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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14196 W Gray Fox Trail Surprise, AZ 85387

$565,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,444 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6780943

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this beautifully maintained home in the sought-after community Rancho Mercado! Situated on a premium corner lot. The spacious interior features a large living room w/ separate dining area, perfect for entertaining. The chef's kitchen boasts stylish gray cabinetry, granite countertops, modern backsplash, gas cooktop, & walk-in pantry. A convenient laundry room w/ cabinetry & an added sink enhances functionality. Step outside to a private, landscaped yard complete with pavers, lush plants, & artificial turf. The built-in grill and stone fireplace provide an ideal space for outdoor gatherings. Additional highlights include a 3-car garage for ample storage & parking, plus the benefit of living in a close-knit community that offers parks, walking paths, basketball/volleyball courts.

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5100 E Rancho Paloma Drive Unit 2077 Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$565,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,990 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6673934

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

MOTIVATED SELLER -OPEN TO RATE BUYDOWN! Experience the ease of condo living! This like new property is perfect for a primary or second home. A perfect pied-a-terre if you travel to the city for business frequently. Expansive, open layout provides multiple design opportunities. Kitchen with island, Tiled-to-the-Ceiling backsplash, LG Refrigerator that pops out those perfect round ice spheres and a spacious patio make entertaining delightful. Bedrooms are split for privacy, with the guest room enjoying an en-suite bath. The primary bedroom carries off a king bed, large nightstands & still has room for seating. The primary bath has a light, bright ambience with upgraded LED Lighting. Walk in Shower, dual sinks, and extra storage - nd just beyond is the walk-in closet of your dreams. Punctuated with encaustic tile in the laundry and entry, with custom window coverings throughout, this stylish home needs nothing. Schonbek modern crystal pendant lighting, Modern Forms kwall sconce and ceiling fans are all in place. Enjoy the mountain views from the living and dining room, sunsets and sunrises from the patio, overlooking the central common grounds and pool. Patio is oriented for maximum shade. This location is quiet, away from traffic noise. it's a short walk to enjoy the spa, pool or workout facility. Just steps to your private, 2 car garage. What are you waiting for? The Mirror in Guest Bath doesn't convey, but like styles can be found online. Washer and Dryer negotiable. Listing Agent is a friend of Seller. Also available as rental under MLS 6720915

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280 S Evergreen Road Unit 1333 Tempe, AZ 85288

$565,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

1,853 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6693190

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Very rare 4 bedroom, 3.5-bathroom townhouse in Villagio at Tempe offers a spacious and versatile layout, perfect for families , investment or for those who value extra room for guests or home offices. The LARGEST floor plan at 1853SF. 2-car garage adds convenience and storage space. Its rarity within the community, with the last 4-bedroom hitting the market three years ago, highlights its desirability and potential for investment or long-term residency. Owners replaced the areas with rugs and installed Luxury vinyl flooring, freshly painted , new window blinds.

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9854 W Ross Avenue Peoria, AZ 85382

$565,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,828 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6678518

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome Home! This 4-bed, 2-bath home sits on a huge 15,284 Sq. Ft. lot! The home offers vaulted ceilings, a freshly painted interior, tile and laminate flooring throughout. Be greeted upon entry to a gracious amount of living space. The owner's suite boasts a walk-in closet and private bathroom offering dual sinks with a separate shower and tub. The eat-in kitchen features granite countertops, a breakfast bar, stainless steel appliances and plenty of natural lighting. Make your way out back to an above ground hot tub and a SPARKLING PEBBLE FINISH POOL entirely resurfaced in 2022. Relax comfortably under the paved and extended covered patio. Here you will be conveniently located just minutes from Peoria's most popular shopping, dining and entertainment spot

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19403 N Ponderosa Court Surprise, AZ 85387

$565,000

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,300 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6772861

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

CHARMING MISSION MODEL WITH GREAT CURB APPEAL. HOME FEATURES STACK STONE FRONT, FRESHLY PAINTED EXTERIOR AND COATED WALKWAY. 2.5 GARAGE, NEWER HVAC, NEWER HOT WATER HEATER, NEW 6080 SLIDING PATIO DOOR JUST TO NAME A FEW UPDATES. PREMIER LUXURY KITCHEN-GRANITE COUNTERS, CHERRY CABINETS, CROWN MOLDING , SLIDE OUT SHELVES, UPPER LIGHTING, SOLAR TUBE, ELECTRIC COOK TOP, BAY WINDOW IN KITCHEN NOOK AND PRIMARY BEDROOM. GREAT ROOM CUSTOM FAUX STONE MEDIA WALL,,ACCENT LIGHTING. LUXURY PRIMARY BATHROOM WITH SOAKING TUB AND SHOWER STALL. OFFICE/FLEX ROOM NO BUILT-INS SO YOU CAN DESIGN. FLOORING IS TILE, NEW LAMITE FLOORS & CARPET. PATIO COVERED AND EXTENDED WITH FLAGSTONE.

