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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13735 E Brookhart Way
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$2,395,950
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,609
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6756479
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Indulge in the epitome of opulence w/ this exceptional 5 bed 4.5 bath + bonus/media room where every detail is meticulously curated. Step inside to 14ft ceilings & custom lighting throughout. Gourmet kitchen equipped w/ Subzero & Wolfe appliances & extended island. Breathtaking views of mtns every angle. Seamless indoor-outdoor transition w/ 20ft pocket door leading to resort-style backyard feat. putting green & hot tub cascading into oversized, nearly Olympic pool. Entertain by fire pit & keep refreshments handy w/ outdoor refrigerators. 4 car garage w/ epoxy floor & gated storage complements the functionality of this dream home. Beyond luxurious interiors, embrace proximity to nature w/ easy access to trails & nearby forest for outdoor adventures. True haven of extraordinary comfort!
3060 S 3010 --
Colorado City, AZ 86021
$2,395,400
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,666
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6669780
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Don't miss out on this 479 acre high-desert grassland ranch. Property features 3 BR main house (needs fix up) w/2-car garage & storage, beautiful new Tiny House, huge metal barn & equipment shed. The barn has 3 separate bays, (two 10x14 & one 14x14) roll-up doors, horse stalls, lg. loft for extra storage & electricity. Beautiful Tiny House features spacious living RM/kit. combo w/range-oven, dishwasher, B/I micro, dining area, utility room & 3/4 bathroom downstairs; upstairs features a spacious bedroom, 1/2 bath & spectacular views. 2 wells - one at pump house w/solar & wind mill; the other east of knoll w/solar (fills two 1k gallon tanks on knoll). All this on 479 acres makes this a can't-miss purchase. This sale includes 2 contiguous parcels: 405-53-012 & 405-55-004. Farm equipment... ...available in a separate bill of sale.
8255 E Vista De Valle --
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$2,395,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,743
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6742702
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to a captivating retreat in Pinnacle Peak Country Club, perfectly positioned with breathtaking views of sunset, mountains and the double fairways, overlooking the 7th and 4th holes. This beautifully crafted home offers 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a den, all set against a stunning backdrop of saguaro cacti, granite boulders, and ironwood trees. Enter through the elegant leaded glass double doors to be greeted by soaring wood beam ceilings that exude both charm and sophistication. The updated kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring a Wolf induction cooktop, SubZero refrigerator and freezer, Asko dishwasher, wine refrigerator, and a spacious pantry. Waterworks fixtures, including polished and hammered sinks, showcase the meticulous attention to detail throughout this custom home, more Multiple fireplaces add warmth and ambiance to the inviting spaces.This exquisite Pinnacle Peak Country Club home harmonizes quality and timeless design, offering ultimate comfort and charm. The open floor plan, with disappearing patio doors in the great room, seamlessly connects indoor and outdoor living spaces. Enjoy breathtaking sunset, mountain, and city light views over the private golf course. This unique blend of indoor and outdoor living creates an unparalleled experience, making every evening unforgettable.
