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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2173 N Iowa Street Chandler, AZ 85225

$594,990

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,881 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6774238

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Brand New Home Alert! Welcome to Arbor Square, where luxury and convenience meet in the heart of Downtown Chandler. Nestled within walking distance to the vibrant Downtown Chandler Entertainment District, our community provides the perfect balance of urban living and peaceful escape. Each home at Arbor Square boasts top-of-the-line amenities, designed with your comfort and convenience in mind. From elegant quartz countertops to luxury vinyl plank flooring, every detail has been carefully selected to provide you with a high-end yet modern living experience. Our homes also feature pre-wiring for EV chargers, making it easy for you to stay connected and eco-friendly. Our community is designed to give you all the perks of luxurious living without the hassle of upkeep. Experience the best of urban living in a peaceful and modern setting at Arbor Square. Come find your perfect home today! Photos are of the builder's model of a similar floor plan, actual home is under construction. Contact listing the agent for additional incentives. Agents Must accompany their clients upon their first visit.

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2627 N 30th Place Phoenix, AZ 85008

$594,900

2 Beds

1 Bath

800 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6688674

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

ATTENTION INVESTORS AND BUILDERS. Small rental home on this amazing RARE LARGE parcel size of 17,000sf!! Zoning is R1-6, so each lot (without a variance) needs a minimum of 6,000sf per lot, but many lots in the area are less than 6,000sf. No variance needed if you split the site into two lots and you could build one home on the South lot and keep the small home on the North lot as rental income ($1,500/mo) until you are ready to tear it down and build a new home. Phoenix zoning now allows ADUs (Additional Dwelling Units). Many new homes are being built in the immediate area and this is a RARE parcel size!! See photos with potential development ideas. Check with city to verify all info. Please don't disturb the tenants by walking the lot without permission from agent. THANK YOU!

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769 W Citrus Way Chandler, AZ 85248

$594,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,979 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6738698

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This fabulous residence nestled in the Fox Crossing Community is the one you've been looking for! Make yourself at home in the inviting interior showcasing a designer color palette, neutral tile flooring, and soft carpet in all the right places. The well-appointed kitchen boasts wood cabinetry adorned with crown moulding, sleek granite counters, matching built-in appliances, pendant lighting, a stylish mosaic backsplash, and a center island equipped with a breakfast bar. The serene main bedroom features private outdoor access, an immaculate ensuite with dual sinks, separate tub/shower, and a walk-in closet. Spend relaxing afternoons along with your loved ones in the charming backyard, offering a covered patio and an easy-care landscape! Don't let this home slip by!

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15 W Palmcroft Drive Tempe, AZ 85282

$594,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,608 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767877

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautifully updated mid century gem with all the historic charm intact in the heart of downtown Tempe! Impeccably maintained with updates galore featuring 3 bed/2 baths, large professionally landscaped lot, award winning schools, walking distance to ASU, downtown Tempe and Gammage. Updates include: new roof, new Trane a/c, plantation shutters, professionally landscaped backyard including irrigation system, block wall/fence, gate, extended covered patio & large storage shed, new windows, interior and exterior doors, remodeled kitchen, stainless appliances, remodeled bathrooms, interior and exterior paint & newer water heater. Date Palm Manor is a historic designated neighborhood which reduces owner property taxes by half.

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9919 E Radioactive Drive Mesa, AZ 85212

$594,900

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,115 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6655238

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Major Price Reduction! Better than New! 3 Bed + Den, 3 Baths, 3 Car Tandem Garage. Very spacious floorplan. Wood Plank Like Tile Flooring w/Upgraded Carpeting. Across the street from a park. Features Include: Butler Pantry, Large Kitchen Pantry, Gas Cook Top, Granite Countertops throughout w/ Island &Breakfast Bar, White Cabinets with Pull Handles, Wood Shutters, Soft close drawers & cabinets, Gas Stub for BBQ, Walk-In Master Shower, Extra Insulation to Garage, Built in Classy Closets in Garage w/overhead cabinets, Epoxy Garage Floor, Backyard Fully Landscaped w Brick Pavers and Artificial Turf, Water plumbed to backyard to add irrigation for garden boxes, Pavers at Front making driveway wider, Overhead cabinets in Laundry. 5 minute freeway access. Eastmark Community offers: Heated Pool, Splash pad, Dog parks, Many Parks, Tennis courts, Fishing Pond, Ball fields, Frisbee golf course and Rec Center. There are many recreational spots close by including a regional sports park just south of this home on Ellsworth and Pecan Lake Entertainment which offers many various attractions and restaurants.

