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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4900 E Mountain View Road Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$2,100,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

3,282 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6758827

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Rare architectural home in Paradise Valley's Mountain View Estates. Privacy is paramount with the large amenity-rich lot, unmatched serenity in mature landscaping, mountain views, and a sparkling pool. The home boasts modern forms designed by John Rattenbury of Taliesin Architects, a prolific force in carrying on Frank Lloyd Wright's legacy. The split floor plan lends itself to privacy, along with oversized spaces that further the luxury narrative. Large expanses of glass connect you to the lush landscaping, growing the home visually beyond its walls. A chef's kitchen, full wet bar, and oversized patio with built-in grill and bar seating are just a few of the ways to entertain guests at this lavish property. Scottsdale schools, low property taxes, ample room to expand; simply perfect!

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3928 E Crittenden Lane Phoenix, AZ 85018

$2,100,000

5 Beds

5.5 Baths

4,846 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6760839

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This exquisite modern Italian-style home in the Villas at Baker Park Community offers a remarkable blend of luxury, functionality, and charm. Located within a gated enclave of 44 semi-custom homes, the property features stunning curb appeal and meticulous attention to detail. Set on a premium oversized lot, this elegant 5-bedroom, 5.5-bathroom residence, complete with a loft and office, exudes sophistication. The spacious and thoughtfully designed layout is filled with natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere throughout. At the heart of the home is the custom kitchen—a true chef's delight—featuring quartz countertops, dual ovens, a high-end Sub Zero refrigerator, and a 6-burner Wolf stove, merging style with top-tier functionality. The main level includes two ensuite bedrooms while the upper floor offers the primary suite and two additional bedrooms, all accompanied by a large loft area. Step outside on to the second story deck to enjoy unobstructed views of camelback. Outside, a private oasis awaits. The backyard showcases lush landscaping, real grass, and a tranquil covered patio, perfect for entertaining or relaxing after a long day. The generously sized bedrooms provide comfort and privacy for all, while the loft adds versatile living space. Soft water system installed and water filtration system through out the home. Overall, this home embodies upscale living in the sought-after Villas at Baker Park Community, which boasts year-round amenities such as a heated pool, spa, bocce ball court, gated dog park, and secure access. Additionally, it's within walking distance of all that Arcadia has to offer, just 10 minutes from the airport and Fashion Square.

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36215 N 29th Lane Phoenix, AZ 85086

$2,100,000

5 Beds

5.5 Baths

4,667 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769589

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Ultra High-End Custom Home on over an ACRE is now available. This property showcases the finest quality building materials throughout including an automated gated front rotunda, a massive Cantara entry door, Venetian plaster walls & ceilings, hand made custom cabinets, wood beamed Great Room w/ soaring ceilings, gourmet kitchen w/ 48'' Wolf range, huge slab granite island, walk-in pantry, luxurious master suite with enormous walk-in shower, his and hers custom closets & more! CAR COLLECTORS, RV OWNERS Dream Garage/ Shop!! 2,000 +/- sq ft -10/12 Car Garage w/air compressor, High output AC cooling system, Swiss Trax flooring and a Full Bath! BACKYARD is beyond belief!! 5 STAR Resorts don't even compare! Custom pool, water feature, massive Palm trees, $7K Pizza Oven 48 inch DCS Gas Grill, professional misting system, new hot tub/spa, gazebo, tons of artificial turf, outdoor parking for over another 20 cars! To finish off this incredible property also has an attached Guest House with full living room, bar, theater, large bedroom and another full bath with separate entrance to the backyard resort or front yard for functionality and privacy! Welcome Home to your new Resort Estate Home! (Approximate shop measurements are 50x17 for RV/Bus and 35x48 for car collection/shop). Detached garage AC unit installed 2021, 26KW Propane powered emergency back up generator installed 9/2023, Control 4 Home System upgraded 2024, Water Softener 2022.**** All furnishings are available for purchase by separate bill of sale. ****

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10803 W Dove Roost Road Queen Creek, AZ 85144

New

$2,100,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,628 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6778740

