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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41209 N Laurel Valley Court Anthem, AZ 85086

$549,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

2,039 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6778775

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

The location is perfect with panoramic views of Ironwood golf course and features one of Anthem's best floor plans. It's open and welcoming but gives a sense of separation as well. This home is just the right size for full-time residents or winter visitors, featuring 2 bedrooms, office/bonus room, laundry room and a 2 car garage. The large great room/dining room combination feels spacious with many furniture placement options. Lovely 3 sided fireplace and media wall separates this area from the kitchen/family room that also features a nice breakfast nook right off the kitchen with glorious views of the large patio and golf course. With plenty of cabinets, this kitchen features a large island, granite slab counters, SS appliances, gas cooktop and is convenient with easy access to the to the to the patio for outside entertaining. Primary bedroom/bath offers double sinks, walk-in shower, soaking tub and a large walk in closet. Second guest bedroom/bath feels like a private ensuite, located at the other end of the home. Large extended patio with pavers and views of the golf course along with mature landscaping make this a peaceful and tranquil backyard setting. New HVAC 8/21, Dishwasher 2/24, garbage disposal 11/23 & hot water heater 2023. Other upgrades include Soft water, R/O & garage cabinets. Come and enjoy all that the Anthem Country Club has to offer today.

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2427 W Hearn Road Phoenix, AZ 85023

$549,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,344 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6739390

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

No HOA! Beautiful tri-level home in the sought after community of Thunderbird Valley. This lovely home features 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms. 1 of the bedrooms would be perfect for a guest suite. This home has a gorgeous backyard with a fenced in pool and a grassy area as well as a covered patio. Great home, great price. Come take a look!

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36855 S Rincon Road Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$549,000

2 Beds

1.5 Baths

1,740 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6762676

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Don't miss the chance to own this exceptional home nestled at the top of the canyon, offering breathtaking views and unparalleled seclusion adjacent to BLM land. Designed to harmonize with the surrounding desert landscape, this unique Earth Home sitting on 8 acres is partially covered by earth keeping it cool during those hot summer days. Bring the horses along too. There is ample flat space for a small barn and pens with RV hookups close by. This home is perfect for those who appreciate nature and desire a serene lifestyle. With a little TLC, you can transform this gem into your dream getaway. Act fast—properties like this don't last long!

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3664 N Mistletoe Drive Pine, AZ 85544

$549,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,656 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6774517

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This charming house is nestled among tall pine trees. It features 3 bd 2 ba, along with a spacious 2-car garage. The open living room boasts a cozy wood burning fireplace and beautiful luxury vinyl flooring. A large covered wrap-around deck provides ample outfoor space to relax or while enjoying nature and wildlife. The main floor includes bedroom and bathroom, while two additional bedrooms and a bathroom are loated upstairs. The house has been meticulously maintained, with paint, new roof installed in 2021 and energy-efficient mini splits in every room added in 2022 in addition to a furnace for heating. The kitchen is well appointed with newer appliances from 2022, making it a great space for cooking and gathering. Outside, the large, 0.37 acre yard is dotted with mature trees, i is dotted with mature trees, ideal for outdoor activities or simply enjoying the tranquil setting Turn-key, furniture included.

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19039 N 90th Lane Peoria, AZ 85382

New

$549,000

2 Beds

3 Baths

1,855 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6786641

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

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9505 E Cherrywood Drive Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

$549,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,123 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6778738

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

GORGEOUS Palacia Plus model w/ 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath & DEN in GATED ADULT COMMUNITY of OAKWOOD featuring: 2022 ROOF, 2018 AC, vaulted ceilings, freshly painted interior, SHUTTERS, WOOD-LOOK TILE FLOORS & NEW carpet. Beautiful EAT-IN kitchen has CORIAN counters, professionally painted cabinets, GAS STOVE & is open to the FAMILY ROOM. SPACIOUS MASTER w/ a LARGE WALK-IN CLOSET, double sinks & sliding door to the patio. Two guest bedrooms, DEN & Full guest bathroom. Large, 10,000sf lot w/ expansive PAVER PATIO, ARTIFICIAL TURF & beautifully landscaped yard. EXTRA STORAGE SPACE in the laundry Room & EXTENDED 2-CAR GARAGE. COME ENJOY THE GOOD LIFE IN SUN LAKES w/ community amenities like: Golf, Tennis, Pickleball, Pools, Spas, Fitness Center, Clubs, Social Activities & Restaurants!