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11995 E Pivot Peak -- Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$565,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,230 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6699719

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

3 car tandem garage w/ 8' door & lots of storage! 3 bed 2.5 bath energy efficient house in Master-planned community of Peralta in Gold Canyon. Immaculate w/ countless upgrades! Chef's kitchen features gas cooktop, maple cabinets w/ double roll-out shelves & soft-close drawers, granite counters, pendant lights & walk-in pantry. Every bedroom has walk-in closets w/ extra shelves. Upgrades include: 36'' vanities, fixtures, ceiling fans, tile throughout, extra storage area, dedicated laundry room, extended covered patio & more! Low maintenance yard w/ storage shed. Community parks, pickleball & basketball courts, covered picnic area w/ grill, corn hole, horseshoes, fire pits under twinkle lights, walking trails, children's play area. Peralta Trails Elementary School is in the community.

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15829 N 168th Avenue Surprise, AZ 85388

$565,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,873 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6715613

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning two-story residence offering 5 spacious bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms, situated on a large cul-de-sac lot. This home combines elegance with functionality. Dramatic ceilings and decorative archways add a touch of sophistication & grandeur to the living spaces and the host of modern amenities. Enjoy elegant gatherings in the formal living & dining rooms. The kitchen is a chef's delight, featuring ample counter space, modern appliances and opening to the family room, perfect for relaxing while socializing with the cook! Durable & stylish laminate flooring runs throughout the home, except for the stairs, providing an easy-to-maintain living environment. A convenient bedroom & full bathroom on the ground floor offer flexibility, Transferable Home Warranty in place! for guests, in-laws, or a home office. Upstairs and away from the downstairs activity, is the spacious primary suite, offering a private retreat with plenty of room for a sitting area or home office. The en-suite bathroom features double sinks, a separate shower and a luxurious soaking tub, perfect for unwinding after a long day. A large walk-in closet provides abundant storage for all your wardrobe needs. The home is situated on a generous cul-de-sac lot providing a private and spacious outdoor area with a heated pool and spa for relaxation or hosting outdoor gatherings.

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36038 N Puente Alto Avenue San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

$565,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,769 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6717592

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning home that will deliver perfection to any buyer. Home is upscale and the sellers did many upgrades after moving into the property including glass and iron front door, upgraded springs on garage door, upgraded all appliances in property. landscaping is immaculate with fencing around property, travertine tile on patio and front entryway, electric screen enclosure on patio installed, cabinets painted, ventilation system installed. Back porch fireplace is perfect. Quiet location with privacy has a greenbelt in the back of home. Mountain views are amazing. Home is amazing please get this one while it is available.

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22663 E Rosa Road Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$565,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,165 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6722640

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Charming home nestled in the lovely Spur Cross Community located on a corner lot next to a small green belt area. Don't miss this opportunity to have a home within a home! Gen Suite with separate exterior entrance, living area, kitchenette, bedroom and full bath. Home has additional 3 bedrooms, Great room, Kitchen Island, 42in upper Cabinets, Shutters throughout. Back yard includes covered patio, pavers and turf! Clean and move in ready!

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1723 E Windsong Drive Phoenix, AZ 85048

$565,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,080 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6736870

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This two story 4-bed, 2.5-bath home is located in the Ahwatukee Foothills. The prime location offers an idyllic backdrop for relaxation and leisure. The fresh interior, high ceilings, ample windows create an airy and bright feel. Enjoy the comfort of the backyard with the built-in pool. Noteworthy enhancements done in 2024 include new roof, water heater, stove, showers and vanities in both bathrooms, pool resurfacing, carpet, quartz countertops, interior paint, blinds, fixtures, and landscaping. Situated within the esteemed Kyrene School District, renowned for its exceptional educational opportunities, and in close proximity to The Foothills Golf Club, this property offers access to top-tier amenities and recreation, catering to a lifestyle of sophistication and convenience.

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1631 N Lynch -- Mesa, AZ 85207

$565,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,753 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6740039

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Tucked away in the serene community of Montecita at Mountain Bridge, this residence is charming throughout. With three spacious bedrooms and two well-appointed baths, the split floorplan gives everyone the space they need - all located on a premium lot with no neighbors behind. The private pool with water feature calls to you from the backyard oasis for the perfect cool-off - any day, any time. Community amenities galore, and less than 20 minutes' drive to Valley airports, Saguaro Lake, Canyon Lake & the Salt River as well as hiking trails and mountains everywhere you look. You'll find so many amazing opportunities for enjoying life in the Valley of the Sun here.

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11 E Irene Street Pearce, AZ 85625

$565,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,384 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6743046

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Approaching this beautiful, well maintained, Santa Fe style home sitting on 2.4 acres with fabulous views of the Dragoon Mountains, the first thing you will see are 18 pistachio tree. Entering the home you see a large great room from which you can walk out onto the covered patio with views of the Chiricahua Mountains. The large kitchen comes with granite countertops and an abundance of cabinet space. Step down into the main dining room featuring gorgeous Texas mesquite hardwood floors. The large main bedroom has an attached bath with walk in shower. This horse property includes a 48'x36' barn with 4 stalls, bathroom w/ shower and an additional 48'x12' of covered hay storage. The horse pasture is surrounded by electric fencing. Add to this a greenhouse with irrigation of sprinklers.

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