If you’re just getting into the real estate market, you may have heard that 20% down is the ideal percentage in order to lower your monthly payments and get your mortgage application approved. However, while 20% is often suggested, many people struggle to come up with this amount of money. If you’re staving off home ownership, here are some reasons you may not need to hold off as you long as you thought.
Minimizing Your Insurance Costs
Putting down 20% of the total purchase price of your home is often suggested, but it doesn’t definitively mean that your application won’t be approved if you don’t. If you have a good credit score and are in good financial standing, putting less than 20% down means you’ll have to pay Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI); however, it can be worth paying the extra funds in order to get into the real estate market sooner and start paying into your most significant investment.
Mortgage Programs For Less Than 20%
It may seem less possible to buy a home if you only have 5 or 7% of the purchase price, but there are many programs in the United States that enable those with limited funds to apply for a mortgage. From the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, there are many lenders that can offer you mortgage programs that will work for your situation. While higher rates come in tandem with a lower down payment, there are options out there for those who haven’t saved quite enough.
Why Put Down 20%?
Putting down 20% is not a necessity for mortgage approval or purchasing a home, but it can be a great means of saving money in the long run and reducing your interest rates. If you’re raring to get into the real estate market and don’t want to wait for the bills to stack up, that’s OK, but if you want to hold off and save up additional funds before diving in, this can mean more money and a more solid investment in the future.
The magic number is often 20% when it comes to a down payment on a home, but you don’t require this percentage of your home’s price in order to get approved for a mortgage. If you’re currently considering diving into home ownership and would like to know more about the opportunities in your area, give me a call – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.
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3478 N Mountain Cove Place Unit 59
Buckeye, AZ 85396
$1,895,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,790
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6636713
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Fully approved by the HOA & ready to break ground! This is your opportunity to build an exquisite custom home in Verrado boasting a captivating great room floor plan and situated on an expansive, almost an acre lot, providing the perfect canvas for your vision of luxury living. With the unique opportunity for the buyer to choose all finishes, this remarkable residence promises an unparalleled level of customization and sophistication. Step into the heart of this home, and be greeted by a kitchen that is as functional as it is beautiful. The buyer has the freedom to select their desired stone for the island, countertops, and backsplash, creating a kitchen that reflects their personal style and taste. Every cabinet in this culinary haven is equipped with slow-close drawers and doors, embodying the seamless blend of convenience and refine craftsmanship. A pot filler adds an elegant touch to the culinary experience, while the presence of a butler pantry with a separate food prep area allows for seamless organization and efficiency. With 42 upper cabinets and 30 lower cabinets, ample storage space is provided, ensuring a clutter-free environment. The 3cm countertop edge profile adds a luxurious finishing touch to this stunning kitchen. The elegance continues throughout the home with a choice of 12x24 or 24x36 tiles in all wet areas, creating a cohesive and visually pleasing aesthetic. The 8 baseboards and solid core doors add an extra layer of sophistication and durability. Step outside and discover an oasis of relaxation and entertainment. The outdoor space boasts a fully equipped kitchen with a grill, icemaker, and dual burner gas cooktop, offering the perfect setting for al fresco dining and culinary adventures. An outdoor wood-burning fireplace sets the stage for cozy gatherings on cool evenings. The centerpiece of the outdoor area is the stunning 25x50 swim-up beach pool with a separate spill-over hot tub, providing a luxurious retreat for relaxation and recreation. Every bathroom in this custom home features custom stone and tile showers, exuding opulence and sophistication. The master shower is equipped with dual body systems, ensuring a spa-like experience in the comfort of your own home. Satin nickel Moen fixtures add a sleek and modern touch throughout. For effortless entertaining, a wet bar area is thoughtfully incorporated, complete with a sink, refrigerator, and icemaker, ensuring that refreshments are always close at hand. Indulge in the opportunity to create your dream home with this exceptional custom residence. From the meticulously designed kitchen to the luxurious outdoor oasis, every detail has been carefully considered to provide the ultimate in comfort, style, and functionality. Embrace the chance to curate a space that reflects your unique vision, and experience the epitome of elegance and refinement in this remarkable custom home. Renders are for visualization purposes only and do not represent finishes. Buyer has the opportunity to pick the style & finishes of their liking.
