Mythbusting: Understanding Mortgage Myths and Why They Shouldn’t Hold You Back

With the fluctuations in real estate and the increasing cost of home ownership, many people are entering the market with more trepidation these days. Fortunately, there are a number of myths associated with buying a home that may not adversely affect potential home buyers. If you’re interested in purchasing a home but are unsure about whether it will get approved, here are a few things you may want to dispel.

No Approval With Less Than 20 Percent

While putting 20 percent down can help you avoid having to pay private mortgage insurance, this down payment percentage is still just a suggestion when it comes to mortgages. It’s necessary to put a certain percentage down and be able to drum up the money on your own, but if getting into the market is your priority, buying now may be worth the investment over time. It’s just important to remember that the cost of your monthly payment should be affordable for the long term.

Home Ownership Is Too Expensive

It’s certainly the case that the real estate market is always fluctuating and prices can go up or down, but generally speaking, a home will increase in value over time and that means your monthly payment will be something you can consider an investment. While monthly rent disappears as soon as the calendar month is over, the money you invest into a home month after month builds up your equity and ensures greater stability for your financial future.

You Must Have A Good Credit Report

While it will definitely help your mortgage application if you possess good credit, it’s not necessarily a deal breaker if you don’t. Each mortgage is assessed based on a combination of factors that can include your down payment amount and your debt-to-income ratio, so this means that if you have a higher down payment and a less impressive credit report, you can still be approved. It’s a good idea to pay your bills on time and get your debt down if you’re applying for a mortgage, but there are opportunities for potential buyers who have experienced credit issues.

Home ownership is an important dream for many people, and as a result, there are many myths associated with the mortgage process. However, even if you don’t have 20 percent down or perfect credit, there are still opportunities for improving your financial well-being and investing in a home. If you’re currently looking for a new home, give me a call for more information – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

Click Here to See What Your Home is Worth

Listing types.

For Sale

For Rent

Land

Multifamily

Commercial

Location Search Nearby

BedsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

BathsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

Property TypeAnyApartmentManufactured HomeSingle Family ResidenceTownhouseTwin Home

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

Home SizeAny600 ft2800 ft21,000 ft21,200 ft21,400 ft21,600 ft21,800 ft22,000 ft22,200 ft22,400 ft22,600 ft22,800 ft23,000 ft23,500 ft24,000 ft24,500 ft25,000 ft25,500 ft26,000 ft2

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

Distressed

Open House

Location Search Nearby

BedsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

BathsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

Price MinAny$500$600$700$800$900$1,000$1,100$1,200$1,300$1,500$1,600$1,700$1,800$1,900$2,000$2,250$2,500$2,750$3,000$3,250$3,500$3,750$4,000$4,500$5,000$5,500$6,000$6,500$7,000$7,500$8,000$8,500$9,000$9,500$10,000

Price MaxAny$500$600$700$800$900$1,000$1,100$1,200$1,300$1,500$1,600$1,700$1,800$1,900$2,000$2,250$2,500$2,750$3,000$3,250$3,500$3,750$4,000$4,500$5,000$5,500$6,000$6,500$7,000$7,500$8,000$8,500$9,000$9,500$10,000

Advanced Options

Property TypeAnyApartmentManufactured HomeSingle Family ResidenceTownhouseTwin Home

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

Home SizeAny600 ft2800 ft21,000 ft21,200 ft21,400 ft21,600 ft21,800 ft22,000 ft22,200 ft22,400 ft22,600 ft22,800 ft23,000 ft23,500 ft24,000 ft24,500 ft25,000 ft25,500 ft26,000 ft2

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

Location Search Nearby

Lot SizeAny1+ Acres2+ Acres3+ Acres4+ Acres5+ Acres6+ Acres7+ Acres8+ Acres9+ Acres10+ Acres20+ Acres30+ Acres40+ Acres50+ Acres

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

Neighborhood

Address, MLS# or Keyword

Location Search Nearby

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

Location Search Nearby

Lot SizeAny1+ Acres2+ Acres3+ Acres4+ Acres5+ Acres6+ Acres7+ Acres8+ Acres9+ Acres10+ Acres20+ Acres30+ Acres40+ Acres50+ Acres

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

Address, MLS# or Keyword

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

View As: Thumbnails List

Sort by: Select Price, Low to High Price, High to Low Newer Listings First Older Listings First Open House Date

