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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1972 W Olive Way Chandler, AZ 85248

$564,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,910 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6744573

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this captivating 3-bedroom, 2-bath residence in Montefino Village! Discover a welcoming living/dining room with high ceilings, a soothing palette, classic plantation shutters on the new Low E windows, and contemporary wood-look flooring. The inviting family room is perfect for gathering loved ones, featuring sliding doors leading to the backyard for seamless indoor-outdoor living. The gourmet kitchen comes with durable tile counters, ample wood cabinetry with crown moulding, recessed lighting, SS appliances, a pantry, and a two-tier island/breakfast bar. The main bedroom offers plush carpeting, an ensuite with dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. The backyard oasis showcases a covered patio and a refreshing pool for cooling down on hot days. This gem will sell fast!

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886 S Avenida Escuela -- Sierra Vista, AZ 85635

$564,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

3,060 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6745314

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

LARGE PRICE REDUCTION!!! Fully remodeled 4 BR 4 BA and 2 car garage. Home is on a large .88 acre lot with landscaping & pecan trees. Large fully covered front porch with beautiful metal door imported from Mexico has serious curb appeal. The back yard is fully enclosed with block walls & large covered patio. interior of the home features new custom tile floors, modern light and plumbing fixtures, fully remodeled kitchen & bathrooms. The windows are new and dual paned. The living room has a see through wood burning fireplace connecting to the dining area. The kitchen has new cabinets with granite countertops, new dishwasher & stove. The master bedroom is good size with two closets and large corner shower. Each bedroom has it's own private bathroom. .

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26990 W Burnett Road Buckeye, AZ 85396

$564,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,961 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6760185

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Delightful 2-bedroom residence on a golf course lot! Be greeted by a 3-car garage, an impeccably designed front yard, & courtyard entry. The inviting family room boasts high ceilings, recessed lighting, a built-in media center, & surround sound speakers. Enjoy gourmet meals in the eat-in kitchen featuring granite counters, staggered cabinets w/crown moulding, stylish backsplash, pendant lighting, built-in appliances, a pantry, built in wine rack & an island w/breakfast bar. The primary bedroom offers an ensuite w/double sinks & walk-in closet. Den with French doors. Spend quiet afternoons in the enchanting backyard boasting a covered patio w/travertine tiles, a built-in BBQ w/dry bar, a warm firepit w/sitting areas, low-maintenance artificial turf & serene golf course views.

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1642 E Monte Vista Road Unit 11 Phoenix, AZ 85006

$564,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,493 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6722277

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

BRAND NEW CONSTRUCTION. This ENERGY STAR® Home is Perfect for the busy professional. Lock & Leave, Maintenance Free, 11 Single-Family Attached 2-story Townhomes. Nestled between Downtown Phoenix & Arcadia, this home is in close proximity to the best restaurants, coffee shops, medical centers, and so much more! Featuring an impressive open layout with abundant natural light and showcasing designer-selected finishes including hard surface flooring, upgraded fixtures and lighting, and a great attention to the details that matter most. The primary bedroom features an immaculate ensuite with quartz dual sinks and walk-in closet. Ask for end of year Incentives!

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17463 N 66th Avenue Glendale, AZ 85308

$563,980

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,832 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6645957

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

FINAL OPPORTUNITY! ** LAST HOME REMAINING * * Mid-Dec 2024 completion. Our last available home in the community, nestled along the scenic Skunk Creek Trail near Arrowhead. Priced affordably with builder incentives for financing. Price includes front yard landscaping. This 3-Bedroom, 2.5 baths and 1832sq ft has no stairs or steps, with a bright, open Great Room and features a wall of sliding doors to the covered patio; Be the envy of your friends and family with this amazing Gourmet kitchen, with oversized island, walk in pantry, 42'' upper cabinets—all open to the Great Room with lots of light!

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10959 E Tupelo Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$563,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,150 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6694537

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Singe level pool home in Bella Via! Neutral paint and flooring in soothing tones is waiting for personal touches! Chef's kitchen with gourmet SS appliances including gas cooktop and wall oven, Expansive quartz island with extended staggered cabinetry Split floorplan is perfect for hosting guests. The spacious backyard with stunning pool is perfect for hosting BBQ's and enjoying the AZ sun! Prime East Mesa location near the 24, shopping and dining! Don't miss out on this one today!

