Wondering How Much Mortgage You Can Afford? Here’s How to Calculate It

Wondering How Much Mortgage You Can Afford? Here's How to Calculate ItMany people are aware of the financial commitment that is involved when investing in a home, but what that amounts to is different for every person. From what you can afford to what a lender will allow, there are plenty of details involved in determining the right home for you. If you’re not quite sure what the right price is, here’s how to approach home ownership and determine your debt-to-income.

Utilize the Calculators on My Website

Visit my website at www.JPCookAZRealEstate.com.  Click on ‘Buyers’ then utilize the Affordability Calculator, which will tell you how much house you can afford with your current income and expenses.  You can also utilize the Mortgage Calculator to determine how much your monthly house payment will be.

Do it Yourself:  Calculating Your Debt-To-Income Ratio

You may not know what your DTI ratio is, but it has a lot to with how much home you can afford. In order to calculate this amount, add together all the debts you owe each month and divide them by your monthly pre-tax income. For example, if your credit card is $150 and your rent is $900, your debt amount would be $1050. Divide this amount by your income, say $2500, to get 0.42. This means your DTI ratio is 0.42 or 42%.

What Your DTI Means

While a DTI in the high 20s or low 30s is good, anything that hovers above 43 percent may serve as a red flag to the lender. The lower your DTI ratio is, the more likely it is that a lender will approve your mortgage application since you’ll have the disposable income to deal with financial hurdles. If your dream home has you hovering close to this amount, it may be a sign that it’s a bit out of reach.

How Do You Want To Live?

It’s quite common to be taken over when you find your dream home and decide to commit. However, buying a home is a huge financial commitment, and if you’re buying more than you can afford it may drain your well-being over time. Instead of diving in, determine other expenses that are likely to come up in the next few years, whether it’s travel, a child or a new car. It’s important to have the home you want and budget when buying it, but you’ll still need to financial wiggle room in case something comes up.

There are a lot of factors involved in determining how much house you can afford, but by calculating your DTI ratio and being aware of your spending plans, you’ll be well on your way to an ideal price range.  Give me a call for more information – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

Click Here to See What Your Home is Worth

2608 S Sycamore Village Drive Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$1,899,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,999 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6763907
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
GORGEOUS REMODEL IN SUPERSTITION MOUNTAIN (SEE LIST OF RENOVATIONS IN THE DOCUMENT SECTION!) MOUNTAIN VIEWS! 3 bedrooms plus and office and 3 1/2 baths Large primary suite with walk-in custom closet and den area, coffee bar and refrigerator. Cozy patio off the master bedroom with fireplace. Perfect area to add a hot tub. Each bedroom has access to a patio. New granite in the kitchen and all the bathrooms. OVERSIZED THREE CAR GARAGE WITH STORAGE AND AN EV CHARGER OUTLET. 24 GUARD GATED COMMUNITY. Two Jack Nicklaus golf courses! Not a golfer? Enjoy pickle ball, tennis, bocce and many other activities.COUNTRY CLUB LIVING AT ITS BEST! 35 minutes to Sky Harbor and 20 minutes to Mesa Gateway airports. Club membership and amenities under a separate agreement. Buyer and/or buyer's agent to verify all pertinent information including square footage.

11693 E Parkview Lane Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,899,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,879 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769647
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Love at first sight! This beautiful remodeled/redesigned Troon home has incredible views of the McDowell Mountains and is located on a quiet cul-de-sac street. Incredible kitchen offers two-tone custom cabinetry w/glass inserts, 48'' commercial gas range, classy quartz counters and backsplash, and enormous island that opens to huge great room. Soaring 12' ceilings with recessed lighting in all rooms, smooth texture interior walls, all new 8' interior doors, new 16 foot slider, and gorgeous 12 x 59 wood porcelain tile flooring throughout. Resort like backyard has 1500 sf of new Ivory Travertine pavers, RV gate/parking, new pebble tec finish and tile on pool, artificial turf, new BBQ island, jacuzzi with new stone and outdoor fireplace. 2 brand new AC units and new roof underlayment.

