spa deck, and has dramatic views of the golf course, mountains and city lights, it also has a two story Chanel inspired closet, soaker tub in front of massive corner picture windows, luxurious walk-in shower and dual commodes. The resort inspired guest rooms (accessible) from the elevator have walk-in showers and soaker tubs that look out onto the golf course. The sports court has a rock climbing wall with two auto belays and has a discreet in wall net system for volleyball and pickleball. Estimated completion is October 2024. Owner Agent
10764 N 138th Way
Scottsdale, AZ 85259
$4,125,000
5
Beds
6
Baths
4,897
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6770772
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
CalAtlantic's largest home with an amazing layout and private guest suite with its own entrance. The pool, hot tub, and pergola overlook the spectacular mountain views. The foyer opens to the formal dining which overlooks the expansive rear courtyard with giant chess pieces and a fireplace. The stunning kitchen features a large center island that overlooks the rear courtyard, a large walk-in pantry, home management area and butler's pantry. The four secondary bedrooms provide for plenty of privacy each with its own bath and walk-in closet. The master suite features two large walk-in closets, a spa-like bath and has the option to open up to the rear covered patio. There is two toned paint, barrel ceilings, charging station, and RV gate. Make this dream home yours today!
3831 E Huber Street
Mesa, AZ 85205
$4,100,000
6
Beds
7
Baths
10,418
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6707677
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Experience the epitome of luxury living in this Tuscany-inspired custom basement home nestled on a private 2.1-acre lot. Boasting 6 bedrooms (Guest house with full kitchen), 7 bathrooms, and a 5-car garage, this residence offers unparalleled comfort and elegance. Entertain guests in style with a diving pool, grotto, waterfall, expansive gazebo with BBQ, and a rooftop deck showcasing panoramic views. Delight in the golfer's paradise putting green amidst citrus trees and an original windmill. The chef's kitchen is fully equipped with top-of-the-line appliances. Descend into the basement via indoor stairs, outdoor stairs, or an indoor elevator leading to a movie theater, built-in bar, game room, wine cellar, and living room. This home redefines the Irrigated horse property luxury living.
5551 E Arroyo Verde Drive
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
$4,100,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,620
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6775770
Property Type
Apartment
Price Type
--
Experience breathtaking views of Camelback Mountain from this luxurious villa at Mountain Shadows Resort in Paradise Valley! Enjoy resort-style living with full amenities at the adjacent resort, complemented by unique architectural designs. The villa features an expansive outdoor deck spanning over 800 square feet. Enter through a stunning 20-foot high foyer with a private elevator or stairs leading to the living area. Luxurious designer finishes include a Wolf dual fuel range oven and microwave, Sub Zero refrigerator, Asko dishwasher, Zephyr hood, 10-foot ceilings, and 9-foot bi-fold doors that open to the deck from both the living area and master suite. With 3 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms, this villa offers amazing amenities, including a pool, gym, and 24-hour guarded entry.
9215 E Red Lawrence Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$4,000,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,643
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6777014
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This charming home is nestled within the community of Carefree Ranch yet within close proximity of the gate. You are welcomed with a mix of warm earthy tones, a weathered brick accents and inviting wood courtyard gates. As you enter the home, you're greeted by a spacious foyer adorned with vintage decor and soft lighting. The living room boasts large windows flooding the space with natural light all while highlighting the warm wood details and cozy fireplace. Entertain family and friends in the intimate elevated formal dining room. The kitchen combines modern appliances with rustic cabinetry, creating yet another warm and inviting space which flows seamlessly into the breakfast area and family room. A cozy office with custom wood doors is a quiet oasis and just steps away fro primary suite which features another inviting fireplace, sitting area and stunning views. On the opposite wing you will find two comfortable bedrooms, each with its own unique character and ample storage space. The private separate guest castia is sure to please all your guest with kitchenette and forever views. The patio spaces are a serene oasis with private pool and spa, multiple sitting areas, large fireplace and built in BBQ; relax and enjoy the amazing Arizona sunsets and stunning city iight views.
