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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408 E Claremont Street
Phoenix, AZ 85012
$1,250,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,570
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6778416
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover a haven of modern elegance tucked away on a quiet street in the heart of Phoenix. This clean, stylish 4-bedroom, 3-bath retreat offers the perfect balance of sophistication and comfort. Enter & be greeted by the warmth of tile ''wood plank'' flooring, beautifully complemented by chic white shaker cabinets—an inviting space just waiting for your unique touch. French doors lead to your private outdoor sanctuary. Designed for entertaining, this space boasts a cozy fire pit, a sparkling pool, and a finished, covered patio that seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living. With a bathroom conveniently accessible from the pool deck, hosting poolside gatherings couldn't be easier. Beyond the home, you're minutes away from Phoenix's top-rated boutique shops, renowned dining spots, and a vibrant nightlife. For nature lovers, nearby hiking trails offer quick escapes to breathtaking desert vistas. Whether you're exploring nearby trail-heads or indulging in high-end shopping and culinary delights, this location is a dream come true. With a spacious 2-car garage and quick access to major highways, you'll enjoy seamless travel to all the Valley has to offer. This stunning home is move-in ready and awaits its perfect match. Don't let this rare urban retreat slip away come experience it for yourself! This home is Vacant and easy to show. Come see it today!
7788 E Main Street Unit 1003
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
$1,250,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
2,115
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6772687
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
BUILDER financing available. Up to $10,000 in closing costs. Will consider lease to own. This resort style community features 21 units, each with its own spacious two car garage and rooftop balcony. The elegant contemporary exterior architecture, and careful attention to detail & design, make Seneca Luxury Condos an inviting community atmosphere. Your new conveniently located home in Old Town Scottsdale awaits! As you walk up to your home in Seneca, you experience a luxury private gated vestibule leading you through the cobblestone paver patio to a custom modern glass and iron front door for each unit. Entering the home, you will immediately take in the sophisticated and livable design! The interiors combine luxury with urban contemporary. Elevators are an option for these beautiful townhomes. From the premium selected base package including solid core hardwood flooring, the executive Thermofoil kitchen cabinets, natural Quartz counters, beautiful European fixtures, for the chef or the entertainer, this kitchen will be difficult to say no. Each unit has 3 ample sized bedrooms and 3 baths with complete attention to detail such as touchscreen, backlit , LED mirrors, intricate stone design in showers and baths, walk in closets and full patio or balcony offering outdoor privacy in every room. Through the custom contemporary open stairways featuring hand cut stairs and railings, you will access the remote-operated skylight with stairs leading to your exclusive roof-top outdoor deck space with composite wood plank flooring. The impressive 500 sq ft rooftops come plumbed for gas and water allowing future owners the opportunity to get a complete outdoor kitchen, perfect for enjoying Arizona's beautiful sunsets and year-long warm weather. Come visit today and take advantage of year end pricing and incentives.
7788 E Main Street Unit 1002
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
$1,250,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
2,115
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6772692
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
BUILDER financing available. Up to $10,000 in closing costs. Will consider lease to own. This resort style community features 21 units, each with its own spacious two car garage and rooftop balcony. The elegant contemporary exterior architecture, and careful attention to detail & design, make Seneca Luxury Condos an inviting community atmosphere. Your new conveniently located home in Old Town Scottsdale awaits! As you walk up to your home in Seneca, you experience a luxury private gated vestibule leading you through the cobblestone paver patio to a custom modern glass and iron front door for each unit. Entering the home, you will immediately take in the sophisticated and livable design! The interiors combine luxury with urban contemporary. Elevators are an option for these beautiful townhomes. From the premium selected base package including solid core hardwood flooring, the executive Thermofoil kitchen cabinets, natural Quartz counters, beautiful European fixtures, for the chef or the entertainer, this kitchen will be difficult to say no. Each unit has 3 ample sized bedrooms and 3 baths with complete attention to detail such as touchscreen, backlit , LED mirrors, intricate stone design in showers and baths, walk in closets and full patio or balcony offering outdoor privacy in every room. Through the custom contemporary open stairways featuring hand cut stairs and railings, you will access the remote-operated skylight with stairs leading to your exclusive roof-top outdoor deck space with composite wood plank flooring. The impressive 500 sq ft rooftops come plumbed for gas and water allowing future owners the opportunity to get a complete outdoor kitchen, perfect for enjoying Arizona's beautiful sunsets and year-long warm weather. Come visit today and take advantage of year end pricing and incentives.
