Mortgage Myths: Here’s Why You Don’t Need a Full 20 Percent Down Payment

Mortgage Myths: Here's Why You Don't Need a Full 20 Percent Down Payment 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.

Click Here to See What Your Home is Worth

3916 E Encanto Street Mesa, AZ 85205

$1,475,000 - 5Br/4Ba -  for Sale in Trovita Estates Phase 2, Mesa
Open House
New
$1,475,000
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,982 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780417
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Luxury living in Trovita Estates at its finest! This gorgeous residence is in one of Mesa's most prestigious communities! You'll be welcomed by an exquisite curb appeal complemented by stone accents, a carefully manicured landscape, 4 car garage, RV gate, and pavers. Understated elegance & subtle modernity seamlessly mix in this breathtaking open floor plan showcasing tall ceilings, recessed lighting, custom palette, and wood-plank tile flooring. The spacious living room features a delightful wagon wheel chandelier, a gas fireplace, and window seats. The multi-sliding glass doors connect indoor and outdoor living, promoting easy entertaining and quick access to your own private backyard paradise featuring a relaxing pool and sport court.

7739 E Cassia Circle Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$1,475,000 - 3Br/3Ba -  for Sale in The Boulders, Scottsdale
Open House
$1,475,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,864 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6761939
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Rare Opportunity to Own a Quintessential Home in The Boulders- The Sonoran Desert's Best Golf Community. Nestled on a tranquil cul-de-sac lot, with an Ideal location in the community. This home is a short walk to the Clubhouse, First Tee, Tennis & Pool Amenities. Most sought after floorplan with soaring ceilings & SOUTHERN Exposure. This impeccably remodeled home in The Boulders backs to NAOS and offers exceptional privacy, and breathtaking mountain views. Custom built-in BBQ, fireplace, view fencing creates a serene outdoor oasis. Step inside to enjoy the stunning recent upgrades ensuring turn key living: Every surface has been Fully remodeled, new interior & exterior paint, brand new energy efficient windows. Abundant natural light fills the spacious living room, and a fireplace & we for added enjoyment & the perfect setting for relaxation. Professionally designed desert landscaping, enhanced with outdoor lighting surrounds this stunning property. The chef's kitchen is a standout, granite countertops, marble backsplash, stainless steel appliances, gas cooktop, and double ovens, cozy fireplace, ideal for both everyday meals and entertaining. The luxurious primary suite offers a stunning, fully remodeled bathroom with dual vanities, custom cabinetry, dual entry gorgeous tiled shower, a luxury tub with tub filler, skylight, two walk-in closets. Secondary Ensuite Bath has been fully remodeled with gorgeous walk in, tiled shower with beautiful windows & natural light. Powder bath remodeled with custom cabinetryThis home truly captures the essence of desert living with elegance, comfort, and privacy. In addition to sitting on the best lot, you will enjoy the amazing lifestyle this home & community offers. This fully remodeled luxury property is located in the Desert Ridge area of The Boulders Resort Community (see map under Documents Tab). This luxurious neighborhood is located in the southeastern corner of this master-planned development. Residents of the Desert Ridge area of the Boulders Community, enjoy easy access to world-class spas, golf courses, tennis and pickle ball courts and shopping destinations in North Scottsdale, Carefree, and Cave Creek. The area's natural beauty, vibrant sunsets, and nearby hiking trails make it an ideal setting for outdoor enthusiasts. The Clubhouse is just a short walk from this home. Residents can enjoy dining at the Grill Restaurant at the Boulders Golf Clubhouse, and enjoy sweeping views of the 18th hole fairways. Championship golf, tennis, pickle ball, 33,000 sq. ft. luxurious spa, and exclusive services & social activities await in this dramatic setting situated on over 1,300 acres of Sonoran Desert foothills, with panoramic views of 12-million-year-old boulder formations. The Boulders Resort and Golden Door Spa, named one of America's Top Resorts, is a key feature of this stunning enclave nestled between Scottsdale and Carefree. The resort features two exceptional 18-hole golf coursesone designated for private member use and the other for guests. These courses are renowned for their impeccable maintenance and breathtaking desert landscapes, consistently earning spots on Top 100 lists nationwide. Golf memberships are available for purchase, and membership information can be found in the documents tab. *NAOS stands for Natural Area Open Space. It refers to areas of land that are legally designated to remain in their natural desert state, typically to preserve the natural environment, protect native vegetation, and ensure wildlife habitats remain undisturbed. In many Arizona communities, including Scottsdale and surrounding areas, NAOS is a requirement in residential developments to maintain the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert and limit the impact of construction on the environment. NAOS areas cannot be disturbed, built on, or landscaped, and they serve as a buffer between homes and surrounding natural features like washes, desert plants, and wildlife corridors. See DOCUMENTS TAB: Complete list: Features & Upgrades Floorplan Community Map Golf Membership Info. **GOLF MEMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE UPON APPROVAL.

