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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10801 E Happy Valley Road Unit 132 Scottsdale, AZ 85255

New

$5,250,000

5 Beds

6.5 Baths

7,060 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6772486

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This home is an architectural gem with a truly timeless feel, on the market for the first time since winning the Arizona Home of the Year / Honor Award in 2001. Designed by the renowned architect Gordon Rogers, this estate embodies the best of organic contemporary architecture. This is a rare opportunity to own a masterpiece in the exclusive, guard-gated community of Glenn Moor at Troon Village. Known for creating homes that merge seamlessly with their natural surroundings, Rogers' vision is evident throughout this property, which has been thoughtfully updated by its current owners while preserving its original design integrity. The estate's layout is divided by a natural arroyo, which created the perfect design opportunity to connect the guest house on one side with the main... residence on the other, for an organic flow. The dramatic approach takes guests up broad concrete steps and across a bridge, culminating in a striking 9-foot-wide pivoting entry doora bold first impression. The main house offers 6,030 square feet of meticulously crafted living space, with an additional 1,030 square feet in the detached guest house, bringing the total to 7,060 square feet. Inside, the great room stuns with a soaring ceiling with beautiful tongue and groove wood, supported by four concrete columns and two sculptural steel fins, and is framed by high clerestory glass walls that capture panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The floating roof, with its cantilevered ends, mirrors the curves of the land and the infinity-edge pool, both of which reflect the natural topography. Hand selected from the quarry, the Utah sandstone found throughout the home blends harmoniously with the desert landscape. The same stone is used for both walls and floors, creating a seamless flow from the interior to the outdoor spaces. A real once-in-a-lifetime estate that truly encompasses architectural feats known only to select residences. Offering a perfect blend of cutting-edge architecture, natural beauty, and modern upgrades, this home is designed for the discerning buyer seeking a uniqueness rarely made available. Most furnishings and accessories available by separate bill of sale.

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8300 E Dixileta Drive Unit 263 Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$5,250,000

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

6,700 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6772092

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Perched 600 feet up Lone Mountain, this organic Pueblo-style home, designed by architect Lee Hutchison, presents a rare opportunity on a double lot, offering ample space to build or expand on 3.4 acres. The custom home radiates warmth and Southwest charm with its polished concrete floors, viga accent beams, and adobe brick walls. The expansive great room flows seamlessly into a gourmet kitchen, featuring top-of-the-line appliances, including a Viking Professional 6-burner range, a stunning 24K gold farm sink, and hand-painted tile accents. The luxurious primary suite is a true retreat, complete with separate his and hers areas, a gas fireplace, and electric blinds for added privacy. The spa-like bath boasts a jacuzzi soaking tub with mountain views and a custom tile steam shower... With eight gas fireplaces throughout, the home ensures warmth and comfort in every space. A detached casita offers ultimate privacy for guests while providing expansive city light views. Step outside to discover an outdoor oasis featuring a heated infinity edge pool with a dark pebble finish, a heated jetted spa, and multiple covered flagstone patios. An outdoor kitchen equipped with a Viking BBQ completes this entertaining paradise. The oversized four-car garage includes new epoxy flooring and built-in cabinets, providing ample storage and functionality. Nestled in the vibrant community of Sincuidados, residents enjoy a variety of amenities, including pickleball, tennis, and wine tastings. This exceptional property combines luxury, space, and stunning views, don't miss your chance to make it your own!

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10284 E Running Deer Trail Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$5,250,000

4 Beds

6 Baths

6,219 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6774364

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning newly built home situated on Troon North Golf course in Estancia. With views of Pinnacle Peak out the front and golf course and mountain views in the back this contemporary home is truly Arizona resort living. Completed in 2020, this single level has an inviting open floor plan. The great room opens up to the perfect indoor/outdoor space with disappearing wall of glass overlooking the pool/spa, outdoor kitchen , dual fire-pits and multiple patio seating areas. all overlooking the golf course ! Inside the chef's kitchen has top of line appliances including walk in butler's pantry with refrigerator , and huge oversized island with double-sided cabinetry. The primary suite has it's own patio and separate exercise room and a redesigned closet of your dreams.