4721 W Banff Lane
Glendale, AZ 85306
$1,250,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,000
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6768569
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this beautifully updated horse property featuring 8 spacious stalls, perfect for equestrian enthusiasts! The kitchen has been fully remodeled with stunning quartz countertops, sleek new cabinets, and modern appliances including oven, stovetop, refrigerator, stove vent, and dishwasher. All 3 full bathrooms have also been upgraded with quartz countertops, new sink cabinets, stylish glass showers, and new toilets. Additional updates include brand-new doors and windows with shutters, a new Pentair motor and filter system for the swimming pool, repaired stable area poles with new lighting, fresh countertops in the laundry room, steel gates leading to the backyard, and new pole lights for added illumination. This property is a perfect blend of luxury and functionality, ready for you
14011 N 48th Place
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
$1,250,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,714
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6776824
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Shows like in a magazine and located in the magic 85254 Scottsdale zip code! Property features gorgeous entry with wood planked beam vaulted ceilings & dramatic 2 way fireplace. Highly desirable split floor plan with chef's kitchen with huge island, stainless appliances & cook hood, eat-at bar for 4, farmhouse sink, double ovens, self-closing drawers & cabinetry w/ pull-outs. Spacious master bedroom boasts window seat, two walk-in closets & large sitting room with French door exit. Master bath features hand hammered nickel sinks, walk in shower and large soaker tub. Modern warm ceramic wood-like flooring throughout. Back yard oasis ideal for entertaining! Private Pool, Lush lawn, paver patio with fire pit, ramada with built-in grill. Prime location & minutes from Desert Ridge & Kierland!
8905 E Mountain Spring Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$1,250,000
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,431
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6764265
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
Spectacular Market Street Villa at DC Ranch. This lovely Camelot built Villa offers, ungraded wood flooring, stainless steel appliances, slab granite countertops, and ungraded cabinets. 12' ceilings, a bank of french doors leading to one of two spacious patios. The back patio features flagstone decking, a private pebble-tec spa with water feature. Enjoy your private tropical oasis.This is an end unit and sides to common area. The 3rd bedroom is used as den/office can be converted to a bedroom. New Epoxy garage floor. This is the Scottsdale lifestyle you want. DC Ranch has an extraordinary clubhouse with work out room, lap pool and kids play area. Close to great eating and the 101. Memberships are available to the country club
5088 S Ponderosa Drive
Gilbert, AZ 85298
$1,250,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,501
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6764089
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Your dream home is here in The Bridges! This stunning property has been beautifully maintained and updated, perfectly balancing comfort and elegance. Offering 4 bedrooms & 3.5 bathrooms, it provides ample space for family, friends, or guests. Great curb appeal with stone accent details, artificial turf, and beautiful landscaping. The 3-car garage is equipped with a Tesla charger and the private courtyard is an excellent spot for your morning coffee! As you step inside, you'll be greeted by an inviting open floor plan filled with natural light. The spacious living room flows seamlessly into a modern kitchen, making gathering a bliss! Large island, granite counters & backsplash, ample wood cabinetry, a dry bar w/wine rack, and SS appliances w/cooktop gas make up the culinary space. Formal dining room is ideal for entertaining or cozy dinners! The versatile den and the office area w/built-in desk are added perks. Gorgeous accent walls create a fabulous atmosphere, enhanced by plantation shutters, stylish tile fixtures, tall ceilings, and tasteful flooring. Retreat to the luxurious primary suite complete with exterior door leading to the private oasis! Also including a gorgeous bathroom that boasts a walk-in closet, soaking tub, tiled separate shower, and a large vanity w/dual sinks. Laundry room with a sink & cabinetry for your convenience. But the true highlight is the backyard oasis! Perfect for outdoor entertaining or quiet evenings under the stars, it showcases a covered patio, fireplace, artificial turf, and a welcoming pool with a baja shelf. Located just minutes from Gilbert Regional Park and steps from the Bridges neighborhood park, this home offers convenience without sacrificing tranquility. Don't miss the opportunity to make this charming residence your own!