7180 E Kierland Boulevard Unit 1115 Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,899,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,686 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6606149
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
Discover the pinnacle of contemporary living with spectacular and breathtaking views of the McDowell Mountains from this 11th floor penthouse. Floor to ceiling windows help showcase the incredible views. The penthouse features hardwood floors, an outdoor patio with gas stub out, motorized blinds, Bosch kitchen appliances and wine fridge. Primary bathroom features 48x24 inch slab tile and private water closet. Extra high ceilings accentuate the open floor plan with split bedrooms. The laundry room is large offering additional storage space. This penthouse comes with 2 parking spaces and an EV charger. Optima Kierland offers residents a luxurious lifestyle with unparalleled resort amenities, highlighted by the exquisite rooftop pool, along with a hot tub, cold plunge, steam and sauna, and outdoor kitchen and bar. The 1st floor gym is huge and state of the art. Indoor basketball and pickle ball courts complete the outstanding amenities at Optima Kierland Enjoy easy access to Kierland Commons, Scottsdale Quarter, and some of the city's finest restaurants and boutiques .This is more than just a home; it's a year-round vacation destination.

18841 N 94th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,899,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,906 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6768392
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
FULLY REMODELED. MOUNTAIN VIEWS. Step into this beautifully renovated mountain view home, designed by an award-winning Valley firm with exceptional detail and high-end finishes: Chef's Kitchen. Over-Sized Butler's Walk-In Pantry. Wine Room. Dual Laundry Rooms, Upstairs and Downstairs. Dazzling Goblet Chandelier. Top-Of-The-Line Appliances. Frameless Soft Close Cabinetry. Bianca Fina Quartz Countertops. 60'' Ignite Linear Electric Fireplace. Downstairs Guest En-Suite. Vaulted Ceilings. Natural Lighting Throughout. Separate Guest Powder Room. See-Through Glass Railing. Floating Vanities With Under Sink Lighting. Custom Lighting In Expansive Shower. All New Windows. Wide Plank White Storm Hardwood Flooring. 16' Sliding Doors To Backyard Oasis. Ancient Stone Pavers. Built-In BBQ And Bar Top Seating. Large Sparkling Pool. Putting Green. New Exterior Paint. New Interior Paint. All New Fixtures And Hardware. All New Can Lights And Ceiling Fans. New Double Entry Front Door. Level-5 Drywall. New Sprinkler Heads. Epoxy Garage. Audio-Visual System Pre-Wired With Cat6 Ethernet. Front Door Has Network Doorbell Camera. All Designed by an award-winning firm in the Valley with exceptional detail and high-end finishes. IRONWOOD VILLAGE, highly regarded, highly sought after. Added Privacy on 3 sides. Conveniently located near fashionable restaurants and shopping as well as the 101 loop. Trane HVAC Units, Roof Underlayment replaced in 2023. Pool Filter New 2022. See Documents for a complete listing of upgrades and improvements. Warranties available. Permits by Licensed GC.

7342 S Brighton Lane Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$1,897,000 - 5Br/5Ba -  for Sale in Cordova, Queen Creek
Open House
$1,897,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
5,394 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6753518
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled in the sought-after gated enclave of Cordova, just minutes from the prestigious Seville Golf and Country Club, this luxury residence offers an unmatched blend of elegance & lifestyle. Across from a serene park, the home welcomes you with a private gated courtyard, setting the stage for gracious entertaining. Inside, expansive living spaces include generously sized bedrooms, newly remodeled bathrooms, a dedicated office, and a versatile theater/game room with elevated seating for eight. The heart of the home is a gourmet kitchen, featuring custom cabinetry, dual sinks, a wine refrigerator, an 8-burner gas cooktop, double ovens, a warming drawer, and a spacious pantry perfect for the culinary enthusiast. The primary retreat is a haven of tranquility, boasting aspa-inspired bathroom designed for ultimate relaxation. Designed with seamless indoor-outdoor living in mind, large doors open to a sprawling patio, leading to the resort-style backyard. Here, you'll find a Pebble Tec diving pool, cascading waterfall, spa, swim-up bar, built-in BBQ, and cozy gas fire pit, all surrounded by a peaceful garden area ideal for relaxation or entertaining. With energy-efficient upgrades, including enhanced AC units, this home is not only luxurious but sustainable. A rare 6-car garage with an extended RV or boat bay and a second garage door opening to the backyard adds a final touch of convenience. This home truly offers the perfect blend of sophistication, comfort, and modern convenience.

