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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10422 N Demaret Drive
Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
$1,150,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
2,871
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6708653
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Golf Course Lot! Move-in ready! This Single Level home on Desert Canyon Golf Course has been meticulously maintained and beautifully updated inside and outside. This custom home features a spacious Great Room with Fireplace and Wet Bar, large Dining Room, Open Kitchen with upscale Stainless Appliances, Quartz Countertops, Breakfast Room, large Island seating, an abundance of Counter Space and Cabinets. The spacious Master Bedroom has separate Seating area, large Walk-in Closet, Bathroom with separate Vanities, Jetted Tub, separate Walk-in Shower. There are 3 other Bedrooms including one Ensuite. Beautiful Plank Porcelain Tile and Wood Floors throughout. No steps inside. The Resort style Backyard includes a private Pool, Paver Patios, Pergolas, Desert Landscaping PLUS Golf Course and Mountain Views. Large 3 Car Garage with built-in Cabinets and Epoxy floor. Newer Energy Efficient Dual Pane Windows throughout. Nothing to do but move in and Enjoy! A must see to appreciate all the upgraded features that this house has to offer!
6423 W Ruin Hill Loop
Pine, AZ 85544
$1,150,000
3
Beds
4
Baths
3,337
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6761593
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Exclusive location in the Pines on 0.74A. Remarkable blend of quiet beauty and meticulous attention to detail. The spectacular great room features a wall of windows that captures breathtaking views of the Tonto National Forest and the majestic Mogollon Rim. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, showcasing Brazilian marble countertops, hickory flooring and cabinetry, and upgraded stainless steel appliances. Beautiful native stone fireplaces Nestled on a serene 0.74-acre lot in the Pines, this exclusive home offers a remarkable blend of (2) add warmth and charm throughout the space. The main level boasts a luxurious owner's retreat with an ensuite bath, complete with heated floors, a jetted tub, and a custom closet for comfort and convenience. The lower level invites you into a cozy family room with a fireplace, an office area, a library/storage space, and a guest bedroom with a private bath. Entertaining is a breeze with a bar area that includes a full-size wine refrigerator. Outdoor living is enhanced by covered, maintenance-free decks on both levels, perfect for relaxation and entertaining, along with a soothing outdoor spa for unwinding. Additional features include a durable metal roof, a spacious 2-car garage, a workshop, and attic storage for added convenience. This exceptional home is a true retreat, offering luxury and tranquility in an unbeatable location--dont'miss your chance to make it yours!
11722 S 38th Avenue
Laveen, AZ 85339
$1,150,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
3,408
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6721960
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This exquisite mountain estate is a home unlike any other in the area. Situated in one of the city's highest points, in an exclusive community on 1 ACRE of land. The interior has porcelain tile flooring throughout, soaring vaulted ceilings in the great room, and 10-foot ceilings elsewhere. Each of the 4 generous bedrooms features its own private ensuite bathroom and walk-in closets. Two large covered patios equipped with surround sound and misting systems. The large backyard provides the perfect canvas for a pool, a casita or other improvements. Additional features include an oversized 3-car garage, RV gate and a small open workshop.
10860 E Cactus View Circle
Gold Canyon, AZ 85118
$1,150,000
3
Beds
4
Baths
3,661
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6757807
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Superstition Mountains from this beautifully upgraded 3 bed / 4 bath home. Designed for multi-generational living or perfect for having friends & family stay comfortably in their own private guest quarters. The open floor plan features a Great Room with hardwood floors, a stunning stone fireplace, & sliding glass doors on either side to provide seamless indoor/outdoor living & tons of natural light. The kitchen is a chef's dream w/ solid cherry cabinets, marble countertops, a Wolf 5-burner cooktop, double ovens, & multiple refrigeration options. The spacious island is perfect for entertaining. The main living area includes a large office (easily converted to a bedroom) w/ built-in solid cherry cabinetry & desk. The hall bath has a travertine shower, glass sink & wall faucet. The primary suite is a spacious & bright private oasis. The primary bath has travertine flooring, dual travertine sinks, dual shower w/ bench seating, jet tub, & private toilet room. Walk into your custom closet, designed by Classy Closets, w/ plenty of built-in storage. Bedroom 1 has sliding glass doors to the front patio-courtyard & a spacious walk-in closet, and bedroom 2 has sliding glass doors to the back patio & en-suite bath. The Main living area has a 2-car garage & the attached flex space also has its own 2-car garage w/ a workshop that is temperature controlled. Can be used for rental, in-law, or guest quarters, w/ its own living room w/ fireplace, full kitchen, and spacious bedrooms. Flex space features wood plantation shutters, solid cherry cabinets, Maytag double oven glass top stove, Fisher & Paykel dishwasher, & efficient washer & dryer, & jacuzzi bathtub. This single-story home is fully equipped with owned, automated solar (21kW) & three AC units. The expansive backyard features natural desert landscaping, a fire pit, and extensive covered patios. This property is zoned for two horses. You'll fall in love with the views and the endless possibilities this home offers!
