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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24127 N Church Road Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$2,799,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

5,609 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6704749

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to luxury living in this 5,609 sf custom home + casita, designed by award winning architect Daniel Eastburn! Newly painted exterior and Interior - Situated on approx. 1.44 Acres of pristine Sonoran desert, this 4 Bed, 4.5 bath home features soaring ceilings, stone flooring & the highest quality finishes, throughout! Enter through the inviting courtyard & into the formal living w/ the 1st of many cozy fireplaces & into the elegant formal dining w/ French doors opening to the courtyard. The newly updated eat-in-gourmet Kitchen features Newer SS appliances, new countertops, Sub-zero fridge & SS sink + Island, pantry, Breakfast bar & casual dining. Enjoy casual evenings in the...CONTINUE READING... family room with electric fireplace and wine cellar. There is plenty of room for family or entertaining in the great room w/ fireplace - The custom Library overlooks the great room. The fabulous owner's retreat includes a fireplace, sitting room, full bathroom w/ dual sinks, New counters, free standing tub & resort-style shower. - The luxuries continue into the 3 supporting bedrooms all with their own bathrooms, one of which is the attached casita w/ private living room and kitchenette. The upstairs office with built-ins leads to bedroom 4 with access to the rooftop deck and amazing views. The 5 car garage is a car-lover's dream! The resort style backyard has a custom pool, putting area, built-in grotto-style bar with in pool stools and many seating areas, including the Adobe style fireplace - This is outdoor living at it's finest! Perfectly nestled near shopping, restaurants, golf, easy hwy/fwy access & so much more! More to love about this home..... Built-in Vacuum system Updated irrigation system Buried propane tank for Fireplaces & Range New Pool Pump

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24911 N 124th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85255

Open House

$2,799,000

3 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,361 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6718608

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

**Breathtaking Views!** This home offers stunning, unobstructed desert and mountain views—your chance to own the **only Sereno Canyon Estate home priced under $2.8M** AND priced $84K LESS than base price on a similar model new build, even before any upgrades. Located in Toll Brothers' premier, amenity-rich community, Sereno Canyon exemplifies luxury living with impeccable design and maintenance. Key Features Include: - **Guest Suite** with private entrance and living area for ultimate privacy - **Bonus Room** adaptable as a 4th bedroom, gym, or flex space - **Den** ideal for a home office or cozy retreat - **20' Pocket Door** seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor spaces Don't miss this rare opportunity in North Scottsdale's top luxury community.

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9424 E Hidden Spur Trail Scottsdale, AZ 85255

Open House

$2,795,900

6 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,562 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6747522

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Located in Desert Haciendas of DC Ranch, this 6 bedroom, 4.5 bath residence offers a harmonious blend of elegance and comfort. You enter the foyer from he inviting courtyard which leads to the expansive living areas adorned with high-end finishes and meticulous craftsmanship. The gourmet kitchen boasts custom cabinetry,granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and a butlers pantry. The primary suite with a spa-like bath is on the main level as well as two other bedrooms as well as a wine room under the stair well. The 2nd level includes a spacious game/bonus room opening to deck overlooking the courtyard and three spacious bedrooms. One bedroom makes an ideal guest suite equipped with a morning station with fridge and coffee bar. The resort style back yard is an entertainment....... paradise with beautiful pool with water features, BBQ, dining area and cozy sitting area around the outdoor fireplace. The DC Ranch amenities include clubhouse, public pool, walking trails, tennis, fitness Plenty of restaurants and shopping minutes away. DC Ranch Country Club social and golf memberships are not included but available at additional cost.

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29121 N 105th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$2,795,000

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,486 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6686109

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Step into your future sanctuary! Nestled within Candlewood Estates Troon North in Scottsdale, this modern retreat, slated for construction commencing in May 2024, which promises comfort and elegance. Boasting 4 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, and a den/office space, it's designed to cater to your every need. Embrace the feeling of spaciousness with soaring 14-foot ceilings that grace all primary areas, enhancing the sense of openness throughout. Each bedroom offers a private haven, complete with its own luxurious ensuite adorned with bespoke tile finishes for a touch of refinement. Each bedroom also has a private patio. Indulge in the seamless blend of indoor and outdoor living as floor-to-ceiling pocket sliders seamlessly connect the living area to a generously sized covered patio with a two-way fireplace, perfect for cozy evenings under the stars. Enjoy another additional outdoor patios provide even more spaces to unwind and entertain. Outside, discover meticulously crafted desert landscaping in the front yard, while the backyard presents a canvas for you to design your dream oasis. Luxury knows no bounds with upscale amenities including custom cabinets, waterfall kitchen countertops, Dacor appliances, wine fridge, a Vector fireplace in the master bedroom, and exquisite wood flooring. There are 11 skylights throughout home and on patios. With the opportunity to personalize finishes, this home invites you to create a bespoke masterpiece, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living.

