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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11377 E Diamond Cholla Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,269,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,248 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6743404

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This beautifully maintained home, nestled in the desirable Troon neighborhood, offers a perfect blend of classic charm and modern convenience, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Troon Mountain. Upon entering, you'll immediately appreciate the expansive windows showcasing picturesque desert landscaping and gorgeous mountain views. The spacious split floorplan ensures privacy and comfort featuring three generously sized bedrooms plus a versatile den, ideal for a home office, playroom, or additional guest space. The open-concept living and dining spaces create an inviting atmosphere for both relaxing and entertaining, while the well-appointed kitchen boasts ample cabinetry, counter space, and modern SS appliances, making meal preparation a pleasure. The highly desirable south-facing yard offers a perfect low-maintenance spot for outdoor dining, gardening, or simply soaking in the stunning scenery. This home is ideally located near a variety of amenities, including world-class golf courses, hiking trails, and vibrant dining and shopping options. Troon is renowned for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, ensuring you'll always have something to explore right in your backyard.

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8619 E San Esteban Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$1,269,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,168 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6738363

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this stunning 4 bedroom 3 bath home located in the prestigious McCormick Ranch community. It is a split floor plan and features a resort like backyard on an oversized lot, with a pool, hot tub, basketball court and incredible curb appeal! This home has been recently remodeled to perfection: new synthetic stucco, new electrical panel, new water heater, all new flooring and paint, and so much more. It sits in the highly sought after A+ Scottsdale school district and just steps from the greenbelt, dining, shopping and 101 freeway. This home has been meticulously maintained and is turnkey!

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6919 E Ivyglen Street Mesa, AZ 85207

$1,269,000

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,170 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6748564

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MOTIVATED SELLER! The epitome of luxury living! Located in the prestigious gated community of Annecy, & one of the few custom homes within the community. Grand entryway, with elegant stone & wood flooring, custom ceiling trim & exceptional craftsmanship found throughout. Seamless blend of stone & hardwood floors, wide baseboards, arched doorways, & intricate crown moldings. The primary suite is a true spa-like retreat, complete with his & hers walk-in closets. Enjoy two sets of Jack & Jill bedrooms/bathrooms, a remarkable laundry room, & an entertainer's kitchen with new appliances that will leave you in awe. Stunning all-black tile swimming pool, complete with waterfall, slide, built-in hot tub, & stone pool decking. Outdoor kitchen features a large gas grill with granite countertops The property also offers a paver driveway, a massive extended length three-car garage with plenty of storage, and an RV gate. This home is truly a showstopper!

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2909 N 81st Place Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,265,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,217 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6763705

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home in the vibrant heart of Scottsdale! This stunning, completely remodeled home combines modern luxury with beautiful design. From the new roof, AC, plumbing, electrical, flooring, cabinets, bathrooms, level 5 smooth drywall, etc., every detail has been meticulously crafted. Bright, open-concept living area perfect for entertaining. Stylish kitchen that features sleek quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, walk-in pantry, and striking black cabinetry. Large open living room with a new gas fireplace, sets the perfect backdrop for gatherings with family and friends. There is a spacious master suite with a lavish en-suite bathroom featuring a soaking tub and separate shower. Step outside to discover your backyard paradise! With a large covered patio, sparkling pool, spa, and lush turf, it's the ideal space to soak up the Arizona sun or host unforgettable outdoor gatherings. The low-maintenance landscaping enhances the home's curb appeal while providing a tranquil escape. Nestled in a highly sought-after Scottsdale neighborhood, you're just moments from the vibrant Old Town, with its exceptional shopping, dining, and entertainment options. This home isn't just a property; it's a lifestyle waiting for you to embrace. Don't miss your chance to make this stunning oasis your own!

