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.
Click Here to See What Your Home is Worth
5711 S Wayne Drive
Chandler, AZ 85249
$1,070,000
5
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,881
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6754166
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Behind the gates of Barrington South, you will find your dream home in the heart of South Chandler! This stunning single-level, five-bedroom residence is the perfect blend of luxury and comfort. With a separate entrance for added privacy and versatility, this property is ideal for extended family or guests. Step inside and be greeted by spacious, upgraded interiors that flow seamlessly into the backyard—your personal resort oasis. The sparkling pool, surrounded by lush landscaping sets the stage for endless relaxation and entertaining. This home offers the best of Arizona living. Don't miss your chance to own this beautifully upgraded, move-in ready home. Schedule a tour today and make this South Chandler gem yours
400 Barcelona Road
Sedona, AZ 86336
$1,070,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,030
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6770740
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
HUGE VIEWS! HUGE POTENTIAL! Rolling Hills Tomlinson Home Offering Panoramic Red Rock Views. Centrally-Located, elevated lifestyle in a quiet community just minutes away from all amenities Sedona offers; world class hiking, biking, shopping and dining. Stylish double doors (just re-sealed!) greet you and invite you into the Grand Foyer. Spacious, open and bright split floor plan boasts 20-ft ceiling apex in Great Room and huge custom glass windows to capture the endless views. In the cooler months, enjoy the warmth and ambience of the double-sided fireplace between the living room and dining room. Spacious Kitchen-Dining combo features 5-burner gas cooktop, a huge walk-in pantry, space for dining table and breakfast nook overlooking the backyard. Huge Primary Bedroom boasts double entry, red rock views, spacious walk-in closet, dual vanities, separate tub and shower with access to front and back patios. Sip coffee in the morning while observing the birds and native wildlife moving about. Both North facing guest bedrooms also have incredible red rock views, one with a charming fenced patio. Third guest bedroom has built in book shelves. Masterfully designed floor plan with vaulted ceilings in every room, creating the feel of a much larger home. North facing guest bedroom boasts incredible views and private walled patio to enjoy a cup of morning inspiration. Perfect for use as a four-bedroom home or convert one or more to office space as needed. Spacious laundry room with folding counter and storage cabinets Low maintenance Landscaping and private backyard positioned just right to enjoy the warmth of the Winter sun and plenty of shade to cool down in Summer. Mature towering trees flank the home offering ultimate privacy. Low traffic street in prestigious subdivision just minutes to galleries, shopping, hiking and restaurants. Great neighborhood for walking your furry loved one and taking in the views. Priced to Sell, this home has huge potential awaiting your creative touch in making it your dream home.
4230 E Fountain Street
Mesa, AZ 85205
$1,070,000
5
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,740
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6763086
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
*NEW PRICE IMPROVEMENT* Experience luxury living in the intimate community of Mahogany. As you drive through the gates, you'll be greeted by beautiful mature trees and impressive curb appeal. This gorgeous, spacious home is ideal for hosting your upcoming holiday parties! The grand double-door entrance welcomes you into the formal dining room and library, leading into the formal living area. Large windows and French-style doors provide a stunning view of the all-glass tile pool. The oversized kitchen features a built-in microwave and dual built-in ovens, offering ample counter space for all your culinary needs. This lovely home includes 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and a den with a double-door entrance and built-in bookshelves, which could easily serve as a fifth bedroom.