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2451 E Glencove Street Mesa, AZ 85213

$594,900

6 Beds

3 Baths

2,950 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6778523

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover the charm of this 6-bedroom, 3-bath property, NO HOA, now for sale! You'll love the sizable living areas featuring tall ceilings, neutral paint tones, and hardwood flooring, creating an inviting atmosphere for hosting and entertaining. The kitchen is the heart of the home, equipped with generous counter space, a mosaic tile backsplash, rich wood cabinetry, recessed lighting, and a breakfast bar. Retreat to the main suite, boasting two ceiling fans, a sitting area, an ensuite, and a walk-in closet. Venture upstairs to find more sizable bedrooms! Experience the ultimate outdoor lifestyle with weekend BBQs, refreshing swims in the crystal-clear pool, and endless opportunities for relaxation and fun. What are you waiting for? Make this gem yours today!

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12800 N 172nd Drive Surprise, AZ 85388

$594,325

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,159 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6756193

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

QUICK MOVE-IN!!!!! SELLER IS OFFERING INTEREST RATE AND CLOSING COST ASSISTANCE! This beautiful new home is a must see. 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, loft and a 3-car tandem garage. 1st floor Owner's Suite! Beautiful, tiled floors on 1st floor including the Great Room, upgraded carpet upstairs and in bedrooms, The home has a large open kitchen and great room. Beautiful gray Cabinets, Quartz countertops, Stainless steel appliances and a large kitchen island. Secondary bedrooms are good size, and some have walk in closets, they are all surrounded by a spacious loft. The home is on a large lot that gives you many entertaining opportunities and has no backyard neighbors. THIS HOME IS COMPLETED!

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4307 N 15th Drive Phoenix, AZ 85015

$594,100

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,629 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6723895

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this charming single-family home located in the desirable Bel Air community. It features 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and spans 1,629 square feet in a desirable area. This home offers a mix of classic appeal and modern updates. This home provides an ample outdoor space, including a private pool which has been fully updated and covered patio. The home is near schools, parks, and shopping, making it ideal for families.

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18710 E Rio Lane Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$594,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,954 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6743115

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Being sold *COMPLETELY FURNISHED*, large townhouse in Rio Verde with golf and mountain views. Located on the 3rd green of the Quail Run golf course . With 1954 Sq Ft, two Primary En-Suites, large great room and dining areas. This home has been remodeled with tile floors, carpet in the bedrooms. Kitchen recently remodeled, featuring new cabinets and stainless steel appliances, both bathrooms have been remodeled as well. Large walk-in pantry. Split floorplan with security roller shields on each window, pavers on the back patio. Two new AC units in 2023. Across the street is a small community pool! The Country Club is within walking distance with fine and casual dining. the Community Center, Tennis, Pickle Ball and Boccee Ball Courts as well as the large community pool and heated spa.

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7430 E Coronado Road Scottsdale, AZ 85257

$594,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,344 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6707659

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Located in the sought-after Old Town Scottsdale and near Tempe/ASU, this single level homes boasts tons of on-trend features catering to both comfort and functionality. Chef's eat-in kitchen has black granite counters, center island with breakfast bar, stainless appliances, gas cooktop, and a large bay window that brings in plenty of natural light. Other features include tile and wood laminate flooring, open great room with wood accent wall, and an attached garage. The Primary bedroom has en-suite bathroom with walk-in shower and granite vanity. The new 2021 AC unit ensures high efficiency for low energy costs! Double door exit to the North facing backyard with a green grass lawn, ally access gate, lush landscaping, and a paver patio.

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8814 E Sunnyside Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$594,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,385 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6739588

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Quiet neighborhood in a fantastic North Scottsdale location with easy access to Loop 101. This 3 bedroom home offers a 2 car garage with a Brand New epoxy floor, a newer tankless water heater (2023), and spacious living. Welcoming courtyard & private backyard. The sizeable living room has newer ceiling fans and plantation shutters. Breakfast area in the kitchen, large primary bedroom with walk-in closet & open vanity area, ceiling fans in every room, and all appliances are included. Very well maintained community with heated pool, spa, & tennis/pickleball. HOA maintains the front yard too!

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253 E Sherri Drive Gilbert, AZ 85296

$594,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,141 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6762235

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Great home in a fantastic location! 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and a 3 car garage. Boasts a formal living room with dramatic ceilings, in addition to a family room. The kitchen features Shaker cabinets, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, a pantry and a breakfast bar. The master suite is spacious and includes separate tub and shower, dual vanities and a walk-in closet. The backyard space has a new, (3 yr old) beautiful, heated pool and spa, with new app control technology. Backyard also has gas stub ready for your firepit, bbq, etc. Only 5 minutes to downtown Gilbert and walking distance to Gilbert town square. A must see!

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