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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8033 N Harmony Lane
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
$1,225,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,180
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6756252
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
To be built. Plans semi-customizable. This luxurious home will be built on one acre at the base of the San Francisco Peaks. Almost instant access to Arizona Snowbowl Ski Resort and world-class hiking/biking trails, yet only minutes from downtown Flagstaff! This open floor plan with 9'' ceilings features a gourmet kitchen, a great room that transitions seamlessly to outdoor living with spectacular views of the peaks. Four spacious bedrooms, three baths with the option for the upper level to be a lock off rental with it's own entrance!! Homes by this builder completed on adjacent lots. Pictures & additional info available upon request.
7791 E Foxmore Lane
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
$1,225,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,294
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6708894
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Rare opportunity in the private gated Meridian community of Scottsdale's McCormick Ranch. Prime interior corner lot with N/S exposure- 1 block away from the heated community pool & spa. Every room has been meticulously redesigned/remodeled with only premium quality materials- including all new windows, custom cabinets, counters & kitchen island, 5-burner Italian stove, large format porcelain tile, new stairway, premium lighting, ceiling fans & fixtures, custom window coverings, closet built-ins, tankless water heater, water softener, R/O drinking water system, new interior & exterior paint & moldings, new garage epoxy, & more... The floorplan is perfectly designed for ground level living with large great room, primary suite, office & eat-in kitchen, vaulted ceilings, skylights plus 2 sets of sliding doors that open to a private backyard with large covered travertine-paved patio & low-maintenance turf. Loft space was enclosed adding a sitting area to 1 of 2 addt'l bedrooms plus full bath on the upper level. Don't miss this absolutely pristine home- perfectly located in one of the most coveted neighborhoods of Scottsdale.
15230 N San Diego Circle
Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
$1,225,000
5
Beds
4
Baths
3,527
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6771982
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautifully upgraded North Heights home featuring 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, including 2 primary suites. Enjoy a modern kitchen and stylish bathrooms, complemented by plantation shutters throughout. Backyard access is through three separate sets of French doors to a resort-style backyard oasis, showcasing natural rock formations and stunning views of McDowell Mountain and Red Rock. The expansive outdoor space features flagstone patios, faux grass, lush vegetation on a generous 1/3-acre lot, a gas fireplace, built-in BBQ with a refrigerator, and a Pebble-Tec pool and spa with a water feature. With exceptional curb appeal from a stone-faced fireplace and stylish wood-like garage doors, this residence is a must-see!
2603 W Espartero Way
Phoenix, AZ 85086
$1,225,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,518
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6765868
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Just voted BEST ON TOUR! Nestled among multi-million dollar homes with breathtaking mountain & desert vistas. This expansive residence in the highly coveted gated community of Tramonto Estates awaits. Step through an elegant courtyard entry adorned with stunning desert flora. This airy, open home is incredibly welcoming and boasts ample room for entertaining. A formal dining area and a charming living room with a fireplace and a stunning view of the incredible resort yard greet you upon entry. The kitchen and family room are seamlessly connected, providing easy access to the vibrant resort yard featuring a covered patio, artificial turf, built-in BBQ, firepit, and a sparkling pool & spa. Guests will appreciate the two spacious guest rooms, each with its own private ensuite. The owner's suite is inviting with a fireplace, ensuite, and a study with a private entrance ideal for a home office. This home has been immaculately maintained with Owned Solar Panels included(ask for details), a Tesla/EV outlet and new pool heater. You also have access to all of Tramonto's wonderful amenities including 2 pools, spas, tennis courts, parks and sand volleyball.
