Investing in a Vacation Property? Learn What You’ll Need to Have to Get A Mortgage Approved

Investing in a Vacation Property? Learn What You'll Need to Have to Get A Mortgage ApprovedWith 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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3197 E San Miguel Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85016

$3,999,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
6,495 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6709153
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Impress your clients with this approximately 6,495 square foot home featuring stunning mountain views. Designed with entertainment in mind, this residence offers the luxury of modern amenities, including a fully equipped Savant home system. The grand 30-foot entryway leads to a masterfully crafted 4-bed, 4.5-bath residence spanning three levels, connected by striking staircases throughout. The modernist architectural exterior, crafted with concrete and steel, complements the tranquil, refined palette, featuring white oak herringbone floors. The home boasts a generous use of glass, seamless sliding doors, and two levels of day-lit space. Your clients will feel like they've escaped to a 5-star resort with the Entertainer's Backyard, complete with a multi-level infinity-edge pool and spa synthetic lawn, fire pit, gazebo patio, and tropical landscaping. The east wing includes an open kitchen with a breakfast area and formal dining room, featuring Miele, Thermador, and Bosch appliances, with easy access to the three-story, 1,000 sq. ft. guest home. The west corner is devoted to the primary suite, featuring metal and glass closets and a separate laundry area. The lower level includes spacious en-suite guest rooms, an expansive laundry room, and a Porcelanosa dog wash. Situated on an elevated lot between Paradise Valley, Arcadia and Biltmore, this home is minutes from PHX Sky Harbor, PVCC, Biltmore Fashion Park, Scottsdale Fashion Square, and Phoenix Country Day School. This property epitomizes luxury living in Arizona.

3800 S Clubhouse Drive Unit 5 Chandler, AZ 85248

$3,999,000
5 Beds
6.5 Baths
9,668 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6711422
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This exquisite lake front custom home resides in the exclusive gated subdivision of Crown Point, a private community with only 11 lots. It provides easy access to the Ocotillo Golf Club, a premiere golf destination in Chandler, Arizona. This Spanish/Mediterranean home has 5 bedrooms and 6 1/2 bathrooms. There are 3 bedrooms on the main floor, 2 being ENORMOUS full master suites, each on opposite ends of the home. There are 8760 sq ft of living space, plus 1156 sq ft in attached casita. The casita has a separate entrance, with bar and bathroom with easy access from the pool and patio. The kitchen has new appliances. 4 Viking convection ovens, 8 burner Viking stove, 36 inch Viking refrigerator, 36 inch Viking freezer, and 2 dishwashers and ice maker. Two islands in the kitchen make entertaining effortless. The under the staircase wine cellar is amazing, with stone clad walls and clay slots.Upper level includes 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, game room/lounging area, bar with mini kitchen and fireplace. You can view the gorgeous Arizona sunsets from a private patio just outside.The negative edge pool was resurfaced and equipment replaced. There is also a spa and fire pit for your enjoyment. All the bathrooms were remodeled. The roof was just replaced at a cost or $300, 000.00, and four of the five AC units were recently replaced. All of this and more in this Magnificent Move In Ready Home!!

10071 E Aniko Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$3,997,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,475 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6765790
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Introducing a stunning new build set to complete in 2025, this desert modern home seamlessly blends contemporary design with the breathtaking natural landscape of Mirabel, Arizona. With a thoughtfully designed layout, the home features three spacious bedrooms, an inspiring office, and a dedicated game room, making it perfect for both relaxation and entertainment. Exterior: The striking facade showcases clean lines and a combination of natural stone, stucco, and expansive glass elements that invite the desert landscape indoors. The property is surrounded by low-maintenance native landscaping, enhancing its eco-friendly appeal while ensuring a harmonious connection with the environment. A spacious covered patio extends the living area outdoors, perfect for enjoying Arizona's stunning sunsets. Interior: As you step inside, you'll be greeted by an open-concept floor plan bathed in natural light. High ceilings and large windows create an airy atmosphere, while polished concrete floors and warm wooden accents add a touch of warmth. The gourmet kitchen features state-of-the-art appliances, sleek cabinetry, and a spacious island that flows into the dining and living areasideal for hosting gatherings. The master suite serves as a serene retreat, complete with a spa-like ensuite bathroom featuring dual vanities, a soaking tub, and a walk-in shower. Two additional bedrooms provide ample space for family or guests, each designed with comfort and style in mind. The versatile office space offers a quiet haven for productivity, while the game room is designed for fun and relaxation, complete with space for a pool table, gaming consoles, and lounge seating. Sustainability: This home is equipped with energy-efficient systems and smart home technology, ensuring a sustainable lifestyle without compromising on luxury. Whether you're seeking a year-round residence or a seasonal getaway, this desert modern home in Mirabel, Arizona, promises to be an exceptional living experience that celebrates the beauty of desert living. Don't miss your chance to own this exquisite piece of architecture!

