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.

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

10323 E Durant Drive Mesa, AZ 85212

$580,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,764 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769379

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your new oasis in the vibrant Eastmark community! This beautifully maintained single-story home features 3 bed, 2 bath, all situated on a spacious corner lot with a fantastic pool-perfect for relaxation & entertaining. Enjoy bright, open living spaces with tile flooring throughout, complemented by a large glass slider that floods the area with natural light. The kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances, ideal for family gatherings. The primary suite includes a generous walk-in closet & an ensuite bath, providing a serene retreat. Step outside to your expansive backyard, perfect for sunny days and backyard barbecues. Extensive community ammenities include: pool, walking paths, the Mark(community ctr), numerous play areas and more. Close to the 202 and shopping/dining.

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29740 N 121st Avenue Peoria, AZ 85383

$580,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,884 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769909

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to Vistancia! This spacious 4 bedroom 3 bath home, with an optional office/5th bedroom, is move-in ready! Situated on a large lot, it offers plenty of room for relaxation and entertainment. Inside, enjoy a bright and airy open layout featuring a cozy fireplace perfect for chilly evenings. The kitchen boasts ample counter space and plenty of storage, ideal for meal prep and gatherings. Step outside to discover an expansive backyard with natural grass and established shade trees, creating a serene space for outdoor enjoyment. Located in the highly sought-after Vistancia community, this home is conveniently close to schools, parks, and amenities like pools and golf courses. Don't miss the chance to make this your new home sweet home!

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9934 E Twin Spurs Lane Florence, AZ 85132

$580,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,378 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6770985

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Looking for an affordable horse property in Wild Horse Estates? 1.17 fenced acers w NO HOA. 2400 sf home with 4 beds, 2.5 bath, 3 car garage + 1 car detached garage w 220amp, detached finished insulated HVAC construction office. 12' gate, 5' gate. Enjoy the stunning sunsets from your full-length covered rear patio, front patio or while riding in or nearby desert trails. Home has open vaulted floorplan, eat-in island kitchen, SS appliances, herringbone tile flooring, fireplace, generous primary bedroom with separate exit. Fresh interior paint. Solar lease for energy efficiency and lower utility bills = savings. Plenty of room for vehicles, hobbies, RV, horses. Running a business and need to park trucks, trailers? Close to shopping, weekend ventures, still has that country feel! Great horse neighborhood with shopping, dining and entertainment within a short driving distance.

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6337 W Irma Lane Glendale, AZ 85308

$580,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,942 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6773664

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Seize the opportunity to own this bright and inviting pool home located on the golf course at Arrowhead Ranch. Experience resort-style living in the beautiful Arizona sunshine with a backyard designed for relaxation and entertainment. Outdoor features include a sparkling pool with a waterfall, a BBQ cooking area, fire pit, and a covered patio—perfect for hosting or just enjoying the greenery. Many upgrades done over the last 10 years, this home boasts high-end finishes including fresh interior paint, wood flooring, granite countertops, backsplash, and stainless steel appliances. Upgraded with a new AC in 2018. Conveniently located near shopping and top-rated schools. You have to see this one to feel its beauty and charm. Don't hesitate as homes like this rarely last long.

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16777 W Toronto Way Goodyear, AZ 85338

$580,000

6 Beds

5 Baths

3,486 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6779198

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Gorgeous home!! 6 bedroom/ 5 bathroom and a loft. This is an Artesia Floor plan which is one of the most desirable homes in the Canyon Trails Community. You will have plenty of room to roam with your family. Double islands in the kitchen give this home a luxury feel and leads to a large family room. Two bedrooms downstairs which one could be a Mather-in-law suite and 4 bedroom upstairs plus a huge loft. This is a unique home that won't disappointed you. New paint, new carpet, new quartz, new ceiling fans, new faucets, new water softener, new water heater, new electrical panel, new appliances and more. Owned solar panels, no payments. So much room for your family and ready to move in and enjoy.

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4808 N 24th Street Unit 303 Phoenix, AZ 85016

$580,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,356 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6779827

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

This bright and spacious 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom condo at Biltmore Optima features an open-concept design with floor-to-ceiling windows with views overlooking the mountains and Fashion park mall. The kitchen includes a gas stove, granite countertops, and a full-sized washer and dryer for convenience. Just steps from the elevator, this condo also offers two underground parking spots and additional guest parking. Resort-style amenities include a 24-hour fitness center with a steam room, concierge services, and on site hoa. The rooftop terrace showcases breathtaking 360° views of sunsets, mountains, and city lights, with a barbecue area and misters for outdoor enjoyment. Relax in the brand-new pool and spa with panoramic views at sunset. Steps away from shopping, dining, and entertainment.

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25958 W Westcott Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$580,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,862 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6746921

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

SPARKLING POOL, SPA ,OWNED SOLAR AND A SEPERATE GOLF CART GARAGE- THIS HOME HAS IT ALL! Enjoy your own private oasis on the Mountain side of Sun City Festival. Nestled on a quiet street, this light and bright home will not disappoint. Many features include- wood plank tile flooring throughout, dual vanity master bath with tiled low threshold shower and a large spacious closet. Kitchen features S/S appliances and granite countertops. The Den is perfect as an office or hobby room. Step thru the center sliding doors to the back covered patio with extended pavers, built-in BBQ, and lush landscaping and your own putting green. The center courtyard is perfect for your morning coffee and is adjacent to the kitchen. Both garages have epoxy flooring. A short walk or drive to the rec center.

