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

32278 N 168th Avenue Surprise, AZ 85387

$1,300,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
3,630 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6741875
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This custom Modern Farmhouse features 4 bedrooms and 3 ½ baths, including an office, and boasts a 2-car garage along with a large RV garage on a lot exceeding 1 acre. The home includes a massive great room with a fireplace, a large chef's kitchen equipped with upgraded energy-efficient appliances, electric and propane gas hookups, and custom cabinets with a large island. The kitchen also features a walk-in pantry with cabinets and a water hookup for a portable ice machine. A separate laundry room with a sink and space for an additional refrigerator with a water hookup. The primary bathroom includes a fireplace, a separate walk-in shower with custom tile, a luxury sit-in tub, his and her vanities, and a large walk-in closet. Each bedroom has a walk-in closet, with one bedroom featuring a Jack & Jill bathroom and the others having a separate bathroom. Custom tile is laid throughout the home, including the bathroom tub and shower surrounds, which also feature upgraded faucets. The home also features an electric tankless water heater with the option to switch to gas/propane. The entry door is a large, custom-iron secure door. Additionally, the home has a full-back covered patio with bifold doors. This home is adorned with upgraded light fixtures throughout, including a large chandelier at the entry. The lot is enclosed with block wall fencing surrounding the premises.

Flagstaff AZ 86004

$1,300,000
6 Beds
3 Baths
3,515 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6742413
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Incredible home in Continental Country Club and is NOT in the HOA, currently a turnkey, 5 Star, successful vacation rental. Furnishings negotiable. Spectacular Mountain views, soaring ceilings, multiple fireplaces, expansive gourmet kitchen w/ Subzero fridge, wine cooler, walk in pantry. Solid Oak flooring in Dining and Living rooms, exterior paint in 2021, new roof in 2020, premium tankless hot water heater, updated primary bathroom plus other updates. Ceiling fans throughout. AC upstairs. Corner lot, 2 long paved driveways, with lots of onsite parking spaces. Enjoy 2 spacious decks. Bonus upstairs bunkroom and loft. Entertainer's dream with pool table, 2 bars, game tables, kid's hideaway playroom and plenty of room to sleep family & friends. Ask about Bear Paw amenities to purchase.

145 S Bonito Ranch Loop Cornville, AZ 86325

$1,300,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,599 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6757670
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Step into a world of charm with this stunning NEW CONSTRUCTION residence. A grand covered porch invites you to experience modern farmhouse living, accentuated by porcelain tile white oak flooring throughout. The 30-ft-high peaked metal roofline and clerestory windows fill the open-concept great room and entertainer's kitchen with an abundance of natural light. The kitchen is a culinary masterpiece, featuring a WOLF induction cooktop, double ovens, a coffee bar, and a quartz island seating 8. White cabinets with illuminated uppers and a farmhouse sink create a space where functionality meets elegance. Off the great room, discover an enclosed patio with a floor-to-ceiling fireplace, perfect for cozy evenings. A spiral staircase leads to a loft with sweeping views. The true magic lies in the subdivision amenities. Rio Bonito Ranch is a gated community with paved roads and provides owners private access to Oak Creek, a stocked community pond and Mason Lane Ditch that wanders around the whole subdivision like a mountain stream. The community has well established water rights, incredible sunset, mountain and valley views as well as dark sky and Jerome lights at night. It's location is minutes from Page Springs Cellars and other local wineries and only 20 minutes from West Sedona.

41198 Us 180 -- Nutrioso, AZ 85932

$1,300,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,914 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6758430
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome home to the ''Hollywood House''. Beautiful, one of a king, custom-built log cabin features glue lam beams and pressurized wood throughout. Nestled on the top of the hill with panoramic views of Escudilla Mountain. Grab a coffee, step outside on the huge front deck and enjoy the wildlife. Three levels, large loft with half bath. Main floor is the great room, primary bdrm, kitchen and formal dining room. Basement includes a two car garage with brand new living quarters to include, living area, bdrm and full bath. All floor to ceiling windows in great room have been beautifully remodeled with wood and Milgard windows. Make an appt with me to see this home before it's gone.