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30804 N 120th Avenue Peoria, AZ 85383

Open House

$1,265,000

5 Beds

4 Baths

3,354 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6712297

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Blackstone exclusive golf and CC community. Newest upgrades Including new paint in/out, flooring, pool pump, custom power window treatments and so much more. Super clean move in ready home! Kitchen overlooks great room with fireplace and boasts SS appliances, oversized island with prep sink an abundance of cabinets with roll outs, huge walk in pantry with second fridge. This split floor plan provides privacy to master in one corner, across the home a guest suite and separate hall leads to three addition bedrooms with media area. Large private lot with natural space behind, mtn views, pool, spa, extended paver patio, gas plumed for bbq, putting green to sharpen your game,. It's your chance to live the lifestyle you deserve in a spectacular home. provides privacy to company. Staycations are a thing of the past with this spacious resort style yard that includes extended covered paver patio, pool, spa, putting green complimented with mountain views. Freshly painted inside and out, new flooring, added enhancements make this home move in ready. It takes only moments to fall in love with this home. Area highlights include biking/walking paths, play areas, clubhouse/rec, tennis/pickleball, work out facility, golf, and more all within minutes of the 303 access. It's time to enjoy life!

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3748 E Mare Court Phoenix, AZ 85044

$1,264,500

6 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,801 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6718151

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Back on the market..Huge BASEMENT-HEATED Pool-Oversized Lot with dreamy mountain views and sunsets-4.5 Car Garage.Beautiful custom home situated in the Equestrian Estates.Step into your elegant home boasting 6 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, a chef kitchen with 2 workstations new granite, built-in appliances, double ovens and stainless appliances.Travertine floors in main living area. Wood flooring in bedrooms-lots of storage and walk in closets. Primary suite with sitting area and 2 closets and direct access to backyard.Full built out basement w/ bonus room, bar, 2 bedrooms and bath. Perfect place to send the kids or create a quiet cool place to retreat from the heat. Built in BBQ, view deck&storage shed.Beautiful neighborhood, Kyrene School District, horse back riding trails and more.

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15027 N 28th Street Phoenix, AZ 85032

$1,263,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

3,448 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6732094

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This fine custom home offers a world of possibilities for both personal and business needs. This property has plenty of open living space and available land for additional building — perfect for someone working from home or desiring to customize a lot. Its convenient location in the heart of the city makes this 36,000 sqft lot (zoned R-14) an incredibly rare find. The property includes both the 3443 sqft main home and detached 1200 sqft workshop/garage — and the lot still offers room to grow. The interior of the residence boasts 4 bedrooms, an office/bonus room, and a large loft area with access to a spacious observation deck/balcony built with entertaining in mind. The exterior features an enormous paved parking space and a stylish backyard with always green artificial grass, fruit ..... fruit trees and a flower garden. The focal point, however, is the covered patio and BBQ area plus the large fire pit. They make the backyard perfect for entertaining large groups. And that's not all! The home also has an oversized RV gate.The interior finishes include recently updated real wood floors /large stone tiles /solid wood doors. The owner has also installed solar panels on the roof, providing you substantial savings on electricity bills. This spacious lot would also be perfect for the addition of a pickle ball or a tennis court. Don't miss out on your chance to make an offer on this remarkable property that has an ideal combination of convenient location and acreage! Short distance to 51 FRWY , Great Hearts Academy, Basis School, PV GOLF, Kierland Shopping and Mayo Hospital. Ready to Move- In.

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19950 W Cambridge Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85396

$1,258,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,919 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6736777

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful 2919 sq ft 1 level Horse property with Casita and 1 acre with the best of both worlds, space and proximity to everything! Some of the features, include 20-foot ceiling entry in the great room, Shutters, 4 large bedrooms, 3.5 bath, including a master suite, walk-in closet master bath with en suite with a garden tub and skylight, french doors opening to the covered patio, custom tiled bathrooms, rustic wood beams, propane fireplace, chef's paradise kitchen with granite countertops and stainless-steel appliances, built-in wine fridge in the adjacent family Room, tile floors, office with additional outside access, three-car oversized garage/man cave with built-In cabinets, AC/Heat, Fan, 220-volt outlet for a charging station, and a not to forget a dream backyard with space!