21470 E Orchard Lane
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$1,895,000
5
Beds
6
Baths
5,061
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6709367
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Step into your dream oasis nestled within the prestigious Orchard Estates of Queen Creek. This magnificent home is a haven for those who relish outdoor adventures and luxury living. With 5 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms, including a basement, this estate offers an unparalleled level of comfort and space. As you arrive, you're greeted by a 3-car attached garage, perfect for storing your vehicles and outdoor gear. But that's just the beginning - the property boasts a 1,750 sqft insulated and cooled shop, complete with upgraded electrical service, ensuring ample space for all your outdoor toys and projects. Enter the grand great room, where a stunning fireplace serves as the centerpiece, accentuating the bright Mediterranean-inspired decor. The chef's kitchen is a culinary marvel, equipped with a double drawer beverage refrigerator, built-in double tap kegerator, warming drawer, gas stove, and a generously sized walk-in pantry, ideal for hosting unforgettable gatherings. Retreat to the master suite, where luxury knows no bounds. Indulge in the spa-like shower, his & her walk-in closets, and a romantic fireplace, creating a serene sanctuary to unwind after a long day. Descend into the basement, where possibilities abound. Whether it's a large craft room for your hobbies or a wet bar in the rec room for entertaining guests, this space offers endless opportunities for relaxation and recreation. Step outside into the expansive backyard, where paradise awaits. Take a dip in the sparkling pool, gather around the firepit for cozy evenings under the stars, or cultivate your own garden oasis. This home offers modern conveniences abound, with features like central vacuum, Control4 automation, and a tankless water heater, ensuring that every aspect of your home is both efficient and luxurious. Don't miss your chance to own this exceptional piece of paradise!
6310 E Dove Valley Road
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
$1,895,000
5
Beds
4
Baths
4,445
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6681590
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This amazing home is now $100,000 below a recent appraisal and ready for you to make your own! This exceptional custom-built 3,757 sq ft estate boasts a gorgeous main home accompanied by a full 688 sq ft guest home with full kitchen and garage! You will enjoy a wonderful pool and spa for play, relaxation or enjoying Arizona's spectacular sunsets! Summer comfort awaits with the Newer HVAC's on the main home with solar! Situated on over an acre of maintained desert landscape in the prime location of the highly sought-after N. Scottsdale/Cave Creek corridor. The captivating main residence features 4 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, a private executive office, and breathtaking views of Black Mountain and the Boulders. As you step into your dream home, you're greeted by a picturesque ... front courtyard adorned with custom iron gates, two outdoor fireplaces and a striking fountain. Inside, the home boasts an inviting open floor plan with rich wood flooring, beamed ceilings, and NEW custom oversized windows that frame the stunning mountain vistas. The kitchen, a chef's haven, showcases Quartz countertops, a Subzero fridge, stainless steel appliances, stylish cabinetry, and a GE Profile oven with a center island induction cooktop. The spa-inspired master ensuite offers dual sinks, a separate soaking tub, and shower, ensuring a luxurious retreat. The spacious one-bedroom guest home is strategically positioned on the property, providing separate living quarters complete with its own private driveway, single car garage, full bath, eat-in kitchen, and covered patios, catering ideally to multi-generational families, guests or even renters. It has been used as an $AirBnB$ earning an average of $3,000 per month. Outside, the sprawling resort-style backyard is an entertainer's paradise, featuring a covered patio, built-in BBQ, bar seating, and a second Kiva fireplace. Overlooking a beautifully gated, pool, spa, Baja shelf and rock waterfall, the outdoor space offers mesmerizing mountain views, complemented by custom hardscapes, lush landscaping, and extensive stone walkways, inviting you to explore your desert sanctuary. This is a must see!
40455 N 26th Street
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
$1,893,500
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,157
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6727474
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Exquisite custom home in Cave Creek on 3.6 acres, with privacy and panoramic mountain views and no HOA. Hacienda style residence with split floor plan and spacious rooms, new hardwood floors, beams and corbels, vaulted ceilings, and elegant finishes. The master suite offers scenic views, fireplace, and spacious bathroom. The backyard is an oasis with a sparkling pool and covered BBQ area with high-grade turf and spectacular mountain scenery. Situated adjacent to Cave Creek Regional Park with extensive trails for horseback riding, hiking, and biking. Features include a horse turnout area with three covered stalls, equipped with water spigot, arena, and a tack shed. Car enthusiasts will love the 3-car garage and the permitted 3,000 sq. ft. insulated metal building which can be expanded.
