There’s a lot of flexibility and personal freedom associated with self-employment that can be a great benefit to your lifestyle and your pocketbook. However, because of the somewhat unpredictable nature of self-employment, it can make acquiring a mortgage a little more difficult. If you’ve recently become self-employed or have been in the game for a while, here are some things you may want to consider before submitting your mortgage application.
Putting More Money Down
20% is often considered the magic number when it comes to the down payment because this will allow you to avoid homeowner’s insurance. However, if you’re self-employed, you may want to consider putting even more money down as this will more strongly signify to lenders that you’re prepared for home ownership and in control of your finances. While your down payment will provide you with equity instantly, a higher payment will also lower your monthly cost and make your finances even more secure from month to month.
Minimizing Your Debt
The amount of debt a potential homeowner has can adversely affect any mortgage application, but in the event you’re self-employed, a high debt load means even more money is being paid out of a salary that is not necessarily predictable. By paying off the debts you can before applying for your mortgage, you’ll be able to invest that much more of your hard-earned money into your monthly payment without breaking the bank and cutting monthly expenditures.
A History Of Self-Employment
Being self-employed means you’ll have more to prove to your lender, but if you have a spotty self-employment history and long periods without bringing in any income, this will make it even harder. Instead of jumping into the mortgage market soon after becoming self-employed, try and have at least two years of successful self-employment behind you. By being able to prove this, the lender will see that you’re a solid financial bet and an experienced professional who will be able to find work when it’s required.
The nature of being self-employed and the fluctuations in income that can come along with it can make a mortgage lender nervous. However, by having a solid history of self-employment behind you and minimizing your debt load, you’ll be able to prove to the lender that you’re serious about home ownership.
If you have further questions, I’m self-employed and have some tips and tricks to share. Â Give me a call – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.
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31006 W 213th Lane
Wittmann, AZ 85361
$624,900
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,100
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6727483
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
60 DAYS & DONE - You don't want to miss this turnkey single-level home offering a 3-car Tandum and a Full RV Garage! Get an up-close look to discover a captivating open floor design filled with bountiful natural light, high ceilings, lovely flooring, soothing palette, recessed lighting, a cozy fireplace, and sliding glass doors to the patio. Prepare gourmet meals in the impeccable kitchen boasting shaker cabinetry with crown molding, beautiful counters, a convenient pantry, and a large island w/a breakfast bar. Owner's suite is a true retreat, providing a private bathroom and a sizable walk-in closet. The secondary bedroom enjoys a walk-in closet too. Sit back & relax under the covered patio while drinking your favorite drink! Contract now and put your personal touch on your new home
9023 S Dean Road
Buckeye, AZ 85326
$624,900
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,148
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6762884
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This Stunning, Custom 4BD/2BA plus office/den Home features 2,148 sq ft of Gorgeous, living space situated on a Huge lot! Enjoy the breakfast bar, ample, custom cabinetry w/lots of counter space in this Amazing, chef's kitchen, w/custom stone backsplash & under-mount cabinet lighting. Luxurious LED fixtures enhance the home's ambiance, while the Luxury, Spa-like bathroom features custom tile, a rain shower head, & water jets! Eco-friendly w/paid-off solar panels! & a sediment filtration system! this home is stylish & sustainable. The wood-like, tile flooring throughout and with no HOA, you have freedom & flexibility. Spacious 3-car, side-entry garage & dedicated, fenced-in dog run, complete this perfect modern oasis in the desert! You have to see this one to believe it!
2055 W Edgemont Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85009
$624,900
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,061
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6764540
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Exquisitely updated 3 bedroom 2 bathroom private gated backyard and garage access corner lot. beautiful timeless finishes and well maintained property., no maintenance backyard with artificial turn and putting green
936 N Roadrunner Road
Apache Junction, AZ 85119
$624,900
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,592
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6778347
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover this beautifully updated and meticulously maintained home on a spacious 1.25-acre lot, featuring breathtaking views of the Superstition Mountains! As you enter, you'll be welcomed by soaring wood-beamed ceilings, creating a grand sense of space. The bright Great Room, complete with a cozy wood-burning fireplace, seamlessly flows into an open-concept kitchen - perfect for gatherings and relaxation. The kitchen is a showstopper with stunning quartz countertops, designer cabinetry, and sleek stainless steel appliances. Unwind on the serene covered patio, designed for ultimate comfort and enjoyment. Additional upgrades include smart shades, a smart thermostat, a CCTV security system, and a separate mini-split heating and cooling unit for the back room. Ideal for RV enthusiasts, the property also features a large covered parking structure. This home is truly a rare find!
