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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8247 E Devonshire Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,199,999

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,725 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6748054

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled in OLD TOWN, this extraordinary 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers more than just living space, it provides a lifestyle of luxury and convenience. Currently operating as a VERY successful Airbnb was renovated in 2019, a new kitchen, remodeled bathrooms, and fresh paint throughout. Outside, the allure continues with low maintenance landscaping, a heated pool, and spacious covered patio, perfect for outdoor relaxation and entertaining. With easy access to HWY 101 and 202, Scottsdale Fashion Square Mall, dining, and entertainment options are mere minutes away, ensuring you're never far from excitement. This home offers the quintessential Scottsdale lifestyle. ********* Owner financing available with below market interest rates. STR financials available upon request.request. ****** This home offers the quintessential Scottsdale lifestyle.

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19235 E Peartree Lane Queen Creek, AZ 85142

Open House

$1,199,999

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,022 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6761607

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Come look and Fall in Love with this model home, location is great and buffered by treed Greenbelt quiet!!. All 47 Quail Creek homes are single level with large lots and superior quality. Sunridge former model includes 4 bedrooms with private baths and an office, a half bath and bonus area that could be a library or game room. Step into a luxurious open floor plan with 2 pantries, tons of cabinet space, large island and meticulous kitchen. Don't miss the disappearing wall that melds indoor and outdoor space, with a beautiful backyard, gazebo and patio area. This 13,248 sf lot is an entertainer's dream or room for a large pool. Professional turf in front and backyard with perfect landscaping. Plantation shutters throughout! So close to Mansel Carter Oasis Park that boasts tennis, pickle ball, volleyball, fishing, fields, and a children's playground. There is so much more like the paver driveway and sidewalk, Front and back yard landscaping, gourmet kitchen with GE SS Monogram® appliances, including double ovens and 36 gas cooktop. Tile throughout, with upgraded carpet in the bedrooms and dining area. Custom paint accent walls and 2 tone paint. Plus so much more! Regency at Quail Creek Estates

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25751 S 227th Way Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$1,199,950

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,796 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6665049

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This home really has it ALL! Gorgeous, Luxurious and Practically brand new, this beautiful single level home in the Harvest is waiting for you!! Why wait for new construction when all of the work has been done here. This stunning property is the David Weekley former model home, it's upscale, stylish and boasts an open floor plan with ample natural light. The chef's dream kitchen features white cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, quartz backsplash, quartz counters, and a prep island with a breakfast bar. The owner's retreat will tickle all of your senses with a dual-sink ensuite, soaking tub, tiled walk-in shower, plus his and her separate closets. The den of the dining is perfect for entertaining and the bonus room between the guest bedrooms is great for kids! Don't miss this opportunity to claim your dream home! Outside, you will find the serene backyard oasis complete with a gas fire pit, covered patio, artificial turf, and lovely gazebo with BBQ & Bar. Insulated garage. See the extensive upgrades list and builders floor plan in the documents section. Truly this home really has it ALL!

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W Hooper Trail Unit 3 Queen Creek, AZ 85144

$1,199,900

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,837 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6355421

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Gorgeous Premium View Lot cornering up to the San Tan Mountain Regional Park, new 4 bdrm to be built. Standard features include 4-car garage, tile roof, covered patio, granite throughout, stainless appliances, and attached RV garage. Buyer chooses flooring, cabinets, granite, paint, etc. NO HOA! Estimated completion is 10-11 months from ground-breaking. Drive by only at this time.

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8628 W Williams Road Peoria, AZ 85383

$1,199,900

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,640 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6770686

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home! This beautiful modern ranch has been thoughtfully designed and completely remodeled from the inside out and is a must see! At 2,640 sq. ft. of living space, custom designer finishes, new roof, new low-E windows throughout, this home is ready for you and your family to move in! Open floor plan invites you into a spacious living area perfect for entertaining. The well-equipped kitchen features oversize walk-in pantry, slim shaker cabinetry and beautiful quartz countertops with custom 18'' backsplash, ready for all your culinary adventures. Whether it's hosting friends for a game night or family during the holidays. 4 spacious bedrooms and three bathrooms, including a tranquil primary suite with build-in coffee bar, split floor plan with second primary, fireplace and large mud room. The standout feature of this property is its private 1.26 acre lot and newly remodeled backyard, brand new driving pool, 3,000 sq. ft. grassy area with all new irrigation lines, large covered patio, detached 2 car garage/workshop on its own electrical panel, 200 tons of new rock, privately owned well, storage space for work trucks, boats, RVs, horses & so much more! A host of desirable features including award-winning Peoria School District, as well as being close to freeways, shopping, and entertainment makes this home a rare find in highly sought-after north Peoria.

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3567 E Hazeltine Way Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$1,199,900

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,211 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6752610

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Situated on an interior N/S lot in a secluded gated comm. Feat. a great room split floor plan w/3 bedrooms + den & formal dining. Shutters & luxury vinyl plank flooring t/o. Surround sound w/in-ceiling speakers. The gourmet kitchen features a HUGE 10.5x7.5ft island/breakfast bar w/granite slab counters & tile backsplash, a butler's pantry, lots of cabinets w/hardware & crown molding. Stainless steel appliances incl. gas cook top, double ovens & B/I micro. Huge owners suite w/10ft ceilings & sep exit to patio. Step out the 4 panel sliding glass door to a resort backyard w/a covered patio w/2 fans, speakers & b/I bbq. Putting Green & Gas Firepit. Heated Pebble-tec pool/spa w/swim up bar w/stools, baja step & rock waterfall grotto. Step down into the amazing ramada to relax & or to entertain ...Insulated 4 car garage w/epoxy floors, cabinets, 4 dedicated electrical outlets & service door. RV Gate with pavered front for extra parking. The laundry room features cabinets, a sink & access from owners closet. Plus soft water, whole home water conditioner & r/o systems. Spacious Owners' Suite with 10ft ceilings w/crown molding. Walk-in Tiled shower in owners' bath. Guest bath features granite counters and double copper sinks. Tankless water heater and more. Pavered driveway with courtyard entry with soothing fountain. Private gated community. Spectacular San Tan Mountain Views. Stone imported from Turkey on Ramada, Outdoor Kitchen, Raised Spa & Firepit. Remote controlled shade screen at patio. City of Gilbert services, Chandler Schools.

