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.

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1920 E Schooner Court Gilbert, AZ 85234

$1,299,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,542 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6708481
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home in the exclusive gated community of The Regatta at Val Vista Lakes. This custom residence, masterfully redesigned by award-winning designer Steve Price of Beautiful Space Co., offers over $400,000 in luxurious modern upgrades. Be greeted by soaring vaulted ceilings + an open great room concept. Engineered wood floors span the downstairs Massive central kitchen with a 13' quartz island, high end stainless steel appliances, GE Monogram refrigerator + freezer, gas cook-top, double convection ovens, + abundant cabinetry. The inviting great room features a custom built-in wall unit with an electric fireplace. Office with amazing waterfront views off the entry, + patio access. Main floor primary suite is comple expansive en suite with a soaker tub and unique water feature, and a generous walk-in closet. The upstairs entertainment area is perfect for guests or family, including a built-in TV, bar, bathroom, and bedroom, making it ideal for a mother-in-law suite, guest suite, or kids' play area. The private backyard is a paradise where you can relax in the oversized spa that doubles as a cocktail pool. The side patio offers stunning views of the lake, accessible from the kitchen, den, and living room. Enjoy a front entrance portico and ample room to relax in the shade. The spacious private driveway leads to a 3-car secluded garage, perfect for all your storage needs. Val Vista Lakes Clubhouse offers country club living with a heated Olympic-size pool, beach pool, spa, sand volleyball, tennis, racquetball, pickleball, fishing, cardio & weight room, classes, fire pits, and more. Conveniently close to Dana Park shopping complex and top notch restaurants, including recently announced The Vig, Heritage District in Downtown Gilbert, San Tan Mall, and the 60 freeway access. Discover the unparalleled beauty and luxury of this remarkable home. Come see today and experience the best of Val Vista Lakes living!

24809 N Vado Court Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$1,299,900
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,170 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6777688
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Spectacular Views on Amazing lot. This is the Location of locations. The Rodeo Drive of Rio Verde. Sprawling great room with amazing Mountain & Golf Course views. Heightened wood beam ceilings, Ceiling fans, Dining area & breakfast bar, granite counters fire place inside & out. Wrap around patio offers amazing views and several places to relax & enjoy the day. Huge elevated lot offers tons of privacy. Outdoor fireplace with built in BBQ. Garage features storage cabinets & a service door to walled & gated side storage area. Large separated bedrooms, jetted tub and so much more. Don't miss out, this type of property doesn't come along often.

6235 E Larkspur Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,299,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,528 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6734145
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
NO HOA - Welcome HOME to your private oasis in the coveted 85254 zip code. Situated on over half an acre, this meticulously updated property offers an abundance of amenities. Step into elegance with this remodeled home featuring an open concept design that seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living. Enjoy the warmth of plank tile flooring in the spacious living and family rooms, complete with a cozy fireplace. The upgraded kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances & an oversized butcherblock island with sleek finishes. Overlook your personal paradise through expansive kitchen window to see sprawling landscape of mature trees & a vast park-like yard, complemented by a stunning PebbleTec diving pool and a charming gazebo (with misting system). Kids will revel in their own wonderland with a great lighted climbing tree & jungle gym offering endless joy and laughter from morning to night. For the adventurous adults, the property features a generously sized RV gate with 30amp power on one side & another RV gate ideal for a boat or trailer on the opposite side. Additional 2 car detached garage with workshop. Conveniently located near Kierland Commons & Scottsdale Quarter, this exceptional home caters to every family member's desires. Don't miss this opportunity to own a slice of Scottsdale paradise!

2131 Golf Links Drive Prescott, AZ 86301

$1,299,900
5 Beds
5 Baths
3,850 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6714951
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
WATER -200ft ''Lakefront'' property!! Overlooking the 3rd Fairway Lake of the of Antelope Hills Golf Course with panoramic mountains, this custom contemporary has views from every room. One level living: spacious Master w/Fireplace, Great room w/Fireplace, 2nd Living/Dining room, Chef's Kitchen, Office (3rd bed) 1/2 bath, Laundry with flex space, 3/4 Bath plus a 3 car garage & Wine Cellar! The kitchen includes a 6 burner gas range, wall oven, granite counters, prep sink & huge island. Additional living and dining space includes a grand double door entrance with 25' Soaring Ceilings and a wet bar with (2) 3 panel sliders accessing the covered patio. The upper level has a 2nd Master, 2 more bedrooms w/private patios. New Exterior paint and many updates -see docs tab. A gem like no other!