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4886 W Hunter Trail San Tan Valley, AZ 85144

$563,090

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,926 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6780940

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

The perfect blend of functionality comes to life. This stunning home boasts 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, home office, bonus space and walk-in closets, ensuring that there's room for everyone! The island takes center stage, serving as a workspace or a social hub where family and friends can gather. Whether you're preparing a gourmet meal or enjoying a family breakfast, the kitchen is designed to be a culinary haven. Dark Umber cabinets, granite counter tops with a generous amount of wood look tile! Stepping outside, the 3-panel sliding glass door offers an additional living space that seamlessly extends the indoor experience. Each of our homes is built with innovative, energy-efficient features designed to help you enjoy more savings, better health, real comfort and peace of mind

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41355 N Eliana Drive San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

$563,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,880 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6765240

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Seller may consider buyer concessions if made in an offer. Welcome to this beautifully updated home! The interior boasts a neutral color paint scheme and fresh paint. The kitchen is a chef's dream with an accent backsplash, convenient kitchen island and a walk in pantry for ample space. The primary bathroom is a sanctuary featuring double sinks, a separate tub, and shower. The primary bedroom is complete with a walk-in closet. Outside, enjoy the low maintenance landscaping, a covered patio perfect for entertaining, and a fenced-in backyard for added privacy. The home also features partial flooring replacement. This home is a must-see!e!

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3102 W T Ryan Lane Phoenix, AZ 85041

$563,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,182 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6760028

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Two-Story Home with Large Lot and Loft! Welcome to this stunning two-story home, perfectly situated on a large lot. This spacious 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath residence features an open-concept design ideal for modern living. The main floor boasts a large living room with abundant natural light, a gourmet kitchen with an island and walk-in pantry, and a formal dining area that opens to the backyard. The private master suite is located on the main level, offering a luxurious en-suite bath with a walk-in shower, soaking tub, double vanity, and a spacious walk-in closet. Upstairs, you'll find 3 additional large bedrooms and a versatile loft area—perfect for a second living room, media room, or home office. The expansive backyard is perfect for outdoor entertaining, & room for a pool and more...

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2738 N 217th Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85396

$562,997

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,997 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6748415

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This is a to be built home -- 6/7 months build time. Welcome to your 3-bed, 2.5-bath home with a 3-car tandem garage, located in Sienna Hills next to Verrado, nestled on The White Tank Mountains for privacy and views. With a North/South orientation, this energy-efficient home features cutting-edge SPRAY FOAM insulation and an electric car charger outlet. Enjoy granite countertops, a pot filler over the stove, paver driveway, 8' overhead garage door, and a double gate on a 10' side yard for your off-road toys. The 12' sliding glass wall seamlessly connects indoor and outdoor living. HOA dues include a pool, jacuzzi, clubhouse, and gym!

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7 E La Vieve Lane Tempe, AZ 85284

$562,900

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,794 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6768838

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Two bedrooms and Den - Completely re-done and in excellent condition. Small yard to take care of. Dual pane windows - Almost new A/C unit top of the line* Kitchen and baths have been upgraded - Roll in Shower in Master Bathroom* Kitchen is to die for* Refrigerator, washer & dryer included. Ready to move in. Bright, cheery and vaulted ceilings Community Pool in Warner Ranch for your enjoyment and closed to all freeways, restaurants and shopping. Come look....

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4656 E Laredo Lane Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$562,500

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,314 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6775740

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

No detail was overlooked in this immaculate and lovingly maintained - BETTER THAN NEW - single-level home in the highly sought-after, gated Dove Valley Ranch! Surrounded by desert preserve, this three-bedroom home features mountain views, an open-concept floor plan, and low-maintenance, worry-free living. Interior features include neutral tile flooring throughout, granite countertops, a gas stove, a renovated primary bathroom, plantation shutters, vaulted ceilings, and more. Step outside to find manicured desert landscape, a covered patio, and unparalleled views of surrounding mountain vistas and natural area open space. Beyond your new home, enjoy one of North Phoenix's finest public golf courses, a clubhouse bar/lounge, and easy access to first-rate schools, parks, hiking, & more. Roof 2019, HVAC 2015, water heater 2016, whole-home water filtration system... the list of thoughtful updates goes on. Come see your new home today!

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