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6001 N 44th Street Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$5,250,000

6 Beds

8 Baths

7,966 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6775549

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Immerse yourself in luxury living with breathtaking Camelback Mountain views from this palatial estate in one of the most sought out locations in Paradise Valley. Walls of retractable glass allow the jaw dropping views of Camelback Mountain to take center stage day and night in all public spaces in this 1 acre, 7,966 SF, 6 bedroom 8 bath custom estate with attached guesthouse and 4 car garage. Built with a catering kitchen, this home is an entertainer's paradise and has accommodated a 250 person plated dinner for distinguished guests, including Presidents of the United States. Features which elevate everyday living include: multiple wings with additional family/recreation rooms, theater room, expansive outdoor covered patio with fireplace, negative edge heated pool with water features,

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4802 N 46th Street Phoenix, AZ 85018

$5,250,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,996 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6737378

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This extraordinary home is sure to impress even the most discriminating buyer. From the moment you arrive, you'll revel over the curb appeal, and the architectural excellence and designer flare can't be beat. The home is a beautiful combination of elegance and comfort, and perfectly couples fresh modern elements with the highly coveted cottage style. The fabulous island kitchen has top of the line appliances, two sinks, custom cabinetry and plenty of room to prep and serve, the exceptional great room has vaulted ceilings with custom wood beams, a statement fireplace with an exposed brick surround, a restaurant style wet bar that calls for seamless entertaining, and fully automated doors open to beautiful outdoor living spaces that heighten the home's allure. The spacious dining room is great for formal gatherings, the den is a lovely space to curl up with a book or watch a movie with the family, the private home office can easily double as a play room, and all the bedrooms are ensuite including a magnificent primary hideaway with a spectacular bath. Every room is loaded with character and upscale finishes including wide plank wood flooring, marble, pristine tile accents, exceptional millwork, designer lighting and so much more. The half acre lot features multiple covered patios, a ramada with a full outdoor kitchen, fireplace and seating area, a stunning pool and spa and even a putting green. The oversized area of the 3rd garage is being used as a full home gym which is a great option. This phenomenal residence sits on a fantastic lot and the location can't be beat!

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10261 E De La O Road Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$5,200,000

5 Beds

6 Baths

5,570 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6761171

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Extraordinary opportunity to skip the wait to build. Just completed Farmhouse Contemporary in the extraordinary private-gated community of Camelot's Skye View w only 21 award winning homes. World class views of Pinnacle Peak & the McDowells in the heart of North Scottsdale's most iconic golf communities. The stunning interior offers wall to wall French Oak floors, Great room with fireplace, Gated courtyard, Separate casita + seamless indoor-outdoor living. The award winning design has a south facing backyard nestled under the majestic McDowell Mountains and tucked into the back of the community offering peace and tranquility. Perfect outdoor living w 2 large sliding doors that open seamlessly onto the courtyard and backyard with generous patios and living spaces. Entertaining perfection is complete with pool, spa and fresh landscaping. Just minutes from Scottsdale's best dining, shopping, hiking, recreation.

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6271 E Horseshoe Road Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$5,200,000

4 Beds

5 Baths

5,134 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6756810

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Fully furnished golf course modern with soaring ceilings and Mummy Mountain views! Newly remodeled kitchen, flooring, bedrooms, and bathrooms. Entertainers dream with new heated pool/spa and outdoor BBQ area. Located on Camelback Country Clubs Ambiante Golf course, beautiful flowers surround sidewalks and jogging/ biking paths. In the A+ rated CCC school district and moments from central Scottsdale's shops, restaurants and grocery stores. Split floorplan of primary suite with his and hers bathrooms and closets and generous bedroom on one side, office/den and two additional ensuites on the other. Large formal living and second entertaining space off of the kitchen. No interior steps and immaculacy furnished in Restoration Hardware.

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29672 N 77th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$5,200,000

6 Beds

6.5 Baths

6,430 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6760786

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Totally reimagined in 2023/24, this luxurious North Scottsdale estate is situated on 1.78 acres in an exclusive, gated community of 5 homes. This home captures the incredible views surrounding its peaceful & serene setting. An expansive split floor plan w 5 spacious bedrooms, 5 1/2 baths, game area & full wet-bar in the main house (AC 4 car garage) & a guest house/casita w/ 2 bedrooms (1 is an exercise room), bath, kitchenette & living area. Gourmet kitchen includes Quartzite counters, custom Alder wood cabinetry & Miele, Wolf, Sub-Zero appliances. A 1600 sf covered patio offers you sunrises over the majestic McDowells & sun sets over the Valley all while you are having coffee, gathering friends in the evening, swimming or playing tennis on your private lighted court. No expense spared on this magnificent home! You will love all the amenities of this home & the incredible outdoor/indoor living it offers. Minutes from Carefree and North Scottsdale dining, shopping and entertainment.