20970 E Stacey Road Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$1,299,900
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,351 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6776053
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home! Nestled in Bellero, this stunning contemporary residence combines modern elegance with ultimate comfort. Key Features: Stunning Curb Appeal, Open-Concept Living: Step inside to an expansive open floor plan featuring high ceilings and tile plank floors. The spacious living area flows seamlessly into the gourmet kitchen, equipped with top-of-the-line stainless appliances, and HUGE center island with quartz countertops. Elegant Dining Experience. Luxurious Master Suite, 3 Versatile Bedrooms. Casita with separate entrance. Massive RV garage. 4 car attached Garage. Outdoor Oasis with pool, Built in BBQ and amazing entertaining space. Prime Location:Situated in a sought-after neighborhood, this property is just minutes away from top-rated schools, shopping, dining.

4222 E Brown Road Unit 5 Mesa, AZ 85205

$1,299,888
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,730 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6739448
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning custom home in private gated neighborhood! Experience luxury living in this exclusive north Mesa enclave. NEW SOLAR OWNED, energy-efficient home on a PREMIUM cul-de-sac lot w/ flood irrigation. Interior boasts attention to detail w/ plantation shutters, new tile flooring, vaulted ceilings, surround sound, a den/office, & formal dining room. Bonus room in the BASEMENT w/ built-in cabinets. The great room is enriched by exposed ceiling beams, media niches & a warm fireplace. Beautiful kitchen equipped w/ Dacor S/S appliances, GAS stove, mosaic backsplash, walk-in pantry, custom cabinets, island, desk, breakfast bar & nook. The 3.5 tandem car garage offers 22V outlet for an electric vehicle, epoxy flooring, mud room & built-in cabinets. The backyard is great for outdoor entertaining The backyard is great for outdoor entertaining, featuring a pool with water feature, NEW variable speed pump, 2 NEWlarge permanent rotating umbrellas 360 degrees, & volleyball net. PLUS a putting green, bocce court, built-in BBQ, fire pit, outdoor shower, & extended covered patio. More features include: Pool is plumbed using waterfall for return 2 NEW water heaters (12/22 & 7/23) 2 NEW variable speed A/C units (9/21) NEWER roof (2019) Aluminum patio cover 400 amp service, 2 electrical panels Many windows have tint Dog run or garden area Citrus, apple and apricot trees Motion exterior lights Metal plants in pots and the metal wall art do not convey. Metal plants in ground do convey. All furniture and solar torches available on separate bill of sale. BBQ is on natural gas. 34 solar panels for a total of 12.24kw. HOA service includes irrigation and the opening/closing of irrigation ports/gates. 35 homes in the community The lifestyle here is exceptional because of the blend of tranquility and convenience, with nearby stores, restaurants, and the vibrant cultural scene of Downtown Mesa just minutes away. This peaceful, gated community offers the best of both worlds, surrounded by lush orange groves and abundant outdoor activities like hiking at Usery Mountain Regional Park and enjoying the scenic beauty of Saguaro Lake.

4880 E Beehive Road San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

$1,299,500
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,420 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6753373
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning Custom home nestled on a 1.25-acre irrigated lot. **NO HOA** This Barndominium style home offers 5-bedrooms, 3.5-baths + 1200 Sq. Ft. air-conditioned detached shop with extended 2 car garage, 2 additional rooms, a bathroom which is perfect for a guest quarters or home business. This home offers a spacious open concept, new interior paint, gourmet kitchen with Knotty Alder cabinets complimented by a HUGE island, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, propane stove, dual ovens, copper farm sink, coffee bar and walk-in pantry. The WOW factor of the stone and metal fireplace is such a focal point to the home. First level primary suite provides backyard access, dual closets with stackable washer & dryer, spacious walk-in rain shower and separate vanities. Stunning barn doors at the primary bedroom and dining areas. Mudroom doubles as an office just off the garage. The garage is oversized with additional storage allowing for ample parking of larger vehicles. Travel up the custom metal staircase and enjoy the open loft with 3 additional bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2nd laundry room and additional storage area. North/South orientation adds to the enjoyment of the extended wrap around porch which is perfect for large gatherings and views of this great property. Fully fenced pasture with 40 ft. round pen, 60x20 covered shed-row barn w/4-stalls and 18x10 hay storage area. The shop is equipped with foam insulating, A/C, electrical and 30-Amp plug. Plenty of room for all your toys and animals. Don't miss out on this wonderful home!