6312 N 42nd Street Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$4,750,000

4 Beds

5 Baths

7,800 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6751699

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled on nearly 1.4 acres in the Clearview gated community sits this 4 bedroom, 5 bath estate. Soaring Camelback, Mummy, and Phoenix Preserve Mountain views in the Hopi district, home features high ceilings, arched entryways, wooden beams, and natural light with large sliders and windows. Chef's kitchen includes crown molding, custom cabinets, high end appliances, butler's pantry, kitchen island and eat-in kitchen. Primary suite holds a fireplace, sitting area, separate exterior entrance, and spacious bathroom with dual vanities, freestanding bathtub, oversized shower, and dual walk-in closets. Stunning mountain views surround the backyard's custom pool/spa with expanded pool deck, covered patio, built in BBQ, and multiple areas for lounging and entertaining, featuring front and back desert landscaping. Additional rooms include formal dining room, great room with gas fireplace, theater, and family room with a wet bar. Located only minutes away from Paradise Valley and Scottsdale's world class resorts, dining, and shopping.

View Property

10116 E Relic Rock Road Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$4,750,000

5 Beds

5.5 Baths

6,071 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6751540

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

The VIEWS from every room in this home are simply breathtaking. Don't take my word for it, come see for yourselves! This offering encompasses all the essential criteria requested by the most discriminating Buyers, starting with the views which are unique to this hillside site. This contemporary southwest design by Taliesin inspired architect Bing Hu is a work of art. Featuring four ensuites and five and a half baths plus an office with a dedicated Bath (5th Bedroom), a free-standing guest house with living quarters then add a home theater, game room and 4 car garage. This home serves beautifully as a year-round residence or a second home where you can entertain friends and family in style. Furnishings available. golf course lot, mountain, sunset and Valley lights views. This one of a kind residence in its unique setting is the quintessential union of art and function. Golf Memberships are available through the Desert Mountain Club and interim social membership privileges are extended to approved applicants on the waitlist. Contact the Desert Mountain Membership office for further details.

View Property

11008 N 60th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$4,750,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

6,823 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6770427

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Private 1-acre estate with mountain and golf course green views. This 2-story Candelaria designed home boasts wood floors, high ceilings, and tons of natural light beaming in through the French windows and doors. Luxury living with a gas fireplace in the great room, formal dining, billiards room with wet bar, office, and expansive 2nd story balcony perfect for private gatherings with fire pit and stunning views. Chef's kitchen includes high end appliances, multiple ovens, island, and pantry. Primary suite includes private entry to the backyard, vaulted ceilings with wooden beams, gas fireplace, walk-in closet, dual sink vanities, and separate bathtub and oversized shower. Manicured grounds and mature landscaping surround the custom pool with expanded pool deck, Ramada with built-in TV and firepit, and multiple covered and uncovered areas to lounge and entertain. Located minutes from Paradise Valley's top resorts, golf, hiking, dining, and shopping.

View Property

6600 N 64th Place Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

Open House

$4,750,000

5 Beds

7 Baths

9,224 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6749498

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

A La Place Grand Estate. Award winning Builder, Gary Geitz. 9,224 sq. ft. 5 or 6 bedrooms all en-suite, 7 bathrooms, gym, wine cellar, office, Media Rm, Library. This brick home boasts quality authentic finishes throughout. Distinctive features include a two-story foyer w/ a crystal Chandelier from Madam Rene's of Paris, custom wood doors & an Andalusian farmhouse kitchen w/ a butcher block island & multiple coffered ceilings. Primary bedroom is downstairs & an ultimate retreat w/ a spacious sitting room, wet bar & his and her baths, two showers (one steam) and 3 walk-in closets. Stunning resort backyard perfectly manicured w/ mountain views, new irrigation & all copper lighting, new wine cooling system + more! Opportunity with tremendous upside! Looking at all reasonable offers.

