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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29317 N 31st Lane Phoenix, AZ 85083

$579,990

5 Beds

3 Baths

1,953 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6746684

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Ask about special financing with preferred lender. This single-story home features ample space for growing families. Four bedrooms are lined up in a neat row, including the owner's suite, while an additional bedroom near the entry offers an ideal space for overnight guests. An open floorplan hosts the kitchen, dining room and Great Room with a spacious covered patio attached. Photos are renderings of a model home, not the actual home. A public report is available on the Arizona Department of Real Estate website.

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15635 W Montecito Avenue Goodyear, AZ 85395

$579,990

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,083 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6738508

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Your DREAM home is here in Palm Valley! Bright & light interior showcases neutral paint, recessed lighting, and tile & soft carpet t/out. Featuring a spacious living/dining room and a separate family room w/SURROUND SOUND, you have ideal spaces for relaxation or gatherings! The large kitchen boasts granite counters, a walk-in pantry, a breakfast bar, cozy nook, wood cabinetry w/crown molding, & courtyard access. All bedrooms await upstairs! Oversized main bedroom has a double-door entry, BALCONY access, & a SEATING room! Its ensuite includes dual sinks, separate tub/shower, & a walk-in closet. Discover the entertainer's backyard with a covered patio, lush lawn, well-laid pavers, & a fenced pool for year-round enjoyment! Plenty of room for ALL your TOYS w/ and RV GATE & 3 CAR GARAGE. WOW!

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1205 W Golden Ore Pass Apache Junction, AZ 85120

$579,920

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,575 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6765389

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

REDUCED! Experience the unique offerings of this home and buying journey. Welcome to Mariposa at Blossom Rock. The single-story Agave design, presents an open-concept floorplan featuring an inviting kitchen and a bright great room with a separate dining area that seamlessly connects to the private, covered outdoor room. The 3-car garage leads to a convenient drop zone, flex room/office, and more. $57,000 in upgrades are included. ***Special financing options are available.*** Blossom Rock's amenities are designed to inspire outdoor living, including community parks, miles of trails, beautiful lakes, signature events, and more. Moreover, perfect blend of tranquility and adventure to enrich your everyday life.

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26966 N 168th Lane Surprise, AZ 85387

$579,900

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,422 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6780140

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

FORMER MODEL HOME! This exquisite 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom, single story gem boasting an open concept layout, spacious study, gourmet kitchen, and a center meet 12ft sliding glass door, inviting you out to a fully completed backyard, perfect for entertaining and relaxation! This home is beautifully finished with high-end details throughout, showcasing the latest in modern design. Smart Home technology enhancements that promote comfort and convenience, allowing you to control your environment with ease. Don't miss the chance to own this stunning model home, offering both luxury and functionality in every space! Furniture is not included, but may be offered for an additional fee.

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3487 E Delcoa Drive Phoenix, AZ 85032

$579,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,595 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6738440

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Wow this stunning and turn key home offers all the bells and whistles. home was used as a secondary residence and highly successful short term rentals with the reviews and revenue to prove it. home features updated kitchen, flooring, pool, jacuzzi, designer touches throughout and owner willing to sell with all furniture making this a turn key property.

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20616 N Ventana Drive Sun City, AZ 85373

$579,900

2 Beds

2 Baths

2,019 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6750555

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

2024 OWNED solar! Years w/free electricity & NO loan pmt; 2024 NEW Roof underlayment. 2021 NEW HVAC. Invitingly spacious & delightfully updated home featuring 2 bedrooms w/walk-in closets, 2 updated bathrooms (new walk-in shower in Primary Bath) plus ofc/3rd bed. Filled w/light, elegant finishes & many extras! A tranquil interior pallet of natural hues & tones provides an ideal setting to enjoy the SW lifestyle. Live the Arizona dream as you view stunning sunrises & sunsets from your backyard, surrounded by vibrant colorful landscaping, covered tile patio, exquisite fountain, landscape lighting & misting system that will compliment any outdoor experience. Updated kitchen w/SS appliances, RO, pull-out shelves, island w/drawers, soft close cabinets. Whole home water filtration/softener. Residents in the Ventana Lakes Community enjoy friendly neighbors, four pools, jetted spas, fitness center, sports courts, catch and release fishing & a variety of clubs and activities.