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream oasis located in the gated community of Santo Vallarto in Queen Creek! This home truly has it all! A single-story home with a split floor plan, 3 spacious bedrooms plus a flex room, 2.5 bathrooms, separate formal dining, and an office/den! Enter the home through a beautiful, gated courtyard with a welcoming water feature. Step inside the home through a custom iron door to a beautiful open concept living area. Living room includes a built-in media wall with an electric fireplace. A built-in bar counter space with a sink and wine fridge transitions over to the kitchen that includes an island and eat in kitchen. . The spacious master bedroom has private access to the pool/backyard, huge walk-in closet, separate tub and walk in shower, and double sinks. Enjoy the San Tan Mountain views from your backyard that include an electric heated pool, water feature, hot tub, outdoor kitchen with island and ramada. The artificial turf and lush landscaping are inviting! Relax around the gas firepit or under the extended covered patios. The custom 80 ft length RV garage is complete with spray foam insulation and separate heat pump for AC cooling and heat option. The RV garage also has rear doors, polished flooring, car lift, RV and welding plugs. This custom home has many more features you must see!

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3943 E Laurel Street Mesa, AZ 85215

New

$2,100,000

6 Beds

5 Baths

5,535 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6779025

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome home to your elegant retreat in Spyglass Estates. This fully updated residence features 6 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms, with beautiful hardwood floors and high-end carpeting throughout. The Chef's kitchen includes a walk-in butler's pantry and offers seamless access to outdoor living. The main level hosts a private primary suite, a second bedroom, large den, and fully equipped guest quarters with a separate entrance. Upstairs, you'll find three additional bedrooms, while the lower level includes a versatile bonus room and a cozy family room ideal for gatherings. Set on over an acre, the outdoor space features a resort-style pool and spa, green space with Citrus trees, along with 5 garage spaces and a sport court. This home combines luxury and practicality.

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8320 E Appaloosa Trail Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$2,100,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,415 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6765538

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home! This stunning, newly remodeled 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom plus office offers modern elegance and thoughtful design throughout. Perfect for both entertaining and everyday living, the open-concept layout features spacious living areas, high ceilings, and designer finishes. The gourmet chef's kitchen features sleek countertops, stainless steel appliances, large island, seamlessly flowing into the dining room with a two-way fireplace. The private office provides a quiet space to work or study, and the luxurious primary suite offers a tranquil retreat with a spa-like bathroom and large walk-in closet. Large lot with resort style backyard including a sparkling play pool, sport court, extended patio and an additional ramada. Also includes a RV gate with gated parking perfect for storing recreational vehicles. Located in the sought-after neighborhood McCormick Ranch, 3 C's school district and conveniently located to the best dining and shopping!

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42020 N Old Stage Road Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$2,100,000

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,535 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6699618

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Looking for privacy and seclusion? This is it! Paved roads, peaceful, quiet, Cave Creek wash frontage, gated entry estate on 5 acres with no HOA, horse privileges, 250x150 horse arena. Horse and hiking trails of the property. Enjoy stunning sunsets and views of Elephant Butte Mountain, high Sonoran Desert with Saguaros, only 30 miles from Sky Harbor airport. Great multigenerational home, single story, main house feature 3 bedrooms, game room, 3.5 baths, attached guest house with separate entrance feature kitchenette, great room, 2 bedrooms with private patios and full bath. Completely renovated and move in ready, Seller invested $700K in property renovation, including new metal roof, Anderson windows, new Trane HVAC master side, new gas water heater... Gourmet kitchen with White Shake cabinets, quartzite countertops, GE Monogram appliances, all baths renovated with beautiful tile work. Extended detached 4 car garage with plenty storage. Resort style backyard, Pebble Tec Pool, hot tub, desert landscaping, multiple covered patios. Private well, low property tax, rattle snake proof yard, garden, chicken coop and more...Fruit trees: Pomegranate, Apricot, Apple, Peach, Plum, Fig and all kinds of citrus trees (lemon, orange, lime, grapefruit)... Great vacation rental property. Hurry, this property rare to find and will not last long!