6825 N 72nd Place Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$1,475,000 - 3Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Sands North, Scottsdale
Open House
$1,475,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,401 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6743631
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this architecturally and historically unique town home in an ideal Central Scottsdale location! Great restaurants, shops, nightlife and McCormick-Stillman Park are all within walking distance, AND the Ritz Carlton Paradise Valley Resort is opening very soon right across Scottsdale Road. You just cannot beat this perfect location. With an airy, contemporary design from ET Wright and the original model home for the community, you'll see an excellent example of a mid-century modern town home at its best. Plus with its fully remodeled interior re-imagined in 2016 with modern contemporary finishes, this home is turn-key. This spacious interior location rarely comes on the market. LOW property taxes! Only $1390!. It also boasts a huge, MAIN level, primary Bedroom suite. The community pool and clubhouse is located down the street. The property features a gated entry courtyard and private back yard displaying upgraded tile and landscaping. Meticulously maintained, the residence has many upgrades including new windows and doors as well as new kitchen and baths in 2016. It has great space for both indoor and outdoor entertaining. A massive great room and huge bedrooms are just some of the interior features. Here is a partial list of improvements.

10730 N Linda Lane Flagstaff, AZ 86004

$1,474,999
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,285 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6738049
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
The electric gate opens. You take in the glorious ponderosa pines, the beautiful front yard, the circular driveway, the sprawling, welcoming single-level home, and the barn. The Alpacas come closer, curious. The mountains glow and shimmer as a stunning backdrop on one side, the national forest invites you on the other. As you breathe in and process this beauty, you know. You are home. Welcome. This is a unique opportunity to live your dream in a single-level home on almost 4 treed acres, backing national forest on 2 sides, with a separate guest house/apartment and a 6 stall barn with a workshop. The design of the home is fabulous. Family and friends will gather in the newly upgraded kitchen and dining area, or spill over into the greatroom. The wall of windows in the greatroom allows you to feel like you are surrounded by nature while relaxing inside. Behold the ponderosas, blue skies and the ever changing colors of the mountains in the near distance. The sunroom on the side of the kitchen is a perfect office or, why not? Use it as a sunroom. Do you need privacy? There is a bedroom and bathroom behind the kitchen, perfect as a guest suite, exercise area, or your office. The entry room is that highly desired second living area or play area. With a spacious primary bedroom and two additional bedrooms and bath, live and entertain with ease. Start every day peacefully waking to the mountain's dazzling and subltly changing hues in the morning sunlight. You may never want to leave. But wait. There is a detached apartment above the garage! House your teenager, your guest or rent it out! Equestrian? You will adore the 6 stall steel barn in excellent condition that now includes a full workshop. Toys? When you see the three car garage and additional breezeway you will want to buy more - there is plenty of space to store them. The breezeway lends itself to many uses. Imagine! RV? Hook it up! (septic for RV is not permitted). Let's walk the property. Breathe in the tranquility of the pines and enjoy the views of the mountains on your back deck. Listen to the soothing sounds of your water feature, the calming whispers of the wind in the trees and the birds chirping. Time to explore! Mount your horses, put on your hiking shoes or get your bike ready - lose yourself in the National forest from your back yard. You must spend time here to understand the peace, tranquility and opportunities offered by this unique home. Let us inpsire you. The home inspection has been completed. This home is in excellent condition. Owners are meticulous. Welcome.