View Property

11571 E Cochise Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$4,749,995

5 Beds

6.5 Baths

8,433 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6673874

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This elegant luxury estate is a masterpiece of superior craftsmanship and attention to detail. The grand foyer with a striking staircase leads to impeccably designed living spaces, including formal and informal great rooms, a dining area, a custom study or office, and a chef's kitchen outfitted with top-of-the-line appliances. The home also features a wine cellar and abundant storage throughout. The bedrooms are works of art, boasting custom fireplaces, exquisite millwork, designer lighting, and high-end fixtures. The garage is equally impressive, offering ample storage and two EV charging stations for convenience. Set on a lushly landscaped acre, the outdoor amenities are unparalleled. Enjoy a resort-style pool and spa, an outdoor kitchen with a bar, a dining gazebo, a putting This elegant luxury estate is a masterpiece of superior craftsmanship and attention to detail. The grand foyer, highlighted by a striking staircase, leads to impeccably designed living spaces, including formal and informal great rooms, a sophisticated dining area, a custom study or office, and a chef's kitchen outfitted with top-of-the-line appliances. The home also features a wine cellar and abundant storage with ease. The bedrooms and bathrooms are a sanctuary of comfort, adorned with custom fireplaces that add warmth and charm. Throughout the home, you'll find unique millwork, lighting, fixtures, and cabinetry that elevate the space to new heights of luxury. The garage is equally impressive, offering ample storage and two EV charging stations for convenience. Nestled on an acre of lush land, the meticulously manicured grounds offer a resort-like retreat, complete with a sparkling pool and spa, an outdoor kitchen, a dining gazebo, an expansive bar area, and a putting green for leisurely afternoons. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the basketball court and pickleball court, while tranquil water features add a sense of serenity to the outdoor oasis. Multiple verandas and covered patio areas provide the perfect setting for enjoying the breathtaking surroundings and entertaining guests in style. Take a tour today to experience what luxury living in Scottsdale could look like for you!

View Property

5738 N 32nd Place Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$4,700,000

5 Beds

5.5 Baths

6,724 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6755176

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

One-of-a-kind 1.5 acre mountain lot on a cul-de-sac, gated estate, Breathtaking custom hillside PV home w/ panoramic mountain & city views. The entry level of the home boasts a chef's kitchen with Subzero/Wolf appliances & large pantry , bar, dining room, large laundry room, primary bedroom w/fireplace, 2 balconies, ensuite bath with his/her vanities & large walk in closet, secondary ensuite bedroom w/fireplace and private patio, office w/wine cellar, stunning views from the living/family rooms that lead to an oversized covered patio w/custom stonework, fireplace, outdoor kitchen- perfect for entertaining! Downstairs is the family room w/direct pool access, 3 additional bedrooms (two ensuite w/ walk in closets), a movie theatre/playroom. NO HOA & Oversized 4 Car Garage! Prime location minutes from the best shopping, world class resorts, golf, hiking & restaurants in the valley!

View Property

8714 N 65th Street Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$4,700,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,471 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769504

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This elegant, Mediterranean-style home is new to the market and a must-see for those seeking a home that blends timeless charm with serene mountain views in a highly-sought after neighborhood in Paradise Valley. This exceptional property boasts soaring wood beamed ceilings in the master, living, dining and family rooms; three stone fireplaces; custom hardwood flooring throughout; and french doors in the grand living and dining area. Outside, enjoy the resort style backyard complete with a beautiful covered patio, large pool and expansive lawn against the backdrop of stunning mountain views. This property's desirable lot orientation and location makes it a true standout in Camelback Country Estates Unit 1. This home has been cherished by the same family for four decades... now let your family create its own memories here!

View Property

10953 E Tusayan Trail Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$4,695,000

5 Beds

7 Baths

5,913 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6778034

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Live in art! This exceptional home, designed by renowned architect Bob Bacon, harmonizes perfectly with it's majestic boulder formations, and is embraced by stunning mountain and city light views. Located in the exclusive gated community of Tusayan at Troon, you'll discover a truly unparalleled living experience. One of the many unique features of this property is it's short yet breathtaking drive up the hillside, revealing a grand motor court entrance to your 4 bedroom, 7 bath home plus casita, ensuring your journey home and your stay is always enchanting. Constructed with exceptional craftsmanship, this luxurious 5,913 SF residence features: a spectacular kitchen with custom cabinetry, oversized island, Viking appliances, walk-in pantry and walk-in wine room; elegant lofty and wood beamed ceilings throughout, a primary master suite with expansive windows offering breathtaking views, 4 guest bedroom suites, 2 elegant powder baths, a separate office complete with custom built-ins, a wet bar, fridge and private view patio. The separate fourth bedroom suite ensures privacy, flexibility and it's own entrance for guests or extended family, while an inviting 498-square-foot casita is conveniently located off the motor court, provides even more additional living space. The Great Room boasts two expansive retractable folding doors creating a welcoming blend of indoor and outdoor living spaces that seamlessly integrate the home with its natural surroundings and creates an ideal space for large-scale entertaining. Once outside, enjoy expansive covered patio areas, complete with an inviting heated negative edge pool with a powerful swim jet, a thoughtfully placed hot tub and a small putting green perfect for honing your skills in the privacy of your home. Experience warmth and ambiance year-round with a unique two-way indoor/outdoor gas fireplace, complemented by multiple outdoor gas fire pits for cozy evenings and spectacular Arizona sunset views. Car enthusiasts will appreciate the spacious oversized climate-controlled four-car garage, with a large storage room for added convenience. This outstanding, friendly community frequently hosts social functions, offering a perfect opportunity to connect with neighbors. Schedule an appointment today to see this outstanding, one-of-a-kind home.

