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

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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2750 Columbia Lane Overgaard, AZ 85933

$665,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

2,065 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6733313

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover serenity in this stunning home located in a desirable private air park community of northern Arizona. This residence features a chef-like kitchen, elegant wood furnishings, and a versatile loft with a private balcony. Nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac and surrounded by tall pine trees, it offers both privacy and natural beauty. Overgaard is known for its mild summers with relaxing routine monsoon patterns and picturesque winters with white Christmas's! Whether you are looking to hunt, fish, hike, snowboard, ski or just relax on the porch and enjoy the quiet sounds of nature- the possibilities here are endless! Partially furnished and ready for you to move in, this home is the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. Don't miss out on your visit today!

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1934 E Secretariat Drive Tempe, AZ 85284

$665,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,120 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6733514

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Back on market buyer unable to perform. This updated, single-level 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home is an entertainer's paradise, featuring a pebble-tec pool and an expansive covered patio. Discover modern elegance with shaker-style cabinets and granite countertops in the kitchen, along with a tiled backsplash, stainless steel appliances, and a wine refrigerator. The master suite offers a dual fixture shower with a rain head, while the hall bath features a tub/shower combo. Enjoy the private backyard with a sunken brick patio, fireplace, and synthetic grass. This home includes dual-pane low-E windows, a new roof installed in July 2021, and a brand-new AC installed in 2023. Located in the Kyrene School District, this home offers an unbeatable South Tempe location

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8310 E Glenrosa Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$665,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

1,647 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6746177

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Rare opportunity to own a 4 bed, 3 bath home near Old Town Scottsdale!! Fully remodeled kitchen shines as the heart of the home w/ shaker cabinets, quartz countertops, SS appliances, bar stool seating & recessed lighting. Gorgeous wood floors add to the warmth & charm, while black out roller shades add extra privacy & cooling effect in summer. Guest suite features a private entrance, AC, 3/4 bath, kitchenette w/ fridge, sink & cooktop - perfect to use as income producing space such as short term rental, long term rental, office, studio, gym, content studio, bedroom or more! 42' extended covered back patio! Spacious Tuff shed conveys as a workshop, gym, storage or more! Beautiful natural desert landscaping in front w/ irrigation. 5 minutes to Chaparral Park, Scottsdale Fashion Square, Scottsdale Stadium, top restaurants, endless shopping & 101 freeway! 20 minutes to Sky Harbor. Hiking abounds at nearby spots such as Camelback Mountain, Pacana Park, McDowell Mountain.

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1803 E Dava Drive Tempe, AZ 85283

$665,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,245 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6741645

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful Cul-de-sac Tempe home located in a lake community. This 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath home with a loft is immaculate and move in ready! Many recent upgrades and Vaulted ceilings, plantation shutters and neutral ceramic tile flooring in the right places. The large kitchen includes granite counters, island and ss appliances. All 3 bedrooms and a large loft are located upstairs. The primary bedroom features a fully updated showstopper of bathroom including custom barn doors and a walk-in closet equipped with custom cabinetry. Resort style backyard is a dream, and features include an Aluma wood covered patio, high-end travertine that carries out to surround the sparkling Pebble Tec pool with a custom water feature and new equipment. Lastly take a stroll around the community lake a few steps away from the home. Short list of updates: New HVAC in 2022 New kitchen appliances in 2022 New exterior paint in 2022 Remodeled backyard in 2020 including pool resurface, expansion of pergola and custom travertine. All windows including slider replaced in 2020 with Anderson Windows Interior bathrooms fully remodeled in 2019

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1956 W Black Hill Road Phoenix, AZ 85085

$665,000

5 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,648 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6745313

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

The search is finally over! Discover this gorgeous 5-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom residence, complete with a 3-car garage and meticulously maintained front yard. Inside, the living room boasts high ceilings, a soothing palette, blinds for privacy, and stylish wood-look flooring. The great room features a cozy fireplace for relaxing evenings. The gourmet kitchen comes with granite counters, abundant white cabinetry with crown moulding, pendant/recessed lighting, SS appliances, a tile backsplash, a walk-in pantry, a center island, and a peninsula with a breakfast bar. Upstairs, the sizeable loft offers additional living space, ideal for a family room or play area. The main bedroom includes soft carpeting, walk-in closets, and an ensuite with dual sinks. Outside, the expansive backyard showcases a covered patio, a charming ramada, elegant pavers, a built-in BBQ, and a well-kept lawn, and breathtaking mountain view. Amazing community center has kids play pool, lap pool, climbing wall, gym, and more! This gem will sell fast!

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2939 E Ludlow Drive Phoenix, AZ 85032

$665,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,320 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6754479

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION!! This beautiful home is perfectly positioned within walking distance of the scenic preserve and Shadow Mountain and offers both convenience and nature at your doorstep. Step inside to discover sleek tile flooring on the main level and in every bathroom. Each of the four generously sized bedrooms boasts vaulted ceilings and ceiling fans, offering comfort and style. Plantation shutters throughout add charm and functionality. The inviting family room, complete with a cozy fireplace, flows seamlessly into the open kitchen, making it perfect for gatherings. French doors lead you to a serene backyard oasis, where a variety of fruit trees await, offering both shade and sweetness to your outdoor space. Located within minutes of top-rated schools, hiking, shopping, restaurants, major highways, and the world-renowned Mayo Clinic, this is the house that's waiting for you.

