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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7662 E Orange Blossom Lane Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$619,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,575 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6763710

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Stunning Home Located in the Highly Sought After Retirement (55+ Community), Awarded Historic District of Villa Monterey! Unbelievable Remodeled and Expanded Floor Plan w/ a 2 Car Covered Parking (Rare) w/an End Unit Location w/ Side Gate (Very Desirable). Property Consists of Kitchen Shaker Style Cabinets w/ 42' Uppers w/ Crown Moulding, Tile Backsplash, Oversized Island w/ Breakfast Bar, Quartz Countertops, Stainless Steel Appliances, Gas Range/Oven, Built-In Microwave, Huge Pantry, Work/Office Desk, Beautiful Primary Suite w/ a Large Walk-In Closet w/ Built-In Shelving, Tile Surround Walk-In Shower, Private Toilet Room, Vanity w/ Dual Sinks, Barn-Style Doors, Carpet & Wood Flooring, Wood Shutters, Custom Baseboards, Dual Pane Windows, Recessed Lighting, Ceiling Fans, Outdoor Storage, Inside Laundry Room, Refrigerator, Washer & Dryer Included, North/South Exposure, Low Maintenance Desert Landscape w/ Beautiful Backyard Synectic Grass, Relaxing Covered Patio, Situated Next to the Wonderful Pool & Spa, Fantastic Scottsdale Location, Convenient to Old Town Scottsdale, Spring Training Baseball, Scottsdale Fashion Mall, ASU, Freeway, Parks, Golf, Bike Paths, Restaurants, Talking Stick Casino & Much More!

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3235 Josey Wales Way Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$619,000

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,229 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6764213

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home, featuring 2 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, all within over 2,200 sq ft of beautifully designed living space. The interior exudes a sleek and modern aesthetic, enhanced by an open floor plan that promotes a seamless flow. A private office/den comes with a Murphy bed and solid wood barn doors. The heart of the home is the kitchen, which boasts a large island perfect for meal prep and casual dining.The cabinetry and finishes create an inviting space for culinary enthusiasts and entertaining guests alike. The adjoining living area is bright and airy, anchored by a wall of sliding glass doors that lead to a generously sized, fully remote screened in patio, ideal for outdoor gatherings and relaxation while enjoying the serene 180 degree mountain views. This property has undergone significant upgrades since its last listing, ensuring it looks nothing short of amazing. With attention to detail and contemporary design elements, you'll appreciate the fine craftsmanship and thoughtful layout. The spacious primary suite offers a serene retreat with an en-suite bathroom featuring modern fixtures, while the second bedroom provides ample space for guests or family. Additional features include a convenient 3-car garage, providing plenty of storage and parking options. This home not only exemplifies modern living but also offers a lifestyle of comfort and elegance.

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40748 W Chambers Drive Maricopa, AZ 85138

$619,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,747 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6787141

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning Lakefront Home with Private Pool and Mountain Views! Welcome to your dream home! This gorgeous 5-bedroom property includes a versatile den/office (easily converted into a 6th bedroom) and a spacious loft, all complemented by 3 full bathrooms and a 3-car garage—perfect for all your needs. The open floorplan offers an effortless flow, making it ideal for both entertaining and everyday living. A downstairs bedroom with a full bath provides privacy for guests or family members. Notable upgrades include a beautifully renovated kitchen, high-end flooring, a sparkling inground pool and maintenance-free synthetic grass, Plus, the home's exterior was freshly painted in Fall 2023 for a polished, like-new look. Situated on a north/south-facing lot, you'll enjoy breathtaking mountain and sunset views. Whether you're a growing family or simply seeking ample space, this home offers it all. Don't miss this rare opportunity to own a lakefront oasis!

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9765 N 105th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$619,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,378 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6737746

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Gorgeous bright & spacious single level patio home in desirable Suntree East of Scottsdale Ranch is calling you home! Best placement in community with extra greenspace out front & NO shared interior walls! Updated granite built in wet bar & indoor fireplace. Large eat-in kitchen with solid surface counters & newer stainless appliances 2020. Open floor plan offers formal dining & living room, family room & attached private outdoor space. Beautifully landscaped with artificial grass to stay green year round. Plenty of room for all your toys, thanks to the oversized 2-car garage. Retreat to the master bedroom that has an en suite master bathroom just calling you to relax. Stunning community offers resort like pool, sparkling spa, & beautiful lush landscaping. Scottsdale living awaits!

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9556 W Frank Avenue Peoria, AZ 85382

$619,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,208 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6741287

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home, where modern elegance meets spacious comfort!This beautifully refreshed residence boasts a freshly painted interior and exterior, creating a vibrant and inviting atmosphere.Step inside to discover expansive bedrooms,each offering ample space for relaxation and personalization.The master suite is a true sanctuary, featuring a cozy sitting area that invites you to unwind and enjoy peaceful moments.Entertain family/friends in style with not one, but two generous living spaces, perfect for gatherings.The heart of the home is the stunning kitchen,equipped with stainless steel appliances and luxurious granite countertops.Venture outside to your custom outdoor kitchen,complete with a bbq, and sink.AVERAGE PAST 3 MONTH UTILITY BILL INCLUDING SOLAR PAYMENT=$251.00!!