View Property

5311 E Via Los Caballos -- Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$4,695,000

6 Beds

7 Baths

6,081 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784600

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Experience elegance in this custom-built 5 bedroom all en-suite, 7-bath luxury estate. Bonus room (could be 6th bedroom) and a large Game Room! Home is craftsman-inspired where warmth meets refined sophistication. Nestled to capture breathtaking mountain views with a South backyard, this home's sprawling grassy backyard and mature trees is an entertainer's paradise, featuring a resort-style retreat with a sparkling spa, lap pool, sport court, and an expansive covered patio perfect for outdoor living and dining. Inside, the split floor plan offers four ensuite bedrooms, each with custom walk-in closets, plus a built-in study area for added versatility. The Primary Suite was recently updated with timeless wood floors, walnut millwork, a luxurious bath featuring a Dry Sauna, Spa-Style dual shower, custom floating walnut vanities and gorgeous lighting! Closet to be envied and a large center island. An attached exercise room is the added bonus to this suite. An attached casita provides the perfect setting for a playroom or guest suite, while a secluded office, located near the walk-in wine room, offers an elegant, private workspace. Practical elegance is found in the well-appointed laundry/workspace, mudroom, and storage area adjacent to the garage. Don't miss the wine cellar room and spacious garage with even more storage. Enveloped by mature landscaping, this estate offers total privacy and captures the beauty of its mountain surroundings, creating an exquisite luxury retreat. Located in the heart of Paradise Valley and walking distance to Cherokee Elementary School.

View Property

5350 E Calle Del Medio -- Phoenix, AZ 85018

$4,695,000

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

6,167 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6735383

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Remodeled in 2018, this stunning 6,100 sqft Arcadia Estate sits on a beautiful corner lot bursting with curb appeal with its lush landscaping and welcoming front porch pergola and classic red brick fireplace to greet guests. Thoughtfully designed, this split floor plan presents four spacious ensuite bedrooms including a primary suite designed with luxury and comfort in mind with a spa like bathroom featuring a stand alone tub, walk-in shower, double vanities and hand selected finishes throughout. The rest of the home includes a formal family room finished with wainscoting, a coffered ceiling and a cozy fireplace. In addition, enjoy a private home library with custom built-ins and a reading nook, and a spacious front room perfect for formal dining or a home office. The butlers pantry, with a temperature controlled wine room, connects the formal dining to an oversized eat-in kitchen which is a testament to traditional elegance boasting marble countertops, a large kitchen island, and top-of-the line appliances including a Wolf Range and a Sub-Zero refrigerator/freezer. A passthrough fireplace seamlessly connects the kitchen to the home's great room which includes a full bar and a stunning sliding door entrance to the backyard. Designed for both relaxation and entertainment, the backyard retreat features lush landscaping, a diving pool that can be both heated and cooled, a built-in BBQ, and an elegant covered ramada that houses an outdoor fireplace creating a cozy ambiance for evening conversations and gatherings. To top it off, all your family and friends can have fun enjoying the in-ground trampoline, bocce ball court and a professional batting cage. Walking distance to the coveted Hopi Elementary and in close proximity to Arcadia's most popular shopping and dining experiences, this is the perfect place to call home so you can live, work and play the Arcadia lifestyle.

View Property

40575 N 109th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$4,695,000

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,268 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6753950

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

DESERT MOUNTAIN GOLF MEMBERSHIP NOW AVAILABLE!Stunning Contemporary design by Scott Lenz with panoramic views from Pinnacle Peak to Apache Peak with valley and mountain, and sunset vistas. Open great room floor plan features 4 bedrooms and 4.5 baths and a large three car garage close to the Apache Club House. Planning for spring of 2025 completion. Home is in drywall stage with cabinets and flooring to be installed late November. Appliances to be installed shortly thereafter. Rooms designated and spec book is on property. Great detail and finishes. A 30 day membership application review and approval is required.

View Property

10782 E Prospect Point Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262

Open House

$4,685,000

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

5,260 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6693530

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning contemporary home designed by J4 Architecture and Design. The home is a perfect blend of indoor outdoor living that captures the unique desert lifestyle that is Desert Mountain. The mountain views are unreal from nearly every corner of this homesite. A perfectly located home, right in the heart of the most sought after master planned community. Floor to ceiling windows throughout, European style cabinetry, top of the line appliance package in Wolf, Sub-zero and Cove.

View Property