202 Calle Diamante --
Sedona, AZ 86336
$4,000,000
4
Beds
4
Baths
4,601
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6753553
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Stunning custom home built in 2022 in the gated community of Casa Contenta. If you're looking for views, this is the home! From the moment you open the front door you will understand why this home is special. Light, bright, and open floor plan on the main level. Sliders lead you to an expansive patio that runs the width of the house with a covered BBQ area and overhead heater for those chilly Sedona evenings. Master shares a similar view with Jacuzzi tub, walk in shower, dual sinks, makeup area, and lastly a large closet with extensive build-outs. The downstairs area offers you a multitude of functionality. These 2 rooms can be bedrooms or a game room, media room, and/or office. Once you step into the backyard you will be blown away by the finishes. Beautiful red rock streaming fountain, built in gas fire pit, pavers, artificial turf, and a putting green. Plenty of covered patio with surround sound and a hot tub with miles of unobstructed views. Owner Agent. Some personal property available with separate bill of sale.
5101 N Casa Blanca Drive Unit 301
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
$4,000,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
2,000
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6751923
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
Situated on a detached corner parcel for maximum privacy inside coveted Historic Casa Blanca Phase 3 lies this stunning Spanish/Moroccan contemporary with soaring views of Camelback and beautiful sunsets. Low care manicured landscaping complete with stone fountain and outdoor fireplace, 2 car garage, prime location for safety and tranquility. High ceilings with brand new Lutron lighting system, automated shades, everything new to the studs. Custom Thermador appliances. Marble and quartz counters, lots of natural light, soft oak floors and generous primary. Truly turnkey complete with an added custom built bar. Rich, timeless & elegant, enjoy tennis, pickleball, and 3 heated pools in the convenience of a manned guard gate. Minutes from Fashion Square Mall on most desirable street in PV. Paradise Valley's best shopping and restaurants.
10416 N 52nd Street
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
$4,000,000
5
Beds
6
Baths
6,685
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6768580
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Magnificent Tuscan-style estate on a sprawling, beautifully manicured acre lot located in the highly sought-after Paradise Valley, just moments away from top-tier shopping and dining in both PV and Scottsdale. With over 6600 square feet of living space, this residence offers a spacious great room floor plan with 5 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms. The home boasts elegant formal living and dining rooms, a large family room with a gas fireplace, and a bonus/game room for added leisure. The split floor plan ensures privacy, with the expansive primary suite featuring a cozy sitting room with a gas fireplace, a spa-inspired bathroom with dual sinks, a walk-in shower, a freestanding soaking tub with a remote-controlled electric fireplace, two oversized walk-in closets and a cedar closet. The guest wing offers 4 spacious en-suite bedrooms, each with walk-in closets. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's paradise, equipped with a large island and top-of-the-line appliances. Multiple French doors open to the resort style backyard oasis, complete with a spacious covered patio, a heated pebble tec diving pool, a lush lawn, built in BBQ and a ramada perfect for outdoor entertaining. Luxury finishes throughout include marble and travertine flooring, vaulted and wood-beamed ceilings, crown molding, custom cabinetry, and designer lighting. This home is a must see and has been meticulously maintained. Home is available to be purchased fully furnished on a separate bill of sale.
14675 E Paradise Drive
Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
$4,000,000
4
Beds
5.5
Baths
7,624
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6774625
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
VIEWS, VIEWS, VIEWS!! Celebrate the good life in this spectacular custom sanctuary and bask in stunning city light views, sensational sunsets and pristine mountain vistas in every direction. This timeless single story, European inspired, Tuscan home is warm and inviting, and it is thoughtfully designed with luxurious finishes and superior craftsmanship throughout the property. The well-appointed gourmet kitchen anchors the home, boasting an over-sized island and plenty of counter space for cooking with family and entertaining friends. Hand hewn beams, accent lighting, custom cabinetry, a large walk-in pantry and top-of-the-line appliances with a built-in pizza oven, complete the package.
12183 E Sand Hills Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$4,000,000
5
Beds
5.5
Baths
5,022
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6764790
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Fabulous home on 2 plus acres showcased by a stunning backdrop of natural landscape and large boulders. This home has 5 en-suite bedrooms and a bookcase lined office.The Casita has everything needed for an in-law setup, rental or just family and guests. The pool has a lagoon like setting with a breathtaking waterfall and hot tub spillway. Solar was installed in 2022. Don't be surprised to receive a check from APS at the end of the year. There is a 5 car garage, workshop and fully paved driveway. One has a sense of serenity just pulling up to this special home.
