There 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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2991 S Morningside Lane
Gold Canyon, AZ 85118
$1,340,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,300
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6765021
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Spectacular Superstition Mountain views from gated custom single level home on 1.99 acres. Private oasis features 2019 pool and spa with wave machine/lazy river, baja shelf, fire & water features & stunning stone treatments. This 3331SF energy efficient solar powered home offers 4 bedrooms (one shown as office), 3 baths, 3+ car over-sized garage. Highly upgraded Tuscan Desert design presents acacia, bamboo, travertine flooring, impressive stone fireplace in owner's suite and living room. Gourmet kitchen features expansive granite counters, island, breakfast bar, walk-in pantry & oodles of alder cabinetry. Enjoy truly tremendous Superstition Mountain, city lights, golf course & sunset views from turret observation deck. Generous covered patio boasts built-in barbeque, fridge, bar & misting system. Lovely landscaping includes mature fruit trees orange, grapefruit, lemon, Mexican lime, pomegranate and fig! Raised vegetable garden & 2 irrigation systems. Entire home is solar powered, including solar hot water heater. High tech water filtration system. Private well has 2,000 gallon under-ground storage tank. 2024 & 2021 Trane A/C units. Huge yard is fully enclosed-- half an acre unfenced is privacy buffer or available for new owner projects. No HOA, easy access for all vehicles & toys. 35 minutes to Phx Sky Harbor, close to 5 Gold Canyon golf courses, restaurants & world class hiking. Come experience the ultimate private resort.
36850 N Pfeifer Lane
San Tan Valley, AZ 85140
$1,339,900
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,343
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6745345
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Dive into the luxury of resort-style living with this beautifully designed golf course estate. Enjoy the breathtaking views of lush fairways that provide a serene backdrop, complemented by a spacious outdoor area perfect for relaxation, social gatherings, and enjoying the mountain scenery. The interiors are bright and expansive, featuring high-end finishes. The gourmet kitchen, a dream for those who love to cook, is equipped with quartz countertops and top-of-the-line appliances. The master suite is an opulent retreat with a lavish ensuite bathroom. Additionally, there is another 2 bedrooms, one and a half more bathrooms, and a den, making this home one of the most desirable locations on the course. Encanterra in Queen Creek offers more than just a home—it's a way of life.
9246 W Molly Lane
Peoria, AZ 85383
$1,339,000
5
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,620
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6787211
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This amazing property is located in the highly sought after subdivision of Cibola Vista! Beautiful mature neighborhood with most lots on half acres and a few lots on an acre. This property has the most desirable North facing backyard with a view fence featuring the Lennar Tamarack model. Five full bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms. Room for an office and a game room with a full size pool table or could be used as a formal dining and living area. So many options with this floor plan! Curb appeal begins at the front yard with the extended driveway and an additional paver driveway at the RV gate. Enter through the gated front courtyard into the front door. You will be greeted with amazing mountain views! Outside patio features a two-way fireplace. Great yard for entertaining and a barbeque! Complete with an elevated Ramada located behind the play pool, sport court and a sand volleyball court for endless fun!! Ramada boasts a built-in wet bar, fireplace and a TV.
7563 W Electra Lane
Peoria, AZ 85383
$1,339,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,080
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6647195
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome Home to this BREATHTAKING PROPERTY situated in a quiet Cul-De Sac lot in a prestigious GATED Community!! This HOME is sure to AMAZE You! Immediately upon entering this Well-Designed SPACIOUS Home, you will FALL IN LOVE with the Open Concept Living Space, Boasting ELEGANCE and STYLE throughout. Highlighting a GORGEOUS Kitchen, Well-Equipped with Tons of BEAUTIFUL Cabinets, AWE-STRIKING Granite Countertops, Massive ISLAND, Double Ovens, Stainless Steel Appliances, Built-In Wine Fridge, Eat-In Kitchen and Breakfast Bar with Beautiful Pendant Lighting. The Kitchen Opens to the LIGHT & BRIGHT Great Room where you will Find the Formal Dining Area HIGHLIGHTING a Modern Lighting Fixture, Beautiful Flooring and soaring ceilings. Continue to be IMPRESSED as you enter the Exquisite Owner's Suite. This Spacious bedroom offers a LAVISH En-Suite with Spa Inspired Bath, Beautifully Tiled STEP-IN Shower, STUNNING Staggered Dual Vanities and the Well-Appointed Walk-In Closet. This Home is Perfect for Entertaining or Relaxing Outside. Invite your guests outdoors to Indulge in Relaxation Under the Covered, SUNKEN RAMADA with Built-In BBQ and Fireplace while you Adore the Beautiful low-maintenance Landscaping and Sparkling Pool. Enjoy tons of Garage Space with Additional RV Parking. Close to Shopping, Dining, Freeways, and So Much More!! Hurry to see this one, you are sure to be IMPRESSED!!!
