Most homeowners look at their monthly mortgage payment as their largest cost per month, and something they must do to maintain a good credit history. However, you may have heard of bi-weekly mortgage payments and their ability to lower your debt load and help you pay off your mortgage more quickly. If you’re wondering if bi-weekly payments are too good to be true, here’s some information worth consideration.
What Difference Does Bi-Weekly Make?
Making a bi-weekly mortgage payment may seem to mean that your interest will be automatically reduced, but because the lender is not necessarily receiving that payment until the end of the month, this is not necessarily the case. However, while a typical monthly payment will equate to 12 mortgage payments per year, a bi-weekly payment means 26 half payments will be made each year, which equates to 13 months of payments and an additional month. As a result, this can reduce the amount of interest paid on the principal.
Consider More On A Monthly Basis
Bi-weekly payments have the ability to shave a bit off the principal and thereby lower overall interest, but that doesn’t mean you have to switch to paying every two weeks. Instead of bi-weekly, consider dividing your monthly mortgage amount by 12 and adding that amount to your monthly payment. This will bump up your mortgage cost per month, but it will also reduce the total amount you owe. For example, if your mortgage payment is $1200 per month, divide it by 12 to get $100, and add this to your payment, bumping it up to $1300 each month.
Be Aware Of The Options That Work For You
In the event that you decide to make bi-weekly payments, be aware that there may actually be additional fees associated with this offering that will nullify your money savings. As a homeowner, it’s important to stay aware of changes on the market and new mortgage offerings that can benefit you. However, it’s also important to ensure that whatever you choose, you’re aware of the risks involved so they can make for a positive financial shift.
Making a bi-weekly payment on your mortgage may have the benefit of lowering your overall home cost, but you may be able to get this benefit from simply bumping up your monthly payment.
For more tips on reducing your mortgage debt, give me a call – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.
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4129 E Palo Verde Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85018
$2,350,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,450
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6769377
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Location, location, location! Welcome to this beautiful 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom home, perfectly nestled in a highly sought-after cul-de-sac within the Short Hills community of 85018. Sitting on a lot just shy of half an acre, this property offers ample space and privacy, making it a true gem in the neighborhood. The interior is a unique blend of modern and timeless architecture. The outdoor space is stunning with a large covered patio, beautiful pool and spa, putting green, fire pit area and sauna. The attached mother-in-law suite provides flexibility and convenience, whether for guests or multigenerational living and has a full separate kitchen and eat in area. This home is walking distance to many incredible restaurants including Steak 44, Flower Child & The Global Ambassador! Want great schools too? Hopi, Ingleside and Arcadia! Come see for yourself.
5101 N Casa Blanca Drive Unit 324
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
$2,350,000
2
Beds
3
Baths
2,293
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6722426
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
''Yes Harriet, there is a garage in historic Casa Blanca!'' #324 is a beautiful single-level home with, 2 BR (split plan), 3 BA, and study. Relax in the wrap-around private garden patio with retractable awning and outdoor fireplace, designed by Charlie/The Green Room. Lovely natural light fills the Great Room with 13' ceilings and fireplace, the cozy den/studio/library, dining area, and gorgeous eat-in kitchen with quartz countertops ...all the things we love to live with. The primary suite features an enormous bath and walk-in closet, just a few steps from the charming ''read a book or swim'' pool..a happy, good mood place! The two-car garage has a sink and new epoxy floor. Enjoy the two other swimming pools, play tennis or pickle ball, or meander the walking paths and rose garden.
5112 N 35th Street
Phoenix, AZ 85018
$2,350,000
5
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,093
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6777220
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Turkey, completely remodeled 2 story home in highly desirable Biltmore Heights neighborhood. Charming 5 bed, 3.5 bath home with bright natural light with white oak flooring & chef's kitchen with white custom cabinets, quartz waterfall island, & stainless-steel appliances. Split floorplan where primary bedroom includes dual sink vanity, oversized shower with freestanding tub, & walk-in closet. Backyard perfect for entertaining with pool, covered patio, & vegetable garden. Upstairs you will find five additional rooms, including a massive flex room that can be used as a loft, bedroom, game room or office. Home also features huge laundry room with farmhouse sink, quartz counters & mud room area. Prime location, minutes from the best shops, restaurants and amenities in both Arcadia & Old Town.