2544 E Denton Lane Phoenix, AZ 85016

$1,895,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,791 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6759823
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream oasis nestled in the prestigious Biltmore Greens, just a short stroll from the renowned Arizona Biltmore Resort. This meticulously remodeled residence boasts a fantastic floor plan, offering both comfort and style. Step inside to discover exceptional architectural character and quality as you are lead through a beautifully appointed interior featuring gorgeous wide plank oak floors, new windows, and updated systems. The home is equipped with two Trane HVAC units, a modern electric panel, a water softening system, a durable foam roof, and a new water heater, ensuring peace of mind for years to come. The heart of the home is a chef's paradise kitchen, complete with a Sub-Zero refrigerator, Wolf cooktop and double oven, warming drawer, and Bosch dishwasher, as well as a spacious pantry. It's perfect for entertaining family and friends. The open layout flows seamlessly into a professionally landscaped, low-maintenance backyard oasis, featuring a sparkling pool and waterfall feature (1 yr old pump & filter)- ideal for relaxing or hosting gatherings. This 4-bedroom gem features a split plan with a fantastic primary suite, featuring an enormous walk-in closet. The home is situated within a guard-gated community, offering direct access to Biltmore Fashion Park, world-class golfing, and an array of amenities, including tennis and pickleball courts, playgrounds, and extensive walking trails. With the HOA maintaining the front yard, you'll have more time to enjoy the luxurious lifestyle this location affords and peace of mind whether this is a full time or seasonal home. Conveniently located for an easy commute to Sky Harbor Airport and all areas of the valley, this home combines elegance, modern living, and a prime location in one irresistible package. Don't miss your chance to call this stunning property your own!

6598 E Crested Saguaro Lane Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$1,895,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,437 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6759031
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled in the foothills of the Sonoran Desert, Terravita provides stunning views of Black Mountain and desert landscape. The clubhouse is the heart of Terravita's vibrant social scene. Residents can enjoy exquisite dining experiences with breathtaking views of the golf course and nearby mountains. The community hosts numerous social events, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie among residents. This meticulously remodeled Aura plan in Terravita boasts an expansive lot with captivating mountain views. The generous backyard features a large covered patio overlooking a stunning pool, spa, and waterfall. Just a few steps away, a charming ramada awaits, complete with a stone gas fireplace, barbecue, and outdoor television—perfect for entertaining or unwinding in style. The side yard, with its own private patio and tranquil fountain, offers an additional retreat. Marvel at the breathtaking sunsets that are a daily delight. Upon entering the home, you are greeted by a grand 15-foot beamed ceiling that crowns the elegant living and dining rooms. Three expansive sliding glass doors seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living, leading to the backyard oasis. The gourmet eat-in kitchen, thoughtfully remodeled, showcases brand-new cabinetry, sleek quartz countertops, premium GE Monogram appliances, and a spacious island, creating an inviting space for both cooking and gathering. Adjacent to the kitchen, the family room features a striking 12-foot beamed ceiling and a cozy gas fireplace. The luxurious primary suite offers a serene sanctuary, highlighted by a recently remodeled bathroom with an oversized shower and a spacious walk-in closet. The en-suite bathroom for the secondary bedroom has also been tastefully updated, and a glass sliding door provides access to a charming outdoor patio. Additional living spaces include a third bedroom, a versatile den/office, a well-appointed laundry room, and a three-car garage. The property is equipped with new Trane HVAC systems, a hot water tank, and a pool pump, with a new roof installed in 2018. Residents of Terravita Country Club enjoy a lifestyle rich in amenities, including dining, a pool, tennis, pickleball, and a fitness center, all set against beautiful mountain-side views.