88 Chapel Road
Sedona, AZ 86336
$1,225,000
4
Beds
4
Baths
3,038
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6769249
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Introducing a rare opportunity in the sought-after Mystic Hills subdivision of Sedona. This custom 3 bedroom, 3 bath home, with an attached 1 bedroom, 1 bath Studio, offers endless possibilities for customization and personalization. Priced as the most affordable home in the neighborhood, this property has already seen some upgrades, leaving the rest for you to make your mark with your own finishes. The attached studio is a versatile space, perfect for extended guests, a home office, or a mother-in-law suite. With the potential to customize to your liking, this home offers the chance to create your own oasis in the heart of Sedona. The proximity to hiking trails and a mountain biking loop makes it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, while the up close and unobstructed Red Rock views provide a stunning backdrop for daily living. Inside, the home boasts an open and bright layout with high ceilings, expansive windows, a gathering gas fireplace and a split floor plan for added privacy. The primary suite features two walk-in closets, a large master bathroom, and large windows overlooking the native forest. The recently remodeled kitchen offers ample counter space, new appliances, and hardwood Birch cabinets with soft close doors. Step outside onto the expansive deck to enjoy breathtaking majestic views of Elephant Rock, Cathedral Rock, Mother and Chile, the Nuns, Steamboat Rock, Mount Wilson, and The Chapel in the Red Rocks and more brilliant surrounding landscape. The partially covered deck provides the perfect space for relaxation or entertaining, while the attached Studio offers additional living space with its own bathroom, kitchenette and outdoor Jacuzzi. Residents of Mystic Hills enjoy access to a clubhouse with a swimming pool, spa, weight room, and kitchen, as well as regular community activities like tennis, pickleball, hiking and neighbor get togethers. With low HOA dues and a vibrant community atmosphere, experience the beauty and tranquility of Sedona living at its finest.
427 W Louis Way
Tempe, AZ 85284
$1,225,000
5
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,674
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6769327
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Absolutely STUNNING jewel in South Tempe's premier gated community! Five bedrooms PLUS a home theater! Situated on an interior cul-de-sac with an over 18000 sq. ft. lot! NEW ACs, NEW roof, NEW water heater! Four-car garage AND an RV gate with pad! Beautiful highly upgraded plush carpet and travertine tile! Gourmet island kitchen with granite counters, oversized cabinets, even two dishwashers! All bathrooms completely remodeled! There's even a bidet in the master bath! The basement features a theater room (screen & equipment stay), two bedrooms & a bathroom! Bdrm 5 has built-in dual-station desk and a Murphy bed! Huge, private backyard with 5 fruit trees, pond and waterfall! Look for the complete list of extras in the Docs section! Hurry to this one!
966 E Desert Lane
Gilbert, AZ 85234
$1,225,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,801
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6772023
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover the best that Gilbert has to offer - a lush, irrigated farm property on 1.14 acres with a tasteful, remodeled home just minutes from downtown Gilbert. The property itself offers year-round greenery, creating a serene backdrop for your daily life. Picture sipping your morning coffee on the porch as you watch your horses roam freely in the sunshine! Inside, you'll be captivated by the modern design & thoughtful upgrades throughout. Charm meets luxury with exceptional touches like picture frame molding and red brick accents. The open-concept living area is perfect for entertaining, while each of the 4 bedrooms offer a private retreat at the end of the day. Every detail has been considered in the remodel, from stylish fixtures to a large primary walk-in closet & new primary bath ...with tub and shower, plus double vanities. A true delight is the library with built-in bookcases and fireplace. Perfect for horse enthusiasts, this property features stalls with commercial lighting and water, a picturesque red barn approximately 800 sqft, and well-maintained corrals, providing everything you need for your equine companions. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to own a piece of paradise! Most of remodel completed in 2022, including a new electrical panel 2022, luxury vinyl tile and carpet in bedrooms, 12 new windows and three new doors in April 2022, AC new in July 2023.
16580 N 92nd Street Unit 2001
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
$1,225,000
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,004
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6782882
Property Type
Apartment
Price Type
--
RARELY AVAILABLE in Soho Scottsdale 2 BR+Den Condo. FULLY FURNISHED, IMMEDIATELY AVAILABLE, MOUNTAIN VIEWS and UNDERGROUND PARKING. Amazing LOCATION... near Westworld, Ice Den and the 101. This like-new property has TWO EN-SUITE BEDROOMS, plus spacious DEN and powder room with a magnificent kitchen optimized for entertaining and efficiency with quartz counter tops, contemporary sleek custom cabinetry and GE Monogram Statement appliance suite. With over 2000 interior square feet, the living spaces live large with the soaring ceilings, spacious hallways and modern details found in properties significantly higher priced. Additionally, the condo has TWO PATIOS, rare for a property this size. The home is wired and outfitted for SMART PHONE CONTROL of entry door, lighting, and heating/A Included are two underground, gated parking spaces with semi-private elevator direct to your door. Whether you vacation in or make Arizona your primary residence, SoHo Scottsdale, offers you the lifestyle you have imagined. West World, the home of Barrett Jackson, the Arabian Horse Show along with many other events that make Scottsdale, Scottsdale are within walking distance. The world renowned TPC Golf Course and Waste Management Tournament are just minutes to the west, as is the Scottsdale private airport and a wide variety of shops and restaurants. You are near the 101 that will quickly get you around anywhere in the Valley, or simply zig zag a few miles over to Kierland, The Quarter, golf courses, hiking trails and so much more. For VALUE, LOCATION and appointments... this property simply does not compare to any other luxury condominium on the market today, for those that are looking for exceptional value and one of a kind, SoHo Scottsdale #2001 is your perfect find!
