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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9781 E Gamble Lane
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$1,525,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,166
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6754348
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Fantastic opportunity to own a completely remodeled, single level home in the Monument at Troon North. Fall in love with its gorgeous open floorplan featuring wood floors, linear fireplace in great room, chefs kitchen with Wolf Range, double ovens, under/over/inside cabinet lighting, huge breakfast island and quartzite counters. Your favorite room will be the dining room with its lovely view and wall to wall hutch that makes a statement. The inviting primary suite features cozy fireplace and a exit to back patio and view deck. Enter primary bath thru barn door into spa like bath with free standing tub, double sinks, huge shower, private water closet and large walk in closet with organizers. Huge second ensuite with lots of closet space and lovely bath with backlite mirrors, tiled mirror, tiled wall and a lot of style. Large 3rd and 4th bedroom offer walk in closets, shutters, nicely sized, 4th has private patio. Well laid out laundry room with sink and extra refrigerator space. This corner lot gem is a must see, desert landscape with a lot of lights and RV gate, this lot is large enough for putting green, pool and ramada or possibly a guest home! Garage is 3.5 at least and extended. View Deck offers 360 degree Mountain views as well as city lights!
9020 N 33rd Way
Phoenix, AZ 85028
$1,525,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
4,521
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6729215
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Priced well below appraised value! Elegance & timeless charm will be found in this stunning Santa Barbara-inspired property located just mere steps from the Phoenix Mountain Preserve. This gorgeous residence greets you with rich hardwood plank & luxury Saltillo tile , high ceilings with wood beams plus beautiful wood cased windows. A central atrium creates an airy atmosphere with tons of natural light that can be adjusted with electric blinds. The open gourmet kitchen is a chef's delight with custom cabinetry, top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances with Taj Mahal leathered Quartzite countertops, an adjacent oversized laundry room, and a huge storage pantry. The heart of the home is the great room, illuminated by skylights and anchored by an authentic tiled fireplace. Step outside to to the entertainer's garden, with its large pool surrounded by lush trees. This beautiful home is perfect no matter what your lifestyles! With a large playroom/hobby room/craft room that can also be used as attached guest suite complete vaulted ceilings, fireplace, quartzite desk, lots of storage, sleeping loft and private bathroom. Flex room off loft would make a perfect kitchenette/coffee area. New Tesla Super Charger in Garage. Minutes to 51 access, downtown, airport, Basis Phoenix Primary, new PV Mall redevelopment, biking/walking trails, Press Coffee, 32 Shea, many other fine restaurants. Check out these amazing details & features: ***
3124 E Blackhawk Drive
Gilbert, AZ 85298
$1,520,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,324
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6661174
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This spacious beauty in Acacia Estates boasts the addition of a separate living quarters and a recent remodel with high-end upgraded features such as solid hardwood knotty alder doors and baseboards, a Chef's kitchen with GE Monogram appliances, 3 beverage fridges and a 4-car insulated and temperature-controlled garage. Additional highlights include front yard artificial turf, plantation shutters throughout, remote blackout shades in the bedrooms and a home surveillance system. Other luxury features such as a private courtyard, ensuites in secondary bedroom, attached casita with a full bathroom remodel to include an oversized shower and soaking tub
Flagstaff
AZ 86004
$1,519,000
5
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,920
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6703866
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This stunning custom home on 2.5 acres is the realization of an arts and crafts vision singular to Flagstaff. From the careful details of the front doors, to custom built ins & woodwork, cherry cabinets, & tiffany style light fixtures, this is a work of art! Live your quiet dream in serenity surrounded by natural beauty, or create an entertainer's paradise. Delight in the chef's kitchen with a Viking suite of appliances. Lose yourself in the beautifully treed, gardened yard with mountain views. The lower level is pure fun. Entertain, work out, dance, play pool. Located in desireable Pine Mt. Estates, only steps from national forest, this is an equestrian & outdoor lover's dream. With 2 living areas, spacious rooms, custom office, 3 car garage, owned solar & AC, it's your perfect retreat. Furnishings available with a few exclusions (wood telephone on wall does not convey as well as personal antiques). We've completed an inspection and this home is in excellent shape! See additional documents for many details on items repaired, solar information and the vegetation on property.
