Understanding ‘Disposable Income’ and How This Will Impact Your Mortgage Approval

Understanding 'Disposable Income' and How This Will Impact Your Mortgage ApprovalThere are few things more exciting than finding your ideal home, but with the rising cost of housing, a person’s dream home can often come with a very high purchase price. If you’re wondering how much home you can truly afford and how your cost of living will fare for your mortgage approval, here are some of the details on what you can expect when it comes to finding a home at an affordable price.

What Is Your Debt-to-Income Ratio?

Before deciding if a home is right for you, it’s important to calculate what your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio is to determine how much house you can afford. The debt amount will include any credit cards, existing mortgages and other loan payments that you pay down each month. To determine your maximum monthly payment, multiply your gross income by 0.36 and divide it by 12. This will give you the expenditure of debt, including your housing payment, that you should not exceed each month.

Determining Your Down Payment

There’s a lot of talk around the ideal amount you should put forward for a down payment, but this percentage can directly impact the amount of the house you can afford. If you are able to put down 20% of the purchase price of your home, this means your monthly mortgage payments will be minimized and this will decrease your DTI ratio. While a home may be out of your reach if you can only put 10 or 15% down, 20% down will ensure a higher amount of disposable income on a monthly basis, making your application more feasible.

Determine Your Lifestyle

While a lender may not reject your application outright if your debt-to-income ratio is higher than suggested, it’s important to know what kind of spending choices make sense for you so that you can make your monthly payments. If you have limited expenses above your mortgage and enjoy a Spartan lifestyle, it’s entirely possible that you’ll be able to manage a higher monthly amount. However, if you don’t have stable employment and are struggling each month, it may be a good idea to consider a less expensive property.

The monthly mortgage payment for your dream home may look like it’s manageable on the surface, but if your DTI ratio exceeds what is suggested, there may be issues with acceptance of your application. If you’re currently in the market for a new home, give me a call for more information – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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7492 E Red Bird Road Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$1,450,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
3,117 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6711520
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your oasis in North Scottsdale. On nearly an acre of land with stately trees and a sparkling pool to relax in, this beauty does not disappoint. 3 bedrooms plus an office and a bonus room with storage galore make this home an exceptional find. New flooring, cabinets and a new roof make it even more desirable. Come and enjoy the new dream home ready for you. More updated photos coming soon, but why wait? Come see this beauty today!

3903 E Melody Drive Phoenix, AZ 85042

$1,450,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
4,485 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6748277
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
PRICE ENHANCED! Welcome to your luxurious hillside retreat in the heart of Phoenix, AZ! This 4-bedroom, 4-bathroom masterpiece spans 4,485 square feet and sits on a private, elevated lot, offering panoramic views of downtown Phoenix, Sky Harbor Airport, and the iconic Camelback Mountain. Two Master Suites plus a bedroom and bath on the first level with a huge area that could be a home theater, game room or an additional suite with ground level separate exit. Despite being just minutes from the bustling city and the convenience of the airport, this home provides the feeling of living in the country, as it backs up to the sprawling 1,600-acre South Mountain Park - your very own natural backyard. Imagine waking up to the sight and sounds of amazing wildlife! Beautiful and peaceful desert landscape, with access to miles of scenic trails, this property offers endless opportunities for outdoor exploration, hiking and relaxation, all while enjoying the peaceful privacy that makes this home a true sanctuary. Step inside and be greeted by brand-new luxury vinyl plank floors that flow throughout the home, leading to an expansive great room with a cozy fireplace - the perfect setting for entertaining or relaxing with loved ones. The heart of this home, the kitchen, features White Shaker-style soft-close cabinets, elegant Quartz countertops, and a spacious island, creating the ideal space for culinary creations and family gatherings. This property offers both form and function, with a thoughtful layout that includes formal dining, a bright breakfast nook, and an expansive great room with sweeping views. Tucked away in a small, privately gated neighborhood of custom homes, this property provides exclusivity and tranquility while being just minutes from I-10, downtown Phoenix, and Sky Harbor Airport. Whether you're soaking in the scenic views from the great room, or enjoying the serenity of your natural surroundings, this home is a peaceful, sanctuary-style retreat that offers the best of both worlds - close to the city, but with the tranquility of country living. This property is a rare opportunity to own a slice of Phoenix paradise. Discover the Unexpected in this Architecturally Unique Luxury Home. Step into a world where modern luxury meets bold, unconventional design. This one-of-a-kind property offers a distinctive floor plan that is as functional as it is imaginative, creating an atmosphere of surprise and delight at every turn. With open, flowing spaces and unexpected room layouts, this home invites you to embrace a lifestyle that is anything but ordinary. Each room has been thoughtfully designed to blend style, comfort, and creativity, offering the perfect canvas for those with a flair for the unique. From cozy nooks for intimate gatherings to expansive areas that inspire entertaining, this home offers flexibility and charm unlike anything else on the market. If you value a residence that stands apart, offering character and personality in every corner, this is your chance to own a true architectural masterpiece.

