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

20251 W Catalina Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$584,990

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,456 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6747889

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

QUICK MOVE-IN HOME! MOVE INTO YOUR NEW HOME BEFORE THE HOLIDAYS! SPECIAL FINANCING WITH BELOW MARKET INTEREST RATES AVAILABLE! MOVE-IN PACKAGES AVAILABLE! PLEASE INQUIRE ABOUT THESE SPECIALS ON THIS QUICK MOVE-IN HOME AND OTHERS. ACT SOON BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE! It's the Amethyst floor plan with 3 bedrooms + study, 3 full baths and 3 car garage. Pavers at drive, walk and entry. Large walk in shower at owner's bath. 12x8 sliding glass door that leads out to your extended covered patio. Sonoma maple Linen-off white cabinets with hardware in kitchen with 42'' kitchen uppers and pull out trash drawer with two bins. AZT Tawny Quartz countertops in kitchen and at the enhanced island. Kitchen sink is a black under mount single bowl sink. 8' tall interior doors. Upgrade flooring includes Beaumont Olmo 7x24 plan tile in all areas of the home except bedrooms and closets. Dual sink at bath 2. Soft water loop, gas stub for future BBQ. Please verify information with onsite agent. Thank you!

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3438 E Betsy Lane Gilbert, AZ 85296

$584,990

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,909 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6739064

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Now with a strategic price adjustment—this opportunity is too good to pass up! This move-in-ready 4-bedroom beauty in Higley Park won't last long! The versatile floor plan offers THREE EXTRA living spaces—ideal for a den, home office, or cozy loft—giving you endless options to suit your lifestyle. The sellers have meticulously prepared this home, and it shows. With fresh paint, a new AC unit, and abundant storage, this home combines comfort, style, and functionality. You'll love the expansive primary suite featuring a grand bedroom, luxurious bathroom, and an oversized walk-in closet that's truly a must-see. Step outside to enjoy tree-lined streets, parks, walking trails, and a refreshing community pool. Located just a short stroll from Agritopia and Gilbert's Epicenter, where fantastic dining and shopping await. With close proximity to Loop 202, San Tan Mall, and excellent schools, this location is unbeatable. Take advantage of this newly priced gem tour today and make it yours!

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262 S 164th Drive Goodyear, AZ 85338

$584,990

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,510 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6754928

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

QUICK MOVE-IN HOME! MOVE INTO YOUR NEW HOME BEFORE THE HOLIDAYS! SPECIAL FINANCING WITH BELOW MARKET INTEREST RATES AVAILABLE! MOVE-IN PACKAGES AVAILABLE! PLEASE INQUIRE ABOUT THESE SPECIALS ON THIS QUICK MOVE-IN HOME AND OTHERS. ACT SOON BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE! It's the Jade floor plan with 4 bedrooms all with walk in closets. 3 full baths. Everything is large in this home. Lot large enough for an 8' gate. Large owner's entry (mud area) as you walk in from the 3 car garage. Multi slide door off the spacious great room. Owner's bath has a large walk in shower with tile surrounds and floor. Pavers at drive, walk and entry. Stainless steel gas appliance package with 30'' cooktop, wall oven, microwave, canopy hood. Barnett painted Boulder cabinets. AZT Hana Sky quartz countertops at kitchen and expanded kitchen island. Dual sinks at bath 3. DT Broxburn gray 6x24 plank tile in all areas of the home except closets and bedrooms. Dual sinks at bath 3. Please verify all information with onsite agent. Thank you!

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4827 Raven Circle Happy Jack, AZ 86024

$584,950

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,760 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6674098

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful log cabin located in Happy Jack, escape the heat and busyness of your life. This great home sits on an acre with pines, oaks and junipers, great 3/4 wrap covered composite deck. Main floor has beautiful hardwood floors, vaulted ceiling, great brick fireplace, master bedroom/bath, office/den or extra living area, great room and an amazing kitchen and dining area. Great wood plank stairs lead upstairs to 2 bedrooms, bath and a great cozy playroom for the kids. This custom home offers many upgrades on the kitchen cabinets, windows, wood beams and more. You will fall in love sitting inside looking at the great interior or sitting on the covered patio watching the wildlife and listening to the peacefulness of Happy Jack. Bring your buyers, motivated seller.