2020 S Pleasant View Drive
Show Low, AZ 85901
$1,335,000
6
Beds
4
Baths
4,503
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6759922
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This luxurious freshly remodeled and updated hideaway nestled in Sierra Pines offers unparalleled tranquility and stunning natural beauty, providing the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Tucked away at the end of a long private driveway, this expansive home is enveloped by mature ponderosa pines, ensuring your peace and privacy. Imagine waking up to breathtaking treetop views and ending your day with stunning sunsets that paint the sky in vibrant hues. With abundant outdoor space, this property invites you to explore and reconnect with nature. Step inside to discover a spacious main level that seamlessly integrates the living, dining, and kitchen areas. Large picture windows fill the space with flowing natural light, bringing the beauty of the outdoors inside. The open kitchen is a chef's delight, featuring a gas stove, stainless steel appliances, gorgeous bamboo hardwood flooring, ample cupboard space, and a huge granite island with custom cabinetry. Whether you're hosting a large gathering or enjoying an intimate dinner, this space is designed for functionality and style. The upper level boasts four bedrooms, each offering serene treetop views, and a spacious loft perfect for relaxation or a home office. A conveniently located laundry room adds to the home's functionality. The lower level is ideal for multi-generational living, with two additional bedrooms, a living area, a guest kitchenette, and a second laundry room, providing comfort and privacy for all. The attached two-car garage, finished with durable waterproof LVP flooring that's offers versatile use as an additional bunkhouse or a standard garage. The beautifully landscaped circular paver driveway enhances the property's curb appeal and functionality. Living in the White Mountains offers a slower pace and cooler temperatures, making it an ideal location for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. Embrace the four-season weather with activities like hiking, biking, and fishing right at your doorstep. Enjoy abundant wildlife viewing opportunities and immerse yourself in the unique landscape that characterizes this region. Despite its secluded feel, this home is just minutes from the amenities of Show Low. Low HOA fees ensure that property values are maintained with minimal expense or hassle, giving you peace of mind and more time to enjoy your beautiful surroundings. OWNER MAY CARRY!
6840 N 13th Place
Phoenix, AZ 85014
$1,335,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,543
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6763871
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Assumable VA loan available! Modern living meets luxury upgrades in this 4/2.5 home located in North Central Phoenix. Built in 2019, this property offers a seamless blend of contemporary design and eco-conscious features, all without the burden of an HOA. The open floor plan highlights clean lines and modern finishes, including finished concrete floors, euro-style cabinets, a redesigned kitchen island with new countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a natural gas cooktop. Expanding on the eco-conscious theme, the property features beautifully designed xeriscape landscaping, complemented by a custom vegetable and herb garden, creating your own personal oasis in both the front and back yards. Sun-blocking window shades and owned solar panels ensure year-round energy efficiency The house boasts 2 beautiful patios, one in front and back, along with a custom veggie/herb garden to round out your outdoor oasis'. Conveniently located near the Midtown Corridor, Arcadia, Biltmore Fashion Square, and Downtown Phoenix, this home offers easy access to top shopping, dining, and entertainment options, as well as major highways for quick commutes. Don't miss the chance to own this thoughtfully designed, move-in-ready home.