14521 E Corrine Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$3,995,000
6 Beds
7 Baths
5,866 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6795187
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Immerse yourself in the charm of this stunning, newly constructed two-story haven, crafted with precision by MSN Group, set in the lively heart of Hidden Hills with breathtaking views of surrounding mountains. Encompassing 5,866 square feet, this residence is a beautiful fusion of sophistication and practicality, featuring 6 spacious bedrooms, each with a generous walk-in closet, and 6 lavish en-suite bathrooms, along with a convenient powder room and a dedicated office. The gourmet kitchen serves as a chef's paradise, seamlessly connecting to a grand great room, complete with a stone fireplace that exudes warmth and invites gathering and relaxation. An elegant dining area enhances the flow with a built in wine wall cabinet, setting the perfect stage for entertaining. Adding to its convenience, a built-in elevator provides effortless access to both floors. The primary suite offers serene desert views, dual walk-in closets, and a luxurious bathroom with a walk-in shower and jetted tub. Other highlights include designer cabinetry, premium finishes throughout, and an oversized three-car garage. Outdoors, discover a sprawling patio, a fully-equipped outdoor kitchen and entertainment area, and a sparkling pool with cascading waterfalls. Perfectly situated in Scottsdale, this home exemplifies luxurious modern living, offering a lifestyle defined by elegance, comfort, and unparalleled sophistication. Buyers have time to make changes and choose finishes.

42010 N 111th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$3,995,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
6,147 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6763738
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Golf membership available. Nestled on a premier view lot, this exquisite home offers expansive mountain views, valley lights and breathtaking year-round sunsets. The heart of the home is designed for both elegance and comfort, with a great room anchored by a Cantera stone fireplace, an inviting dining room, and a wet bar for entertaining. The gourmet kitchen has been recently remodeled with Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, beautiful stone work, and a cozy breakfast nook that opens to the family room—complete with another fireplace for those cool desert evenings. The spacious master suite offers ultimate privacy, featuring a fireplace, an expansive walk-out balcony leading to the backyard, and a luxurious en-suite bathroom with a massive walk-in closet. A private elevator adds convenience and sophistication. Complementing the main home is a separate pool/spa room, which can double as a guest suite, workout room, or office, complete with a full bath and sauna. Outside, the backyard offers a true oasis with over 1,000 sq. ft. of covered patio space, a pool & spa, fireplace, BBQ area, and wet bar perfect for both relaxation and entertaining. The stunning panoramic views stretch from east to west, offering sparkling city lights at night and picturesque sunrises and sunsets each day. Elegant French oak and Italian limestone floors throughout the home elevate the luxury, making this a one-of-a-kind estate ideal for enjoying the best of Sonoran desert living.