35036 N 85th Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85266
$2,350,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,433
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6774947
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
See property video. Stunning 2019 built home set on a spacious ¾-acre private lot within the highly sought-after gated community of Andaluza. Just minutes away from multiple grocery stores, restaurants and the Boulders Resort and Spa featuring two signature 18-hole golf courses, tennis and pickleball courts, gym, spa and more, memberships available to outside residents. The open-concept design showcases a great room layout with soaring 12ft ceilings and a gourmet chef's style kitchen, complete with two large islands, quartz countertops, a Wolf 6-burner cooktop with griddle, oversized refrigerator, dual ovens, a walk-in pantry, and an additional prep area with custom cabinetry throughout. The luxurious primary suite includes a versatile flex space, perfect for a home gym or office, and a spa-like bathroom with dual vanities, a free-standing tub, walk-in shower with dual shower heads, and two generous walk-in closets offering abundant storage. The home also features two additional ensuite bedrooms, a large dining room comfortably seating 8+, and a formal living room that could easily be converted into a home office or remain as an additional seating/entertaining area. The expansive great room is a highlight with its gas fireplace, beamed ceilings, and a 12ft bi-fold door that opens fully to the covered patio, creating seamless indoor-outdoor living - ideal for Arizona's perfect weather. Outside, the pristine backyard oasis offers a heated PebbleTec pool and spa with an automated Pentair system, an artificial turf putting green, travertine pavers, a misting system, and lush landscaping accented by landscape lighting. Additional features include dual 4-car garages with epoxy flooring and overhead storage, a wet bar with a wine fridge, custom window treatments, and more.
6990 E Buckhorn Trail
Scottsdale, AZ 85266
$2,349,000
6
Beds
5.5
Baths
5,944
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6645697
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to paradise in north Scottsdale! This sanctuary estate sits at the end of a short private cul-de-sac in the prestigious community of Lomas Verdes. Completely refurbished inside and out, featuring a large open kitchen and great room with high ceilings. The perfectly balanced floor plan will please even the most discerning buyers, providing comfortable two-person living as well as expansive living for larger families! This beautiful home also offers to keep everyone entertained with activities, including a pickle ball court, a beautiful pool and spa, and two outdoor fireplaces. The additional 1,000 square foot finished basement features a wet bar, and living and entertaining spaces. The 3 HVAC systems are newly installed with manufacturer warranties. New quartz counters throughout.
8396 E Sunnyside Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
$2,349,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
3,900
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6767129
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover the ideal family floor plan in this beautifully remodeled 4-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom home, featuring an office. Each bedroom includes its own ensuite for added privacy. Enjoy stunning golf course and mountain views from this corner lot, with high ceilings enhancing the spacious feel. The inviting layout includes a large family room and oversized living/dining area, perfect for gatherings. A standout feature is the 16-foot folding patio door, seamlessly connecting indoor and outdoor spaces, leading to pavered yards. The newly renovated pool boasts a pebble sheen finish, while a resurfaced basketball court adds to entertainment options. Key updates include fresh paint, an epoxy garage floor, and new lighting. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream with custom cabinets, high-end appliances, and a large quartz island. The luxurious master suite features a glass-enclosed shower and custom vanity. Additional highlights include a custom wine bar, elegant flooring, and solid wood doors. This home is truly move-in readydon't miss out!