5849 E Le Marche Avenue
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
$1,225,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,863
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6783189
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Arizona Resort Style Living at It's Best! This home has it all! Remodeled Home with Open Floorplan. Front courtyard greets you! Wood like tile t/o the first Floor. Sunken living room was filled in/leveled for better flow & no step down.Huge family room / fireplace is open to the kitchen. Kitchen offering a large island w/breakfast bar, eat in area Pantry & windows to the backyard. Entertainer's Delight! One bedroom and full bath on 1st Floor.. Upstairs is the Elegant Primary Ensuite w/walk in closet, spa bathroom. Upstairs: 2 additional nice sized bedrooms a full bath. Great storage T/O! Escape to your own Resort yard w/Sparkling Pool. Paver patios, Turf, large covered patio . East side yard is RV/Toy storage w/cover canopy, & RV Gate.NO HOA!Near Everything Shopping/Restaurants/Mayo Near Desert Ridge, Mayo Hospital Campus, 101 Corridor, Kierland, Scottsdale Quarter and MORE! Well Respected Schools Nothing to do but move in! Sellers can close after 1/3/25.
15027 N 28th Street
Phoenix, AZ 85032
$1,225,000
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.
9844 E June Street
Mesa, AZ 85207
$1,225,000
5
Beds
5
Baths
4,172
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6744067
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
GORGEOUS MOUNTAIN, SUNRISE & SUNSET VIEWS! Gated private Boutique community nestled in the prestigious Mesa Uplands of NE Mesa. Close to hiking, boating, shopping & dining. Gorgeous contemporary flair that is warm & welcoming. ALL SINGLE LEVEL LIVING. Entertainers dream home & backyard. Entry offers soaring 2 story ceilings with huge windows offering expansive mountain views. True chefs kitchen: 42'' Expresso cabinets, tile backsplash, Granite slab countertops, gas cooktop w/ SS range hood, oversized prep island, built in oven / micro w/ walk in pantry. Generous dining is open to a wonderful family room. Tile flooring. Huge windows allowing natural light & mechanical blinds. Beautiful open staircase w/ decorative banner. The owner's suite is private & offers majestic views. Spa like bathroom offers 2 vanities, free standing tub, walk in shower & everyone's dream closet. Secondary bedroom area offers their own flex space, 2 bedrooms w/ walk in closets and Jack & Jill bath. Front bedroom w/ walk in closet & full bathroom. All baths are nicely upgraded. Second floor offers a super loft which can be used as a den/ studio/ office along with a bedroom & full bath. Wall of windows to the deck will blow your mind with views that are a must to experience. AZ dream resort backyard. Extended covered patio, heated 5.5 ft deep pool, heated spa & water features. Lush landscaping and 5 hole putting green. Views of the Superstitions MTN and Usury MTN are unobstructed. Sunrises and sunsets are spectacular! Close to the 202, shopping, dining, lakes and hiking. This home will not disappoint! This community is outstanding!
2133 W Tanya Trail
Phoenix, AZ 85086
$1,225,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,065
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6755847
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
The seller is offering $20,000 towards the buyer's INTEREST RATE BUY-DOWN options. Newly constructed in 2022 on a spacious acre lot with no HOA, this highly sought-after NextGen Builders Prescott floor plan offers an exceptional living experience with its thoughtfully designed layout. The residence features a great room floor plan, encompassing four bedrooms, three and a half bathrooms, and an additional office/den. The home is elegantly appointed with high-end finishes, a chefs kitchen including Wolf & Sub Zero appliances, and exhibits a refined, tasteful design. The backyard is designed for low-maintenance living, complete with a covered patio, generous artificial turf space, ramada, and a large paver pad. Additionally, half of the lot remains a blank canvas, ready for you to add your personal touch.