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11337 E Unger Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$579,900

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,074 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6771730

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover modern living with stunning mountain views in this beautifully upgraded Ashton Woods home at Destination at Gateway, built in 2022. Boasting 4 spacious bedrooms, 3 full baths, plus a versatile den/flex space, this home offers everything you need. The open-concept design features wood-like tile floors throughout, a large center sliding door for seamless indoor-outdoor living, and kitchen includes sleek shaker cabinets, built-in Roku lighting, and quartz countertops. Why wait for a new build when this home is move-in ready and feels brand new? Ideally located near the new Fry's, and major freeways (24, 202, and 60), with access to excellent school districts. A must-see in a prime location!

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25809 S Cloverland Drive Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

$579,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,127 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6773972

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome Home!!! This gorgeous 3 bedroom 2 bath home at the desirable 55+ active adult community of Cottonwood Palo Verde at Sun Lakes is in a fantastic location. Close to restaurants, shopping, parks, multiple golf courses & easy access to the I-10 Fwy. You'll love the layout of this home. Your kitchen offers stainless steel appliances (new dishwasher), tiled granite counter tops, a breakfast bar, filtered water & plenty of cabinetry for storage & organization. Your spacious master suite offers a plethora of natural light, a dual vanity & a tiled walk in shower w/grab bar. This golf course lot home also offers ceiling fans, a dry bar, a 2 car garage with epoxy flooring, a water softener, a work bench & cabinets for extra storage & organization. Your low maintenance backyard offers extended pavers & a view fence that looks out over the 6th hole of the Cottonwood Country Club. Your active adult community offers a clubhouse, golfing, tennis & pickleball courts, a fitness center, lap & swimming pools to enjoy, as well as many clubs & social activities to be apart of. This gem in the desert is a Great Buy & a Must See!!! **Furniture is available on a separate bill of sale.

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13148 N 153rd Drive Surprise, AZ 85379

$579,900

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,588 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6768920

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful move-in ready home in Marley Park Community is now on the market! Offering an excellent curb appeal w/manicured front yard, a 3-car garage, & a relaxing porch! Take a look at the updated interior to discover tall ceilings, stylish tile flooring, recessed lighting, and a bright living room w/accented wall. The family room comprises a media niche, backyard access, & a cozy fireplace perfect for the cold winter nights. Enjoy a delightful meal in the formal dining room! Impeccable kitchen showcases wood cabinets w/crown molding, built-in appliances, granite counters, mosaic tile backsplash, & a 2-tiered peninsula w/a breakfast bar. Flexible den is ready to make it your own. Oversized primary retreat features a soft carpet & a pristine ensuite w/dual sinks. 3% to buyers agent.

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10637 W Eucalyptus Road Peoria, AZ 85383

$579,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,993 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6778643

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Fall in love with this incredible single-level residence in the highly sought-after Tierra Del Rio! The desirable interior impresses you with an inviting foyer leading to the bright & spacious open floor plan, perfect for welcoming & entertaining. With tall ceilings, trending paint, plantation shutters, classic tile flooring, Large slider to the back patio, & a practical den, 3 car tandem garage. Gourmet kitchen is equipped with quartz counters, stylish tile backsplash, white cabinetry with crown molding, & an island with a breakfast bar. The primary bedroom has hardwood flooring, a chic ensuite with a wooden panel accent, a walk-in closet, & outdoor access. Unwind in the serene backyard, offering a covered patio, pavers, a built-in BBQ, and a fire pit. This value will not disappoint

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1799 W Canary Way Chandler, AZ 85286

$579,900

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,080 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784885

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Your new home awaits! Spacious and bright open floor plan with vaulted ceilings throughout. Large kitchen offers plenty of cabinetry, center island, and newer stainless appliances including a gas range. Luxurious primary suite with private bath featuring dual vanities, walk-in shower, soaking tub set into a bay window, and walk-in closet. New paint and carpet throughout. Covered patio overlooks sparkling play pool and grass play area. Oversized 3 car garage for additional storage and parking. Premiere South Chandler location close to shopping, dining, and freeways. A great value and a must see!

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13532 N 146th Lane Surprise, AZ 85379

$579,900

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,743 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6764564

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Marley Park Beauty - 4 bedrooms 3 bath home that sits on a premium lot next to green belt. Short walk to community pool / Charter School. Shopping & dining + new Costco minutes away. Home has upgraded kitchen & flooring - this to be best home on your tour.

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