Planning to Get a Mortgage in 2017? 4 Reasons Why It’s Time to Start Paying Down Other Debts Now

Buying a home is an ideal investment for many people because not only is it a place that belongs to them, it can also be very beneficial financially. While you may be strongly considering buying a home for these reasons, it’s also important to be in good financial health so that your ideal home purchase is within reach. If you’re currently perusing the market for prospects, here are some reasons you should pay down debt before taking the leap into home ownership.

Good Credit History

The amount of your debt load and whether or not you’re paying off your minimum monthly payments has a considerable impact on your mortgage approval, so ensuring that you have good credit history going into the process is important. If you’ve had hiccups with your credit, make sure you go through your credit report prior to submitting your application to determine where you’re at.

Lowering Your Debt-to-Income Ratio

Whether or not you’ve heard the term, your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) has a significant impact on how much house you can afford. Made up of the amount of your monthly debt payment and current house payment, your DTI should be below a certain percentage as this will enable you to afford a higher home payment each month.

Shifting Interest Rates

Getting a mortgage is one thing, but interest rates add more to the monthly amount you’ll owe. A fixed-rate mortgage can seem like a good idea, but if interest rates are low you may end up paying more than you would on a variable rate, which can be hard to predict. As interest rates are a part of home ownership, having lower debt will enable you to deal with these additional costs.

Finding The Right Home

Putting your money into a home can be one of the best purchases you’ll make, but if you’re unable to afford the home you love, it can be a disappointing fact to face. While there are no assurances that paying down debt will enable you to afford your dream home, it can go a long way towards giving you more options that will fit your budget.

Buying a home can be a money saver in the long run, but if you’re struggling to keep up with your debt payments buying into the market can be more of a burden than anything else. If you’re currently paying down debt and considering a home purchase, give me a call and let me help start the planning process – 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

9802 E Hidden Valley Road Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,650,000

3 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,400 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6776316

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Idyllic Desert Mountain Views! Enjoy the serene desert setting, abundant with fine desert specimen cactus and custom water features. The home exudes Southwest charm with rustic beams and hearths. The spacious great room is a hub for entertainment, featuring an inviting bar and panoramic views that showcase Lone Mountain and breathtaking year-round sunsets. Step outside and discover delightful entertaining spaces, from the shady covered patio to an outdoor grill center with dining bar perfect for sunset cocktail hour, a hearthside gathering area all enhance by a soothing water feature. To top it all off, the roof-top patio provides 360* vistas!

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18965 E Vallejo Street Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$1,650,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,835 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6778193

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Amazing 4 bedroom property with SanTan Mountain Views! Be welcomed by the manicured front yard, showcasing a lovely landscape, RV Garage + oversized 2 car garage, an RV gate, an extended paver driveway, & a relaxing front patio ideal for taking your morning coffee. Inside, discover the soaring high ceilings, wood flooring, & a spacious living room, w/an inviting fireplace,& large sliding doors to the backyard that seamlessly merge the indoor & outdoor activities. The formal dining room enjoys plantation shutters & a sophisticated chandelier. Recessed lighting, granite counters, SS appliances, mosaic backsplash, shaker cabinets w/crown mouldings, a barn door to the walk-in pantry & a central island are some of the features you will adore about the pristine eat-in kitchen... The majestic main bedroom boasts a sitting area, bountiful natural light, backyard access, & a lavishing ensuite w/dual vanities, a freestanding soaking tub, a fully tiled enclosed shower, & a large walk-in closet. The outstanding backyard provides a cozy covered patio, paver pathways, & a lovely firepit that will make your night gatherings very memorable. There is an office that can be turned into a bedroom with its own bathroom and entry. This gem won't last for long!