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4131 E San Miguel Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85018

$2,100,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,288 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6652702

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Situated in the highly sought-after Marion Estates, just minutes from the hottest corner in Phoenix, 44th and Camelback- home to the new Global Ambassador sits this beautifully updated ranch home on a premium half-acre lot, offering panoramic views of the iconic Praying Monk and Camelback Mountain. Spanning 3,288 sq ft, this home boasts 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and a seamless blend of indoor-outdoor living. Step inside to be welcomed by 15-foot glass sliders, drawing in natural light and showcasing the lush backyard. The outdoor space is designed for relaxation and entertaining, featuring a sparkling pool, built-in BBQ, and a low-maintenance turf area with room to customize further. The heart of the home is a charming kitchen, complete with top-of-the-line Viking appliances, custom cabinetry, and elegant marble countertops. The open-concept layout flows effortlessly, connecting the great room, dining area, and a cozy den with a gas fireplaceideal for gatherings or unwinding at the end of the day. This home offers not just comfort and style, but an unparalleled lifestyle in one of the most coveted neighborhoods in the area. Don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

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38749 N 104th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$2,100,000

3 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,544 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6703948

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Full Golf Membership available. One of the very few DETACHED Haciendas in the Hacienda Village at Desert Mountain and comes with an extra exterior parking space. This charming home offers a wonderful courtyard entry with fireplace and lush vegetation, the functional great room floor plan has two suites in the main house and a separate Casita. The kitchen has dual Viking ovens, Viking Range and Viking refrigerator, microwave and nice sized island that opens up to the great room - ideal for entertaining. The owner's suite has his and her closets, soaking tub and fireplace. The Hacienda Village has its' own pool, spa, Ramada area with fireplace and exercise room. A wonderful lock and leave home with low maintenance.

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25635 N 47th Drive Phoenix, AZ 85083

$2,100,000

6 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,806 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6715717

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

BEST VIEWS IN THE WHOLE WEST VALLEY!!! This is my all time Favorite! This is the most Private ESTATE sitting on top with views of the whole Mountain Range! It takes my breath away!It has everything a property has to offer tucked away in Saddle View Estates with no HOA. It is a Fortress of an Estate. Everything is newer and meticulously kept. Including Owned $80k solar! 2000sf 5 car oversized enormous garage with storage rooms, Newer Roof, Upgraded AC's electronic air filters, Activic Air Scrubbers. New Anderson Windows, new clothes W/D, new kitchen appliances, new whole house filtration, new hot water heaters x2, new toilets, new Pentair water softner, New whole house copper plumbing. New pool pebble Tech surface, filter, pump, propane htr, multi-colored pool light, wireless Pool control The upgraded AC's have electric air filters, and Activek Air Scrubbers, 5yr service plans, new garage Epoxy floors,

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7932 E Dynamite Boulevard Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$2,100,000

5 Beds

5 Baths

5,631 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6758673

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Santa Barbara Spanish style architecture on almost 2 acres, zoned for horses w/ no HOA just minutes from Troon Golf Course. Incredible amenities including 30 ft. golf chip & putt, pool & spa, pickleball court w/ basketball hoop, outdoor chess, ping pong and more! Flowing river/pond at entrance of property. Separate casita with full living + kitchen + bedroom + full bath. Huge travertine patio w/ pergola (wired for misters) & built in grill. Remodeled throughout with custom cabinets/vanities, quartz counters, saltillo tile floors. Gated entrances on 2 sides. Garage has 2nd laundry & is potential future living space. Vault/safe room. Furnishings & decor included w/ full price offer. Shipping container for extra storage. Home can also be turnkey ABnB! Listing agent related to selle

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3401 N 34th Place Phoenix, AZ 85018

$2,100,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

3,217 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6759345

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

In the highly desirable neighborhood of Pomelo Park, this Arcadia home has everything you need to make memories that will last a lifetime! This impressive 3,200+ sq ft, 4-bed/4-bath (three en-suite) home features 9-ft ceilings, split master plus a central office with pool/backyard views. As you arrive at the property you'll be impressed with the curb appeal of this home. Mature trees, white crossbuck ranch rail fence, and a three car epoxied garage with lots of extra parking space contribute to the initial impression that continues throughout this beautiful home. Step inside and you're greeted by a true indoor/outdoor living space. Double sided floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors completely open the interior & make this home ideal for entertaining. The large open concept kitchen boasts marble countertops, two wall-mounted ovens, microwave drawer, side-by-side fridge/freezer combo, pot filler over the stove, a large island and walk-in pantry. There is an oversized farm sink with an additional sink in the kitchen island. The pool is great for year round usage with the newly installed and updated pool equipment, pool heater and salt cell. Additional backyard features include three built-in pool fountains, a heated outdoor shower, a covered oversize patio, built-in BBQ, and large grassy area. The home has energy saving spray foam wall insulation and a synthetic stucco exterior for ease of maintenance. Come and see for yourself why this home won't be on the market long!

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