2367 W Oakwood Drive
Prescott, AZ 86305
$1,249,900
5
Beds
6
Baths
4,987
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6768023
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Your dream home awaits in the prestigious, gated community of Vista Del Cerro, just a short distance from downtown Prescott. This stunning Tuscan-inspired estate offers everything you've been searching for, with sweeping views of Thumb Butte & the Prescott National Forest, creating a breathtaking backdrop for this main-level living retreat. The home's soaring ceilings, elegant designer touches, and luxurious finishes are sure to captivate from the moment you step inside. Upon entry, you'll be greeted by an open-concept floor plan that effortlessly flows from one room to the next. Expansive picture windows, crowned by clerestory windows, fill the great room with natural light & frame the awe-inspiring views. At the heart of this room is a gas fireplace set within brick & custom cabinetry. The chef's kitchen is nothing short of spectacular, featuring professional-grade appliances, including a 6-burner gas cooktop with an integrated griddle, all encased in a brick surround. High-volume ceilings, adorned with rustic wood beams, pair beautifully with the black antique-finished cabinets. The centerpiece of the kitchen is a generous island with a breakfast bar, complemented by a large walk-in pantry. On the main level, you'll find three well-appointed bedroom suites. The primary suite is a sanctuary of luxury, with floor-to-ceiling French doors and picture windows that perfectly capture the panoramic views. The spa-like ensuite bath boasts a jetted tub, dual vanities, custom-tiled walk-in shower, and a spacious walk-in closet, providing both elegance and comfort. Two additional junior suites, along with a dedicated office, laundry room, and powder room, complete the main level. Step outside onto the expansive hardwood deck, an entertainer's dream with ample space for gatherings, where you can savor Arizona's stunning sunsets over the mountains. The lower level is equally impressive, featuring a large family or game room with a wet bar, ideal for hosting guests. This room showcases floor-to-ceiling windows with access to the lower deck, where the sweeping views continue. Additionally, there is a fourth bedroom and bathroom on this level, offering privacy and flexibility for family or visitors. One of the home's standout features is the attached casita/in-law suite, accessible from either the lower deck or the stairs beyond the garage. Complete with its own kitchenette, bathroom, laundry closet, and a spacious open living area, the casita is perfect for long-term guests or multigenerational living. The property also includes a deep 3-car garage, with plenty of space for storage or a workshop, as well as a convenient dog run located next to the casita.
458 W Rock Lane
Lakeside, AZ 85929
$1,249,900
4
Beds
4
Baths
3,510
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6689402
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Immerse yourself in the beauty of the White Mountains with this beautiful 4-bedroom, 4-bathroom Pinetop-Lakeside residence. Fronting Edler Lake in front and the U.S. Forest Service in back, this cedar-sided home is surrounded by nature, where wildlife abounds. At over 3500SF, 2 spacious decks, plus a patio, this is luxury mountain living at its finest. Spend your days hiking, fishing, kayaking, horseback riding, biking, skiing, and more. Providing an ''in the forest'' feeling, the property is very conveniently minutes from everything. The property currently operates as a vacation rental, with a strong history of income. Make it your own home or secondary residence, continue to operate it as a vacation rental, or do a combination of both. Furnishing may convey by separate bill of sale.
11082 E Mark Lane
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$1,249,900
4
Beds
4
Baths
3,691
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6746093
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover this exceptional residence in one of Scottsdale's coveted neighborhoods, Troon North. Perfectly situated on a premium corner lot & backing to the open common area, this stunning home provides an ideal setting for privacy & tranquility. A welcoming courtyard entrance with authentic flagstone sets the stage for a thoughtfully designed main residence & separate guest casita, equipped with its own entrance, ensuite bath, wood shutters, wood tile and walk-in-closet. Once inside, the open floorplan features high ceilings, elegant finishes & an abundance of natural light. Desirable neutral tones were used throughout, including stone & hardwood floors, new carpet, wood shutters & a new electric Hunter Douglas blind. Additional main level amenities include an executive office, 2 generous sized BR's, 2 BA's, an oversized laundry room w/ storage, a laundry chute, sink & outdoor access, an oversized 2 CG w/ built in storage & generous amounts of closets & storage throughout the home. The HUGE primary suite encompasses the entire second level, offering an oversized bedroom with a sitting area and an additional bonus room, perfect for a home office or gym. A private covered patio provides stunning views of the surrounding Sonoran Desert. Enjoy the primary ensuite bath with a separate soaking tub and a nearly $20K remodeled shower. Enjoy resort style living in the backyard oasis, offering a sparkling pool, an extensive covered flagstone patio ideal for alfresco dining, desert landscaping and an abundance of privacy. Located in desirable Troon North, this home provides easy access to world-class golf courses, the famous Brown's Ranch Trailhead less than 1 mile away, and a wealth of local amenities. Whether you're relaxing in your private retreat or exploring the vibrant community, this property offers a lifestyle of luxury and convenience. Come and experience all that North Scottsdale has to offer!