6044 E Hodges Street
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
$1,890,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,025
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6726429
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautiful (like new-seasonal owners)! Fantastic Black Mountain views and large NAOS area. Four bedrooms, 3.5 bath, full guest suite/casita with separate entrance, 3-car garage, putting green, pool, spa! Grassed and rock entrance. Courtyard and gate to covered porch. Separate entrance to Guest Suite/Casita from porch. Guest suite/casita has living area, bedroom, full bath and walk-in closet. The foyer at entry into main home has over-sized office/den with double glassed doors on one side and formal dining room on the other side. Dining room has butler's pantry with beverage cooler, glass top cabinetry fronts and wet bar. Powder room off this area. Large beautiful chef's open kitchen design. Lots of rich cabinetry and granite counters. Click the More tab for more information. Large island has bookend design with step-up counter for private prep/clean-up. Designer pendants over island. Built-in SS refrigerator, wall microwave and oven, gas range top with stainless range hood. Walk-in pantry. Breakfast/dining nook area. Great split primary bedroom plan. Primary bedroom large with dual walk-in closets and convenient oversized laundry room off largest closet. Primary bathroom is spa paradise. Walk up soaking tub and walk-in shower with partial glass enclosure. Dual vanities. Opposite side of house has remaining bedrooms. Second bedroom has mountain views and bathroom with walk-in closet. Third and Fourth bedroom have connecting full bathroom. Garage entrance to home has valet area for electronic/technology drop and coat hang/shoe change area. Garage has cabinetry for additional storage. Back and side yards beautifully landscaped with grass (both real and artificial), a putting area, pool, spa, multiple seating areas including firepit area, patio with seating and dining, travertine paving, RV gate and NAOS plus gorgeous mountain views! Fabulous home!
6405 N 75th Avenue
Glendale, AZ 85303
$1,890,000
3
Beds
1
Bath
1,904
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6633881
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Property is currently zoned for R-1 Max 3.525 units/dwellings per acre Can be subdivided for high density allowing for smaller lot sizes. Rezoning is not a requirement for high density Rezoning would be required for multi-family and a pre-application meeting is required. Great investment opportunity for multi-family or multi housing, rezoning would be required. The main entrance is from 75th Avenue. This property is the perfect opportunity for multifamily development, a rehabilitation center, the possibilities for capital gains are endless! Main home will need to be demolished per seller's instructions.
5541 E Crocus Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
$1,890,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
4,073
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6697564
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Gorgeous 5 bedroom 2 office remodel. Dramatic vaulted ceilings. Open floor plan. Solid hardwood flooring. Custom cabinets. Magnificent Gourmet kitchen perfect for entertaining. High end thermador appliances, 2 refrigerators, wine bar with wine refrigerator, and built in coffee machine. Formal dining room, separate large eat in kitchen with solid wood top that seats 8.Split floor plan.Theater room.Large master bedroom suite with separate seating/office/exercise area.Private grotto off master bedroom w/ private access door. Just remodeled master bath with oversized walk in shower.Lush landscaping front and back. Expansive entertaining backyard with huge pool, waterfall/slide, big built in bar, bbq for pool days/nights. Gazebo with fire place. Full mister system, fire pit, new putting greens
5178 W Encanto Paseo Drive
San Tan Valley, AZ 85144
$1,890,000
5
Beds
3.5
Baths
5,158
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6725778
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This stunning 5,158sqft custom home exemplifies luxurious living and beautiful design. Perched on an acre corner lot inside a private, gated community. A huge 4+ car garage with AC complements the modern design. The main living areas unfold with an open-concept living room, dining area, and gourmet kitchen. High-end appliances, custom cabinetry, and a generous island define your culinary experience. A sunken gazebo with an outdoor kitchen offers secluded relaxation, a well appointed outdoor kitchen, and sheltered design ensuring year-round enjoyment, The detached RV car garage with AC for multiple vehicles and ample space for grown up toys. Thoughtful design and high-end finishes throughout ensure comfort and elegance, perfect for both quiet retreats and lavish entertaining.
8347 E Arroyo Hondo Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85266
$1,890,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,567
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6749616
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
BEAUTIFULLY updated home on a large PRIVATE lot w/ Black Mountain Views! This 4 bedroom/3.5 bath/ 3 car garage home with a den is the PERFECT retreat ! Endless tasteful upgrades include: light fixtures, ceiling fans, hardwood floors, beamed ceilings, remodeled kitchen & bathrooms, master bathroom w/ a Miele Coffee Bar & fridge. Enjoy the outdoor living with plenty of space for entertaining. Enter the spacious backyard area through a expansive retractable glass wall to a large outdoor dining area w/ patio heaters, bar/TV, fireplace, fire pit, built in BBQ w/fridge, newly surfaced Pebble-Tec pool, hot tub & grass areas. This home is a turnkey opportunity fully decorated by a professional interior designer. Furniture/decor can be purchased on a separate bill of sale. Just move in & relax!