3648 E Arabian Drive
Gilbert, AZ 85296
$1,150,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,461
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6736773
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Step into unparalleled elegance with this stunning residence, where sophistication meets comfort in every detail! Excellent curb appeal with striking stone detailing, a manicured front yard, a 3-car tandem garage, and an inviting front porch. Double doors open to a welcoming foyer leading to the formal living room! The great room is bathed in natural, recessed, and chic light fixtures, illuminating every corner. High ceilings, soothing paint tones, beautiful wood-plank tile flooring, and multi-sliders to the back patio are features you'll love. Meticulous attention to detail is presented in the upscale kitchen, fully equipped with a gas cooktop, double wall ovens, and a sizable island with a breakfast bar. Gleaming quartz counters, stylish tile backsplash, a walk-in pantry, and a plethora of white cabinetry with crown molding elevate the space. Explore a spacious bonus room ideal for a hobby or entertaining space! Find your sanctuary in the grand main suite, showcasing a soft carpet, a sitting area, a full ensuite with dual sinks, a step-in glass shower, a separate tub, and a walk-in closet. Discover the highlight of the outdoor space: a stunning crystal blue pool, the perfect oasis for those scorching summer days! Hurry! This gem will not disappoint!
6575 W Singing Wolf Lane
Prescott, AZ 86305
$1,150,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,506
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6741828
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This stunning home, recently constructed by the esteemed Crystal Creek Homes, is arguably better than new. Set on just over 2.5 acres in the impressive Inscription Canyon Ranch, it offers nearly 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges, with Granite Mountain as the striking centerpiece. Upon entry, you're greeted by a fabulous great room featuring a floor-to-ceiling tumbled stone linear gas fireplace and inconspicuous surround sound speakers. The light, open, and airy Chef's kitchen is adorned with antique white cabinetry, boasts 42-inch uppers with crown molding and under-cabinet lighting, gleaming quartz countertops, decorative tile backsplash, WiFi-enabled double wall ovens & a 6-place gas cooktop. The massive walk-in pantry provides ample space for appliance use. The island sports dark-stained natural wood cabinets and pendant lighting. The great room and kitchen open to an adjacent dining area, displaying a striking wall of windows that showcase the surrounding vistas. The beautiful office space is conveniently located just off the great room. The spacious master suite offers stunning views of Granite Mountain. The spa-like master bathroom features double vanities with quartz counters, oversized powder area, large Kohler garden soaking tub, and a massive walk-in shower with double shower heads and floor-to-ceiling tile work. The generous walk-in closet in the master suite has direct access to the laundry room, which is equipped with a deep tub basin sink, upper and lower storage cabinetry, a hanging bar, and an additional storage closet for overflow linens. Offering wonderful views, the spacious guest bedrooms are served by a Jack and Jill bathroom with a full tub shower and a linen closet. Carpeting is limited to the bedrooms, with the remainder of the home featuring woodgrain LVP flooring. The oversized covered deck, accented by a tongue and groove ceiling, features engineered composite decking, making it the perfect space to observe Arizona sunsets and monsoon storms. The back deck is pre-wired for a ceiling fan and also plumbed for a permanent barbecue. Steps off the back deck lead down to the lower level, providing full access to a cavernous, functional storage area under the house, which could be customized into a workshop or other endless possibilities. The massive garage features insulated overhead doors with WiFi-enabled openers. Additional features of this home include a powder bath featuring a decorative vessel sink, recessed LED lights, water softening system, 50-gallon hot water heater with a recirculating pump, and low-maintenance stucco exterior accented by stacked stone pillars and columns. Immaculately cared for, this property is ready for you to call it your home.
48842 Riviera Place
Ehrenberg, AZ 85334
$1,150,000
3
Beds
4
Baths
4,192
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6737737
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Don't miss out on an exceptional opportunity to own a riverfront home in Arizona! This stunning home offers ample space for relaxation and comfort. Situated on the Colorado River, this property features breathtaking views from every angle. The fully finished basement provides additional living space perfect for entertaining or unwinding. Step outside to your own private putting green and incredible outside kitchen and bar perfect for gatherings with friends and family. The home comes fully furnished with high end finishes throughout. Located in an exclusive gated community, you'll have access to a private boat ramp and your own private dock. This home has an elevated boat garage and offers the ultimate in riverfront living. Come and live your best life on the river!