20619 E Pummelos Road
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$2,395,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,413
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6772835
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
MODERN, SOPHISTICATED, and UNIQUE! Toll Brothers has done it again. This remarkable 4 bedroom 3.5 bath home with TWO HOME OFFICES, seamlessly blends luxury and practicality, creating the perfect setting for elegant living in the highly sought after gated community of Bridle Ranch community. This luxury kitchen is designed to impress, featuring top-of-the-line appliances and elegant details throughout. At the heart of the space is a Wolf double oven with a 6-burner cooktop plus a griddle, pot filler above and Wolf built in hood. The expansive kitchen island is crowned with a stunning custom chandelier, making it a striking focal point for gatherings. Experience the ultimate in indoor-outdoor living with this stunning great room featuring a pocket slider, allowing fresh air and natural light to flood the room. Perfect for hosting gatherings, offering a versatile layout that brings the beauty of the outdoors into your everyday living. The spacious primary suite offers the ultimate retreat with a cozy fire feature, perfect for unwinding. The luxurious bathroom boasts a soaking tub, dual vanities on opposite sides for added privacy, and a pass-through shower with two shower heads for a spa-like experience and not one, but two walk-in closets! Step outside and indulge in a unique blend of luxury and relaxation with the rain shower feature cascading into the outdoor pool like you've NEVER SEEN BEFORE. This serene element creates the soothing sensation of a gentle rainfall, transforming the pool area into a tranquil retreat. Whether you're taking a refreshing dip or simply lounging poolside, the soft droplets from the overhead rain shower enhance the ambiance, making every moment feel like a spa getaway. Perfect for unwinding after a long day or hosting guests, this elegant touch elevates outdoor living to a whole new level of relaxation and enjoyment. Featuring five backyard fireplaces, creating warm and inviting spaces to gather under the stars. The landscape is surrounded by 100+ lush trees/shrubs, offering privacy and a tranquil ambiance. A modern garden adds beauty and serenity, seamlessly blending nature with contemporary design. The outdoor kitchen makes cooking outside a breeze, transforming this space into an entertainer's paradise. Whether enjoying a quiet evening by the fire or hosting a lively gathering, this backyard retreat offers endless opportunities for relaxation and connection. Located near top-rated schools, shopping, dining, and entertainment, this Queen Creek estate offers a luxurious lifestyle second to none!
3051 E Irwin Avenue
Mesa, AZ 85204
$2,395,000
6
Beds
6
Baths
5,855
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6774162
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this exceptional property, set on a massive lot and offering 5,855 SF of luxurious living space. From the moment you step inside, you'll be captivated by the grand layout featuring elegant wood floors, a cozy den, and a spacious loft. With 6 bedrooms, 4 full baths, and 3 half baths, this home is perfectly designed to accommodate both family and guests, with various rooms including an office, formal dining area, and more. The gourmet kitchen is the true highlight, featuring custom cabinetry, pull-out shelves, a 36'' gas cooktop, granite countertops and backsplash, a Sub-Zero refrigerator, GE Profile appliances, and not one but two oversized walk-in pantries for all your storage needs. The downstairs owner's suite is your private sanctuary, offering a sitting area or workout room, direct access to the backyard, and a spa-inspired bathroom with dual vanities, a jetted garden tub, a step-in shower with multiple shower heads, and two large walk-in closets. The main level also includes a casita, located opposite the master, complete with a kitchenette and full bath. The outdoor space is equally impressive, boasting a resort-style backyard. Relax under the extended covered patio with the new misting system or cool off in the pristine pool, complete with a slide, waterfall, and fountain. The yard is beautifully landscaped with mature fruit trees, including orange, grapefruit, nectarine, and lemon. A new shade structure offers a perfect spot to enjoy outdoor activities in comfort, and the brand-new, oversized gazebo with an outdoor kitchen is ideal for entertaining or relaxing in style. At the back of the property, you'll find a 380 SF stand-alone building, perfect for an art studio or a teen hangout room. In addition, the property features solar panels and a generator, offering energy efficiency and peace of mind. There's no HOA, giving you more flexibility and freedom. And, while the home is conveniently located just off the highway, it remains peaceful and quiet, providing easy access without the noise. For added convenience, there's a detached 1,200 SF garage and office with air conditioning, and above it, a fully equipped apartment that includes a full kitchen, spacious bedroom, and bathroom perfect for guests or potential rental income. Plus, a newly added 687 SF RV garage provides ample space for larger vehicles and extra storage. This home truly has it all! Tour this home today to see it for yourself and experience the luxury and space this property offers!
