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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73 Seneca Drive
Flagstaff, AZ 86005
$650,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,568
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6785279
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Nestled in the desirable Pine Del neighborhood, this fully remodeled 3-bed, 2-bath home offers a perfect mix of modern updates and outdoor tranquility. Inside, enjoy an open-concept design with a cozy brick fireplace, wood-burning stove, and custom bookshelf. The sleek kitchen and spacious living area flow to the backyard, ideal for entertaining or relaxing. With a greenhouse, two sheds, and a woodshed, there's plenty of space for hobbies and storage. The whole-house water filtration system ensures cleaner water and healthier plants and pets. Just minutes to hiking, biking, and Flagstaff Airport, and only 24 miles to Sedona. No HOA. Schedule your showing today—this gem won't last long! Charming, Fully Remodeled 3-Bedroom Home in the Private Pine Del Neighborhood Nestled in the highly sought-after Pine Del neighborhood, this beautifully remodeled 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers an ideal blend of modern comfort and outdoor serenity. With a spacious open-concept layout, the home is designed to maximize natural light and create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Upon entering, you'll be greeted by a large brick fireplace with a cozy wood-burning stove, perfect for chilly Flagstaff nights. The custom-built bookshelf adds a personal touch, providing the perfect spot for a home library or displaying your favorite collections. The heart of the home features a sleek, updated kitchen and a generous living area that flows effortlessly to the outdoor spaces. The sizable backyard is an entertainer's dream, offering plenty of room for relaxation or gardening. Enjoy the Arizona sunshine from the covered patio, tend to your plants in the greenhouse, or store tools and equipment in one of two sheds or the woodshed. A whole-house water filtration system ensures the highest quality of water for your family, pets, and plants, addressing hard water concerns and optimizing your home's health. This home is perfectly positioned for those who enjoy outdoor adventures, with hiking trails, Tuthill Bike Park, and the Flagstaff Airport just minutes away. For weekend getaways, you'll be only 24 miles to the stunning Oak Creek Canyon and Sedona, and 20 miles to the slopes of Snowbowl. Downtown Flagstaff is just a short drive, offering a wealth of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Located in a quiet, no-HOA neighborhood, this home offers flexibility and privacy, ideal for anyone looking to homestead, grow their family, or live a peaceful life with pets. Whether you're drawn to the beauty of the surrounding nature or the comfort of a well-appointed home, this is a must-see property that will not last long! Key Features: Completely remodeled 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home Spacious backyard with greenhouse, woodshed, and 2 additional sheds Whole-house water filtration system for cleaner water and healthier plants, pets, and appliances Large brick fireplace with wood-burning stove Custom bookshelf for a home library Open-concept layout, ideal for entertaining Minutes from local hiking trails, Tuthill Bike Park, and Flagstaff Airport Just 24 miles to Sedona and 20 miles to Snowbowl No HOAperfect for homesteading, growing your family, or pet lovers This stunning home won't stay on the market for long! With its perfect blend of modern updates, outdoor space, and unbeatable location, it offers everything you're looking for and more. Don't miss your chance to make it yoursschedule a private showing today and discover all that this beautiful property has to offer before it's gone!
19606 W Marshall Avenue
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
$650,000
4
Beds
4
Baths
3,554
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6782789
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Nestled in the desirable Canyon Views community, this gently used, meticulously designed home offers an ideal blend of style, function, and comfort, with tasteful custom details throughout! As you enter, you'll be greeted by an open floor plan that seamlessly connects the chef's kitchen to the inviting family room. The kitchen is a dream for any home cook, featuring double ovens, a gas stove top, a large walk-in pantry, and a stunning waterfall edge island. The elegant tile backsplash ties everything together, making this space both beautiful and functional. The family room boasts vaulted ceilings, creating a light and airy atmosphere, and a gorgeous fireplace adds a touch of warmth and sophistication. This multigenerational home is designed for flexible living with a spacious bedroom and full bathroom located on the main floor, perfect for guests or extended family. Upstairs, you'll find a large, versatile loft that can serve as a playroom, office, theater, or additional living space. Two generous-sized bedrooms, a full bathroom, and a luxurious master suite complete the upper level. The master retreat includes double sinks, a walk-in shower, a private toilet room, and a spacious walk-in closet. Step outside to a beautifully manicured backyard, ideal for both relaxation and entertaining. A covered patio and gazebo provide shade for outdoor dining, while the built-in BBQ is perfect for summer cookouts. Artificial grass ensures a low-maintenance, lush landscape year-round. Move-in ready, this home is waiting for its next family to make it their own!
3795 E Latham Court
Gilbert, AZ 85297
$650,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,934
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6783589
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This Gilbert 4 / 5 bedroom and 3 bathroom home with a loft, 3 car garage, and RV gate, is truly unique to Coronado Ranch. With custom rounded doors and attention added to the architecture, you will not want to miss making this your home. There is one bedroom and full bath downstairs as well as a front room and dining room. Upstairs you will find a large loft and 3 bedrooms, with a den built off the oversized master bedroom. The den can be enclosed to make this home a 5 bedroom home plus a loft and the added space downstairs. With an open kitchen and oversized wide lot that backs to a green belt, you have plenty of physical and visual space. Great community and location in Gilbert with fantastic amenities including a splash pad, parks, and more! amenities!
36655 N 25th Street
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
$650,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,350
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6702523
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Spacious Home/ Great views on private Street on 1.6 acres, 4 beds/3baths, huge room, stunning rock fireplace in wood, big room with sitting rooms views in all directions.