7850 E El Sendero Drive Unit 22 Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$3,995,000
5 Beds
6 Baths
5,509 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6752419
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover one of Bill Tull's finest works of art in the beautiful Boulders community. Discerning buyers will appreciate the attention to detail that only an authentic adobe home built by Bill Tull can provide. This private retreat spans two lots and features three guest casitas, 13 fireplaces, a sauna, a 200+ bottle wine cellar, golf cart garage, massive viga beams, expansive latilla ceilings, saguaro rib window treatments, hand-carved woodwork, countless niches, flagstone flooring, and one of Bill Tull's most thoughtfully designed kitchens. The home is authentic adobe, meaning it was constructed with handmade solid bricks from the earth surrounding the property. The result is a home built with exceptional quality and care, boasting unparalleled efficiency for the desert climate. This home has been meticulously maintained by one owner, a close friend of Bill Tull, and represents one of his last completed projects. The property is golf-course adjacent, incredibly private, and offers scenic mountain views from the upper patios. A golf membership at the Boulders Golf Club, a golf cart, and most all furniture, furnishings, and artwork are available through a separate bill of sale. This is your opportunity to own a truly exceptional home.

12331 E Gold Dust Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$3,995,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
5,430 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774178
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Our gorgeous Arizona mountains and desert are the perfect backdrop for this stunning new construction home by Cachet Homes. Thoughtfully designed to maximize the concept of at home entertaining, the home features a large double island kitchen that open to the family room, a detached courtyard guest home, a separate pool house, and a flowing floorplan that allows for privacy as well as gathering spaces for family and friends. The finishes and amenities are contemporary and yet still timeless, and enhance this lovely home. The rear yard has been completely finished, something you don't often see in new construction any more, and boasts a pool house, BBQ ramada, beautiful pool and spa and large grassy areas for play. Emerald Hills by Cachet Homes is an exclusive 7-home subdivision in the desirable Shea Corridor in north Scottsdale. Close to schools, golf, parks, entertainment, shopping and dining - you will be in your dream home and area in no time at all!

6902 N Highlands Drive Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$3,995,000
4 Beds
5.5 Baths
5,509 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6753805
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
HUGE $500K PRICE DROP! Motivated Seller! SPECTACULAR VIEWS. Where else can you get ALL THIS: One-of-a-kind hillside with UNOBSTRUCTED panoramic views of Camelback, Phoenix Skyline, Mummy Mountain, and PV fireworks. Your family and guests will be amazed by 5 view decks and the heated infinity pool & spa that let you feel like you're swimming into a limitless Arizona horizon. Perfectly positioned for privacy: no neighbor directly on top of you. Quiet dead-end street. And the desert hillside is a fortress that naturally shades & cools the house in the afternoons. All bedrooms are en suite with balcony/patio access including TWO Primary Suites! Floor-to-ceiling windows, two-story waterfall, 3 fireplaces, 2 wet bars, and temp-controlled pantry/wine room. WATCH THE VIDEO! *** 8 AVMs (Automatic Valuation Models) value this home at an average of $5.05 MILLION! (Accessed 9/1/24: ATTOM, Movoto, Chase, Home Valuation, Realtordotcom, Public Data, Pennymac, and Wells Fargo). Don't miss this incredible opportunity to own a premium trophy location in Arizona's most prestigious ZIP code at a HUGE discount.

