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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2609 N 81st Way
Scottsdale, AZ 85257
$1,430,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,385
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6767278
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautiful custom home in the heart of South Scottsdale minutes from Old Town, spring training, and amazing shopping, dining, & entertainment. Located in the quiet, friendly community of Scottsdale's Village Grove neighborhood, this charming mid-century Allied home has been completely reimagined, rebuilt, & made ready to be called home once again. Thoughtfully designed & professionally built from top to bottom, this 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath, 2,385 sf. residence is 90% new construction & comes with a 2-year builder warranty. Portions of the foundation, exterior walls, & roof framing are all that remain of the original structure. Wonderfully functional and flowing split floor plan designed for hosting, gathering, entertaining, and making the most of life with friends, family, & neighbors. Beautiful but low maintenance landscaping front and back featuring artificial turf, pavers, putting green, and diving pool. A great life awaits you here.
5455 E Ludlow Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
$1,429,000
5
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,436
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6731016
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Exquisite 5-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom gem in the gated community of MarVilla. Nestled within Scottsdale's magic zip code. As you step inside, archways lead you to the heart of the home—a spacious living room overlooks to the outdoor oasis. The custom kitchen boasts ample cabinetry, granite countertops, high-end appliances (including a double wall oven), and an island with a breakfast bar. The master suite features private access to the covered patio, two walk-in closets, & a luxurious full bath with double sinks, a separate tub, and a shower. Step outside to a pool with a soothing waterfall, spa, and built in BBQ. A new solar roof is fully paid for. New AC units, water heater, dishwasher & wine fridge. Roof replaced in 2019. Kitchen Dinette Chandelier does not convey & outdoor Frig. As Is. Don't miss this opportunity to own a slice of Scottsdale luxury. Make sure to check the PHOTOS and VIRTUAL VIDEO. {Kitchen Dinette Chandelier does not covey!}
6926 N 177th Place
Waddell, AZ 85355
$1,425,000
5
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,300
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6705971
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Brand new home, full of custom finishes! NO HOA. Irrigated backyard. This incredible home features an open floor plan with every detail thoughtfully designed. 1 acre lot and includes a detached oversized RV Garage. You do not want to miss this!
15055 N Meander Mountain Way
Prescott, AZ 86305
$1,425,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
3,604
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6751996
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Custom home in Prescott's exclusive Gated Golf community, Talking Rock Ranch, offering the lowest price per square foot in the area. Nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac with an east-facing backyard to enjoy the morning sun in a serene, private, forest-like setting. Newly remodeled great room with DaVinci island fireplace and freshly painted interior. Bright, open spaces with American Walnut wood flooring, featuring a split floor plan that includes an office and a formal dining room. Large primary suite with Reclaimed Red & White Oak floors. A perfect blend of comfort and luxury awaits! Talking Rock is an exclusive golf community providing members unparalleled hospitality. Amenities include award-winning Jay Morrish designed Golf Course, Fitness Barn, Ranch House Restaurant and Bar, Coop's Coffee House, Members Lounge, Racquet sports Courts, Dog Park, Community Garden, over 14 miles of hiking and biking trails and so much more!
5012 E Blanche Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
$1,425,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,437
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6755414
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This beautifully updated two-story residence is a true gem, offering a perfect blend of modern comfort and versatile living spaces. Step inside to find the renovated interior with brand-new windows that fill each room with natural light. The new kitchen is a chef's delight, with new appliances, sleek cabinetry and stunning countertops - perfect for entertaining or everyday meals. The exterior is equally impressive with an oasis backyard complete with a sparkling pool. Whether you're lounging by the water or hosting a BBQ, this private retreat is your personal paradise.The garage has been transformed into a stylish work/home salon, ideal for those looking for a professional space without leaving home. Alternatively, it can be used as an additional downstairs bedroom.
2128 E Catamaran Drive
Gilbert, AZ 85234
$1,425,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,998
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6755991
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to the epitome of lakeside luxury living in the heart of an active lifestyle community! This lakefront retreat offers an unparalleled blend of elegance, comfort, & convenience, making it the perfect home for those who crave both adventure & relaxation. Perfect as your next dream home or short term rental. Completely renovated from floor to ceiling using fine materials & a keen eye to design. Light & bright with soaring ceilings & an open floor plan with expansive views of the lake. The modern design greets you upon entry. Attention to detail made from the well equipped, gourmet kitchen to the serene owner's suite overlooking the lake. A new pool, private patio & dock create paradise at the backyard retreat. A list of features included under documents tab. Furniture is available.
15255 N Double Adobe Road
Prescott, AZ 86305
$1,425,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,717
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6772842
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This stunning contemporary ranch is nestled on 1-acre along the 8th green of Prescott's Premiere golf and fitness community Talking Rock Ranch. The light-filled home features 14-foot ceilings in the main living area, a spacious kitchen with high-end European appliances, a custom bar, and cozy stone fireplace. Wide sliding doors lead to a covered patio and outdoor kitchen complete with pizza oven and privacy. Perfect for entertaining. The split master suite overlooks the golf course and boasts dual walk-in closets, a soaking tub, and a large shower. The ensuite guest room and third bedroom, served by a full bath, provide ample accommodations. A versatile bonus room is ideal for an office, craft room, or gym. The 3-car garage offers generous storage, space for large trucks, and golf cart. The lot provides plenty of space to add a Casita or RV garage, this property combines luxury and practicality in a prime location. Talking Rock is a 24-hour security gated luxury home community with a Troon golf course and exceptional amenities. You have everything you would want or need here, from golf, to pickle ball, tennis, dining, fantastic dog park, hiking and community gardens. The Morgan Room is a private restaurant and bar with a varied menu. The restaurant also features The 1800, a wood fired pizza patio with comfy chairs and firepits to enjoy any season.