8989 N Gainey Center Drive Unit 114 Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$1,450,000 - 2Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Gainey Ranch, Scottsdale
Open House
$1,450,000
2 Beds
3 Baths
2,282 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6756528
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Experience the Gainey Ranch Lifestyle in this 2 bed with office/den, 3 bath remodeled & expanded floor plan w/ unmatched views of the golf course, lake, mountains, & clubhouse! Great room opens to the wrap-around patio w/ BBQ & stone fireplace, perfect for entertaining. The beautifully remodeled kitchen offers granite countertops, a large island, custom cabinetry, two breakfast bars, & top of the line appliances. The kitchen opens to a custom bar seating area, complete with a 200-bottle wine refrigerator and ample storage. The main level office/den offers privacy for guests w/ full bath, The upstairs master suite features a private balcony, sitting area, walk-in closet, & a spacious bath w/ jacuzzi tub. The upstairs second bedroom & exercise room complete the layout. Enjoy resort-style living with access to sparkling pools, spas, walking trails, & an array of gourmet dining / shopping just steps away. Plus, the world-class Hyatt Regency is right around the corner for the ultimate five-star experience. Don't miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to live in one of Scottsdale's most coveted communities!

28448 N 95th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,450,000 - 3Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Fairways At Troon North, Scottsdale
Open House
$1,450,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,667 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6653166
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Troon North masterpiece of modern luxury! This stunning property boasts a top to bottom extensive remodel, showcasing a crisp, clean, and contemporary style that shines from every angle. The rooftop patio, offers breathtaking 365-degree views of Pinnacle Peak Mountain and the Phoenix valley's evening city lights. Step inside and be impressed by the flawless attention to detail, evoking the feel of a model home. Luxury finishes abound, from the striking multiway fireplace to the elegant entry and lighting. Upgrades include a new roof and walking deck, and Thermador Chef's kitchen appliances, complemented by beautiful Pergo flooring throughout. Unwind in the remodeled Spool area, complete with new equipment, or adventure up the spiral staircase and be in awe of the sonoran desert all around

1606 E Minton Street Mesa, AZ 85203

$1,449,990
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,079 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6747768
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
BACK ON MARKET! Welcome to this NEW stunning 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom residence in the prestigious gated community of Overlook at Forest Knoll! This home offers a breathtaking elevated view capturing the beauty of Camelback Mountain. It greets you with stone accents on the facade, a 3-car garage, a paver driveway, and an RV gate. Discover bright living areas for relaxation and memorable moments with loved ones. Wood-look floors, recessed lighting, upscale ceiling fans, and sliding glass windows that merge indoor and outdoor activities are some features that you'll also adore. Hone your cooking skills in the sleek kitchen showcasing SS appliances with a wall oven, built-in ice maker, quartz counters, built-in ice maker, pristine white cabinets, a walk-in pantry, and a center island... Retreat to the luxurious primary bedroom, a true sanctuary with a lavish ensuite boasting dual sinks, a make-up vanity, a soaking tub, and a generous walk-in closet. Outside, the sizable backyard offers an array of potential for your creative landscaping ideas and tranquil neighborhood views. This gem will sell fast!

3220 W Feather Sound Drive Anthem, AZ 85086

$1,449,975
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,737 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6756314
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Experience the epitome of luxury living in this beautifully updated Anthem Country Club home, boasting a perfect blend of modern convenience and elegant design. Nestled on a prime lot with unobstructed views of both Daisy Mountain and Gavilan Peak, this property offers a serene backdrop that is simply breathtaking. Key Upgrades: •

1724 W Blue Ridge Way Chandler, AZ 85248

$1,449,900
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,952 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784128
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Prepare to be Captivated by this OCOTILLO WATERFRONT Masterpiece! Experience luxury living with 270-degree water views and an impressive 212 feet of shoreline—a rare gem in the heart of Ocotillo. This stunning home boasts exquisite upgrades, from the grand wrought iron front door and cozy fireplace to elegant 2x4 tile flooring and custom wood shutters. The chef's kitchen is designed to impress, featuring a waterfall island and quartz countertops. Freshly repainted, this home extends its charm outdoors with a tranquil Zen garden for ultimate relaxation. This exceptional property and its magical setting offer an unmatched living experience—don't miss your chance to make it yours!