3229 E Campbell Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85018
$1,510,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,110
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6768123
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Don't miss out on this like-new custom-built home in one of Phoenix's most sought-after neighborhoods. Featuring four spacious bedrooms and three-and-a-half bathrooms, this residence boasts exceptional finishes, including sleek white Cordova cabinets, elegant granite countertops, modern porcelain wood plank flooring, automated patio shades, and high-end stainless-steel appliances. Experience a level of luxury and style at an incredible value for this location. The gorgeous chef's kitchen, complete with a six-burner gas range and a seamless granite island that opens up to the living area, allowing the homes cook to stay connected with family and guests. The thoughtfully designed split floor plan offers a primary bedroom on the ground level, while three additional bedrooms are situated... upstairs alongside a versatile loft. The inviting south-facing backyard offers a spacious covered patio, private pool, and generous grassy area perfect for year-round enjoyment. This home is a hidden gem that won't last long!
19360 N 73rd Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$1,501,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
2,584
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6772969
Property Type
Apartment
Price Type
--
Belgravia Group presents Atavia, a private gated community of 88 luxury condominiums coming soon to North Scottsdale. Atavia blends the breathability of single-family living with the carefree convenience of condominium ownership. Designed by award-winning international architecture firm KTGY, with a clubhouse inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright's iconic Taliesin West, Atavia is perfectly situated at the Loop 101 and Scottsdale Rd within the One Scottsdale masterplan development. Each exceptional home features a private entry with 2 car garage, Italian kitchen cabinetry, Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, 1 ¼'' quartz counters, and wood floors throughout main living areas. Residence D has a private in-home elevator and a private rooftop deck with a louvered pergola and porcelain pavers.
1810 E Magnolia Drive Unit 34
Flagstaff, AZ 86005
$1,500,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
2,672
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6787242
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This newly constructed 2,672 sqft, 4 Bedroom, 3.5 Bath home is located in Juniper Point and is the perfect mountain getaway. The open floorplan is ideal for entertaining as the kitchen, living room and dining area flow seamlessly together. The kitchen is a chef's dream with a stunning Desert Canyon Granite kitchen island complete with chiseled edging, waterfalls on both ends and bar seating for 3. A custom Big Chill refrigerator with eye-catching brushed copper trim, walk-in pantry, and a 6 burner Wolf range surrounded by quartz countertops that lead into a full backsplash. Just off the kitchen is an open dining area, a mud room including bench seating and access from the garage. The living room features a floor to ceiling stone fireplace and access to the back patio. The expansive wraparound patio is highlighted by a built-in BBQ with a granite countertop prep area, artificial grass and built-in heaters allow for the perfect area for relaxing during those cool flagstaff evenings. An additional office area/den and a ½ bath, with a unique Gunmetal 3D Cube Aluminum Mosaic accent wall, complete the main level of the home. The upper level encompasses 4 bedrooms and the laundry room with plenty of storage, Samsung washer and dryer, sink and stunning countertops. The primary suite boasts a luxurious bath complete with a large tiled shower, dual vanities surrounded by beautiful granite that leads all the way to the ceiling, a soaking tub, private toilet room and a large walk-in closet. Adjacent to the primary bedroom is an en-suite bedroom with a walk-in closet. Take in the peak views from the two additional guest bedrooms with a shared bath including dual vanities and a tub/shower combo. Additional features include wood flooring throughout the main level of the home, custom lighting package, upgraded window treatments, tankless hot water heater, and 2 car garage with epoxy flooring. This brand-new home is located just minutes from downtown in close proximity to all Flagstaff has to offer and is the epitome of a tranquil mountain retreat.
17131 N 51st Way
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
$1,500,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,643
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6770140
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
The perfect floorplan! Soaring ceilings and spacious open concept floorplan. All the WOW FEATURES you want in an executive floorplan- Guest Ensuite with full bath and walk-in closet, custom window treatments, STUDY, LARGE GAME ROOM, GOURMET KITCHEN with double ovens, gas cooktop, walk-in pantry, under cabinet lighting, kitchen island with sink with pendant lighting pre-wires, BEAUTIFUL MODERN DESIGN CHOICES! 16' GLASS SLIDING DOOR TO COVERED PATIO, FIREPLACE, 3 CAR GARAGE, SMART HOME, surround sound pre-wire, recessed lighting, floor outlet and more. This house has everything and the perfect location! Enjoy everything Arabella has to offer - Community pools and parks, near shopping, dining and 101 & 51 fwys in the 85254. Only minutes from Kierland & Scottsdale Quarter!