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16006 W Electra Lane Lane Surprise, AZ 85387

$584,930

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,229 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6764927

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

New home ready for immediate occupancy! This single level 2225 SF single level 3 BR, 3. BA home is located on a north south facing home site. Surrounded by single level homes, no 2 stories. Exciting included features include white cabinets, upgraded granite tops, tile Kitchen backsplash, plank tile on the floors, 10' ceilings, 8' interior doors, 3 car garage, gourmet kitchen, garage service door, tank less water heater, Front Yard landscape, and so much more. Neighborhood includes, tree lined streets, Community Aquatic Center, Picleball Courts. Certified Energy Star and Indoor Air Plus for more energy savings.

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1300 W 7th Street Tempe, AZ 85281

$584,900

6 Beds

4 Baths

2,441 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6733783

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

**AMAZING 6bd/4bath HOME ON A HUGE LOT IN THE HEART OF TEMPE & NEAR ASU!** This is the perfect investment or rental property! Featuring: 2441 sq.ft of Living Space, Fresh Interior Paint, easily maintained Tile, Formal Living Room, Massive Family Room, Dining Area, Kitchen with Refinished Cabinets, Gas Stove, Refrigerator & Dishwasher, 6 Good Sized Bedrooms, 4 bathrooms (1 Newly Remodeled)+ A HUGE FLEX ROOM (potential 7th bedroom), Upgraded Dual Pane Windows, Custom Fans & AC is serviced regularly. Washer/Dryer & additional Refrigerator included. Flex Room at the back of the home also has separate entry. The Giant Family Room is perfect for a large game room/office/home theater and has 2 additional closets for extra storage. NO HOA, perfect for AIRBNB, Rental or a Large Family Home! This home is perched on almost a 10,000sf lot and has and additional storage shed on a slab in the backyard that provides tons of extra storage space. Your extended driveway has enough slab spaces in the front to park at least 7 cars. Location is walking distance from Mill Ave shops and restaurants/entertainment + ASU! This is a must see property!!!

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26964 N 104th Lane Peoria, AZ 85383

$584,900

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,605 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6733026

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to Northlands Encore in North Peoria, the best value for the money in the area, where the skies are bigger and the sunset glow fills the sky with radiant pink, orange, and purple. Step outside every morning and view the beautiful Calderwood Butte out your front door, with private backyard mountain views and the trail head right down the street, you'll get the full enjoyment of this very special home in an extraordinary community. Step inside this move-in ready 2-story Amethyst Model by Taylor Morrison, with over 2605 sq. ft. of living space, 4 BED + LOFT + 3 BATH, and a 2 CAR temp controlled garage. NEW CARPET was just installed in the living room and throughout the entire 2nd level! The main level features an open concept main living area, light and bright neutral color pallet throughout, white trim, blinds, and doors. Convenient main-level bedroom and full bath, currently used as a home gym. Open concept kitchen and dining area with light gray tile floors, can-lighting, contrasting twilight cabinets, dark gray granite countertops and island, a stainless steel GE appliance package, and a walk-in pantry for all your storage needs. The upper level features a large open loft, which can be used as another living space, office, or game area. Master suite with full master bath, featuring a tub and shower combo, double sinks, and a walk-in closet. Split floor plan with 2 additional bedrooms and a full bathroom. Step out back and take a deep breath, with no back neighbors and beautiful mountain views. Large, brick paver covered patio w/fan, outdoor kitchen w/ serving area for dining outdoors, centered green space with a play area to the side. SOLAR will be paid at closing! Neighborhood and property mountain views, close proximity to 303 freeway access, shopping, dining, entertainment, health care, and less than 20 min. away from beautiful Lake Pleasant Regional Park. A list of full updates available in the documents tab, there truly is nothing to do except move in.