37887 N Boulder View Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,895,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
4,002 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6753434
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Experience luxury living in Boulder Heights, a prestigious community nestled in the picturesque landscapes of North Scottsdale. This custom-built residence offers an unparalleled blend of sophistication, comfort, and breathtaking views that epitomize the essence of Arizona living - all at an elevated vantage point of 3,000 feet. Carefully curated, this one-owner home features a desirable great room floor plan, three bedrooms & three full bathrooms in the main home, plus a detached casita complete with its own kitchenette. Enter the home through your private, gated courtyard - featuring a gas fireplace & water feature - to your grand foyer with clerestory windows. Indulge in the ultimate entertainment experience with a wet bar equipped with a 578-bottle wine humidor, perfect for hosting unforgettable gatherings with friends and family. The inviting chef's kitchen boasts a Viking Professional appliance package, double ovens, granite & quartz countertops, a large walk-in pantry, and solid-wood cabinetry. The primary retreat features a sitting area, an oversized walk-in closet, and a spa-like bathroom with a jetted tub & luxurious walk-in shower. Soaring 14-foot ceilings in the main living areas, 18-foot barrel vault ceilings in the hallway, 24-inch travertine stone flooring, and tasteful chandeliers & fixtures throughout exude grandeur and style. Step outside to discover a private oasis featuring a heated saltwater pool and spa, over 1,200 sq/ft of covered patio space with misters & space heaters, a BBQ area with a pre-plumbed gas line, and plenty of yard space - perfect for year-round relaxation and enjoyment. The oversized three-car garage with epoxy flooring & built-in cabinetry ensures plenty of room for your vehicles and storage needs. Beyond the confines of this exquisite property, residents can immerse themselves in North Scottsdale's renowned lifestyle - high-end shopping, gourmet dining experiences, world-class golf courses, and outdoor adventures - all just moments away from your doorstep. Experience the allure of North Scottsdale living in this exquisite Boulder Heights home, where luxury meets tranquility against the backdrop of Arizona's stunning natural beauty. Welcome home.

24453 S 202nd Court Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$1,895,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,579 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6763557
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled within the exclusive, gated community of The Pecans, this exceptional neighborhood is surrounded by thousands of mature pecan trees, offering a rare blend of natural beauty and ultimate privacy. Located on a quiet, private street, this home sits on an expansive 30,000+ square foot lot, just minutes from the lively center of Queen Creek and the Pecan Lake Entertainment Center, perfectly balancing tranquility and convenience. As you approach, a long pavered driveway and a grand entrance welcome you, hinting at the luxury within. Inside, soaring ceilings and expansive living areas create a sophisticated yet comfortable environment, ideal for both elegant entertaining and everyday living. The heart of this home is a chef's gourmet kitchen, a true culinary masterpiece featuring premium appliances and exquisite finishes, designed to inspire unforgettable dining experiences. The grand primary retreat offers a serene and lavish sanctuary with opulent finishes, while the additional spacious bedrooms provide private, peaceful escapes for family and guests. Outside, the resort-style backyard is an entertainer's dream, complete with lush landscaping, a sparkling pool, and a relaxing spaperfect for both hosting and unwinding. The property also features an oversized garage, an RV gate with room for a future RV garage, and plenty of space for all your outdoor needs. This estate defines luxury living in one of Queen Creek's most coveted neighborhoods.

