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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17810 E Stocking Trail
Rio Verde, AZ 85263
$1,139,900
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,186
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6762458
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your Spanish Hacienda in the 55+ community of Trilogy at Verde River. Wow!! This 2 bedroom, 2.5 bath home is absolutely stunning! The front courtyard has an inviting sitting area with an exterior fireplace. As you enter the home, you'll see the den/office, with a barn door. The hallway opens to the kitchen & great room. There are luxury upgrades everywhere! Wide plank tile flooring throughout, with some fun, white washed tile in the bedrooms to make a statement. Beautiful plantation shutters, and the sliding glass doors along the back to bring the outdoor living in. The outside patio has plenty of room for entertaining & the landscaping is exquisite! There is a walking path around the home, to give a little more space to the left side and behind. Trilogy has too many amenities to mention. The Resort style pool, a lap pool, Eddy's Poolside dining, Alvea Spa, a golf course by Tom Lehman, Afturburn Fitness Center, Tennis & Pickleball Courts. Bocce Ball, a 7.5 acre Dog Park, Needle Rock Restaurant, Cooking Classes at Helen's Kitchen, Classes at The Art Loft, outdoor concerts and more!! This is not just a community, it is a lifestyle. Truly a one of kind home, don't miss it!
13616 W Ocotillo Road
Glendale, AZ 85307
$1,139,000
4
Beds
4
Baths
3,940
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6773411
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
A UNIQUE find! Spectacular 4-bedroom home in the highly sought-after Luke Ranch Estates is a dream come true! Starting with a sided 2-car garage, RV garage, RV gate, striking stone accents, extended driveway, and a mature desert landscape. The home exudes elegance throughout! Attention to detail is evident in the plantation shutters that grace the windows, complemented by neutral paint, abundant natural light, archways, stylish light fixtures, dramatic high ceilings, and tasteful flooring - carpet & wood-look tile. You'll LOVE the formal dining room and a desirable great room paired with multi-sliding doors that effortlessly blend indoor & outdoor living! The gourmet kitchen boasts high-end SS appliances w/wall ovens, solid-surface counters, mosaic tile backsplash, & a huge 2-tier island This home is a former Model home. The walk-in pantry, wine rack, and a plethora of cabinetry ensure ample storage. The den provides versatility! The oversized owner's retreat promises a restful night's sleep, featuring a vaulted ceiling and a barn door that opens to the lavish ensuite with two vanities, a soaking tub, a tiled shower, & a sizable walk-in closet. The secondary bedrooms also include their own walk-in closets & private bathrooms. PLUS! As a bonus, this gem has an attached guest house with a bedroom, living area, & a kitchenette. Laundry room with a sink & cabinetry. Beyond the interiors, the RESORT-STYLE backyard holds its own charm! Designed for relaxing & entertaining, it showcases a covered patio, lush lawns, a firepit, well-laid pavers, and a sparkling pool for year-round enjoyment. This gem has it all. See it! Love it! Live it! Seller wants it SOLD!
2433 E Charlene Place
Phoenix, AZ 85024
$1,139,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,319
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6754679
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
So many recent renovations and upgrades! All new luxury flooring, kitchen, bathrooms, lighting, custom closets, custom cabinetry in the laundry room, all new landscaping with new drip system and lighting, etc. This is a beautiful home on a corner lot backing to the wash with only one neighbor. Enter into the formal living room with soaring ceilings and lots of natural light. Giant open kitchen with breakfast bar, stainless steel appliances, wall mount double ovens and walk-in pantry. Massive family room and loft provides ample room for large family fun. The luxurious master suite has a bonus room perfect for an office or exercise area. The backyard oasis is an entertainers dream. Has pool fencing for child safety. Must see to fully appreciate!
6429 E Eugie Terrace
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
$1,139,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,945
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6781534
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Top to bottom remodel in Scottsdale's most desirable zip code of 85254. Redesigned and renovated throughout with a gourmet kitchen, quartz counters with complimenting tile splash, shaker cabinetry, oversized island with a waterfall finish, complete stainless steel appliance package, and a full-length coffee bar. The master suite features a walk-in closet, custom bathroom with a walk-in shower, tile shower surrounds, & new dual vanity. Don't miss the big tickets items including new windows, spray foam insulation within the exterior walls and ceiling for increased energy efficiency, full length covered patio, fresh front & rear landscape, extended height block fencing for increased privacy, & RV gate for additional parking. Home is located near top-rated schools and extensive options for entertainment, restaurants, and shopping. Desert Ridge is 10 minutes north while Kierland & The Quarter are quick trip east. Close to the 51 and 101 freeways providing easy access throughout the Valley.