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4634 E Calle Del Norte -- Phoenix, AZ 85018

$2,795,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,087 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6763616

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO OWN OVER 1/2 ACRE IN ARCADIA FOR UNDER $3M!!! Over 4,000 SF, this 4 Bedroom, 3.5 Bath Home sits on a Very Desirable Street with Backyard Views of Camelback Mountain. Come and tour this beautiful home in the heart of Arcadia, one of Phoenix Valley's most sought-after neighborhoods. As you enter, you're welcomed by an expansive great room with soaring ceilings, elegant wood beams, and a charming brick fireplace. The home boasts wood floors throughout. The kitchen is equipped with Viking appliances, an oversized island, & granite counters. The primary bedroom offers a luxurious retreat with a full bath, separate shower, soaking tub, 2 walk-in closets, & a cozy sitting area. French doors lead out to the large backyard, complete with mature landscaping & sparkling pool.

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4102 E Palo Verde Drive Phoenix, AZ 85018

New

$2,795,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,326 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6778613

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Experience the pinnacle of contemporary elegance and luxury in this exceptional home. Step inside to an open-concept layout bathed in natural light, highlighting exquisite stone finishes and wide plank wood flooring that flows throughout. The gourmet kitchen, ideal for entertaining, is adorned with sleek stone countertops, top-tier Viking appliances, a stunning lighting installation, and a seamless glass wine display with capacity for 180 bottles. Designed for the ultimate indoor/outdoor lifestyle, the spacious living area opens effortlessly to resort-style grounds through expansive pocket doors. Outside, an artistically designed pool and spa with a serene water feature creates a true oasis with several inviting outdoor patios offer breathtaking views of Camelback Mountain, each equipped with ceiling-mounted heaters or cozy fire features for year-round enjoyment. Retreat to the tranquil primary suite, filled with natural light and featuring a spa-like bathroom with a large seamless glass shower, modern soaking tub, and dual sinks. Three additional en-suite bedrooms provide ample space and privacy for family or guests. Ideally situated near premier attractions like Steak 44, Biltmore Fashion Park, Lifetime Fitness, and Scottsdale Fashion Square, this residence perfectly balances luxury and convenience. Embrace a lifestyle where every detail has been thoughtfully curated for refined, contemporary living.

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4602 E Calle Del Medio -- Phoenix, AZ 85018

$2,795,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,864 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6751029

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

ARCADIA PROPER. Situated on a rare, highly desirable lot, this is a perfect opportunity to create your dream home. The Main House is 5br/3ba complete with a home gym, and 2 living spaces. The property has great views of Camelback and a peak-a-boo of Piestewa Peak. With walkability to The Henry, The Village, OHSO, and the newly famous Dirtbags. The irrigated lot has many mature trees to provide privacy. The backyard is a fantastic place to entertain guests under the covered patios or enjoy the sparkling pool and jacuzzi. The guest house (built in 2011) has 2br/2ba, full kitchen, stainless steel appliances, and full size washer and dryer. With its separate entrance, it would be a perfect place to live while you transform the Main house into your Arcadia Dream Home, or use as an ADU.

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8701 E Remuda Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$2,795,000

5 Beds

5.5 Baths

4,278 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6758247

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning remodeled Scottsdale home with breathtaking mountain views! This exquisite single-level home located on an acre corner lot offers a split floor plan with 5 ensuite bedrooms, designer upgrades, & incredible outdoor spaces that capture the essence of Arizona living. The kitchen has been beautifully remodeled with quartz countertops & custom cabinetry. The spacious primary suite offers direct access to a private patio with heated spa & outdoor shower. Enjoy stunning desert mountain views from your expansive backyard featuring a heated pool, covered sitting area, a fire pit, & a large turf area with putting green. Close proximity to top-rated schools, fine dining, shopping, & world-class golf courses.