1319 W Magma Road
San Tan Valley, AZ 85144
$1,069,525
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,152
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6765284
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this breathtaking custom home by AAR Development LLC, where luxury meets functionality in every detail. Spanning 3,152 square feet of living space on a sprawling 54,450 square foot lot, this home offers an unparalleled living experience with modern amenities and stunning architectural features. Step into a world of sophistication and elegance with this remarkable 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom custom home. This home combines exquisite craftsmanship with modern design elements to create a living space that is both luxurious and functional. The exterior of the home is a testament to quality and style, featuring a durable tile and metal roof and a refined stucco and stone facade. The spacious 3 car garage with epoxy flooring, designed to accommodate a 1-ton pickup, and the expansive RV garage with epoxy flooring provide ample space for all your vehicles and storage needs. Inside, the home boasts soaring 12-foot ceilings in the living areas, enhancing the open and airy ambiance. The kitchen is a chef's dream, with an oversized island, custom quartz countertops and backsplash, and state-of-the-art appliances including a 36 freestanding induction range and a 66 custom built-in Frigidaire freezer and refrigerator. Custom cabinetry with 42 upper cabinets and a roll-out microwave drawer complete this stunning space. Each bathroom in the home is uniquely designed, with custom quartz countertops and high-end fixtures. The master suite is a luxurious retreat, featuring a freestanding tub, a walk-in shower with custom marble tile, dual shower heads, and frameless shower glass. The living room is adorned with spectacular beams and several southern-facing windows that frame breathtaking views of the San Tan Mountains. An expansive 800 square foot covered patio offers the perfect space for outdoor entertaining or simply enjoying the serene surroundings. Additional features include a fourth bedroom with a separate exit, ideal for a home office, a mudroom with shoe storage, and a spacious laundry room with built-in cabinets and a laundry sink. The home is equipped with modern technology, including a Google Nest video doorbell, and offers the freedom of living without HOA restrictions. Don't miss the opportunity to own this extraordinary custom home and experience the ultimate in luxury living.
1624 E Briarwood Terrace
Phoenix, AZ 85048
$1,069,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,821
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6756277
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this stunning, fully remodeled single-level home, completed within the past year and available furnished! This light-filled, open-concept home offers an ideal split floor plan with soaring vaulted ceilings, spanning 2,821 square feet of living space. Featuring 4 spacious bedrooms, 2.5 luxurious baths, and two distinct living areas, this home blends comfort and sophistication. The kitchen is a showstopper with a waterfall quartz island, custom counters, and a striking chevron glass backsplash. Every bathroom has been completely transformed with high-end finishes. Additional upgrades include brand-new flooring throughout, modern lighting and fixtures, and a newer HVAC system. Step outside to your private backyard oasis, perfect for relaxation or entertaining. With no rear neighbors, enjoy serene mountain views, a covered patio with an outdoor kitchen, and a gorgeous pool. This home is an entertainer's dream!
9021 W Williams Road
Peoria, AZ 85383
$1,069,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
2,682
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6770947
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Farm to table living with room for lots of toys! This updated main house sits on a .98-acre lot with NO HOA and offers incredible income potential! This 4 bedroom 3.5 in the main home and 1 bedroom and full bathroom in guest house. This home features include north-south exposure, a circular driveway, RV gate, and an extra-long covered patio. Income options abound with a detached guest house, vehicle storage, ample parking, and RV hookups (4+ vehicles, 2 with 220V). Enjoy luxury amenities like an oversized pool, chicken coop & garden, and a 2-car garage with workshop. Don't miss this unique Peoria oasis blending comfort, space, and income opportunities
7112 W Redfield Road
Peoria, AZ 85381
$1,068,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
3,561
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6762897
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Price dropped! Huge Upgrades. Over $163K Upgrades since Summer 2023! Sought after Tri-level Multi generational floor plan. New Windows Entire Home(45K), PAID SOLOR, 800+Sf Newly remodeled workshop(with New AC). New premium artificial turf, New pool heater - and more! This meticulously maintained house sits on a 0.54-acre lot within the Peoria School District. A beautiful kitchen featuring All Brand New appliances and luxurious tile floors. The primary suite boasts a private patio with stunning views of the heated pool and a Huge Sports Court. Upstairs are two additional bedrooms and a full bathroom; the lower level offers a spacious family room, two more bedrooms, and a full bath. The property includes a 3-car garage, gated RV and boat parking & extra RV space. This home truly has it all!
7344 E Keim Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
$1,065,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,353
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6728867
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Come see this luxury 4 bed/3.5 bath home in the heart of Scottsdale! It is nestled within a gated community positioned on a desirable corner lot. This home is fully updated. The first floor consists of an open floor plan, vaulted ceiling, tiled floors, and three way fireplace. It has a gourmet kitchen, perfect for entertaining, that features a gas stovetop, double ovens, large SS refrigerator, oversized granite island and a dry bar. It has a formal dining area and eat-in kitchen. The primary bedroom and beautifully updated bathroom with jetted tub is on the first floor and overlooks the patio and pool. There is a second primary bedroom with an en-suite bath upstairs. All 4 bedrooms have walk in closets. The 2 car garage has epoxy floors and a large storage room. Make this your new home! You can't beat the location of this home, it is close to Scottsdale Fashion Square, Old Town Scottsdale, various fine dining establishments, and Gainey Ranch! You're also in close proximity to The McCormick Railroad Park, Kierland Commons, Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport and the 101 Freeway. Don't miss the opportunity to own this exceptional home in one of Scottsdale's most sought-after communities!