5050 E Charter Oak Road Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,449,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,234 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6775990
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome Home to your custom 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom dream home in a highly sought-after area of Scottsdale with no HOA! This stunning single level property has been fully re-imagined by the design talents of 555 Angel Designs and is now in immaculate, like-new condition. As you enter the home, you'll be greeted by a spacious and open floor plan. The living area features custom wood work and new French doors that flood the space with natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The kitchen is a chef's dream with brand new top of the line appliances, honed quartzite countertops, a large island and custom cabinetry that provide ample space for cooking and entertaining. The adjacent dining area and bar are perfect for hosting dinner parties or casual meals with family and friends. The luxuriously large primary bedroom is a true retreat, boasting a spacious bedroom with plenty of natural light, French doors that lead to patio, a stunning grand ensuite bathroom with a walk-in shower, freestanding tub, seperate vanities and a large walk-in closet. Two additional well sized bedrooms provide plenty of space for family or guests. A large private oasis backyard, with a stunning new private pool, covered patio and new landscaping provide the perfect space for outdoor living and entertaining. This home is just minutes away from shopping, dining, and entertainment, as well as top-rated golf courses, schools and parks. Don't miss this opportunity to own a completely updated and move-in ready home in one of the most desirable areas of the city!

603 N Grapevine Drive Payson, AZ 85541

$1,449,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
4,312 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6666392
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Amazing vista views from all 3 levels of this stately home built by one of Chaparral Pines Guild Builders. A beautiful flagstone entry & foyer welcome you into the stunning great room that features a stately stone fireplace, hardwood flooring, surround sound & is further complemented by an 1,100 sq ft., wrap around deck offering magnificent mountain views! The innumerable upgrades include slate floors in the kitchen & baths, art studio/office, reading loft, master bedroom with its own fireplace & zoned heating & cooling throughout. Truly one of Chaparral Pines' premier luxury, mountain homes.

6105 E Victoria Drive Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$1,449,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,614 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6670789
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Elevated atop Black Mountain, this exceptional property offers breathtaking views encompassing sunsets, mountains, and city lights. Savor these views from multiple balconies or your living room with 24 ft. beamed vaulted ceilings and a cozy electric fireplace. The meticulously remodeled home boasts exquisite details. The kitchen shines with new cabinets, Quartz counters, top-tier appliances, a walk-in pantry, and dual islands. The owner's suite offers spectacular views, a spacious walk-in closet, and a luxurious bath with a soaking tub and walk-in shower. An Arizona room, featuring 4 sliding glass doors, invites you to enjoy sunset dinners before stepping onto the patio with a built-in BBQ. Every corner of this stunning Cave Creek home has been thoughtfully upgraded, making it a true gem.

27221 N 71st Place Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$1,449,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
4,440 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6748322
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover a rare opportunity to own and update a classic North Scottsdale compound with unparalleled potential and value. Nestled on a peaceful cul-de-sac, this expansive property spans over 1.25 acres and boasts no HOA restrictions, making it a truly unique find. Car enthusiasts will appreciate more than 2,400 sq ft of garage space, accommodating up to 7 cars or 5 cars plus an RV. The main residence offers approximately 3,404 sq ft of living space, complemented by a 530 sq ft full casita and a 506 sq ft bonus room—ideal for a home office, gym, art studio, or additional guest accommodations. In all, this property provides around 4,400 sq ft of interior space, with a generous 634 sq ft covered patio overlooking a refreshing pool. Although the home is ready for your personal touches and modern updates, it features solid bones and is appropriately priced, offering a fantastic opportunity to build significant equity or refresh it for a profitable resale. With dual entry points and ample parking for boats, cars, toys, RVs or equipment, this property stands out as a truly one-of-a-kind offering in the current market. Don't miss the chance to make this versatile estate your own!

8565 E Vista Del Lago -- Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,449,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,379 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6766776
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Located in the highly desirable gated community of The Pinnacle North Scottsdale, this luxury property has so much to offer! Featuring abundant natural light, mountain views, soaring ceilings, a fantastic floor plan with spacious bedrooms in the main home and a 3rd inside the casita with separate entrance, new roof and new solar! The minute you enter the community you will feel the tranquility of the unique Rex Short design development. This properties expansive private courtyard showcases wall to wall glass sliding doors that can extend outdoor living and allow an abundance of natural light to flow throughout the home. Situated on a large lot with close proximity to amazing restaurants, shopping, biking / hiking trails, the Pinnacle Peak Country Club and nearby local retail that are within walking distance makes it priceless!

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