9370 E Wethersfield Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
$2,349,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,343
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6757519
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Newly built smart home situated in the exclusive gated community at Wildhorse Estates is available now! Perfectly located in the desirable Cactus Corridor in North Scottsdale, minutes from the 101 Hwy with endless entertainment, dining, and shopping - this modern home is in the middle of it all and has all the trimmings. Wolf appliances throughout a spacious kitchen with a walk-in pantry, an oversized island with waterfall edge, stacked cabinets with soft-closing drawers, two dishwashers, multiple ovens, a 48'' Miele refrigerator with a full wet bar and a beautiful fireplace that's perfect for entertaining. Home also comes equipped with reverse accent ceilings, LED lighting throughout, upgraded baseboards, and elegant French-doors leading to office area. The open master bedroom has a great accent wall and luxury bathroom that includes a stand-alone tub and walk-in shower. You must see the grand open corner sliding glass doors leading to your backyard oasis that includes a pool, spa, fire-pit, and BBQ grill. Great insulation with top-of-the-line air purifiers that's built-in throughout entire house. Both garages are fully insulated with dedicated split AC units and stunning epoxy floors that you'll love. Other features include motorized blinds, water softener system, tankless water heater and security cameras safely covering all angles of home. Act now, you don't want to miss this one!
8447 E Nightingale Star Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85266
$2,345,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
5,044
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6717319
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Experience the epitome of luxury in North Scottsdale's tranquil Sierra Boulders North community, situated within the prestigious 85266 ZIP code. Step through a private courtyard to enter this exquisite custom-built residence, showcasing a wrought iron entry, 18-inch travertine flooring, and 8-foot alder doors, all designed with a seamless, step-free interior. The den features coffered wood ceilings, while the fully remodeled kitchen is outfitted with premium Wolf appliances, a Sub-Zero refrigerator, a Wolf coffee maker, and an impressive 600+ bottle wine wall. This home also includes 4 new AC units, installed in 2022, ensuring year-round comfort. All guest bedrooms are ensuite, and the primary suite provides a versatile office/gym area, an expansive closet, a fireplace and outdoor access. Outdoors, enjoy panoramic views, travertine patios, an updated outdoor kitchen, landscape lighting, mature landscaping, and a heated pool and spa. Additionally, a detached casita offers extra accommodation for guests. The 85266 area boasts a harmonious blend of desert landscapes and upscale residential communities, many with breathtaking mountain views. It is home to several world-class golf courses and exclusive resorts, catering to those seeking a premium, sophisticated lifestyle
10059 W Villa Lindo Drive
Peoria, AZ 85383
$2,345,000
5
Beds
4
Baths
4,723
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6735584
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Exceptional custom home in the prestigious gated community of Melton Ranch 1. Spanning 5,679 square feet, this exquisite residence features 5 beds, 4 bathrooms, a 4-car garage with custom cabinetry, a designer pool, an RV garage, and a guest house. Enter through a private courtyard into the charming formal dining and living rooms. Unwind in your spacious master suite, complete with a sitting room, private backyard exit, and a cozy two-way fireplace. The master bath offers a whirlpool tub and a walk-in shower for ultimate relaxation. Perfect for entertaining, the gourmet kitchen opens through sliding glass pocket doors to a backyard oasis. Enjoy swimming or sliding into the designer pool, making this home an entertainer's dream.