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25628 N Moon Blossum Lane Phoenix, AZ 85083

$1,255,000

3 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,496 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6765419

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Desirable Stetson Hills home sitting on over 18,000 square feet of prime real estate, features a private courtyard, 4-car garage, paver driveway, a 10' utility gate, and owned solar system. The home has 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, an office with custom built-in shelves, and a Liberty safe. The backyard is truly an oasis that backs up to a desert wash with mountain views. Entertain with the outdoor Viking kitchen, heated pebble tec pool & spa, charming grass area, extended covered patio with motorized awnings. The kitchen features a breakfast bar, Sub-Zero refrigerator, KitchenAid built-in microwave/oven, Thermador Professional Range with gas cook top & electric oven. The two AC units are 4 and 8 years old. Motorized sunscreens are in all the right places.

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14700 S Tuthill Road Buckeye, AZ 85326

$1,253,632

4 Beds

3 Baths

3,436 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6768652

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled on a sprawling 5.38-acre estate, this meticulously remodeled ranch home offers a perfect blend of luxury living and agricultural charm. The main residence features 4 spacious bedrms and 3 bathrms, along with a versatile bonus room. Step outside to discover a backyard paradise, complete with a sparkling pool that promises endless fun and relaxation under the sun. This estate is a horse lover's dream, featuring a fully equipped barndominium with 2 cozy bedrooms and 1 ba, perfect for guests or as a caretaker's quarters. The estate is designed to cater to all aspects of farming and equestrian activities, boasting an impressive arena, 10 horse stalls, a riding & corral area for training and enjoyment. The horse walker & multiple water sources across the property ensures the utmost utmost convenience and care for your equine friends. With ample space for gardening, livestock, and other agricultural pursuits, this property offers a unique opportunity to live a life of self-sufficiency and connection to the land. Whether you're a seasoned farmer, an equestrian enthusiast, or simply seeking a serene and spacious retreat from the hustle and bustle, this property is sure to captivate and inspire. Welcome home to your very own piece of paradise, where luxury meets country living at its finest.

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16032 E Dale Lane Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,250,000

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,124 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6715378

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning NEXTGEN Builders contemporary just starting. Car collectors and Serious RVers will appreciate this luxury plan offering oversized40' deep 3 car tandem plus 49' deep RV gar. all paved streets, 4 BD, plus office, 4.5 BA, grand kitchen, guest suite w/private living room, owners suite with free-standing tub, walk through shower, & oversized walk-in closets, quality 90/10 smooth walls, 8' doors, quartz countertops throughout, 12' ceilings in the great room and kitchen, Amazing views. Quality build with Energy efficient Spray foam insulation, 2x6 framed exterior, fully sheathed, post tension foundation, Pictures are from model home. Buyer to verify all facts and specs.

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13621 W Tuckey Court Glendale, AZ 85307

$1,250,000

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,921 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6681963

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

* VA ASSUMABLE LOAN * Must-see STUNNING CUSTOM LUXURY property nestled on a desirable cul-de-sac lot in Luke Ranch Estates! Rare 5 bed/3 bth/2 half bth/3-car garage home has everything on your wishlist and more! Pristine interior features neutral tile floor, dazzling chandeliers, plantation shutters, & 9+ high ceilings. Grand welcoming foyer leads to spacious great room for gatherings, formal dining room for hosting holidays, and the perfectly-sized den for a home office. The bright great room highlights multiple sliding glass doors merging indoor and outdoor entertaining. Chef's kitchen is fully equipped w/ wood staggered cabinets, mother-of-pearl tile backsplash, Sub Zero refrigerator w/wine cooler, Wolf appliances, kettle faucet, ice maker, 2 islands, and 2 sinks for a kosher kitch Septic Tank without leach field and conveniently marked with pavers for easy access. Double doors open to the sizable primary suite with separate backyard access, an accent wall, an immaculate ensuite w/dual vanities, and walk-in closet which also connects to laundry room! 4 of 5 bedrooms have walk-in closets! 5th bedroom makes a great game room and has attached 1/2 bath with access to backyard. Enjoy entertaining in this expansive backyard showcasing a relaxing extended covered patio, mature landscaping, sparkling oversized pool, outdoor shower, pergola, BBQ grill, built-in benches, electric and water RV hookups, RV gate, and gorgeous mountain views! This gorgeous gem is conveniently located near Luke AFB, White Tank Mtn Regional Park, shopping, and so much more! Call for a private tour today!

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