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31222 N 54th Place Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$1,650,000

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,025 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6779177

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Step into a world of luxury with this immaculate and beautifully appointed home located in the highly desirable Lone Mountain corridor. From the moment you enter, you'll be captivated by the expansive kitchen, featuring a stunning 12-foot island, double-stacked cabinets, and soaring high ceilings. Equipped with top-of-the-line SubZero and Wolf appliances, this kitchen is a culinary paradise, offering impressive storage and a spacious butler's pantry. The inviting great room is designed for relaxation and social gatherings, flowing seamlessly into a large shaded patio where you can enjoy breathtaking sunset views. This ideal floor plan includes two luxurious primary suites, each offering walk-in closets and elegant baths. The main primary suite serves as a true sanctuary, boasting dual closets and a spa-like wet room complete with a shower and jetted tub for ultimate relaxation. This home's charm extends beyond the main living areas. A private casita with its own entrance features a cozy living area and kitchenette, perfect for guests. Additionally, you'll find an en-suite bedroom and a dedicated office with custom built-ins, offering both privacy and functionality. Experience ultimate outdoor living in your own private backyard oasis with mountain views, complete with an artfully designed pool, tranquil water feature, spa, built-in BBQ, and a sit-up bar perfect for gatherings with family and friends. Don't miss your chance to own this stunning home that perfectly blends elegance, comfort, and outdoor enjoyment.

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12423 N 64th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,650,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

3,599 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6783418

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This non-HOA ranch style home has been renovated from top to bottom with a nearly 600 square foot master suite addition. The remodeled kitchen showcases custom designed cabinets from Affinity Kitchens, an expansive granite island, and a Wolf induction stovetop. The newly added master suite is made out of ICF block for energy efficiency and peacefulness. All major systems have been replaced on the home between 2019 and 2024 including the roof, two ACs, the electrical panel, water heater, and new stucco. The guest house can function as the perfect in-law suite or rental. The almost acre-sized lot has room for your boats, cars, and RVs. It is also horse ready with a 5 stall barn. This is a truly move in ready and modernized home!

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5224 W Creedance Boulevard Glendale, AZ 85310

$1,650,000

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,592 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6665837

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

WOW! This magnificent horse property, nestled on a one-acre lot in a tranquil cul-de-sac, offers an exceptional living experience. It features a circular driveway leading to a 5-car garage, an RV garage, and extensive parking spaces, accommodating various vehicle types with ease. The home's interior is a testament to luxury and comfort, boasting vaulted ceilings that create an airy and open ambiance. The stone floors add an element of rustic elegance, while plantation shutters provide both privacy and style. The living areas are spacious and well-appointed, featuring a wet bar, wall niches, and a two-way fireplace that serves as a focal point, enhancing the home's cozy yet sophisticated feel. Culinary enthusiasts will be delighted by the kitchen, which is equipped with wood cabinetry, granite counters and backsplash, stainless steel appliances including wall ovens, and a large center island with a breakfast bar, making it a perfect space for both cooking and socializing. The main bedroom is a haven of relaxation, complete with a sleek bathroom that includes a soothing tub and dual sinks. Additional bedrooms are thoughtfully designed with built-in cabinets and desks, catering to various needs. A spacious loft with built-in cabinets serves ideally as an office or studio space. The property also features an in-law suite, offering a living/dining room, a kitchenette, a cozy bedroom with private outdoor access, a laundry area, a personal bathroom, and a loft that can be used as another bedspace, providing comfortable and independent living quarters. The backyard is a masterpiece of outdoor living, boasting a covered patio, gazebo, private putting green, built-in BBQ, multiple sitting areas, a firepit, and a fenced-in pool, offering endless entertainment and relaxation possibilities. Horse enthusiasts will appreciate the horse stalls and amenities, perfectly integrated into the spacious backyard. This property also offers breathtaking mountain and sunset views, adding to its allure. This is more than just a home; it's an experience waiting to be cherished. Come and see for yourself what makes this property so special!

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5473 W Arrowhead Lakes Drive Glendale, AZ 85308

$1,650,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

4,840 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6780461

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Lakefront Living at Its Finest! Located in one of the West Valley's most desirable neighborhoods, this stunning lakefront home offers 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, plus a den and loft. The gourmet kitchen flows into an inviting family room, perfect for entertaining. Step outside to a resort-style backyard with a built-in BBQ, outdoor fireplace, and private dock. Just minutes from top shopping, dining, sports, and entertainment, this home is the ideal blend of luxury and convenience. Don't miss this unique gem—Arrange your private tour today!