26761 S 181st Place Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$1,300,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
3,000 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6702570
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
NEW BUILD-Complete and move-in ready! Enjoy the priceless views of the San Tan Mountains, 957 sq/ft detached casita with full kitchen, irrigated lot and NO HOA, YES PLEASE! Located on just over an acre in the desirable Chandler Heights District of Queen Creek. This open floor plan offers plenty of space for indoor/outdoor entertaining and also includes a den. 5 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms. Oversized 4 car garage and abundant space finishes off this dream home. Home is currently under construction and builder is offering an allowance for the following: appliances, cabinets, counter tops, flooring, electrical and the front door. Minutes from local shopping, hiking, entertainment, Horseshoe Park & Equestrian Center and the newly build Pecan Lake Entertainment Center!

26615 S 181st Place Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$1,300,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
3,000 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6702571
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
NEW BUILD-Approximate completion date November/December 2024. Enjoy the priceless views of the San Tan Mountains, 957 sq/ft detached casita with full kitchen, irrigated lot and NO HOA, YES PLEASE! Located on just over an acre in the desirable Chandler Heights District of Queen Creek. This open floor plan offers plenty of space for indoor/outdoor entertaining and also includes a den. 5 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms. Oversized 4 car garage and abundant space finishes off this dream home. Home is currently under construction and builder is offering an allowance for the following: appliances, cabinets, counter tops, flooring, electrical and the front door. Minutes from local shopping, hiking, entertainment, Horseshoe Park & Equestrian Center and the newly build Pecan Lake Entertainment Center!

1813 E Mallory Street Mesa, AZ 85203

$1,300,000
5 Beds
4 Baths
3,964 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6768387
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this CHARMING 5-bedroom custom home in NE Mesa, where classic elegance blends seamlessly with modern comforts. Overflowing with character, this home invites guests into formal living & dining rooms with large windows that offer picturesque views of the expansive front porch and yard. Everyday living is a delight in the open & airy spaces featuring a family room with a brick fireplace, spacious dining area & beautifully remodeled kitchen(2020) with white cabinetry, quartz countertops, huge island, built-in refrig/freezer & double ovens. The backyard is designed for entertaining with a large covered patio, fenced diving pool, putting green & built-in BBQ. This rare find with NO HOA offers a perfect blend of charm, modern upgrades, & functional living spaces. The home's split floor plan includes 3 bedrooms and 3 baths on the main floor (including the primary suite) and 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom upstairs. The spacious laundry room features a built-in desk for work or crafting, laundry sink, 2nd pantry, and extra space for an additional refrigerator or freezer. An extended length garage offers built-in cabinetry and a fantastic workshop. The property also features an RV gate plus a separate storage room above the garage which could be reimagined as living space. This home features so many upgrades including: French oak luxury vinyl plank throughout the living spaces, new HVACs ('22,'23), new water heaters ('22,'24), lifetime metal roof and more! This is a truly special place to call home!

6109 E Brilliant Sky Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$1,300,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,718 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6725585
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
TERRAVITA STELLA WITH CASITA. 3 BEDROOMS, 3.5 BATHS AND CASITA WITH SEPARATE ENTRANCE - THREE CAR GARAGE. GOLF COURSE VIEWS - Entrance to home has flagstone and fountain. Interior entrance tiled and open. Great Room has large window to bring in Arizona outdoor beauty and with a south view lots of light. Entertainment center with niches, fireplace, hearth area. Kitchen and dinette with seating room area all open and with lots of windows with fairway views. Double doors to patio. SS appliances with gas range. Peninsula island. Primary bedroom and bathroom spacious. Windows for golf views in bedroom. Bathroom has double vanities, walk-in shower and soaking tub. Floor Plan under Doc Tab click More tab for additional information. Second bedroom carpet, spacious with single vanity bathroom and combo tub/shower. Third bedroom/game room has built-in desk, carpet and multitude of options. Hallway cabinetry for additional storage. Large den with wall of built-in shelving and work counter. Powder room with pedestal sink. Casita has separate entrance with carpet in bedroom area and bathroom with single vanity and tub/shower combo. Laundry has ample cabinetry upper and lower and counter. A backyard paradise - golf course views, flagstone and rock, covered patio, outdoor grill/kitchen with decorative tiled counter area and a corner fireplace. Make it your dream home!