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8509 E Malcomb Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$2,795,000

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,474 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6777209

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Thomas James Homes presents this beautiful NEW BUILD pre-construction residence! Take advantage of the opportunity to select some interior finishes during early stages of construction! Sitting on a cul-de-sac surrounded by new construction in a highly desirable Scottsdale neighborhood, this beautiful 5 bedroom, 4.5 bathroom modern home is the definition of exceptional design. On the first story an inviting courtyard brings the outdoors inside while working in the office. The game room, and 2 covered patios lend themselves to entertaining and making family memories, & a full ensuite bedroom will make guests feel pampered. On the second story, a covered terrace, a loft and flex space along with 4 other bedrooms are sure to check all the boxes. Don't miss out to own NEW next door to OLD TOWN

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150 Crystal Sky Drive Sedona, AZ 86351

$2,795,000

4 Beds

6 Baths

4,992 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6687412

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Majestic, panoramic Red Rock Views that will take your breath away the minute you step inside this luxury custom home on prestigious Crystal Sky in the Sedona Golf Resort. With soaring 12-foot ceilings, exquisite travertine flooring, and a stunning stacked stone fireplace, this residence epitomizes the epitome of sophistication. Its open and spacious floor plan, adorned with plenty of windows, floods the interiors with natural light. All main living on one level including primary suite with romantic fireplace for ambience as well two ensuites bedrooms and office/bedroom. Situated on the lot to capture the most spectacular panoramic red rock views and backing to National Forest for privacy, this home was perfectly built to capture all that Sedona has to offer. Indulge in evenings spent sipping wine on the front deck, basking in the splendor of magnificent sunsets. The backyard oasis captivates with a stunning koi pond/swimming pool, complemented by a brand new built-in BBQ center and a kiva fireplace. Surrounding this oasis is a supreme gardener's paradise, featuring two raised vegetable beds, an array of fruit trees, and multitude of planted flowers. Discover numerous special retreats within, including a library, a controlled wine cooler, and an entertainment area downstairs, accompanied by ample storage space. A separate private yoga/art studio with a walkout rooftop deck. The property includes a spacious 3-car garage, enhanced with upgraded lighting featuring full-spectrum LED lighting strips. This home has been meticulously maintained with an extensive list of upgrades listed separately. Don't miss the opportunity to make it yours.

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11124 E Del Timbre Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$2,795,000

5 Beds

4 Baths

4,297 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6753067

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

JUST REDUCED! 2024 Completely Renovated Single Level Home nestled at the end of a Private Cul De Sac in Prestigious HillCrest at Scottsdale Ranch**RARE FIND Oversized Lot perfectly Positioned to Capture Mountain Views**Stunning Yard with Pebble Pool & Spa & Huge Grassy Area**Front & Sides to NAOS**13 Foot WALL OF RETRACTABLE DOORS expands Great Room to a Perfect Indoor/Outdoor Living Experience! New Kitchen w/ Stacked Cabinetry**WOLF Appliances GAS Cooktop, Speed Oven & Convection Oven**''Gorgeous Slab Counters** Built in Bar w/ wine frig**Wide Plank HARDWOOD Flooring*New Master Bath Large Format Tile**HUGE Custom Built in Master Closet**High Ceilings**Split Floorplan*3 CAR SIDE ENTRY GARAGE EPOXY FLOOR W/ OVERSIZED SLAB perfect to park your Scottsdale Luxury cars!*NEW ROOF**NEW A/C's Lots like these are Rarely for Sale! Hurry Don't Miss this Once in a Life Time Opportunity to Own this Exquisite Home & Exceptional Lot! Stunning Renovation just completed....Just Move In!

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7520 S Estrella Parkway Goodyear, AZ 85338

$2,775,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

4,600 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6719816

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful Mid-Century Estate offering a blend of luxury, privacy & investment potential! SELLER FINANCING AVAILABLE! An Entertainers Dream perfectly situated atop 5 mountainside acres with panoramic views of the Phoenix Skyline. Enter an inviting foyer with soaring ceilings setting the tone for the elegance found throughout. Natural light floods the bright kitchen & dining area. The family room boasts vaulted ceilings & a cozy fireplace. The living space comprises 4 bedrooms, 2 flex rooms & 4 bathrooms. Outside enjoy Palm Trees, BBQ Island, Fire Pits & a Cooled Patio Room +Entertainment Barn w/AC! Zoned commercial/residential PAD, Underground power/city water/gated driveway. No HOA. 220V EV Charger in Garage. Perfect for Business or Private Estate. 10 additional acres MLS: 6719816

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