14749 E Pecos Road
Gilbert, AZ 85295
$1,500,000
7
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,271
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6773178
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Modernized home, in the heart of Gilbert w/ acreage, RV GARAGE, amazing POOL. NO HOA, HORSE privileges, come view this stunning residence where country living meets modern luxury! Sitting on almost an acre, you will enjoy all the privacy this property offers with huge yard spaces (on irrigation), flood lights in front yard and long driveway perfect for all of your toys!!! RV garage is magnificent w/capacity for 8 cars, adjustable AC, and an upstairs loft and plenty of storage. Upon entering, you'll be greeted by a carpeted living room and French doors leading to a spacious den/office. Enter into the gourmet Chef's kitchen w/ top of the line Viking appliances, massive marble island w/breakfast bar, soft-close custom cabinets, a mosaic backsplash, dual kitchen sinks and dishwashers, and a large walk-in pantry w/a pebble ice machine. Home boasts so many upgrades including Contol4 smart home system, 360-degree security, recessed lighting, neutral paint, pre-wired surround sound, vaulted ceilings, central vacuum, and glossy tile floors. Did we mention the 90 degree, 6 panel pocket sliding glass doors! Don't miss the guest quarters towards SE corner of property complete with Kitchenette, full bed and full bath!!! Secondary bedrooms are spacious and Primary Bedroom is absolutely gorgeous with stunning primary bathroom! You will not be disappointed!!!
6711 E Camelback Road Unit 58
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
$1,500,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
2,207
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6772800
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Step into Scottsdale luxury living at its finest with this beautifully designed 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence, previously featured on the cover of Luxe Magazine. Whether furnished or unfurnished, this home is the definition of sophisticated living and is located within walking distance of Scottsdale's premier destinations—Fashion Square, Mastros City Hall, and Ocean 44—as well as the Valley's best hiking trails. The home's contemporary design showcases top-of-the-line finishes, from Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, custom cabinetry, and block wall construction to energy-efficient windows and doors. The open floor plan features a great room with high ceilings, a gas fireplace, and no interior steps. The private backyard is surrounded by mature Ficus trees, artificial turf, and a water feature, perfect for relaxation or entertaining. Located in the exclusive, gated Pavoreal community with 24-hour guard services, residents have access to resort-style amenities including a heated pool, spa, and clubhouse. This is the ideal lock-and-leave property for those seeking a low-maintenance lifestyle in an A+ location. Key Features: 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms + den/office Approx. 2,207 sq. ft. of living space Gorgeous backyard with water feature Modern kitchen with high-end appliances Block wall construction with upgraded windows and doors Located in the prestigious, gated Pavoreal community Walking distance to Scottsdale's top restaurants, shopping, and entertainment Minutes from world-class hiking trails Don't miss the opportunity to purchase this beautiful home.
3417 W Roaring Fork Drive
Pinetop, AZ 85935
$1,500,000
5
Beds
6
Baths
3,533
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6672251
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Nestled alongside the picturesque 18th tee box of the renowned Pinetop Lakes Country Club, this impressive A-Frame designed split log cabin with stone accent sits on 0.38 acres, 3533+/-sqft, has 5 bedrooms and 6 baths, 2 car garage, storage area, laundry/mud room, loft/family room, grand stone gas fireplace. Step inside and be greeted by a spacious and inviting interior with soaring ceilings and abundant gathering spaces. Each of the five large bedrooms boasts its own private ensuite, ensuring optimal privacy and comfort for every guest. Bask in the expansive views of the lush greenery from the comfort of your own home, where the beauty of the outdoors seamlessly blends with the cozy warmth of indoor living. Income property with mgr. Unwind after a day of adventure in the White Mountain knowing that your personal sanctuary awaits. Property is being sold turnkey with fine antique furniture and unique collectibles adorn every corner of this turnkey home, adding a touch of timeless elegance. Conveniently located near the world's largest Ponderosa Pine Forest, Pinetop Lakes Country Club provides easy access to an array of outdoor activities from golf and tennis. Sunrise Ski Resort, Lakes for fishing to hiking and wildlife watching. With major commercial airports in Phoenix, Albuquerque, and Tucson just a short distance away.
5 E 14th Street
Tempe, AZ 85281
$1,500,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,961
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6728493
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Amazing Tempe Location Offering A Ton Of Possibilities. Just Steps Away From ASU, Grady Gammage And The Spectacular Entertainment District Of Down Town Tempe. Single Level 5 Bedroom And 3 Bathroom Home With Huge Lot And Private Pool And Entertaing Area. Newer Windows, Newer Main Sewer Line, Updated Kitchen And A Split Floor Plan Which Allows A Great Opportunity For Private Residence, Rental For Students Or An Airbnb. Close To Light Rail, Sky Harbor, Restaurants And Tempe Town Lake. Two Separate Outdoor Entertaing Areas And Two Car Garage With Large Driveway Makes This An Ideal Property In An Incredible Neighborhood. Dont Miss Out On This Limited Time Opportunity To Create A Lifestyle And Business In An Unprecedented Location Which Wont Come Aailable Often.