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2792 Kona Trail Flagstaff, AZ 86005

$580,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,300 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6756366

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Located in a quiet cul de sac in Kachina Village, this single level home offers an abundancy of privacy and forest views. The large, covered deck overlooks a scenic canyon with towering ponderosa pines. The adjacent lot provides a walking path to National Forest. Inside you will find several sizable windows bringing in natural light and providing a wonderful space to view the four seasons that Northern Arizona provides. This is an incredible opportunity to own a move in ready home that grants the right mix of seclusion and convenience. There is a bonus room downstairs that is a blank canvas for a studio, storage, exercise room etc... The furnace and hot water heater were replaced about 3 years ago and a new roof with sheathing is being completed now. Interior paint was done just last week

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11035 W Chino Drive Sun City, AZ 85373

$580,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,247 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6768500

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful Lakefront Home in Ventana Lakes 55+ Community. It has everything you want, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 3 car garage, 2 living spaces and an open concept home. Anderson Windows! Tile in all the right areas. This is a ''MUST SEE'' home in this area. You will enjoy the morning sunrises as well as the evening sunsets from your lakefront backyard. Ventana Lakes is one of Peoria's premier 55+ communities. The community features 9 lakes, some with waterfalls, and great catch and release fishing. 4 community pools and spas, recreation and fitness rooms, billiards, fine arts, crafts and quilting rooms, handball, pickleball and tennis courts. Bingo games and more.

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1543 E Oakland Street Chandler, AZ 85225

$580,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,060 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6769326

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Immaculate Single-Level Home with Pool—No HOA! Don't miss this stunning 3-bed, 2-bath home, complete w/a spacious 3-car garage, Conveniently located near shopping & schools, this beautifully updated property boasts an array of features that make it feel just like new. Step inside to discover tile & wood like flooring T/O. The kitchen features gorgeous granite countertops, refinished cabinets including a new stainless steel gas stove and a large pantry. The living room showcases a tiled fireplace & elegant wood shutters, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The bathrooms have been beautifully remodeled, featuring wood-look tile floors & a stunning walk-in shower in the primary bath. Recent updates include a brand-new heater and pump for the sparkling PebbleTec pool and spa, Enjoy the beautifully landscaped, private backyard with a heated pool and spa, perfect for entertaining or relaxing and an extended cool deck, this outdoor space is a true oasis. Additional highlights include high ceilings, two fireplaces, double front doors. The master suite features a separate exit to the backyard and a spacious walk-in closet. The third bedroom boasts the largest walk-in closet of all! Plus, you have your choice of outstanding elementary and middle schools nearby. Walk to the park down the street. Drive around the corner to Gilbert/Chandler Community College or Chandler Hospital or Phx/Mesa Gateway Airport. This home is truly a gem.

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4739 S Leisure Way Gilbert, AZ 85297

$580,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,722 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6769608

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this stunning single-level home in the highly sought-after Layton Lakes community, where modern living meets everyday convenience. This beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers an open and spacious layout designed to maximize both comfort and style. The moment you step inside, you'll notice the gorgeous flooring throughout, free from any carpet, offering a sleek, low-maintenance appeal. Large windows flood the living spaces with natural light, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere. Recent upgrades include new exterior paint (Aug/Sept 2024), new faucets, and fresh turf (Oct 2024), ensuring a move-in-ready experience. With its east-west orientation, you'll enjoy plenty of sunlight throughout the day. Nestled in a prime location, this home is close to parks... , walking trails, top-rated schools, and easy access to freeways, making it a perfect choice for both families and professionals. The kitchen is the heart of the home, boasting ample cabinetry, modern appliances, and a breakfast bar that's perfect for casual dining or entertaining guests. Retreat to the serene master suite, which features a generous walk-in closet and a private bathroom for your own personal oasis. Outside, the expansive backyard is a landscaped paradise, featuring a variety of plants and a fenced-in poolideal for relaxation.

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3401 N 37th Street Unit 16 Phoenix, AZ 85018

$580,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,494 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6782005

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

This stunning 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom townhome, spanning 1,500 square feet in the highly desirable Arcadia Lite area, seamlessly combines modern design with sophisticated elegance. Upon entry, you're greeted by an expansive open floor plan with soaring ceilings, filling the home with a bright and airy ambiance. A perfect balance of natural and designer lighting enhances the luminosity throughout. The kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring premium Taj Mahal stone countertops, an LG appliance package, and a luxurious wine and coffee bar—all complemented by custom designer finishes. Recently upgraded with a new roof and windows, this home is truly move-in ready, complete with high-end amenities. Both oversized bedrooms offer spacious walk-in closets, and the primary bathroom serves as a serene retreat, complete with dual showers and an indulgent soaking tub. Additionally, a versatile flex space within the home provides the perfect setup for a home office or creative studio, adapting to any lifestyle. The private backyard invites relaxation or entertaining, while the two-car garage adds security and ample storage, making this townhome as practical as it is stylish.

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