12810 S 209th Lane
Buckeye, AZ 85326
$624,900
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,983
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6778549
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Very well kept 2017 home on 1 ac of ready to bring the horses & toys fenced property with no HOA! Interior updates include large rooms, tile flooring, kitchen bay window, granite counters & island, R/O & water softener, ceiling fans, newer blinds & carpet in bedrooms, surround sound wiring in LR & Patio. Exterior security doors, extended back covered patio & fenced newer play pool with travertine & water feature. Back grass area with timed sprinklers, large 3 car garage with cabinets & parking slabs. Even a horse arena & open-air shade structure with 5 covered horse pens & room for hay, 3 RV gates, trailer parking & 50 amp RV plug. Back area includes large top-rail pipe fencing. Riding trails are less than 1/2 mile away, don't miss this great home!
16814 S 37th Way
Phoenix, AZ 85048
$624,900
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,458
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6777415
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Come check out this beautiful Spanish style home, with a southwestern flare lies in the desirable LAKEWOOD area of Ahwatukee. Near highly rated schools, as well as dining/shopping and freeway close makes this a winner before you even step inside! Once inside you'll notice so many great features like high and vaulted ceilings, a rare wood burning fireplace, fireplace in spacious primary bedroom, enclosed sun room addition (permitted), tons of storage and so much more. Fun fact...this was one of the original model homes, which is why it has such a large lot! Speaking of lot, the inviting backyard has a sparkling pool, mature trees, turf and the perfect environment for entertaining. Come tour this unique beauty today!
6750 W Via Montoya Drive
Glendale, AZ 85310
$624,900
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,539
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6756139
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Spacious 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home with over 2,500 sqft of living space! This inviting property boasts a generous floor plan featuring tile and wood flooring in high-traffic areas. The chef's kitchen is a culinary enthusiast's dream, offering abundant cabinet space, a large island with pendant lighting, high ceilings, stainless steel appliances, and large pantry int laundry room. The primary bedroom provides ample room with an en suite featuring dual sinks, a separate stand-in shower, and a walk-in closet. Vaulted ceilings and a great room add to the home's open, airy feel. Step outside to a covered patio, ample backyard space with cozy seating areas, and an outdoor fireplace perfect for entertaining. Plus, enjoy the convenience of a 3-car garage. Don't miss out on this gem!
2099 S Mountain View Road
Apache Junction, AZ 85119
$624,900
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,940
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6787145
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Views Views Views! This home sits at the base of the Superstition Mountains and has unobstructed views. Amazing home on over an acre. Vaulted ceilings in the main living room. Chefs kitchen with a custom built hood over the range. Master bedroom has mountain views from the windows. Updated bathrooms with new cabinets, flooring and fixtures. Master bedroom has a private exit out to the backyard to the spa. The possibilities are endless with this vast open space, providing room for all your toys, boats, trucks, and RVs. Conveniently located a mile from the freeway! Come see this one of a kind property.
4730 S Emery --
Mesa, AZ 85212
$624,900
5
Beds
4
Baths
3,937
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6670989
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
* Check out this NEW List Price! * This 5-bedroom 4 bath home that is priced to sell today. The main floor boasts both family and living rooms, an eat in kitchen with large island and walk in pantry. An oversized bedroom and a full bath are conveniently located on this main floor. There is a separate garage next to this room making a private entrance for the new homeowner. There is a large loft area upstairs which provides limitless possibilities. The over-sized primary suite is perfect for a stay-at-home vaca including a remodeled bathroom and sitting area. Don't miss the huge walk-in closet. The backyard is secluded and has mature trees that offer shade and lots of room to play or just relax.