8675 E Thoroughbred Trail
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
$2,340,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
4,340
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6778966
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to the best of luxury living in McCormick Ranch! If you're looking for exceptional quality and design, this is it! Newly remodeled 5 Bedroom home PLUS over $150,000 in additional upgrades! 2 Bedrooms, including Primary are downstairs. You'll be wow'd from the start when you enter through the dramatic floor to ceiling glass doors and are met with vaulted ceilings, exposed beams, porcelain laid floors, stunning chandeliers, exquisite wood paneling, and quartz fireplaces! Bright and open floor plan leads out onto a beautiful terrace overlooking the stunning pool, lounging gazebo with fireplace, built in grill and beverage bar, putting green, and outdoor bamboo floored shower all complete with lush landscaping. No need to worry about privacy as it has overgrown oleanders surrounding the backyard. The beautifully crafted Signature Designer '2 tone' kitchen is top of the line with Wolf/Subzero appliances & quartz waterfall island, and complimented by a floor to ceiling cocktail/beverage bar and built in wine fridge! Incredible and spacious primary suite with large walk-in closet and dressing room. Don't forget the amazing 'Hollywood Style' en-suite bathroom featuring dual vanities, a make up station, soaking tub with views of the enchanting garden. Take the stunning wrought iron staircase to the second floor where you will find 3 additional bedrooms, another luxurious bathroom, and the best room yet: the playroom/den/media room, just bring your popcorn! The perfect space to relax and enjoy quality time with loved ones! This home also includes a spacious laundry room, 3 car garage with electric car charging station & signature lighting, dual pane windows throughout, 3 Restoration Hardware chandeliers, and custom remote window treatments and blackout curtains. Check out the attached feature list for a full list of the amazing upgrades! This home truly offers the best of luxurious living in the 3 C's school district. Close to the Greenbelt and just across the street from Mountain View Park. It's located in a private cul-de-sac and is close to dining, shopping and golfing. Convenient living, only minutes away from highway 101 for an easy commute. Welcome Home!
6437 N 28th Street
Phoenix, AZ 85016
$2,330,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
3,026
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6763074
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover the epitome of elegance in this stunning Golden Heritage residence plus casita, where modern luxury meets classic charm. Nestled in a serene neighborhood at the foot of the Phoenix Preserve, this beautifully appointed home features 3 spacious bedrooms and 2 lavish bathrooms, along with a separate casita that enhances both functionality and style. The private gated courtyard welcomes you to the main home where, once inside, the 12' ceilings offer a light and airy open floor plan. Timeless flagstone and neutral tones set off the quiet elegance drawing you into the the flow of the home. Beautiful cabinetry, recessed lighting, custom electric shades, dual direction fireplace and surrounding wall of windows -with four unique abutting corners- form the backdrop that brings natural in. Past the open office/flex space is the lavish Master Retreat. Indulge in the tranquil master suite featuring a spacious layout that offers privacy and comfort. The opulent master bathroom is a true sanctuary, showcasing dual vanities, a luxurious soaking tub, and a separate walk-in shower and sizeable walk-in closet, all designed for relaxation and rejuvenation. The beautifully landscaped backyard features a covered patio, perfect for enjoying sumptuous breakfasts, lazy afternoons, alfresco dining or quiet evenings under the stars. Low-maintenance landscaping makes the serene environment ideal for entertaining or unwinding in your own private retreat. The separate, much sought after, one bedroom Casita with full bath is a rare find in the Biltmore Hillside Villas, and offers versatile living options. Whether utilized as a guest suite, home office, or private spa, it provides an additional layer of privacy and convenience. Experience the perfect location, close to everything - dining, shopping, golf courses - but hidden on a quiet street, in a secluded, guard-gated, luxury community with plenty of walking and hiking trails, tennis courts and views of Piestewa, mountains and cityscape. Experience the best of urban living with easy access to major highways and airport. This exceptional property harmoniously blends luxury and comfort, making it a true gem in the Phoenix market. Don't miss the opportunity to call this exquisite residence your home. Schedule your private showing today!
7180 E Kierland Boulevard Unit 1211
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
$2,327,777
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,579
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6726808
Property Type
Apartment
Price Type
--
Amazing unobstructed views of the McDowells on the Penthouse floor! 10 ft. floor-to-ceiling windows. Highly upgraded 2 bedroom, 2.5 bath. Gorgeous gas fireplace in great room. Kitchen features Azul Fantasy granite slabs with waterfall edge and full backsplash. Cabinet-style appliances. Wine refrigerator. Oversized (24x48) tile throughout unit and patio. Custom closets. Nest thermostat. State of the art fitness center, steam rooms, pickleball, basketball, racquetball, massage & yoga rooms, party & theatre rooms, indoor putting area and golf simulator & dog park. Rooftop deck has lap pool, lots of seating, running path, fire pits, BBQ's and many entertainment areas... all in the heart of Kierland. Restaurants, shopping and golf all nearby.