36530 N Boulder View Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,895,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
3,947 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6764648
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to Boulder Heights in North Scottsdale. A wonderful community of custom homes close to Carefree and Cave Creek. The front elevation of the home highlights the gorgeous grove of trees as you enter the iron gated courtyard passing the guest casita and courtyard cactus garden. This five bedroom home features a great room floor plan, gourmet kitchen, city lights sunsets and mountain views. Backyard with covered patio over looks the pool for entertaining family and friends. Enjoy the summer sunsets while enjoying outdoor entertainment from the large screen TV. Three car garage and gated side yard parking for all your toys.

31307 N 57th Place Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$1,895,000
4 Beds
5.5 Baths
4,899 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6762917
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning Desert estate that exudes sophistication & luxury. Situated on an acre lot in a serene cul de sac, this home offers great curb appeal & exquisite details throughout. Step inside to discover soaring coffered ceilings w/accent lighting, custom travertine & reclaimed wood floors that flow seamlessly throughout the home, elevating every space. Expansive great room w/stone accent wall,gas fireplace & glass pocket sliding doors that open the interior to the exterior. Gourmet Kitchen outfitted w/knotty alder cabinets, 60in Sub-Zero fridge, Dacor range w/pot filler, granite counters, walk-in pantry, center island & breakfast bar, a chef's dream. Primary retreat features a gas fireplace, en-suite spa bath w/ dual sink vanity, soaking tub, custom filed shower & large walk in. (see more) Three additional well-appointed rooms provide ample space for family & guests. This home also offers a dedicated office, loft & cozy family room w/third fireplace. Backyard features an expansive covered patio w/misters, pool w/water features & separate horse area w/ accommodations for 4 covered stalls, tack shed, & covered shelter for the equestrian enthusiasts. This luxurious executive estate redefines upscale living with it's exquisite design, thoughtful layout & exceptional outdoor spaces. Experience the perfect blend of sophistication & comfort offering privacy & convenience to local amenities.

3468 Lee Doyle -- Flagstaff, AZ 86005

$1,895,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,978 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6677023
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your peaceful mountain paradise in Forest Highlands! Set to the rear of an expansive .75 acre lot, this home has a sense of privacy, notably because it backs to National Forest land. Meticulously maintained, you will find great functionality in this well-designed floor plan. The great room boasts an inviting wood-burning fireplace and an expansive wall of windows, showcasing the ponderosa pines beyond the Trex Deck . A formal dining area and open-concept kitchen, complete with ample cabinetry and built-in appliances, makes for easy entertaining. There is also a large utility/laundry room and a powder room, just off the kitchen. Another great attribute is the dedicated office on this floor, complete with desks and additional storage. There are three large bedrooms on the main level too, with a full bath shared between them. Upstairs is the primary suite, nestled just off a cozy loft overlooking the great room. With a split ensuite, walk-in closet and gas fireplace, this restful retreat is a perfect spot to relax and unwind. The back deck has covered and uncovered spaces, with easy access through the oaks to the canyon just beyond--a perfect spot to enjoy the fresh mountain air. Finally, an extra special attribute is a stand-alone studio just off the back porch! The studio is not included in the overall square footage of the home. Equipped with electricity, this space will make an excellent workshop, craft room, game room, exercise space or kids' play house. Come enjoy all that makes Forest Highlands such a desirable community--two world-class golf courses, pickle ball, dining, hiking, social and family programs, tennis, and so much more! Tucked away amidst 1,100 acres of pristine alpine beauty, Forest Highlands exudes an unparalleled sense of exclusivity and serenity. With two championship golf courses designed by Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish, Forest Highlands sets the stage for unforgettable golf experiences. The community offers an array of exceptional amenities, including two clubhouses, multiple dining options, tennis courts, swimming pools, and miles of hiking and biking trails. Forest Highlands is a retreat where luxury meets nature, ensuring a harmonious lifestyle for its residents.

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