402 W Augusta Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85021
$1,150,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,554
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6752602
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Looking for a home in a highly sought after area in the heart of North Central Phoenix? Proximity to Murphy's Bridal Path for walking and biking. Welcome to this beautiful 4 bdrm home with a brand new kitchen as of 8/1/24. Upgraded stainless steel Smart appliances. Luxury vinyl wood flooring, 2024. Energy Star efficiency, multi zone A/C. Whole house water softener and filtration system. New interior doors. Half bath renovated 2024. Large living/dining area with fireplace, perfect for entertaining. Separate office space.
1484 Creekview --
Prescott, AZ 86305
$1,150,000
3
Beds
4
Baths
3,040
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6776198
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover luxury living at its finest in this exquisite single-level home, perched in the prestigious Southview community & offering breathtaking views of the Granite Dells & the National Forest. This highly desirable Santa Fe-style residence, with extensive upgrades & a spacious 3+ car garage, is ready for you to make it your own. From the moment you step inside, you'll be captivated by the soaring ceilings & a wall of windows that frame the stunning, sweeping views. Designed for entertaining, the gourmet kitchen features a gas cooktop, two full-size ovens, rich wood cabinetry, granite countertops, & a center island with a breakfast bar. A generously sized walk-in pantry adds ample storage space. The unique dining room, featuring a pergola-style surround, is perfect for entertaining. In addition to this elegant space, the home offers a breakfast bar, a cozy breakfast nook, and an impressive patio with a large Kiva fireplace, providing multiple options for both indoor and outdoor dining experiences. Each bedroom boasts its own ensuite bathroom, ensuring privacy and comfort. The master suite is the epitome of luxury, with a private gas fireplace, access to one of three outdoor patios featuring a serene water feature tucked among the boulders for ultimate privacy. The ensuite bath is equally impressive, featuring a soaking tub, custom tile walk-in shower, dual vanities with vessel sinks, dual walk-in closets, and a skylight that bathes the room in natural light. The 3-car garage comes complete with a workbench and extra storage. This home is filled with high-end finishes and thoughtful details throughout, embodying true luxury. To ensure the panoramic views remain unobstructed, the owners purchased the property in front, preserving this magnificent outlook just for you. With so many features to offer, this exceptional home is best experienced in person to fully appreciate its beauty and the unparalleled vistas.
7525 E Gainey Ranch Road Unit 188
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
$1,150,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
2,047
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6759996
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to Gainey Ranch Greens! beautiful community of single family homes, choice lot with no home behind you, 2 bedrooms and den -SINGLE LEVEL home with vaulted ceilings & split floor plan, vaulted ceilings, 2 fireplaces, spacious kitchen with breakfast area opens to family room, charming backyard BBQ station, 2 side yards and lovely plantings, close to the community pool. Enjoy access to all of the best Gainey Ranch amenities including the incredible recently remodeled clubhouse, heated pool & spa, pickle ball courts, tennis courts, and state of the art fitness center! 24 hour guard gated entry - this is the perfect winter getaway or year-round home!
4336 N Colt Road
Apache Junction, AZ 85119
$1,150,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,310
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6756760
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Nestled on 1.25 acres of picturesque desert land this property is a hidden gem. Over 2300 sq.ft. consisting of 3 bedrooms, 3 baths and spacious office. The main attraction begins when you step outside...the oversize patio and pergola lead to an amazing outdoor living space. Complete with fireplace, dining and cooking area. The expansive 1700 sq.ft. air conditioned garage/workshop is a dream come true for the car enthusiast. Separate office, mezzanine and lift makes this the perfect man cave. The spacious kitchen is a chefs delight, featuring generous counter space and all appliances. The master suite is your personal retreat with private exit that opens to the outdoors...a perfect spot to escape, unwind, and enjoy the tranquility of your surroundings. The detached she shed is ideal for artist/crafter studio. This special property offers a blend of peacefulness and practicality. Don't miss previewing this exceptional home.
716 Country Club Drive
Prescott, AZ 86303
$1,150,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,100
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6752466
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Step back in time and enjoy the modern comforts in this enchanting 1926 Sears and Roebuck Bungalow, in the heart of Prescott's historic district. This 2,184 sqft, 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home boasts a coveted Crescent floor plan and features original wood floors --warmth and timeless elegance. Tastefully remodeled kitchen and bathrooms offer perfect balance of historic charm and contemporary convenience. The big private backyard is a tranquil oasis, complete with a charming guest house—ideal for guests or potential rental income. Located within walking distance to Prescott's special events and downtown attractions, this rare gem offers a unique blend of history, community, and convenience. Whether you're looking for a full-time home or a lucrative vacation rental, this home is a must see.