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33432 N 24th Drive Phoenix, AZ 85085

$619,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,907 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6755599

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Charming French Country-Inspired Home with Pool in Carefree Crossing Welcome to this beautifully decorated, single-level home in the highly sought-after Carefree Crossing community. This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home, with an additional den, offers the perfect blend of comfort and style. Step inside and feel right at home with the French country charm throughout, highlighted by a custom kitchen with a one-of-a-kind sink and countertop that's sure to impress. The spacious split floor plan includes a generously sized master bedroom with an en-suite bath and ample closet space.The exterior is just as inviting, featuring a sparkling pool with a brand-new variable speed pump, a cozy wood fire pit, and a gazebo. perfect for entertaining or relaxing under the Arizona sky. Location is Amazing. Additional features include a washer, dryer, and refrigerator, making this home move-in ready. Located in a family-friendly neighborhood, you'll be close to top-rated schools, shopping, dining, and easy access to major freeways, ensuring convenience in all directions.Don't miss the opportunity to own this one-of-a-kind home in North Phoenix's Carefree Crossing!

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2401 W Cheery Lynn Road Phoenix, AZ 85015

$619,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,388 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6750173

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to a diamond in Central Phoenix. Rare, expansive square footage in this area of Phoenix at 2388 sf, in this classic 3 bd 2 ba beauty. New AC Unit, hot water heater and kitchen appliances and tastefully updated throughout the home. Let your imagination run wild with this oversized over 13,000 sf corner lot that has been enclosed with privacy Ficus trees to start the creation of your backyard oasis. Close to great midtown dining and shopping and freeway accessibility. You won't want to miss this one of a kind property.

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15221 N Clubgate Drive Unit 1150 Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$619,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,401 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6754338

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

Experience the warmth of this charming fully updated, first-floor, 2-bedroom unit in Kierland Greens. Inside, enjoy a welcoming vibe with wood-look tile floors, a soothing palette, and a bright living/dining area enhanced by a cozy gas fireplace. Hone your culinary skills in the sleek kitchen equipped with stainless steel appliances, recessed lighting, granite counters, mosaic tile backsplash, a pantry, and a breakfast bar. Retreat to the serene primary suite, boasting a walk-in closet and a private bath with dual sinks and a standalone tub. Relax under the covered patio, perfect for sipping your favorite beverage. This unit also features a 2-car garage. Within this gated community, enjoy the pool, spa, and fitness center. Short-term rentals allowed.

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7253 E Nance Street Mesa, AZ 85207

$619,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

1,925 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6766033

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Absolutely gorgeous home with a heated pool in the desirable Trailridge at Las Sendas gated community. This 3 bedroom, 3 bath home shows off the pride of ownership right when you walk in the door. The kitchen offers crown molding cabinets, granite counter tops and a large island. The master suite offers a huge walk in closet along with dual vanity sinks. The highlight of your low maintenance backyard is the beautiful pool in the back complete with a heater for year-round use! The gated community offers a large club house, workout facility, a spa, pickleball courts, community pools, parks and sporting fields along with bike and hiking trails to enjoy the desert landscape!

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8972 E Arizona Park Place Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$619,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,446 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6766971

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

STUNNING SCOTTSDALE RETREAT! This fantastic 1446 SF haven boasts the perfect blend of comfort, style, and functionality! With 2 bedrooms plus a den, a spacious living room, and an open-concept kitchen, this home offers effortless flow and entertainment possibilities. Enjoy the private backyard oasis, perfect for relaxation and alfresco fun. And rest assured, this home has been meticulously maintained, with new flooring throughout, updated bathrooms, and a hassle-free experience - the cold AC is a refreshing treat, and everything is in working order, with no issues to worry about! And the best part? It's nestled in the most coveted area of Scottsdale, between Shea and 92nd Street, just moments from top-rated restaurants, supermarkets, and entertainment hotspots. Schedule your visit today

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3118 W Espartero Way Phoenix, AZ 85086

$619,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,934 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6747861

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your new home! This spacious residence boast a generous one of a kind 4 car garage, perfect for a car enthusiast or those in need of ample storage. The home features an oversized master suite with elegant tile flooring, offering a serene retreat. With a total of 4 bedrooms and 3 full baths, there's plenty of room for everyone. Enjoy the stunning cherry wood laminate flooring that graces the main floor, adding a touch of sophistication to the living areas. The home is bathed in natural light thanks to the North/South exposure creating a warm and inviting atmosphere throughout. Conveniently located near Sunset Ridge K-8 school, community pool, TMSC plant, shopping and dining. The neutral painting throughout the home provides a versatile backdrop for your personal style. Don't miss the opportunity to make this house your new home.

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7322 E Greenway Street Mesa, AZ 85207

$619,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,257 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6776826

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home at 7322 E Greenway St, Mesa! This fully remodeled 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom trilevel oasis offers 2,257 square feet of luxurious living. Step inside to discover new LVP flooring and plush carpeting that flow seamlessly through each space. The kitchen and bathrooms boast sleek new counters and appliances, bringing a fresh, modern feel to every corner. Outside, enjoy Arizona living at its best with a fully landscaped yard, complete with lush new grass turf in both the front and back. And don't miss the sparkling, brand-new pool - perfect for relaxing or entertaining, with all-new equipment ensuring years of enjoyment. This home has it all, from contemporary upgrades to an inviting layout. Tour today and experience this Mesa gem firsthand!

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