28319 N 252nd Avenue Wittmann, AZ 85361

$1,300,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,115 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6696908
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
***DREAM HORSE PROPERTY*** Escape the hustle & bustle of the city and embrace the beauty & serenity of country life in this fantastic Custom Santa-fe style property! This beauty is located on it's own private road, comes with a MASSIVE almost 5 acre lot including 2 parcels!! Upon arrival, discover roping & riding arena, 6 shaded double stalls total of 12 stalls and 19 pens with water at each one , 40 foot conex for tack, hay & extra storage, This is one of the most completely turn-key, ready to move into horse properties out there. Conveniently located within a 30 minute drive to all the great roping & barrel racing arenas in Morristown, Wickenburg & Buckeye RV hookups parking with ele., plenty of room for all your toys, horse trailers & Big trucks, your own private well with the ability to have 4 shares if more homes were to be built on the additional parcel someday, a 3-car garage & gated courtyard with Rustic knotty pine beams. This bright & airy open floor features a beehive fireplace, tile flooring, recessed lighting, and a soothing palette. The kitchen comes with large cabinetry, granite counters, and built-in appliances. The primary retreat has a sliding barn door that opens to a full bathroom flooded with natural light, A dual vanity, soaking tub, glass block shower, walk-in closet, and backyard access complete the picture for this ensuite. The den is perfect for an office or an extra bedroom. The laundry room includes attached cabinetry & a sink. Sit back & relax under the covered patio while contemplating colorful sunsets & panoramic mountain views! Let's not forget about the attached parcel 503-32-031-B, which provides tons of space for horses to roam & limitless possibilities! Inquire today! Furnishings, John Deere tractor & bobcat can be purchased with separate bill of sale.

7737 E Shooting Star Way Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$1,300,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,504 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6744041
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful home in guard gated Winfield with breathtaking views. Home features a gated courtyard with lush landscaping, and backs onto private natural space with no homes in sight. Once through the front door, you are greeted by a massive living and dining room with soaring ceilings and expansive windows letting in lots of natural light and magnificent views of the beautiful backyard. Custom wood flooring in most areas, with tile and carpet in the remainder of the home. Oversized kitchen has beautiful Granite countertops, lots of cabinets, Stainless appliances and walk-in pantry. Breakfast Bar separates kitchen from eating area, which overlooks an enormous Family Room with built-in entertainment center and fireplace. Family Room leads to an outdoor entertainer's dream steps away from the Saltillo Tiled covered patio. Backyard features a built-in BBQ with sink and small fridge, a small pool and a raised fireplace with surrounding seating and gorgeous views. Primary suite features wrap around windows overlooking stunning views, oversized bathroom and large organized walk-in closet. Bathroom features separate sinks, walk-in shower and large raised bathtub. In addition to two large secondary bedrooms, there is an oversized flex room with tile flooring and direct access to one of the two double garages that could serve as an office, game room or workout room. Community offers a beautiful community pool and spa, workout facilities, many Pickleball and Tennis Courts and a beautiful clubhouse.