36811 N Wildflower Road
Carefree, AZ 85377
$1,887,000
4
Beds
5.5
Baths
4,019
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6753154
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Quality & Luxury abound throughout this wonderful estate consisting of a gorgeous detached guest house with kitchenette, an incredible oversized 1,224 sq ft garage and the amazingly well-built custom 3,500 sq/ft main home. Located on .97 acres close to the heart of Carefree offering an array of world class amenities. Enjoy the peace and tranquility of this quiet, scenic desert setting with mountain views, superior construction and low maintenance. A beautiful gated courtyard welcomes you to the heart of the estate. Step into the main home and be enchanted by the exquisite attention to detail and high-end finishes starting with the great room which boasts soaring ceilings adorned with lighted vigas, flagstone flooring, solid alder woodwork, curved walls, arched ceilings, a disappearing sliding glass door to the back patio. The kitchen with multiple ovens, a 6 burner gas range with pot filler, Brazilian granite counters, convenient double islands, breakfast bar, wet bar, wine fridge, walk-in pantry and whole house vacuum sweep is impressive. The adjacent dining room offers lovely mountain views and has a convenient pass thru to the kitchen coffee bar. A three-way fireplace adds charm and warmth to the great room and family room/den. One wing accesses two guest bedrooms each with full private bathrooms and large walk-in closets, a luxurious powder room and the large laundry room both well lit with natural lighting from skylights. The other wing is the primary suite which has multiple glass doors to the courtyard and a private covered patio. No reason to argue here with 2 walk-in closets, 2 private toilets, 2 vanities, 2 no-step entrances to the shower with 2 shower heads and separate controls. The suite has a sitting area and wood vigas. The flagstone flooring is used throughout with NO steps in the home making easy access for all. The separate casita is accessed from the front courtyard and is built with the same quality finishes and ICF (Insulating Concrete Forms) as the main home. Guests will want to stay longer enjoying the kitchen facilities, deluxe bathroom with walk-in shower, a spacious walk-in closet and the cute covered patio with wonderful views of the surrounding mountains. The casita is electric based and can be readily turned off when not in use. (The main house is also perfect for a lock and leave situation though it has been enjoyed year round by the original owners and the pride of ownership is apparent. ) Car and toy enthusiasts will appreciate the spacious 1,224 sq ft garage with a 10 ft high RV door to a double tandem bay accommodating an RV, extra long trucks or 4 cars. The 11ft ceiling gives ample space for lifts and more vehicles. The other double bay has a 30 amp for a charging station. An adjoining temperature controlled workshop/storage room with manly half bath is a great bonus area. The wide pavered driveway offers easy access, guest parking and ample turnaround space. The front courtyard and back patio offer different areas to enjoy the outdoors. The private back patio has a built in gas BBQ, wet bar and a wood burning fireplace with a beautiful mountain backdrop. Engineers will appreciate the Insulating Concrete Forms construction giving the home superior insulation, durability, energy efficiency, sound protection within the home and all around unified comfort. Skylights, plantation shutters, no steps, uniform quality of construction thru-out adds to the appeal of this quintessential southwestern home with exudes warmth and character. Rendered photos show the potential location and size of a pool and spa within the building envelope as designed and rendered by Outdoorscapes Design Group. This design includes a 30-ft pool, 6 person spa, waterfall feature, baja step entry, bench seating, an extended flagstone pool deck & 3 ft wide walkway. Additional rendered photos portray the inside of the home and guest house in a lighter palette creating a more contemporary look. These renderings are for visionary and informational purposes only. Low HOA fees ($60 a year), low taxes ($3,757 in 2024), low maintenance adds to the Carefree lifestyle. World class golfing, restaurants, biking and hiking trails as well as Bartlett Lake and its marina are some of the reasons why TripAdvisor named Carefree one of the top ten places to visit in 2023. Top rated schools, convenient stores and a great neighborhood are reasons to make it home!
6711 E Camelback Road Unit 3
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
$1,885,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,240
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6759570
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
This stunning Santa Fe style townhome in the highly sought-after Pavoreal community showcases timeless upgrades that match the character and charm of this special architecture. The newer modern custom kitchen is the heart of the home. The great room includes a living/dining area with a wet bar and wine cooler, perfect for entertaining guests. Featuring 2 fireplaces, 2 primary suites, and a large third bedroom, this offers flexible living spaces to suit your needs. Each bedroom has an en-suite bathroom and lots of closet space.Outside, enjoy a relaxing water feature in the rear patio, providing a peaceful retreat within the heart of downtown Scottsdale just minutes from the Phoenician Resort and Spa. Pavoreal is guard-gated for added security and is just a short walk to Fashion Square.
10018 E Sundance Trail
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$1,885,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,000
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6769953
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Great soft southwest contemporary with open floor plan in the village of Sunrise in the private community of Desert Mountain. The greatroom with a soaring 16' wood ceiling provides a warm and inviting atmosphere for entertaining family and friends. Retractable sliding doors open to reveal an outdoor living space with a beautiful stacked stone fireplace. 6 fireplaces, wood floors, updated kitchen with granite countertops & designer appliances are just some of the features of this custom home. Separate 2 room casita offers guest ultimate privacy. Enjoy excellent city light and sunset vistas from the view deck. Membership is available through the Desert Mountain Club, waiting list will apply.