11268 N Williamsburg Avenue
Surprise, AZ 85388
$1,138,995
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,656
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6753243
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Ready in Fall 2024, modern luxury meets elegant design in this stunning quick move-in home. This St. Helena floorplan welcomes you in with a stunning well-appointed foyer. The gourmet kitchen makes a statement with its premium finishes, upgraded cabinets, and stainless steel appliances. Embrace relaxation in the sun-filled great room that is bursting with natural light and is adjacent to the kitchen and casual dining area. The primary bathroom suite offers the perfect getaway with a resort-like shower complete with a sitting area, as well as free-standing tub and walk-in closet. Escape with the family with the home's covered outdoor patio that is enhanced with a fireplace and stunning West facing mountain views.
50 Talia Court
Sedona, AZ 86336
$1,137,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,923
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6754313
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Charming Primary OR Getaway Home. NO HOA, STR FRIENDLY, Conveniently Located Between Sedona and VOC, this meticulously maintained Cavanaugh Southwest Beauty has SPACIOUS Great Room Living with high ceilings and split floor plan. The impressive rustic entry door adorned with iron nail accents invites you into this open, bright and comfortable single level home. Feel the immediate warmth from the Saltillo tile in foyer and dining area. Kitchen boasts granite counters with full backsplash, Viking SS appliances including fridge and gas oven cooktop/hood vent and a SS two-compartment sink, prep island, pantry, breakfast bar and nook, Custom SW cabinets. Additional option for dining space in Great Room which features recessed lighting and track lighting to showcase artwork. Dual double doors for easy access to backyard. Perfect set-up for entertaining guests. Spacious primary bedroom suite has large soaking tub, separate shower, dual vanities, private commode, walk in closet with built-in shelves and bi-level hanger rods for efficiency and extra storage behind door. Guests will enjoy privacy and comfort of the two additional bedrooms with a full bathroom between them. Enjoy the privacy of the Fully Enclosed, level backyard with mature trees and plants along the perimeter. Grab your favorite beverage, relax in the shade from the Juniper tree and take in the amazing dead-on view of Cathedral Rock to the West. Outdoor grilling and dining on the patio is always in season. Plenty of additional patio space for potted plants and yard space for multiple flower/ vegetable garden beds. Large laundry room includes Whirlpool washer and dryer, folding station, extra storage and utility sink. Other features include NEW Lennox HVAC, ecobee thermostat, art niches and much more. Roof replaced in 2021. Close proximity to world-class hiking and biking trails, shopping, golf and all Sedona/VOC amenities, living is easy within this quality-built home with a super-functional floor plan on a large level lot. What are you waiting for? Make this special property yours today!
17962 W Montecito Avenue
Goodyear, AZ 85395
$1,137,000
6
Beds
5
Baths
4,826
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6779204
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
STUNNING ENTERTAINERS DREAM HOME W/ Full In-law Suite. STEP THROUGH THE FRONT IRON DOOR AND DOWN THE HALLWAY TO A TRUE GOURMET KITCHEN! 60'' DOUBLE GAS OVEN/ 8 BURNERS 60'' DOUBLE FRIDGE & FREEZER. 24''DISHWASHER & 18'' DISHWASHER. TWICE IS ALWAYS NICE! 1 LAUNDRY DOWNSTAIRS, & 1 UPSTAIRS. ATTACHED IN-LAW SUITE ON 1ST FLOOR HOSTS SEPERATE SIDE PATIO & ENTRANCE, KITCHEN & LIVING!!! THIS IS TRULY A UNIQUE HOME. 1BD EN-SUITE, 2 BD, 1 BA, W/ TEEN ROOM, PLUS MASTER/ EN-SUITE ON SECOND LEVEL & AN OPEN LOFT UPSTAIRS. GUEST BD ACROSS FROM FULL GUEST BATH DOWNSTAIRS. WALK THROUGH THE 12' & 8' BI-FOLD DOORS TO A BACKYARD THAT BOASTS A BUILT IN BBQ, 2 MINI FRIDGES, ICE MAKER, BAR SEATING. IN-GROUND TRAMPOLINE, HOT TUB & SPARKLING POOL w/ GROTTO. EVEN THE POOL HAS JETS! A/C FULLY REPLACED IN 2022 2x6 construction, 400amp panel, Spray Foam throughout, all irrigation replaced with PVC, extended paver driveway and RV gate
9186 S San Pablo Drive
Goodyear, AZ 85338
$1,135,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,314
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6703066
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
A true gem in the desert! This 4300 square foot home is nestled on a premium 1.19 acre lot at the base of the Foothills mountains in the amenity rich community of Estrella Mountain Ranch. Every room of the home on the main level boasts mountain views from the quiet cul-de-sac lot. The chef's kitchen features top of the line appliances including: Viking stainless steel oversized double oven with six burner gas stove top, warming drawer, trash compactor and dual dishwashers. Kitchen features breakfast bar with seating of up to six and is conveniently situated between the living room, eat in kitchen nook, and formal dining room to ensure effortless flow of the home. Home boast a split floorplan featuring soaring 12 foot ceilings and dedicated home office. Master retreat includes oversized bedroom with fireplace, expansive dual master closets and en suite complete with dual vanities, make up counter, separate tub and walk in shower & linen storage. In the basement you will find an additional two bedrooms, bathroom and a bonus living / entertaining space including dry bar complete with mini fridge. The expansive backyard is the epitome of AZ outdoor living and an entertainers paradise that features extended travertine patio, private pool, dual firepits, water feature, private basketball court and a covered BBQ with built in grill & fridge and counterspace fit for a pit master. The coveted community of EMR features two resident centers with fitness centers, restaurants and heated pools alongside breathtaking walking trails and family driven activities monthly. Don't miss out on your opportunity!