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18011 E San Tan Boulevard Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$1,199,900

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

3,634 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6780419

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

are you ready for the country ? but like being close to schools ,shopping, dining, churches, entertainment and outdoor activities ? this newly built custom home sits on an acre tucked into an orange grove on a private drive (just 3 homes) quality finishes throughout open floorplan ,large kitchen with lots of storage walk in pantry, quartz tops, upgraded SS appliances , lots of wood look porcelain tile the master suite boasts a BIG walk in closet and spa like en suite bath with soaking tub and a massive shower with rain head and body sprays ,there is also a 2nd full suite w/ private bath and closet ready to move in bring your livestock and toys and enjoy the fresh air and seasonal fresh orange juice too no HOA

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609 N Lindsay Road Gilbert, AZ 85234

$1,199,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,444 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6770915

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Secluded, private, and quiet 1.5 acre irrigated horse property with a pull through RV garage in the heart of Gilbert. This one-owner, custom built block home has soaring high ceilings when you first walk in. Separate living and family rooms surround the heart of any home: the kitchen. A functional island and breakfast bar, built in SubZero fridge/freezer, and gleaming white cabinets offer plenty of storage. The primary bedroom is oversized and looks out at your expansive grounds with its own exit. The primary bath has a wealk-in shower and cedar lined walk-in closet. Outside there is a full-length patio which steps down into a beautiful courtyard with a fountain for relaxing in your private oasis. The RV garage/worskshop has dual electric openers and pull-through functionality as well as patios on both sides. It even contains it's own bathroom! The private road that serves as the driveway to this house only services this house. There is only one neighbor to the north but they do not share a driveway. The irrigation canal only serves two houses: no waking up in the middle of the night to follow complicated irrigation schedules. If you want to be close to downtown Gilbert but feel alone and secure on a house you cannot see from the road, this is it. There is no other property like this one. Don't miss it!

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8444 E Bonita Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$1,199,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,605 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6644605

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Can't find like this in the area. Absolutely stunning and one of a kind fully renovated home from top to bottom. New kitchen, new bathrooms, new floor, baseboard, roof, stucco, doors and windows, new plumbing and wiring, new landscape and more to find. 3 bedroom 2 bath, 2 car garage with custom remodel job done to it like you can't find anywhere else. Over sized master bedroom and master closet with gigantic master bath with jet tub and double shower system.

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5324 E Hillery Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,199,900

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,308 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6733483

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Newly renovated with high end contemporary design finishes located in the highly desirable 85254 zip code. Split floor plan with over-sized Owner's Suite. Large kitchen and bar area with custom cabinetry and quartz counters and backsplashes. Custom built glass wine cellar and racking. Fully covered patio. Viking appliances. Large back yard. Dual pane energy saving windows / doors, smart thermostat with a North/South exposure. Beautiful marble bathroom featuring a double vanity, large soaking tub, and double walk-in shower. Automatic irrigation for grass and plants in back yard. The home is move-in ready and has been well taken care of by Owners. Please contact with any questions.

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1372 E Lovebird Court Gilbert, AZ 85297

$1,199,900

5 Beds

3 Baths

4,000 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6749965

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this beautifully maintained home, lovingly cared for by its original owners. This exceptional property is situated on a quiet cut-de-sac, that provides ample parking. There is an adjacent walking path, green space and a volleyball court. The home has been thoughtfully updated throughout, ensuring a modern aesthetic and timeless appeal. You'll feel the attention to detail that makes this house a home. There are spacious living areas that include a bonus room, perfect for a teen hangout, home gym or guest space. The highlight of the property is the resort-style backyard, that includes a diving pool, hot tub, outdoor kitchen and fire pit. It's an ideal spot for relaxation and entertaining. There are many options for additional storage, including overhead garage racks, cabinets and an outdoor shed. The property is conveniently located near shopping, restaurants and the San Tan freeway. Don't miss the opportunity to make this property your own! All tv's convey.

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4839 E Crocus Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85254

Open House

$1,199,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,174 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6770113

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This fully remodeled, awe-inspiring corner lot home has everything you've ever dreamed of! Sheer beauty & mesmerizing attention to details are found inside. New high-end finishes, new dry wall, fresh soft paint, LVP flooring, all new windows & doors, and recessed lighting are worth mentioning. The bright & spacious open floor plan boasts a wall-mounted fireplace that adds a touch of elegance to the space. The gourmet kitchen is equipped with mosaic tile backsplash, gleaming stainless steel appliances, sleek quartz counters, and a waterfall breakfast bar. Don't miss the breakfast nook with a clear view of the backyard. Grand owner's retreat will undoubtedly become your personal sanctuary, showcasing direct outdoor access and an elegant ensuite comprised of dual sinks, a garden tub, a large enclosed glass shower, and a walk-in closet. Oversized backyard is the perfect spot to enjoy memorable gatherings, complete with a covered patio, grassy area, and a sparkling pool. All new electrical, plumbing back to box, and redone stucco siding! Located in Popular Greenbrier East within the magic 85254 zip code. This gem has it all!

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