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4243 E Ashler Hills Drive Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$1,650,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,616 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784829

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome Home! This spacious custom-built home features a split floorplan with 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and 3,616 square feet. The open floorplan includes luxurious interiors with high-end finishes such as travertine and hickory wood flooring, alder wood cabinets and shutters throughout, and a chef's kitchen with thick custom granite countertops. Enjoy a primary bedroom & bathroom with a double-sided fireplace, Jacuzzi tub, snail shower and large walk-in closet with custom cabinetry. Bedrooms 2 & 4 feature also feature their own private bath. Perfect living space for adults, teens and/or kids! Sitting on a prime North/South facing 1.29-acre lot, the backyard features a private pool and heated spa, a large artificial grass area, two RV gates and a gated dog run - all with stunning desert and mountain views! Custom awnings cover the large extended patio, and the 4+ car garage is complete with custom cabinetry and a workshop! Great, quiet location with parks, shopping and A+ schools of excellence minutes away!

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3454 E Inglewood Circle Mesa, AZ 85213

$1,650,000

6 Beds

4.5 Baths

6,070 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784509

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled within the serene and exclusive confines of a prestigious gated community, this exceptional 6-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom home offers a rare combination of luxury and privacy. This home combines sophisticated design with unparalleled craftsmanship, featuring expansive living spaces, a resort-style pool, and a fully-equipped wine cellar in the basement—perfect for both entertaining and relaxed family living.

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4701 Sharp Shooter Way Prescott, AZ 86301

$1,650,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,478 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6785219

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to Prescott! ***Your Perfect Escape from Big City Life*** Are you looking for a serene retreat away from the hustle and bustle of Metro living? This exclusive custom-built home offers the perfect blend of privacy, luxury and convenience! With the scenic Prescott National Forest as your backyard and easy access to all modern amenities, this property presents a rare opportunity for homeowners seeking the best of both worlds.

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22415 N La Senda Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,650,000

3 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,717 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6755685

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Looking for privacy? Nestled in the gated community of Pinnacle Peak Country Club Estates, this charming 3 BR/ 3.5 BA desert retreat is situated on a quiet, private half acre corner site. You will immediately feel the tranquility & peace of this property due, in part, by the mature ficus & citrus trees. This home features 2 BR with Office/Den & 3 BA in the main house as well as a beautiful, detached 738 SF Casita which can be used for extended family or guests, as a home office, gym or studio.The gorgeous estate features Saltillo tile, wood beams and ceilings throughout, 4 fireplaces, & French doors opening from each room to covered patios for true Southwestern indoor/outdoor living. A large, sparkling pebble tech pool invites complete relaxation and a backyard just perfect for pet lovers. Enjoy the outdoors against the backdrop of Arizona's stunning landscape. The property truly embodies the essence of upscale desert living in the prestigious Pinnacle Peak community.

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10065 E Charter Oak Road Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$1,650,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,841 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6718416

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Priced to represent COMPELLING value & deliver SIGNIFICANT instant equity to new owners. This premium luxury estate with Best-In-Class potential is situated in a private suburban neighborhood near the heart of Scottsdale. The single-level custom home sits on a fully utilized 0.4 acre cul-de-sac corner lot & features a fully renovated exterior blending elegant outdoors amenities with expansive recreational space. Raised wood beam ceilings give distinct character to an extreme-split floorplan with generous & flexible living spaces filled with natural light. The private owner-suite is at the NW corner, with a private guest wing off the massive kitchen at the SE corner; all 3 guest BRs offer in-suite bath access. A cosmetic interior makeover away from a market value SUBSTANTIALLY north of $2M Above-ground spa will convey with premises; chandelier in dining room will not.

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3940 E Mulberry Drive Phoenix, AZ 85018

$1,650,000

6 Beds

4 Baths

3,216 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6760009

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

WOW!!! This is a SHOWSTOPPER in the highly sought after zip code 85018! Professionally imagined and designed, this sophisticated home is ready for its new owner! Mulberry will check ALL the right boxes, 6 bedroom, 3.75 baths, soaring ceilings, GORGEOUS wood flooring and high end finishes/fixtures throughout! Entertaining will be a breeze with the huge OPEN floor plan boasting a beautiful modern accordion door - One that leads to the backyard oasis/pool/firepit. The Chefs kitchen has everything you want and need including a gas range/oven and cook top, double islands with granite countertops. The grand primary suite has a huge custom closet and spa-like bathroom. The list is endless! Create memories in this dream home! No HOA! YOU will LOVE this HOME!!!

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