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639 W Port Royale Lane Phoenix, AZ 85023

$665,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,823 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6754356

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

SPACIOUS home located in MOON Valley area, SUNSET NORTH, CUL DE SAC LOT, featuring 4 bedroom 2.5 baths, spacious living room with soaring VOLUME CEILINGS, breath taking stone fireplace, wet bar, spacious loft/family room area, with terrace, All rooms are on ground level except one bedroom and loft room arear. wood & ceramic flooring in living areas, nice spacious kitchen with GARNITE COUNTER TOPS, wet bar, home backs to common area, COMMUNITY POOL,, Convenient to major shopping restaurants, schools, and down town stadiums, theaters.

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15835 W Desert Mirage Drive Surprise, AZ 85379

$665,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,905 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6754114

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this stunning 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom home, with 3 spacious loft areas and an array of luxurious features. Step inside to find gorgeous tile flooring throughout the entire first floor, soaring ceilings, elegant light fixtures and ceiling fans, and a cozy fireplace perfect for relaxation. The primary bedroom is conveniently located downstairs includes an updated en-suite bathroom and huge closet. The kitchen is spacious and features stainless steel appliances, cooktop, micro/oven, ample cabinet and countertop space and a large center island, perfect for entertaining. Upstairs enjoy new carpeting throughout entire 2nd floor, and enjoy the 3 spacious loft areas, the balcony offers a picturesque view of the backyard, grass and pool area. Hidden Room, see if you can find it?

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3221 W Galvin Street Phoenix, AZ 85086

$665,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,958 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6762416

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

HUGE PRICE CUT,HUGE PRICE CUT.REMODELED HOUSE.check this beautiful home located in Tramonto subdivision. Sitting on a desirable corner lot that overlook a huge park, this house features 4 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. The first floor offers an open floor plan with an office/den, spacious living room, and a large kitchen with an oversized island, granite countertops, new flooring all over the house, and remodeled bathrooms with large pantry.Outside the extended covered patio overlooks a sparkling pool with water feature, surrounded by four mature citrus trees. Home has a PAID OFF SOLAR SYSTEM accompanied by a backup battery optimized to keep your utilities low during the hot summer months.Close proximity to schools, parks, shopping, and dining.photo to be uploaded soon.very motivated seller

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6432 E Aire Libre Lane Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$665,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,634 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767088

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Fantastic 3-bed, 2-bath home with NEW UPGRADES! A 2-car garage, desert landscape, RV gate, & a cozy front patio are just the beginning. The highly updated interior features new blinds, new light fixtures, new smoke detectors, new ceramic tile in common areas, and new plush carpet in bedrooms. You'll love the separate living & family rooms! The impressive kitchen boasts new quartz counters, new garbage disposal, new recessed lighting, and updated cabinetry. Main bedroom has an ensuite with a tiled shower, a walk-in closet, & outdoor access. PLUS! The bathrooms have been updated as well with new quartz countertops, cabinets, faucets, toilets, & lighting. Outback, you have a covered patio, lush lawn, & a storage shed. Freshly painted inside & out, along with the block fencing! Move-in ready

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2525 N 25th Place Phoenix, AZ 85008

$665,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,205 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6781950

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This property is a mid-town hidden gem (less than 1 mile from AZ Heart Hospital and Phx Children's Hospital) This rare find features two detached homes on an expansive 13,570 sq ft lot! The main home is a timeless 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom with updates that blend classic charm and contemporary comfort. Large open living space provides a huge area to gather together and a dining area that accommodates fully expanded seated dining for at least 10 and combined seating for approx 20! The detached guest house offers an additional 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a basement (not designated living space), perfect for an office, studio, wine cellar or? This additional home offers space for extended family, visitors, multi-gen living or rental income. Both homes are powered by owned solar, providing energy efficiency and cost savings. Plus, the property features flood irrigation. With no HOA restrictions, you have the freedom to transform this super-sized lot into your own private oasis, ideal for outdoor living, gardens, or entertaining spaces. This property is an unparalleled opportunity for versatility and investment in a serene, spacious setting. This is a hidden gem!

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1133 W Courtney Lane Tempe, AZ 85284

$665,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,055 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6776439

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Wow! Sierra Tempe single level, 4 bedroom, air conditioned 3 car garage with resort backyard. Backyard includes pebble tech pool with grotto and spa, fireplace and built-in BBQ. Inside you will find full kitchen remodel with stacked cherry cabinets, granite counters, Bosch dishwasher and built-in microwave. Upgraded tile floors throughout entire home and soaring ceilings. Upgraded fixtures, fans, lighting and plantation shutters. Large master bedroom with fully remodeled bath, huge walk-in shower and large custom classy closet. Roof replaced in 2014, Owned solar, interior paint November 2024. 3 car garage has attic access and separate exit. Amazing location near Kyrene schools, shopping and freeway access. This Tempe home and location is perfect!

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