40 E Balboa Drive
Tempe, AZ 85282
$650,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,714
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6785897
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover a rare gem in Tempe with this exceptional home situated on nearly 1/3 acre (14,161 sq. ft.) of prime real estate. * New HVAC installed September, 2024. Properties with such expansive lots are a rare find in this sought-after area, making this home an incredible opportunity. This beautiful residence features 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, perfect for families or those who desire extra space. The fully equipped kitchen boasts elegant maple wood cabinets, spacious quartz countertops, and stainless steel appliances. The home's interior is equally impressive, with wood and tile floors that add a touch of warmth and sophistication. The family room is a cozy haven with a charming fireplace, ideal for relaxing evenings.
2225 S Olivewood --
Mesa, AZ 85209
$650,000
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,993
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6785829
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Upon this GORGEOUS GOLF COURSE LOT located on the Four Peaks 7th tee box sits this beautifully REMODELED home! The massive living room is bathed in natural light with a huge picture window showcasing your amazing golf course/Superstition Mtn views! In November, 2024, the following was completed: New interior paint, new light fixtures and door handles, new carpeting, freshly painted bathroom cabinets, new mirrors and light fixtures, new pullout drawers in kitchen, new canned lighting throughout the home, new ceiling fans, baseboards, window coverings, and the list goes on! The tile flooring is must see! A/C regularly serviced. This home is a beauty! The well-sized den works as an office or a hobby room. The 2 car garage includes attached cabinetry, a work area, and a utility sink. The backyard overlooks the golf course; it offers an extended covered patio with a large pergola & epoxy floor, ideal for relaxing. This active adult community includes tennis courts, pool, workout facility, and more! Don't miss out on this gem. Act now!
21425 N 142nd Drive
Sun City West, AZ 85375
$650,000
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,580
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6702403
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Fabulous Montecito model with 2 bedrooms, 2.5 bath & den w double doors, situated on a prime location on the 3rd hole of the Trail Ridge Golf Course, showcasing 2 separate lakes, mountain & fountain views! Enter through a private, front courtyard that opens to a spacious great room w plantation shutters, overlooking gorgeous greens & several patio areas. Open kitchen with Corian countertops, plenty of cabinets, Bosch cooktop, GE Profile appliances & separate built-in ice maker. Primary bedroom bay window, large walk-in closet, double vanity & separate shower & tub. Inside laundry w sink & updated GE washer & dryer. Half-bath for convenience. Large 2 car garage w extra golf cart garage, newer garage door opener. Water heater 2019, Two Trane units 2010. Roof underlayment #30 LB in 2010.
3510 S Verbena Road
Casa Grande, AZ 85193
$650,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,240
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6711471
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Unique opportunity! Check out this one-of-a-kind property less than a quarter mile from the Lucid Motors complex. 9.85 acres with a 2 bedroom 2 bath home, detached three car garage, two registered wells, a mobile home pad and a barn. Lots of possibilities for this property, what could you do with it?
1208 W Random Way
Payson, AZ 85541
$650,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
2,282
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6724003
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
For a quiet retreat with space to spread out on close to an acre. Need a place to park your RV? This home has plenty of room with the 2 car garage attached to the house and an additional 2 car garage/shop in the out building. Add to that a set up for covered RV parking. We have you covered...Don't forget the park and golfing down the street. Newly painted throughout with new flooring in kitchen, great room and hallway and new carpeting in bedrooms. New chain link fence as well. Green Valley Park and Payson Golf down the street. Take a peek in the utility room and see another storage area.....
5322 N Oro Vista Court
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
$650,000
5
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,457
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6789006
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautiful 5-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home in an exclusive Litchfield Park gated community. This 4,400 plus sq ft home is nestled in a cul-de-sac with an extra-large lot (17,094 sq ft) with a massive back yard enclosed by a block wall fence. Landscaping is elegantly done with multiple palm trees, front yard grass and many desert plants. The home features an enclosed outdoor bar/entertainment area in addition to a covered patio. The interior includes an extra-large eat-in kitchen, great room with wet bar, formal living and dining rooms, and a main floor bedroom with bathroom. All remaining bedrooms are upstairs with the main bedroom and ensuite separate from the other bedrooms and a large loft/game room. Seller offering $25,000 towards flooring/remodel, closing costs or rate buy down.
21545 S Camas Way
Florence, AZ 85132
$650,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,971
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6737943
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Magical Property! This beautiful rustic home is built with burnt adobe and is set on 10 acres adorned with majestic saguaros. There are views for miles, a wrap-around porch that you can sit and observe the local wildlife, and marvel at breathtaking views and spectacular sunsets. This home has stunning floors, gorgeous architecture features such as arched windows and doorways. The cozy the living room has a wood plank ceiling, exposed wood beams, a wood burning fireplace as well as a wood burning stove. The bathrooms even have lots of details you don't want to miss right down to the bronze faucets and designer towel bars. Come and explore the beauty of your next home.
917 S Montezuma Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85003
$650,000
5
Beds
4
Baths
2,880
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6762354
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Fantastic opportunity for Multi-Generation Home or a multi-unit Income Producing Investment Property in Central Phoenix! Beautifully updated Main Residence with 2 bedrooms & Ensuite Baths, Large Loft has cityscape & mountains views. Attached to Main House is a 1 bed/1 bath Apartment with separate entrance & patio. Property also has Casita / Guest House on separate meter featuring stunning updated kitchen, 2 beds/1 bath, laundry and private patio. Both Studio & Additional Home previously used as income producing short term rental units. Do not miss out on this unique opportunity close to City Central dining, shopping, events, and transportation!