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8190 N Bel Air Road Casa Grande, AZ 85194

$584,900

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,959 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6765429

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

The home boasts 3 large bedrooms with lighted closets and 2.5 baths, an open floor plan that includes a great room with vaulted ceilings, dining area & views of the backyard, covered patio and rock fire pit. The kitchen features plenty of granite counter space, pantry, spice cabinet, stainless/black appliances, the fridge and built-in microwave are just over a year old. The oversized laundry room has extra space, lots of cabinets and a half bath. The 2 car attached garage is extended length and has a 220 plug for compressor/welder etc. All has been freshly painted inside and out 7/2023, with a new roof installed on both the home and the workshop 8/2024. There is also a 220 electric RV hook up on the exterior of the home near the RV gate. Behind the RV gate is a large covered parking area and patio off the garage. The detached workshop is 16'X24' with a sub-panel, ample electrical outlets, multiple workbenches, drawers and shelves. All on 2.44 surveyed acres of land with approximately 1 acre cleared and gravel base. There are also multiple water spigots around the exterior of the home for convenience. The home is located approximately 2.5 miles from I10 and just minutes from shopping, dining and entertainment and just a 30 minute drive to Chandler, Gilbert and the East Valley. Property owner is a licensed Realtor.

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8961 W Maui Lane Peoria, AZ 85381

$584,900

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,245 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6759656

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Private lake living, priced way below market value. This home is spacious with beautiful lake views, and with remodeling of cabinets and floors, it will be spectacular. The current owners priced this three bedroom, three bath home, so the new owners can make the changes with their personal design choices. Take a look and imagine making this house not only an excellent investment, but also your beautiful lake front home.

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5265 S Dante Road Mesa, AZ 85212

$584,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,020 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6766105

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Just reduced and priced to sell! Don't miss this upgraded 3 BR, 2 BA home with a den/office in the desirable Bella Villa neighborhood of East Mesa. Situated on a secluded lot w/ mtn views and one neighbor, this home is move-in ready! The exterior features a custom brick paver walkway, beautiful landscaping, and a private backyard oasis. Inside, the open floor plan offers high ceilings, tile floors, new carpet in the bedrooms & ample natural light. The kitchen is a chef's dream with rich mahogany cabinets, granite countertops, a breakfast island, RO water system, walk-in pantry, and stainless-steel appliances. Great room is perfect for entertaining, w/built-in theater wall, pre-wired surround sound, recessed lighting, and plantation shutters. Low rate VA assumable loan available to non vet The master suite includes a bay window, walk-in closet, and private bath. The backyard is a retreat with an extended paver patio, solar-lit walkway, lush grass, and stunning mountain views. Bella Villa offers walking trails, playgrounds, and a dog park. Come experience the perfect blend of modern living and natural beautythis home won't last long!

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4077 S Sabrina Drive Unit 63 Chandler, AZ 85248

$584,900

4 Beds

3 Baths

1,775 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767230

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Discover this lovely 4-bedroom end-unit townhome in the gated community of Echelon at Ocotillo! Enjoy a welcoming front patio with well-laid pavers, perfect for relaxing and watching breathtaking sunsets. The spacious great room boasts high ceilings, a soothing palette, recessed lighting, window blinds, and durable tile flooring. The gourmet kitchen features granite counters, white cabinetry with crown molding, subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, and an island with a breakfast bar. The well-sized primary bedroom offers soft carpeting, an ensuite with double sinks, and a walk-in closet. This smart home also provides fantastic community amenities, including a playground, picnic spots, and a refreshing pool/spa. Make this gem yours today!

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6078 E Southern Avenue Apache Junction, AZ 85119

$584,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,844 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6720211

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Exceptional property nestled on an acre lot, perfect for horse lovers! Near the Superstition Mountains, this BEAUTIFULLY REMODELED home offers breathtaking views & a serene environment. Providing 3 beds, 2 baths, & a 2-car garage. Highly upgraded interior showcases fresh neutral paint, tons of natural light, and wood-look flooring w/carpet in bedrooms. If entertaining is on your mind, you'll love the spacious open layout adorned w/a cozy fireplace! The renewed kitchen boasts SS appliances, quartz counters, recessed & pendant lighting, white shaker cabinetry, and an island w/breakfast bar. Main bedroom has a spotless bathroom w/tiled step-in shower. Relax under the covered patio of your expansive backyard! Plenty of room for parking, gardens, and horse/animal facilities! Move-in ready

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