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4450 E Green Reservoir Road Eloy, AZ 85131

$5,200,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,200 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6729530

Property Type Manufactured Home

Price Type --

BEAUTIFUL TREE LINED ±360 ACRE FARM with AMAZING MOUNTAIN VIEWS, EQUESTRIAN FACILITIES & MULTIPLE HOMES! Currently growing alfalfa & offering farm hand housing, cotton gin building, hay barns, over 50 RV hook ups, over 30 pens, ±30 covered horse stalls, corals, an arena, fenced pastures & riding trails. All the infrastructure was thoughtfully designed to host rodeos & board horses. The main residence has a split great room floor plan with vaulted ceilings, large kitchen, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, family room with fireplace, office with separate entrance & full length covered porches. The second residence has been recently renovated with rustic charm & boasts 3 bedrooms with wrap around covered patios.. CAIDD provides water for ±316 farmable irrigated acreage. Owned well sustains 40 acres.

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5347 E Mockingbird Lane Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$5,199,000

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

7,425 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6754720

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Price at 700 per sq ft. Absolute Must See! Amazing open floor layout on this beautiful estate, meticulously maintained, located in the highly sought after Paradise Valley area with spectacular Mummy Mountain views. Recently refreshed Primary wing. Custom brick ceilings, exposed wood beams, beautiful stone accents throughout the home, and custom wood cabinetry. 3 large stone fireplaces. Oversized kitchen with large 14 ft island and high end appliances. Vaulted ceilings throughout. New hardwood flooring throughout the home. Recently updated theatre room. Oversized showers throughout. Enjoy entertaining with surround sound throughout. 16 ft glass sliding pocket doors leading out to the backyard with resort style heated pool equipped with water features, hot tub, built in trampoline.

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22439 N 89th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$5,195,000

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

5,147 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6756386

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Modern Farmhouse in desirable White Horse community! This 5147 sf single level home is located one of Scottsdale's hottest neighborhoods due to its amazing architecture and convenient location. Set on nearly .7 acres, this site is regarded as the best lot in Whitehorse due to its orientation, deep backyard, open space behind and stunning McDowell Mountain views from the back. Desirable single level floorplan features 4 bedrooms and a media room/bonus room, along with a 4 car garage. The great room and kitchen have an open-concept design, featuring glass pocket doors that seamlessly connect to the front and back covered patios—perfect for enjoying Arizona's mild weather and entertaining guests. Private backyard oasis is anchored by a stunning pool surrounded by lush turf and captures sweeping mountain views. State of the art features include Wolf/Subzero kitchen appliances, double dishwashers, brick accent wall in kitchen, wide plank white oak flooring, beamed truss ceilings, built in media wall in bonus room, quartz and limestone counter tops, 3 tankless water heaters and a separate dog wash in laundry room. Whitehorse is conveniently located just north of DC Ranch in North Scottsdale, 1 mile from the shopping /dining of Market Street, and minutes away from the Loop 101. Please preview to see why this address is in such high demand!

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39601 N Ocotillo Ridge Drive Carefree, AZ 85377

$5,150,000

5 Beds

7 Baths

7,783 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6620894

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Introducing the epitome of quiet luxury at this formidable estate on 5 acres of private land. Behind the gates at the pristine Ocotillo Ridge Estates in Carefree. Every inch of this 7,783 sq. ft. estate has been meticulously maintained and crafted with an array of upgrades and emphasis on the modern hacienda style. Exceptional finishes include hickory hardwood & slate floors, wood beams, custom cabinetry, Cantera stone fireplaces, tongue and groove wood ceilings, and hand-crafted tiles throughout the home. Upon entry, the pure elegance of the great room with the accordion doors opening to the infinity edge pool and the breathtaking mountain vistas and sunsets will amaze you every time. Well-appointed top-of-the-line gourmet kitchen. An impressive wet bar for entertaining & picturesque... views. A generous primary suite retreat with a sitting area, luxurious bath, oversized custom closet, and an exercise room. Three additional en-suites with their own patio access and separate office. Paver drive and motor court. Oversized four-car garage. Back to the enchanting courtyard, you can head to the quaint guest house that oozes the local town's flair. Your guests will have the best time at this inviting casita. Romantic outdoor spaces include 2000+/- sf of deep-covered paver patios and 1000+/- sf of elevated open dining/relaxing deck with Cantera fireplace and BBQ. There are endless, unobstructed views in every direction and every room. The setting is every bit as spectacular as the home itself. There are miles of quiet hiking and biking trails. Unequaled privacy and tranquility await you at this resort-like sanctuary. Yet, you are minutes (three miles) from the quaint, charming old towns of Cave Creek and Carefree. This property also presents a unique opportunity for seller financing and is available turnkey through a separate bill of saleeffortlessly inviting you to start your new chapter without delay.

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