6368 N Lost Dutchman Drive Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$3,995,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,392 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6724005
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
NESTLED AT THE BASE OF THE VALLEY'S MOST ICONIC NATURAL LANDMARK, CAMELBACK MOUNTAIN, THE VILLAGE AT MOUNTAIN SHADOWS IS SITUATED IN THE HEART OF PARADISE VALLEY. BUILT EXCLUSIVELY BY CULLUM HOMES AND DESIGNED BY THE RENOWNED ARCHITECTURAL FIRM CANDELARIA DESIGN ASSOCIATES. THIS BEAUTIFUL CUSTOM ECHO TWO-STORY FLOOR PLAN FEATURES 3 BEDROOMS(2 PRIMARY SUITES 1 UP AND 1 DOWN), 3 FULL BATHS AND 1 POWDER BATH. GUESTS ENTER THROUGH THE PRIVATE COURTYARD LANDSCAPED TO PERFECTION TO THE LARGE IRON AND GLASS FRONT DOOR. THE GREAT ROOM WITH FIREPLACE WALL WITH BUILT IN SHELVES AND RETRACTABLE WALL OF GLASS LEAD YOU OUT TO THE COVERED PATIO AND OUTDOOR BBQ. THE BACKYARD WITH VIEWS OF CAMELBACK MOUNTAIN MAKE THIS INDOOR/OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING SPECIAL. THE DINING ROOM WITH DRY BAR. KITCHEN WITH... QUARTZITE STONE ISLAND, EAT-AT BAR, BUILT IN PANTRY, OTHER CABINETS FOR STORAGE AND EXTRA APPLIANCES (SUB ZERO, WOLFF) TOP OFF THIS CHEFS KITCHEN. A BUILT IN COMMAND CENTER JUST OFF THE KITCHEN IS PERFECT FOR A SPACE TO STILL WORK. THE STYLISH POWDER ROOM, LAUNDRY ROOM AND ELEVATOR LEAD DOWN TO THE 3 CAR GARAGE. TONS OF GARAGE STORAGE BUILT INS, EPOXY FLOORING AND A/C CONTROLLED. THE FIRST PRIMARY SUITE OPENS OUT TO THE BACKYARD, BATH AND WALK IN CLOSET FOR SINGLE LEVEL LIVING. THE WOOD STAIRCASE (ENTIRE HOME WOOD) OPENS UP TO A LOFT LIVING AREA, SECONDARY LARGE PRIMARY SUITE WITH BEAUTIFUL BATH AND OVERSIZED CLOSET OPEN UP TO A LARGE PRIVATE TERRACE. THE 3RD GUEST BEDROOM IS LARGE TO MAKE A BUNK ROOM WITH EN SUITE AND ROMEO AND JULIET BALCONY. A OFFICE OR GYM ROOM TOPS OFF THE SECOND LEVEL. THIS HOME HAS SO MANY EXTRAS AND IS HIGHLY UPGRADED THROUGH OUT INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR. COME SEE THIS HOME TODAY. IT WILL NOT LAST LONG! RESIDENTS HAVE ACCESS TO THE PLETHORA OF AMENITIES AVAILABLE AT THE MOUNTAIN SHADOWS RESORT. THE COMMUNITY BOASTS A PRIVATE POOL AREA, PARK AND IS GUARD-GATED 24/7 FOR THAT HIGHLY DESIRED LOCK AND LEAVE LIFESTYLE.