8702 E San Daniel Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$1,474,940
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,081 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6605563
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Custom upgrades abound in this beautifully appointed 4 Bedroom, 3.5 Bath, 2 car garage home located in the sought after McCormick Ranch community of Vista De Cielo. Rich warm neutral tones give this home a modern, comfortable feel. Upon entry through the frosted glass paneled door, you are greeted by open concept living spaces w/ an exquisite electric fireplace in the living room flanked by 2 large windows showcasing the beautiful, lush backyard, extended patio and sparkling pool! Adjacent to the large dining room w/ elegant chandelier is the custom island kitchen w/quartz countertops, 2 tone cabinetry, waterfall island, new Monogram appliances including double ovens, microwave drawer, hooded ss vent, 6 burner stove top and a 36-inch built-in fridge. Large double-door office off the kitchen (could be used as a 4th bedroom) with a stunning floor to ceiling tile walled powder room across from the office. Don't miss the master with walk out, large walk-in closet, frosted glass barn door entry to the master bath with opulent free-standing tub and multi-head shower behind glass partition...stunning. If that wasn't enough...all secondary bedrooms are ensuites with their own private baths! Large laundry comes with a washer and dryer, custom cabinets and a sink! No expense spared! New windows, new roof, new a/c unit, new landscaping, interior & exterior completely remodeled, new custom-made garage door, synthetic smooth stucco finish throughout, custom iron gates throughout yard. Don't miss an opportunity to own this one-of-a-kind home ideally located near award winning golf courses, famed shopping malls, renowned hiking paths & more!

N Bell Road Unit 4 Queen Creek, AZ 85144

$1,474,900
5 Beds
4 Baths
4,100 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6345746
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Brand new BASEMENT home with approx 4,100 sq ft, on 2+ acre lot with NO HOA! 4 Bedrooms on main floor and 1 in basement. Plenty of time for Buyer to make selections for cabinets, paint, flooring, granite, etc. Standard features include granite throughout, tile surrounds covered patio, 4-car garage, tile roof... Much more! Estimated completion time is 9-10 months from ground-breaking. Drive by only.

16244 N 21st Street Phoenix, AZ 85022

$1,472,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,829 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6750356
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover unmatched versatility and potential in this custom-built property, designed for both residential and commercial needs. Built in 2020, the main home offers 2,869 sq ft of modern living space with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, a dedicated office, and a formal dining area. The spacious kitchen is equipped with two pantries, ideal for culinary enthusiasts, while the primary bedroom includes dual closets for added convenience. An 870 sq ft guest house with 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom offers a private entrance and generates $1,600/month in rental income, providing immediate cash flow through April 2025. The property includes an attached 3-car garage plus a stand-alone 2-car garage/workshop behind the main home, along with a circular driveway and RV gates for easy access and ample space for for large vehicles. Set on a spacious lot with no HOA restrictions, the property accommodates horses, RVs, commercial trucks, and equipment. Two sewer outflow pipes in the side yard provide flexibility for future expansion or commercial use. This prime investment opportunity combines modern comfort with endless potential, offering immediate income and a range of possibilities. Don't miss the chance to own a truly versatile property with both residential charm and commercial adaptability

7347 E Turquoise Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$1,470,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,439 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6714079
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This impressive residence, nestled in the heart of Scottsdale, epitomizes luxury living at its finest! This stunning 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home boasts a seamless floor plan, a private split master suite, soaring ceilings, and a cozy great room complete with a fireplace. Take in the picturesque southern views of the shimmering pool and Jacuzzi from the comfort of your home. The expansive dining patio is ideal for entertaining, surrounded by lush citrus trees. The bright and airy kitchen features double ovens, an electric cooktop, a convenient breakfast bar, and a cozy breakfast nook. The oversized Master Bath is a serene oasis, offering a luxurious soaking tub, a tall vanity for him, and a dedicated makeup vanity for her. Step outside to the verdant backyard oasis, enclosed by a towering block fence, where you'll find a heated pool, relaxing spa, and soothing waterfalla perfect retreat for both relaxation and entertaining. This home is situated in a gated community that exudes a relaxed yet refined ambiance, with amenities that include a heated swimming pool, inviting jacuzzi, and well-maintained tennis court. Whether used as a primary residence, lock-and-leave property, or a second home, this residence offers the ultimate blend of comfort, elegance, and sophistication in an enviable Scottsdale location.