5243 E Thunder Hawk Road
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
$1,065,000
5
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,296
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6740375
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Gorgeous corner lot home in Cave Creek! This beauty flaunts an enchanting desert front yard, a 3-car garage, an RV gate, and an inviting front porch. Entertain guests in the well-sized living room filled with abundant natural light. With its vaulted ceilings, plantation shutters, chic light fixtures, trending palette, and tile flooring, this gem exudes elegance. Continue onto the great room enhanced with an entertainment niche, a warm fireplace, a bay window, and backyard access. The gourmet kitchen is fully equipped with a wine cooler, granite counters, recessed lighting, a handy pantry, two-tone cabinetry, and an island with a breakfast bar. Double doors reveal a grand main suite, highlighting private backyard access, an immaculate bathroom, and a walk-in closet. You'll love the generous guest's house, complete with sizable living areas divided by a two-way fireplace, a kitchenette, a bedroom, and a bathroom with a walk-in closet. Enjoy alfresco dining under the covered patio in the perfectly sized backyard, overlooking dreamy mountain views! The jewel of this outdoor space is the refreshing pool, which is great for year-round entertainment. Hurry! Your paradise awaits!
25706 N 20th Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85085
$1,065,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,252
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6761926
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This highly sought-after Hailey model, meticulously built in 2021 by David Weekley in the Union Park community, offers modern elegance and thoughtful upgrades. The open great room is filled with natural light, featuring gorgeous flooring, ample living space, and a chef's delight with an oversized island, stainless steel GE appliances, and abundant of cabinet and counter space. The spacious primary suite includes a luxurious walk-in closet and en suite with a double vanity, and stellar walk-in shower. Outback is your own private oasis, complete with a sparkling pool, equipped with both a chiller and heater, surrounded by lush, low-maintenance landscaping. Additional features include a tandem garage, custom built in cabinetry, garage storage, toe-kick lighting, a spa and so much more!
790 E Desert Inn Drive
Chandler, AZ 85249
$1,065,000
5
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,729
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6742021
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to the highly sought-after Fieldstone Estates, a gated community renowned for its charm and exclusivity. This exceptional home, held by its original owners, is meticulously maintained and move-in ready. Main level features a bright, open floor plan, 10ft + ceiling height, a convenient bedroom and half bathroom. Upstairs, you'll find 9ft ceiling, the spacious loft, primary suite, three additional bedrooms and three full bathrooms, ensuring ample space and privacy for all. This home has been thoughtfully updated to offer modern comfort and style. Recent upgrades include brand-new windows, refreshed flooring, and a newer three HVAC systems. The roof has been inspected and maintained in 2024. The exterior has been freshly painted, and the interior boasts a recent coat of paint as well. The kitchen shines with a contemporary backsplash, and the bathrooms have all been updated to meet today's standards. Step outside to discover a stunning backyard, designed for both relaxation and entertainment. Recent enhancements include elegant pavers and lush turf, complementing the sparkling pool. Situated on a corner lot, the property backs onto a serene greenbelt, offering privacy and beautiful views. Don't miss this opportunity to own a move-in-ready home in one of the most desirable communities around!
30448 N 65th Street
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
$1,065,000
4
Beds
4
Baths
2,908
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6696645
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
DISCOVER MODERN LUXURY in this newly remodeled 1-acre ranch property in Cave Creek, Arizona. With no HOA, all new septic in 2023, and horse rights -- This single-level home boasts fresh finishes throughout, plus a separate 1-bedroom casita with a kitchenette. Enjoy breathtaking mountain views and sunsets from the rooftop deck, or relax by the 3-car garage with EV charging and desert landscaping. This premier location combines tranquility and convenience with refined finishes.