13401 N 78th Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
$1,425,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,924
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6780173
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Incredible development opportunity in the hottest market in Scottsdale right now, 85260! Create your dream project for 2025 on nearly a full acre lot! A builders dream with a wide & deep footprint to create your own masterpiece! Enjoy an A+ location just minutes from Kierland Commons, Scottsdale Quarter, and the private Scottsdale Airpark. Whether you're envisioning a modern estate or a high-end investment property, this lot provides the perfect canvas. Don't miss this rare chance to build in one of Scottsdale's hottest markets. This is the opportunity you've been waiting for, come see today!
42221 N Caledonia Way
Anthem, AZ 85086
$1,425,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
3,545
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6752002
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Resort style Arizona living can be yours with 2014 Ultra Paz finished heated Grecian style pool and spa with multiple water features, gas woks, fireplace and fire pit, Cantera decking front and back, 2 exterior pergolas, stacked stone outdoor fireplace, BBQ island & front of home, courtyard Arabesque fountain, wrought iron Cantera entry door, 2022 Trane HVAC systems & ductwork & solar panels. Pleasing light & bright interior w/great room custom bar, patio french doors, stacked stone wall w/linear fireplace, custom master entry doors, master bath free standing tub, kitchen remodel, wine refrigerator, double ovens, family room stacked stone fireplace, crown molding, custom lighting, interior paint and 2024 carpet.
9430 N 25th Street
Phoenix, AZ 85028
$1,425,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,725
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6693253
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your oasis in the gated community of Dreamy Draw Estates, nestled North of the Phoenix Mountain Preserve. This completely renovated home offers the perfect blend of design, luxury, comfort, and convenience. Step into single floor living where the open floor plan seamlessly connects the two living spaces with dinning and kitchen areas creating the perfect atmosphere for entertaining. The kitchen features new appliances, vaulted ceiling, oversized island and unique natural stone countertops. The wood burning fireplace is accompanied with a wet bar, wine refrigerator, and sleek granite counter tops. Situated moments from endless hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails. Easy access to state route 51 and minutes away from Downtown Phoenix, Paradise Vally and North Scottsdale.
3314 E Azalea Drive
Gilbert, AZ 85298
$1,425,000
6
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,554
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6699370
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Entertainers Dream Home meets Luxury Family Home w/5 Bedrooms Plus a Casita, 4.5 Bathrooms and a 3 Car Garage that is Located on a PREMIUM Oversized Lot in Gilbert. THE BRIDGES Community is a Highly Desirable Neighborhood in Gilbert. Over $250,000 has been spent on the home for the Heated Pool/Spa, Landscaping, Pavers, Enclosed AZ Room, Owned Solar (19 KWS). The Premium Location is just a short walk from the New Gilbert Regional Park. The Downstairs features a Master Retreat with His & Her closets, Dual Sinks, Soaking Tub & walk-in shower. A Detached Casita is perfect for NextGen Families, Home Theater, Bonus Game Room, Office, Gym, or Guests visiting for the Holidays. The Backyard is perfectly set up for Entertaining, Large Family Gatherings, Kids Playground and Memories to be made!!
18140 N 92nd Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$1,425,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,563
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6729174
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This meticulously maintained move-in-ready home is situated on one of the most desirable lots in the heart of DC Ranch. Remodeled from top to bottom in the last three years, this gem boasts luxury upgrades in every single room. **See list below. The impeccable, fully renovated white kitchen is open to the family room, which has picture-perfect views of the backyard and stunning Arizona sunsets. The outdoor sanctuary is an entertainer's dream with a newly remodeled pool and hot tub, new top-tier pool equipment, new travertine pavers, turf lawn, covered patio, kids' jungle gym, and gas fire pit. The upstairs primary bedroom is bright and spacious, with a brand new sparkling en suite bathroom and cedar walk-in closet. The top floor boasts two additional inviting bedrooms, another fully remodeled bathroom, and a loft area that can be used as an office or playroom. Downstairs, the home has one airy bedroom (which can double as an office) and a bathroom, making this a four-bedroom, three-bath dream. Enjoy all the amenities that DC Ranch has to offer, such as miles of walking/jogging/biking paths, work-out facilities, two clubhouses, a heated lap pool and wading pool, playgrounds, multiple parks, tennis and pickleball courts, plus easy access to the 101 and nearby shopping and dining at DC Ranch Crossing and the charming Market Street. This property epitomizes the essence of North Scottsdale living, offering a perfect blend of elegance, community, and functionality. Updates from 2021-2024: New air conditioning units installed in August 2022 The pool and spa were completely renovated with new mini pebble interiors and tile. The pool plumbing was replaced from shell to equipment. The new pool equipment includes a Pentair IntelliCenter automation system, IntelliFlo pump, IntelliChlor salt cell, IntelliBrite lights, gas heater, and cartridge filter. New flooring, baseboards, and casing (trim) in the entire home New plantation shutters throughout (38 total) New quartz countertops in the kitchen and all bathrooms New KitchenAid appliances (refrigerator, dishwasher, double convection oven, and gas cooktop) All three bathrooms were completely remodeled New stone accent wall and 72 linear gas fireplace New epoxy flooring, overhead storage, and attic storage in the immaculate 3-car garage Ceiling speakers in multiple rooms (5.1 surround sound in the family room) LED recessed lighting throughout the home and garage New light fixtures and hardware throughout Reverse osmosis (R/O) water filtration system New irrigation system with smart home controls New travertine pavers and pool deck in the backyard New fire pit and seating area with smart controls New interior and exterior paint