3014 N 61st Place
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
$2,395,000
5
Beds
5
Baths
4,223
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6776240
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Unique Barn-Style Beauty in Old Town Scottsdale - A Must-See! Step into a home like no other! This 5-bedroom, 4.75-bathroom, 4,223 sq. ft. barn-style retreat offers the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern luxury, making it a standout in Old Town Scottsdale's vibrant real estate market. Sitting on a generous 11,692sq. ft. lot, this property combines space, style, and comfort, offering a one-of-a-kind living experience. The distinctive barn-inspired architecture gives the home a warm, inviting feel, with vaulted ceilings and spacious, open-concept living areas that create an airy, relaxed atmosphere, perfect for entertaining! Each bedroom is thoughtfully designed with ample space and privacy. Expansive backyard featuring pool, large covered patio, putting green, and more! Located just minutes from Old Town Scottsdale's popular shopping, dining, and entertainment, this home provides a rare combination of rustic charm and urban convenience. Available turn key fully furnished.
3941 Griffiths Spring --
Flagstaff, AZ 86005
$2,395,000
4
Beds
5
Baths
3,431
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6760121
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Fully updated, SINGLE LEVEL home with tons of room, natural light and privacy. The open floor plan provides exceptional flow to the kitchen as well as the large back deck. A multi-sided fireplace tops off the ambience of this amazing space. The chef's kitchen is equipped with stainless steel appliances, center island an breakfast bar. The floor plan is well designed with the primary suite tucked away on one side and the other 3 bedrooms on the other. All bedrooms have en-suite bathrooms. In addition, there is a large bonus/game room (could be BR #5) with another full bath. The back deck has both covered and uncovered areas complete with a built-in BBQ and large fenced in area for the kids and separate dog run. Complete with a new roof and central A/C, this home is the complete package.
10822 N 53rd Way
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
$2,395,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,226
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6776349
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Gorgeous, updated home in quiet, gated community with no short-term rentals. Every room has been redone. Chef's kitchen complete with HUGE center island, bev/wine refrigerator & barstool seating. Subzero/Thermador/Bosch appliances, coffee bar & walk-in pantry with additional cabinets & appliance shelf. Wet bar w/ 2nd wine fridge. Huge secondary bedrooms, split floor plan, 3 living areas, separate office and guest wing as well. 3 car garage w/ XL storage room and separate cedar closet. New flooring in 2023 --no interior carpet. Laundry room provides add'l refrigerator/freezer, built-in desk, and plenty of storage. Backyard has pool, jacuzzi, & lrg grass area. Walk to Mountainside Fitness. Fry's, Costco, Trader Joe's, Whole Foods, Target, Sprouts all within 5 minute drive. A TRUE MUST SEE!
11409 E Bella Vista Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85259
$2,395,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,207
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6765602
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Stunning home with unobstructed sweeping desert views & privacy galore. Camelback Mountain on the horizon, & East Valley city lights at night! Nestled in a Guard Gated Community, freshly painted inside & out, NEW ROOF, & wood-like flooring. Kitchen boasts marble counters, Viking/SubZero appliances, commercial ice maker, warming drawer, prep sink, plus bar area with SubZero bev cooler, opening to a family room with a custom fireplace. The split primary suite offers a luxurious bath, dual vanities, a free-standing tub, & walk-in shower. Guest bedrooms offer ensuite baths. Backyard includes a sparkling pool, outdoor fireplace, firepit, & travertine pavers. Amazing community amenities like a pool, spa, & sports courts. Minutes from SR 101, top schools, Basis School, & Scottsdale Airport.