7797 E Mary Sharon Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$1,300,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,535 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6757019
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled within an exclusive gated community, this remarkable home rests on over 1.5 acres of land, offering unparalleled privacy and tranquility. The elevated position of the property provides breathtaking views, complemented by the gentle rolling terrain that surrounds it. The true jewel of this property is the outstanding backyard with a sparkling diving pool, covered ramada with built-in table and bench seating, spa with new tile surround, built-in BBQ, and a spiral staircase leading to the view deck. From the view deck, you can indulge in the beauty of sunset and mountain views over the pristine pool and spa. The pool was given a stunning makeover in 2022, featuring Stone Scape pebble sheen coating, new tile, and forged bronze spouts. The kitchen is light and bright with clerestory windows, granite counters, center island, and eat-in breakfast area. Culinary enthusiasts will delight in the state-of-the-art Italian induction cooktop with downdraft venting as well as a new microwave, double convection oven, and refrigerator installed in 2023. Other living spaces include the family room (open to the kitchen and breakfast area), formal living/dining spaces, private office overlooking the winding driveway (with closet!), primary bedroom with ensuite bath, two guest rooms, a hall bath with exterior pool access, and a powder bath for guests. Significant improvements were made to landscape that underwent a comprehensive upgrade from 2020 to 2022, encompassing the driveway, front yard, east and west side yards, and backyard. This enhancement involved the addition of rip-rap stone, gravel, flagstone, boulders, as well as the thoughtful planting of low-water plants, cacti, and trees. Other features include: Bluetooth-controlled variable speed pool pump with a filter; Installation of modern Energy Star Milgard windows; added ceiling fans; new hot water heater in 2021; WiFi smart thermostats for both HVAC units; Modern LED lighting and dimmer switches throughout; reverse osmosis drinking water system; Three-car garage with evaporative cooler and circle drive for ample parking.

31006 N Memory Lane Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$1,300,000
5 Beds
4 Baths
3,209 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774124
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this exceptional luxury estate, where elegance, functionality, and modern design come together on a sprawling 1.299-acre lot. With 3,209 sqft of living space, 5 bedrooms, and 4 bathrooms, this home offers the finest in high-end living. At the heart of the home is a gourmet kitchen that truly stands out, designed for both culinary enthusiasts and entertainers. The kitchen features a large 10-foot island, an 8-burner Forno gas range, a custom chef's fridge, and an oversized walk-in pantry. Lovely accent pendants above the island add a touch of sophistication, making this space as beautiful as it is functional. The luxurious primary suite is a true retreat, offering a spacious bedroom with ample natural light and serene views. The primary bathroom exudes luxury...click more... with a huge walk-in shower, a standalone soaking tub, and elegant finishes throughout. The expansive walk-in closet completes this private haven, providing both comfort and style. This home has been meticulously upgraded with significant aftermarket improvements, including front landscaping, a custom courtyard, and stunning wood plank tile flooring throughout. High ceilings, with 10-foot heights across the home and an impressive 11 ft 6 in ceiling in the great room, create a sense of grandeur and openness, perfect for both relaxing and entertaining. Outdoor living is equally impressive, with breathtaking views of the San Tan Mountains providing a stunning backdrop for your daily life. The property, zoned for horse use, offers endless possibilities for outdoor amenities like a pool or equestrian facilities, all within the privacy of your own estate. Practicality meets luxury with an extended driveway that has been expanded to accommodate up to nine vehicles, ideal for hosting guests or simply enjoying the convenience of extra space. The property also features dual RV gates on each side, allowing for easy pull-through access for large trailers or motor homes, a rare and highly desirable feature. Energy efficiency is a priority, with spray foam insulation and two AC units ensuring comfort year-round. The 3-car garage, complete with epoxy-coated floors, adds to the home's functionality and appeal, providing ample space for vehicles and storage. In addition to the luxurious features of this stunning estate, the location offers proximity to some of the most appealing destinations in the area. Just a short drive away, San Tan Mountain Regional Park provides miles of scenic hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian trails with breathtaking desert views, making it the perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts. Nearby, the Queen Creek Olive Mill offers a charming experience with farm tours, artisan olive oil tastings, and farm-to-table dining, perfect for a relaxing day out. For equestrian lovers, the Horseshoe Park & Equestrian Centre is a nearby facility that hosts a variety of horse-related events and competitions throughout the year, serving as a hub for the local horse community. Additionally, Schnepf Farms, a favorite family destination, offers seasonal events like the Pumpkin & Chili Party, U-Pick gardens, and a country store, providing endless fun and fresh produce year-round. For golf enthusiasts, the area offers excellent courses just a short drive away. Here are four great options nearby: San Tan Highlands, Encanterra® Country Club, Las Colinas Golf Club, and Poston Butte Golf Club. These destinations, combined with the luxury and privacy of your new home, make this property a truly exceptional place to live.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.