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16900 W Pinchot Avenue Goodyear, AZ 85395

New

$549,000

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,915 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6786839

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Lovely, well appointed and ready for you! This lock-and-leave villa features included landscaping that is maintained by the HOA. Ease of living with all that the award winning PebbleCreek community has to offer. What an opportunity! Please come by the new homes sales office and model gallery at PebbleCreek for a tour of this home and more.

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1179 E Coyote Creek Way San Tan Valley, AZ 85143

$549,000

5 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,272 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6709440

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your pre-inspected, dream home in the highly sought-after Johnson Ranch subdivision. This immaculate property offers everything you desire in a home, ensuring a lifestyle of comfort, luxury, and endless entertainment. Enjoy the convenience of community amenities including 3 pools, walking/biking paths, golf courses, and abundant green spaces and parks. Bedrooms/Bathrooms: This spacious home boasts 5 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, providing ample space for family and guests. Outdoor Oasis: Your own personal playground awaits with a stunning pool, jacuzzi, and a putting green, perfect for entertaining or unwinding in style. Relax knowing this home has been meticulously maintained and features numerous upgrades, including a newer HVAC system, soft water system, and pavers leading up to the spacious RV gate and parking area. Open kitchen overlooks the pool area and features modern appliances, making it perfect for hosting gatherings. The great room comes complete with an 82 LG television, conveying with the sale, ensuring endless entertainment for you and your loved ones. Retreat to the expansive upper primary suite, featuring a brand-new shower with 24 tiles, a spacious walk-in closet. Enjoy the convenience of a private water closet, glass block window, and double vanity sinks. Additional Details: Move-in ready condition, all televisions convey and Nest programmable thermostats included, Water softening system installed and owned. Don't miss out on the opportunity to own this exceptional home in Johnson Ranch. Schedule your viewing today and start living the lifestyle you've always dreamed of!

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6441 S Roosevelt Street Tempe, AZ 85283

$549,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,797 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6737382

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

So many upgrades in this beautiful home located in a quiet community with no HOA and walking distance to Celaya Park! Just freshly painted. Pride of ownership. Kitchen remodelled in 2023 with tons of cabinet space, extended island and new flooring; windows and patio door replaced in 2022, newer AC, roof is 10 years old, bamboo flooring in the living room and bedrooms; electrical upgrades including subpanel; new automatic blinds, remodeled bathrooms. Newer patio roof. Pool just got a new liner (July 2024), comes with a warranty! Don't miss out on this amazing home.

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7 W Sarah Lane Tempe, AZ 85284

$549,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,588 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6734133

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home in the highly sought-after Warner Ranch Villages, nestled in South Tempe! This beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bath residence features a modern aesthetic with stylish finishes throughout. Located within walking distance to the beloved Postino wine café and with convenient canal access, this home offers the best of Tempe living. Families will appreciate the close proximity to the neighborhood elementary school and easy strolls to two nearby parks, perfect for outdoor activities. Kids will also delight in visiting friendly neighborhood horses, making this a unique and memorable place to make your home. HVAC replaced in 2020. Don't miss this fantastic opportunity to enjoy both comfort and community!

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1121 E Jahns Drive Casa Grande, AZ 85122

$549,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,942 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6736963

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Completely updated home with a built in pool and spa and 3 car garage! This spacious home has all new flooring, fresh paint and updated kitchen. Vaulted ceilings for a nice open feel. The kitchen features granite counters, gas stove and a beautiful tile backsplash. Gas fireplace. Both front and back yard are tastefully landscaped with mature plants and turf grass for easy maintenance. Cool off in the beautiful pebble tec pool with water features and a built in spa.

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25226 N 131st Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$549,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,254 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6738818

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to The Views at Rancho Cabrillo! This is a new build home by Scott Communities. This one is the 4412 plan with 3 bedrooms plus den and 2.5 bathrooms. Includes gourmet kitchen featuring double ovens, microwave drawer, and gas cooktop. Beautiful white shaker cabinets and white quartz countertops. Great room layout with an eat-in kitchen. Large covered patio. Come out and see this home and beautiful north Peoria community!

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