507 N Spur Drive
Payson, AZ 85541
$1,135,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
3,106
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6726055
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Unique custom home located on a heavily wooded 1 acre lot. Close to 100 large Ponderosa Pines, some 70ft tall, providing shade and seclusion. Main level living with a great room, kitchen, dining room, sunken sunroom, master bedroom and second bedroom. Main level living is mostly solid red oak flooring. Separate bedroom and family room area upstairs. Nice private covered decks. Property is completely fenced with chain link and wrought iron. Large 1000 sq ft workshop that has unlimited uses. It would be a great quilting space, woodworking shop or add water and sewer and have a great guest house. Greenhouse included. Several fruit trees and garden plots on the property. Fireplace in the Great Room and master bedroom. This is a one of a kind home in a great area!
8107 E San Miguel Avenue
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
$1,135,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,146
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6781365
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Seller Now Including ALL Furniture (Brand New). Stunning Home on Corner Cul-De-Sac Lot. Everything Is Brand NEW. Over 200K in UPGRADES. Factory Brand New Bespoke Appliances , New AC, New Black Roof, Upstairs Primary Bedroom Features Gourmet STEAM Shower and Walk-In Closet. HUGE Backyard with Amazing Pool and RV Parking. New High End Plank Flooring. Glass Garage and Front Door. Every Pipe Replaced with New Plumbing Vent Stack and Sewer Line Replacement. Any of the BRAND NEW Furniture Can Be Included. Roof Plumbing and Appliances All Under Original Warranty, Soft Water Loop. Too Many UPGRADES to List. Come See. The HVAC system has also been upgraded with a new air conditioner/heat pump and all new ducts. Smooth texture drywall throughout adds to the modern aesthetic.
2299 W Adobe Dam Drive
Queen Creek, AZ 85144
$1,133,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,025
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6735435
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Seller is open to a credit to help buy the rate down with the right offer! Built thoughtfully to ensure independent living with a twist of luxury, this gated estate is the dream home for any equestrian, mini farmer, or homesteader. Pull into a driveway accented by ancient ironwoods through impressive custom iron gates. Ensuring everyday comforts this single-story home has 3 bedrooms with generous walk-in closets, a fourth that doubles as a spacious office and 3 full baths. The monochromatic color scheme showcases vaulted ceilings, white cabinetry, custom tile, and quartz countertops. Outfitted with top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances, perfect for hosting gatherings. This customized home has added amenities like additional electrical outlets, 50AMPs, temperature controlled 4 car garage with epoxy flooring. Bathrooms boast marble tile, storage cabinets, and dual head shower in master. The 50X22 RV Cover is large enough to accommodate your horse trailer, toy hauler and farm vehicles alongside any motorhome. This fully fenced and walled 3.41-acre horse property offers a 40X36 breezeway barn with fully matted horse stalls, del mar livestock pens, a tack room, wash rack, crossties, and automatic waterers complete with a misting system and fully enclosed 120X100 arena with fresh sand footing. A commercial grade poultry complex is the chicken fanciers dream, with 4 extra-large coops equipped with hatcheries and watering systems. There are 6 mature fruit trees with a built-in drip line system. Natural Vegetation throughout preserves the unique desert feel. Enjoy the breathtaking sunsets, mountain views, and warm nights beside the firepit. This property is just minutes away from shopping, dining, hiking, and the local equestrian show grounds.
5672 W Bruno Canyon Drive
Prescott, AZ 86305
$1,129,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,024
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6758560
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
GOLF COURSE LIVING! Very unique location offering spectacular golf course views. 3 bedroom 2 bath home with spacious direct entry two car garage. Beautifully landscaped property with fully fenced in back yard is perfect for outdoor entertaining. Inside you'll find upgrades throughout including modern fixtures, premium finishes and upgraded appliances. Experience luxury living with this open floor plan that provides plenty of natural light. Don't miss the opportunity to own this stunning move-in ready home. Talking Rock is a gated private community for members only. Amenities include: award winning Jay Morrish designed Golf Course, The Ranch House restaurant and bar, Coop's Coffee House, fitness center, bocce, pickle ball courts, tennis court, pool and dog park.