1728 N 156th Drive
Goodyear, AZ 85395
$624,900
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,916
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6729548
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover Your Dream Home in Palm Valley! Professional home inspection already completed!!!! Welcome to your new haven! This stunning, highly upgraded home in Palm Valley is a true gem, offering over $160k in luxurious enhancements. Perfectly situated close to all the vibrant attractions the Goodyear area has to offer, this home is designed for those who seek both comfort and sophistication. Key Features: Spacious Living: With 4 bedrooms and an additional 12x18' (approximate) flex room, this home offers ample living space. The large flex room with custom barn doors is perfect for an office, media room, or playroom. Elegant Interiors: Enjoy the beauty of 12x24'' plank tile flooring and 10' ceilings throughout the home. MORE ... Gourmet Kitchen: The heart of the home features oversized granite countertops, double ovens, a gas cooktop, abundant cabinet space, a walk-in pantry, and stainless steel appliances (including a new dishwasher, disposal, and microwave). The large dining nook with padded bench seating for 12 is perfect for entertaining or large gatherings. Luxurious Master Suite: The master retreat boasts bay windows, a master bath with a tiled shower, a double full-mirrored door to the closet, an oversized tub, granite counters with double sinks, and a custom-designed walk-in closet. Thoughtful Layout: A split floor plan ensures privacy with 2 additional bedrooms featuring walk-in closets and a connected Jack & Jill full bath. Functional Spaces: The laundry room offers ample counter space and cabinetry. Two solar skylight tubes brighten the front entry and living space. A metal security front door adds an extra layer of safety. Garage & Driveway: The garage includes a 2-foot extension, epoxy flooring, ceiling storage racks, an extended paver driveway, and custom cabinetry. Desert oasis on an Expansive Lot: Nestled on a large 10,000+ square foot fully landscaped corner lot in a cul-de-sac, across from a large park. Backyard Paradise: Ideal for entertaining, the backyard features an above-ground hot tub, a spacious covered patio, travertine decking, paver sidewalks, a raised garden area, gas stub, solar and custom lighting, an oversized gate, and a two steel cactus including a saguaro cactus that light up at night. This home is meticulously designed to pamper its new owners both inside and out. Some furnishings may be available for purchase outside of closing. Don't miss the chance to make this exquisite property your own. Step into your dream home today!
23625 N Bridle Way
Florence, AZ 85132
$624,900
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,556
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6715194
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Step into this breathtaking semi-custom home situated on a sprawling 1-acre lot with horse privileges and an impressive 30'W x 48'L shop, ideally located in a sought-after NO HOA community. Boasting 4 bedrooms and 2 ½ baths, this residence exudes elegance with its vaulted ceilings, inviting fireplace, and a generous open concept living/dining area adorned with plantation shutters. The expansive gourmet kitchen is a culinary masterpiece, featuring white cabinets, stunning black blizzard granite countertops, a pantry, and a spectator bar with seating. Sleek black fingerprint-resistant stainless steel appliances and ambient under-cabinet and over-cabinet lighting complete the kitchen's allure. Two luxurious primary bedroom suites offer comfort and space, while one suite features features an oversized ceiling fan for added relaxation. A dedicated laundry room includes a front-load washer and dryer for convenience. Outdoors, indulge in the 12' x 67' covered patio and an extended 3-car garage with on-slab parking for 6+ vehicles. Enjoy year-round comfort with sunscreens, security doors, and ceiling fans throughout. For seamless outdoor entertaining, discover a detached 28' x 20' covered patio equipped with a built-in BBQ grill, sink, and refrigerator. Access to the property is secured by two sets of double gates and a walk gate from the street, with an additional walk gate along the back fence leading to a natural wash bordered by lush foliage, ensuring unparalleled privacy. This remarkable property epitomizes space, privacy, and convenience in a desirable community without HOA restrictions. Don't miss this extraordinary opportunity!
3128 E Cheryl Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85028
$624,900
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,195
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6734743
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
Built in 2019, lock & leave, ready to move in, Mountain views & a convenient location to so much, what more could you ask for? Artisan Duette is a TH community (which lives & feels like SF home because of the construction) of 22 homes that are tucked away in the Phoenix Mountain Preserve neighborhood &close to the 51. This fabulous home features 4 bedroom (plus loft), 3 bathrooms & 2 car garage. 1bd/ba downstairs. Light & bright w/ 9' & 10' ceilings, 5'' baseboards, smooth textured walls, modern lighting etc. are just some of the upgrades. A chefs kitchen w/ tons of storage, SS appliances, pull out drawers in pantry, quartz counters & spacious island opening to the living areas. 10' sliding doors open to low maintenance covered patio & yard w/ private gate to dog park/greenbelt & pool Coffee spots, dining, pet stores, grocery, pharmacy, auto services, shopping etc...are within walking distance. The new PV Mall, Trader Joes, Costco etc... are nearby. You will want to live here!!