6775 E Horned Owl Trail Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$1,299,500
5 Beds
3 Baths
3,312 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6702999
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Embrace the essence of desert living in your 5 bedroom 3 bathroom stunning retreat nestled in Scottsdale's serene enclave. This luxurious Carriage Trails residence offers an unparalleled blend of sophistication, comfort, and natural beauty, providing a tranquil sanctuary for those seeking the ultimate desert lifestyle. Step inside to discover an architectural masterpiece, featuring high ceilings, plantation shutters, neutral tones, a wet bar, and expansive windows that capture breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscape. The functional layout offers a seamless flow between the living spaces, perfect for both relaxation and entertaining. The chef's kitchen is a culinary haven, equipped with matching stainless steel appliances, sleek countertops, a custom center island, R/O drinking system, and plenty of cabinet space with soft close hinges. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or preparing a casual meal, this kitchen is sure to inspire culinary creativity. Step outside to your own private oasis, where you'll find a beautifully landscaped backyard with a covered patio, a sparkling pool and spa, a fire pit, a built-in outdoor tiled island equipped with a plumbed gas barbeque and fridge, low maintenance beautiful turf, and a putting green. It's the ideal setting for outdoor dining, entertaining, and enjoying the Arizona sunshine year-round. Situated in a coveted North Scottsdale neighborhood, this home enjoys a prime location with easy access to hiking trails, golf courses, shopping, dining, and entertainment. Experience the best of desert living with all the conveniences of urban amenities just moments away! Buyers currently living in Maricopa or Pinal County ask about an ADDITIONAL $7,000 home buyer credit available on this home via the Community Promise Program. Rate Relief Rebate Program: Benefit from a 2% seller credit to reduce your mortgage payments by Approximately $1,303/month in year 1 and $668/month in year 2. This exclusive offer makes homeownership more affordable now, while you await potential rate decreases.

8714 E Rancho Vista Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,299,500
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,475 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6746081
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to home Old Town Scottsdale! This modern charmer underwent a complete remodel in 2023 — taken down to the studs—and added on a spacious primary suite encompassing 777sf. Highlights include dramatic 10ft/9ft/8ft ceiling elevations, custom lighting, and a new heated AND chilled PebbleTec pool. Every detail has been upgraded, from ABS plumbing and dual Goodman HVAC units to custom landscaping with a putting green. Also featuring an outdoor Napoleon BBQ, two indoor fireplaces, a spacious primary closet, CAT 5 cabling, and more. Enjoy living in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale with close proximity to nightlife, shopping & dining, Giants Spring Training Stadium, endless golf courses, Scottsdale's green belt - perfect for bike rides, HWY 101, Camelback Mtn, and only 15-minutes from ASU.

19980 E El Nido Lane Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$1,299,371
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,261 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6752334
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
FORMER MODEL HOME; Fully furnished 4 bed, 3.5 bath, study, tv room and 6 car garage; fully landscaped front and backyard including backyard furniture, purgula, outdoor kitchen and gas firepit; vaulted ceiling & 16' sliding glass door in family room; tray ceiling in study & owner's retreat, custom celing and wall treatments; waterfall island, GE Monogram appliances w/refrigerator & wine/bev refrig; GE W/Dryer; upgraded plank tile flooring, custom tile in both kitchen and baths, multiple shower heads in owner's bath; clean, modern and ready to move in with all furniture and accessories.

37-39 Ok Street Bisbee, AZ 85603

$1,299,000
3 Beds
5 Baths
2,987 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6737148
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Truly Unique Old Bisbee Property- 3 Bedroom/5 Bath, 3,712 sq ft (including heated/cooled finished basement) with dedicated 2,000 sq ft PARKING LOT. Formerly Copper City Saloon and Hot Licks Saloon, now zoned Residential, with fully intact bar, fully furnished (complete with pool table), retrofitted to serve as a residential kitchen. Finished Basement serves as a Primary Bedroom with Jacuzzi, and 2 additional bathrooms, and separate Laundry Room. Second Floor currently rented as Airbnb- with two separate units, vast Great Room with full Kitchen, 14' ceilings, hardwood floors, Covered Deck with great views of Downtown Old Bisbee and surrounding hillsides. Includes 2 Parcels: 103-62-312 and 103-62-313.

2526 W Fernwood Drive Phoenix, AZ 85086

$1,299,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,810 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6758171
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This stunning new construction spec house offers modern luxury and spacious living on a sprawling flat acre lot. Boasting 2810 square feet of carefully crafted open-concept living space, this home features a desirable split floor plan with 4 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms, providing ample space and privacy for the entire family. The heart of the home is the beautifully designed kitchen, perfect for entertaining and everyday living. The expansive living area seamlessly flows from the kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for gatherings. In addition to the generous living space, this property comes with a rare and highly sought-after feature - a 4-car garage with an attached RV garage. Whether you're a car enthusiast or an avid traveler, this space offers the flexibility... and convenience you need. Outside, the vast acre lot provides plenty of room for outdoor activities, gardening, or even the possibility of adding a pool or guest house in the future. Located in a desirable area, this home offers the perfect combination of tranquility and convenience. Don't miss the opportunity to make this exceptional property your own. This home is ready for occupancy, come experience the luxury and comfort this home has to offer! Note, Photos are of same model home, previously completed.

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