10763 E Addy Way Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$3,995,000
4 Beds
6.5 Baths
6,043 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6746620
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This high-quality custom home with sunset views in guard-gated Mirabel Club is being sold COMPLETELY TURNKEY and is truly ONE OF A KIND, with quality materials that cannot be built for even close to this price today. As you approach, you'll notice the pristine curb appeal, in low-maintenance desert landscaping. The courtyard with wrought iron gate and water feature sets the mood upon arrival, and provides a central meeting space for your guests, with covered patios for both the guest house and one of the guest suites. Before stepping inside, take a moment to appreciate the 9.5' custom alder door, an impressive piece on its own. Upon entry into the living room, you'll immediately notice the thoughtful design, quality finishes, breathtaking views, sunset bronze flagstone flooring, massive two-way stone fireplace, and beamed ceilings. The entertaining area includes a full wet bar with copper sink and under-counter drink fridge. Imagine hosting your friends in this dining room while enjoying sunset views out your window. The ironwork on the wine cellar is another nod to the thorough attention paid to every detail. Continue toward the kitchen, first stopping at butler's pantry with ice maker and dual-drawer dishwasher. The kitchen is comfortable yet luxurious, from the hand-finished alder cabinets to the herringbone terra cotta backsplash. High end appliances include 48 Wolf gas cooktop, Wolf carbon finish dual-ovens, microwave, and warming drawer. There is abundant cool storage, with a full-size fridge plus two cooling drawers along with a full-size freezer plus two freezer drawers, all Subzero. Continuous hickory flooring connects the kitchen and family room, with vega beams radiating out over the curved room, seamlessly connecting them into a flowing great room. Across the home you'll find the owner's wing. The office features square wood beamed ceilings, with that square pattern duplicated on the hickory flooring below. The ample primary suite is complemented by a sitting room with kiva fireplace, a perfect place to take in the stunning views. The primary bathroom includes the same quality finishes you've seen throughout, from the travertine slab countertops, alder doors, down to the rustic iron towel holders. Completing the primary suite is the oversized closet, with built-ins from wall to wall. Multiple guest suites provide privacy for all of your family and friends. First, upstairs you'll find an ensuite bedroom with their own loft living room, and access to the rooftop deck with amazing views. Also within the main house is a second ensuite bedroom. For additional guests, through the front courtyard is a full guest house, with living room and half-kitchen, private patio, large ensuite bedroom, and direct access to the third garage bay. Even the fundamentals have been recently updated. The entire roof was recoated (2021), and all four AC units and two furnaces replaced (2021), as well as two large water heaters with recirculating pumps replaced (2020). Outside, the landscaping was redone with the entire irrigation system replaced (2021). The pool was resurfaced with mini-pebble finish, tile edge, and travertine coping, along with a wi-fi Aqualink control system added (2021) and the pool heater replaced (2020). Finishing off this home is precisely where you'll want to unwind every evening, in the spacious and gracious backyard. The covered patio extends the length of the home, and includes an outdoor fireplace for those cool nights. Two additional uncovered seating areas offer options for taking in the sun. Entertain at the built-in BBQ, and don't miss the outdoor half bathroom. The backyard is a serene high-desert landscape, strategically placed to take in the picturesque Arizona sunsets while overlooking the golf course. Located toward the end of a cul-de-sac, so extremely light traffic, and all adjacent homesites have already been built. Mirabel's weather is famously dry and sunny. Our risk of natural disasters is extremely low. Being higher and somewhat removed from the city means the stars are bright at night, the air typically much cleaner, and the daytime high temperatures can be about eight to ten degrees cooler than the Valley floor, every day of the year. You would be amazed how comfortable 95 degrees is at night or in the shade. So, being in Mirabel on a year-round basis is an attractive proposition. In addition to the endless shopping and fine dining options all just minutes away, the owner of this home will be close to major league and collegiate sports, fabulous medical care (including the Mayo Clinic and hospital), terrific air service, and a wide variety of cultural attractions. This home is truly one of a kind and I encourage you to come see it today, and you'll be glad you did.

9775 E Hidden Valley Road Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$3,995,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
4,600 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6347935
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to the epitome of modern luxury living in the heart of our exclusive lifestyle community, Desert Mountain. This brand-new custom home that has broken ground defines elegance and sophistication, offering a harmonious blend of contemporary design, opulent features, and an unparalleled level of craftsmanship. Spanning an expansive 4600 square feet, this residence boasts 5 bedrooms, 5.5 baths, and a host of amenities that cater to every facet of refined living. Step inside and be captivated by the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces. The open-concept layout flawlessly transitions from the interior's sleek lines and top-tier finishes to the captivating outdoor oasis. Completion spring 2025. Entertain in style as you host gatherings in the sun-soaked courtyards and indulge in poolside relaxation creating memories that will last a lifetime. The heart of this home lies in its gourmet kitchen, complete with state-of-the-art appliances and an exquisite butler's pantry, perfect for culinary enthusiasts and gracious hosts alike. Abundant natural light illuminates the interior through large windows that showcase the breathtaking surroundings. Unwind in the luxurious primary suite, a serene retreat featuring a spa-like en-suite bath and a walk-in closet. Four additional well-appointed bedrooms each with their own en-suite baths provide comfort and privacy for family members and guests. Completing this exceptional property is a guest house that offers versatile space, ideal for an art studio, home office, gym, or additional living quarters. Located within our sought-after lifestyle community, residents enjoy exclusive access to amenities that include 7 golf courses, fitness, tennis, pickleball, swimming, and 7 restaurants. Membership is not included with this property, however additional information regarding membership applications is available through the document tab.

9467 E Sundance Trail Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$3,995,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
4,900 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6461596
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Another spectacular contemporary home by August Building Company to be built on a great view lot in Desert Mountain. More information to come. No membership to the Desert Mountain Club available with this property.

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