80 Sheath Drive
Sedona, AZ 86336
$2,395,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,572
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6697894
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
n the heart of Sedona's majestic beauty lies a hidden gem- a CREEKFRONT estate w/Your Own Watering Hole to Swim or FlyFish & Catch Trout. Welcome to RED ROCK VIEW Home currently an ACTIVE STR, where every corner whispers of relaxation, adventure, and the allure of the great outdoors. Nestled above the tranquil creek, this stunning retreat boasts not just a view, but an experience. Picture-perfect vistas of crimson cliffs greet you from every angle, inviting you to unwind and reconnect with nature. The wrap-around open-air deck offers the perfect stage for grand entertaining or quiet contemplation, where the whispers of the creek harmonize with the rustle of the wind through the trees. Step inside, you're greeted by an ambiance of effortless elegance. The great room beckons with its spaciousness, adorned with carefully curated furnishings that blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. Sink into plush seating as you watch the flames dance in the fireplace, or gather with loved ones for lively conversations under the starlit sky. The heart of this home is undoubtedly the gourmet kitchen, a culinary haven designed to inspire the chef in you. Quartz counters gleam under the soft glow of pendant lights, while double ovens and an electric cooktop promise culinary perfection with every dish. An expansive island, seating eight, becomes the focal point for shared meals and unforgettable memories. And for those intimate moments, a formal dining room awaits, where six can dine in style while the creek murmurs its approval outside. But the true magic of Red Rock View Home lies beyond its walls. Follow the 300-foot traverse trail, where ropes guide your descent to an oasisa natural watering hole that promises respite on hot summer days and adventure for the spirited soul. Feel the warmth of the sun on your skin as you bask in nature's embrace, or explore the nearby trails that wind through Sedona's breathtaking landscape. And when the day draws to a close, retreat to one of four spacious bedrooms, each a sanctuary of comfort and tranquility. Let the sound of the creek lull you to sleep, as dreams of tomorrow's adventures dance through your mind. FULLY REMODELED & Offered FULLY TURN-KEY with all furnishings, dishes, linens, art, and electronics included, This is more than just a home; it's a private sanctuary, a haven for the soul. Located in the heart of Sedona, close to trails, restaurants, and endless possibilities, Red Rock View Home offers the ultimate retreat for those who seek a life of serenity, adventure, and boundless beauty. NOI Rental Projections at $158K. Are you ready to write the next chapter of your Sedona story? Exterior of House and fence will be painted by June 3rd. 5 person hot tub and 5-hole miniature golf (19' x 24') which plays like 18 holes, will be installed by July 21.
4147 E Clarendon Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85018
$2,395,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
2,977
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6744626
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This bright and airy custom built one owner, single story home completed in 2022 is dreamy. From the 12 ft ceilings, hardwood oak floors, Wolf range, Subzero refrigerator and limestone patio, you are greeted by quality and comfort around every corner. This 4 bedrooms, 4.5 bathroom residence also boasts a flex room, large primary suite with his and her closets, kitchen with gorgeous custom cabinetry and a dining room with an adjoining patio allowing you to entertain your family and friends in luxury and love. The backyard consists of a pool with automatic pool cover, large grassy area and an outdoor kitchen with built in grill and a separate pizza oven for the grill master in your family. The 2 car garage has 12 foot ceilings and can accomodate a car lift for all of your 4 wheel toys. Please see detailed list on upgraded in the documents section.
3518 N Shadow Trail
Mesa, AZ 85207
$2,395,000
4
Beds
4
Baths
4,264
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6748466
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Custom home meticulously crafted with modern Southwest architecture in gated Las Sendas! Premium 1.3-acre lot with a Boulder outcropping giving you a sense of privacy with stunning desert, mountain & city light views. The floor plan boasts an open great room with a wall of windows. The modern kitchen features a spacious island, a wall oven, refrigerator & walk-in pantry. The split primary suite features a sitting area, dual walk-in closets, a zero-entry shower & a covered patio. The casita has a full kitchen, separate entrance, its own garage & private patio. This energy efficient Smart Home has foam insulation, & is prewired. The RV garage holds 6 cars & a full bath. Backyard oasis with a pool & waterfall. There is a clubhouse, wellness spa, fitness center, tennis courts & pickle balll! There are even various community hosted events for you to enjoy. Your Dream Home awaits!