6301 E Redfield Road Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,470,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,895 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6754911
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This remodeled modern farmhouse home in the highly sought after 85254 zip code is turnkey and ready for a new owner. It has an open concept kitchen to living floor plan, large island, stainless steel appliances, and a custom-built in breakfast nook that makes this home perfect for entertaining family and friends. This 5 bed 3 bath, with a dedicated office ( currently used as a bunk room) is ideal for a family, great second home or investment property. With a full cosmetic update and luxury finishes this home is truly turnkey. The dream backyard comes complete with a large, covered patio with an outdoor tv, sparkling pool, putting green, bocce ball, hot tub, RV gate, upgraded pool equipment, and an a outdoor shower. Fantastic location just minutes from the Scottsdale Quarter, Golf, Kierland Commons, and not far from events like the Waste Management Open and the Barrett Jackson car show. Home is being used as a short-term rental and is being sold fully furnished.

Phoenix AZ 85014

$1,469,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,377 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6762202
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover urban luxury in this low maintenance 2022-built home by Boyer Vertical in North Central Phoenix's smart home community, KARMA. Designed with sustainability in mind, this energy-efficient home boasts a 49-point HERS certification, SPAN electrical panel, Nest thermostats, EV charger, and Energy Star appliances. The heart of the home is a sleek, open kitchen with modern cabinetry, high end appliances, and a spacious waterfall island. The open-concept living room is flooded with natural light while large triple sliding glass doors seamlessly lead to two private patios for ultimate indoor-outdoor living. The first-floor primary suite offers built in office space, oversized walk in closet, and luxurious bath. Located in the highly sought after Madison School District with access to restaurants, coffee shops, shopping and major freeways.

10220 N 175th Avenue Waddell, AZ 85355

$1,459,000
5 Beds
6 Baths
4,053 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6755960
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to you new home in Waddell! This unique horse property with a rare opportunity for income producing potential is nestled in a serene location, offering many amenities for both horse enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil retreat! Wrangle into your equestrian haven on a nearly 2 sprawling acres with an''A'' frame main house, modern guest house, charming casita, yoga studio, horse stables w/arena, and a myriad of mature citrus and shade bearing trees! The 2,008 sq ft main house holds loads of character and features a high vaulted ceiling in the family room, formal dining, durable tile flooring, 3 carpeted bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, neutral paint throughout, a galley kitchen fully equipped w/SS appliances, and large bonus room which can be your home office or covert into a bdrm. Main house with front, sideyard, and backyard patios offer plenty of room for entertaining! Storage galore with separate tool and tack sheds! Important extras include flood irrigation, tankless water heater, and bidet! The newly built 1,050 sq ft guest house boasts contemporary flair throughout with 10 ft ceilings, wood-look floors, a fully equipped kitchen including large walk-in pantry and breakfast bar, great room, a sizable bedroom with double doors, 1.5 bathrooms, laundry room, convenient front/side/back entries and wifi! The 125 sq ft casita with bathroom and wrap-around deck offers endless possibilities as extra space for guests, an art & crafts studio, detached office, reading room, or just your own private space! In the detached 870 sq ft yoga/fitness studio, you'll find an ample carpeted area for multiple purposes with 1/2 bathroom, & an adjacent foyer. The impressive horse boarding facility produces an approximate monthly revenue of $10k from 13 stalls and includes a lighted riding arena, tack rooms with electricity, and wash station. A must-see property with ample parking and NO HOA! Bring your best offer today!

43720 N Acadia Way New River, AZ 85087

$1,453,900
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,036 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6758276
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Former gorgeous model home! Welcome to The Orion Monterey Model Home - a single-story gem offering 3,036 sq ft of luxury. This 4-bed, 3.5-bath home features a 20 ft multi-slide door and 12 ft glass wall in the Great Room, blending indoor and outdoor spaces. Enjoy mountain views from the extended covered patio. Highlights include an oversized kitchen island, a luxurious master suite with an oversized shower, a versatile den, and a multi-generational suite with its own amenities. Additional features: a 50 x 16 RV garage with workshop, a Ramada with an outdoor kitchen, a beautifully landscaped backyard, and practical touches like a pet shower and bench with lockers. For more information or to schedule a private tour, please contact us. Discover the perfect blend of elegance and practicality.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.