9622 W Villa Chula Drive
Peoria, AZ 85383
$1,335,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
3,194
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6772702
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Highly Desirable Home in the Meadows Community built by Toll brothers.This stunning home has been upgraded with attention to every detail.. The backyard is a resort-style retreat, offering a walk-in pool, a beautiful Ramada, and a fully equipped outdoor kitchen. Sliding doors open to this spectacular outdoor space, creating seamless indoor-outdoor living.The state-of-the-art kitchen includes upgraded lighting fixtures, premium countertops, and a wine cellar, making it a chef's dream. This move-in-ready home features vaulted ceilings 4 bedrooms,2.5 bathrooms ,office a versatile media or gym room and amazing lighting .Designed by the owner, a talented designer, every wall reflects love, care, and elegance throughout the house. The furniture and artwork for sale also. A MUST SEE HOME
261 E Bracciano Avenue
San Tan Valley, AZ 85140
$1,335,000
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,242
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6692640
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Stunning elegance, breathtaking expansive elevated golf course views, 3 CAR OVERSIZED GARAGE and this could all be yours... live in the East Valley's premier private golf course community of Encanterra CC. This incredible Create floor plan offers open concept living with 2 primary suites, walk in closets and gorgeous quartz and stone upgrades abound! Luxury vinyl plank flooring, throughout. Separate office, (or can easily convert to 3rd bedroom),open great room with chef's delight, Island kitchen, SS appliances, B/I Sub Zero refrigerator. Automatic shades, triple panels wall of glass allows for indoor/outdoor living!. Enjoy the serene back patio and yard overlooking the #16 tee box and fairway! This is one of Encanterra's premier golf locations!
7466 E Thorntree Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85266
$1,335,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,787
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6738319
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Soft contemporary desert home located on a serene cul-de-sac in The Boulders, featuring sweeping views of Black Mountain. Highly sought after floorplan with several entertaining options, soaring ceilings, zero interior steps throughout. Living spaces are open, bright and spacious featuring hardwood & flagstone flooring. Kitchen with Sub Zero refrigerator flows beautifully into family room with gas fireplace. Primary suite is oversized, offering multiple closets and generous bath. 2 additional guest rooms, one currently being used as an office, round out to property to a full three bedroom, three bath. Lot feels oversized and is adjacent to open space, desert vistas abound as well as patio space for dining al fresco. Sophisticated, imbibed with natural light, this home is a distinct find.
22455 N 55th Street
Phoenix, AZ 85054
$1,330,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,529
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6767304
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
VIEWS!! Better than photos can capture. ALL recent major system updates: HVAC, paint inside & out, gas water heater, whole home H2O filtration, all patios resurfaced, recirculation pump, and new large trees planted. Meticulously maintained home flooded with loads of natural light. Inviting floor plan, separate game room, split primary bedroom includes dual vanities, dual closets & patio access to relax & enjoy colorful sunsets. Unwind in the peaceful backyard w/extended patio which offers built in BBQ and an outdoor dining area. A rare lot with mountain AND golf course views create a resort style experience in your very own backyard.
2524 W Joy Ranch Road
Phoenix, AZ 85086
$1,329,900
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
2,808
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6727091
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover this pristine 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home, barely lived in for four months since its construction, yet enhanced with over $110,000 in luxurious upgrades since move-in. The residence boasts a sprawling 47'x19' RV garage that seamlessly connects to an additional 4-car garage, offering ample space for vehicles and storage. Enjoy the convenience of fully paved access to the property, including an oversized concrete driveway. The property benefits greatly from its location directly across the street from miles of state trust land, which enhances its already amazing views. Inside, the home exudes modern elegance with wood-like tile plank flooring, soaring ceilings, and an open-concept layout ideal for comfortable living. An electric fireplace creates a cozy focal point in the spacious living room, while the large kitchen island invites gatherings with its abundant seating and plenty of cabinet space. A versatile nook provides flexibility for a coffee bar, breakfast area, or window bench. The masterfully designed laundry room includes a practical mudroom area, adding to the home's functionality. Outside, the fully landscaped backyard is a retreat with extensive pavers, artificial turf, and a generously sized covered patio, perfect for outdoor entertaining or relaxation. Privacy is assured by a block wall enclosing the backyard. Conveniently situated directly across from state land, the home offers breathtaking mountain views and easy access to hiking and riding trails. Quick connectivity to the I-17 ensures effortless commuting and access to amenities. This home is perfect for those seeking a move-in ready property.
5837 E Paradise Lane
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
$1,329,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,421
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6780762
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
COMING SOON...one of the best remodels in North Scottsdale with an expected completion date of 11/20/2024. Everything is being remodeled. New flooring, beam through kitchen and living room, kitchen, quartzite countertops, white GE Cafe appliance package, 2 tone cimento cabinets with lighting, all new windows throughout with sliding doors (off kitchen and primary bedroom), lighted bathroom mirrors and custom primary walk-in closet, new interior and exterior paint, new custom garage door, pebbletec pool and cool decking, all new front and back landscaping (artificial grass, string lights, citrus tree, rock), built-in outdoor kitchen, wine bar with 2 wine fridges, tiled living room wall with electric fireplace.