2308 E Blue Bell Circle
Payson, AZ 85541
$1,249,900
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,367
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6750593
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Experience luxury living at its finest in this breathtaking hillside home located within the prestigious private golf country club of Chaparral Pines. Overlooking the 7th fairway and offering spectacular mountain views and sunsets, this residence combines elegance with unparalleled natural beauty. The expansive great room features vaulted T&G ceilings and a fireplace with stone accents, creating a warm and inviting space perfect for relaxing or entertaining. The kitchen is a chef's delight, equipped with granite countertops, stainless GE Profile series appliances, a gas cooktop, double wall oven, and a walk-in pantry. The primary bedroom and an additional bedroom are conveniently located on the main level, offering ease of access and privacy. MORE The walk-out basement offers a wet bar, a bedroom with an ensuite, and a huge game room that can double as an additional bedroom, providing ample space for entertainment or guest accommodations. Beautiful wood windows throughout the home add warmth and character, enhancing the overall aesthetic. The rear deck features remote-controlled screens, allowing you to enjoy the stunning views and fresh air in comfort and style.
21131 E Aquarius Way
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$1,249,900
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
3,849
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6761903
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Experience luxury living in BELLERO ESTATES outside of the coveted Pegasus Airpark. This stunning, top of the line ELLIOT HOME, built in 2021 features every available option PLUS more with over $300,000 in additional owner upgrades! (click ''SEE MORE'' for full list). The popular Dolca model features 3,849 sq ft of living space including a fully equipped CASITA positioned on a premium 1/3-acre lot with north-south exposure and San Tan Mountain views. This exquisite property is designed for both relaxation and entertainment, offering an array of features that will exceed your expectations. As you approach, be greeted by an extended and widened paver driveway leading to a spacious three-car garage, complemented by dual RV gates for easy access. Step into the elegant pavered courtyard, where charming furnishings and landscaping set the stage for the beauty that lies within. Upon entering, you'll experience model home style, luxury interior features. Coffered and beam vaulted ceilings with tall 8' doors give the home that grand feeling. Beautiful glass and steel sliding barn doors combined with custom built in desk, shelves and cabinets create your perfect office space. Music fills the home with built in surround sound compliments of SONOS in the living room, kitchen, master bedroom and master bath. discover a gourmet kitchen that will delight any chef, equipped with top-of-the-line appliances, under cabinet and toe kick lighting, and an enormous island creating a focal point for dining and entertaining. Upgraded Lutron controlled smart lighting throughout creates the mood and puts the finishing touches on the open-concept layout. Retreat to the luxurious and spacious master suite, your private sanctuary featuring a spa-like bath, walk in shower with rainfall shower head and ample closet space. Guests will feel at home in the additional Ensuite bedroom or the charming Casita, offering privacy and comfort. Step outside to your own entertainers' dream oasis, where the backyard beckons with a giant 35'x16' heated pool and spa, fire pit, custom built outdoor kitchen, and a stylish ramada. Host unforgettable gatherings, or let the kids enjoy hours of fun on the in-ground trampoline. The travertine and turf hardscaping provides a seamless blend of elegance and practicality, while misters and foggers keep you cool during warm Arizona days. Gas overhead infrared heaters ensure cozy evenings under the stars. Don't miss your chance to own this extraordinary property that embodies luxury, comfort, and a vibrant lifestyle in the heart of one of the most desirable cities in America, Queen Creek. Schedule your private tour today and step into a world of unparalleled elegance! UPGRADES -