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

3080 W Blazingstar Road Show Low, AZ 85901

$1,299,990
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,315 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6749349
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled on over an acre, this gorgeous home sits on a premium gently sloping lot on the 3rd fairway of the Torreon Tower Golf Course. This single story home has an open plan with soaring ceilings and plenty of indoor and outdoor space for entertaining and relaxing alike. The chef's kitchen features Frigidaire Professional stainless steel appliances including a 5 burner gas range & built-in microwave. There is ample seating along the Quartzite center island which opens to the great room with its stylish stacked stone fireplace, vaulted tongue & groove ceilings, & large windows offering tranquil views of the majestic pines. The spacious outdoor deck has a comfortable seating area and dining area so that you can enjoy the beautiful weather and pines from the comfort of your own backyard. This home is centrally located less than half-a-mile from the Torreon family center, which has pickleball courts, basketball courts, a playground, & a catch-and-release pond, etc. The Torreon Clubhouse has a restaurant, fitness center, heated swimming pool, spa, ballroom and more. There is something fun for everyone to enjoy in Torreon.

7247 N 6th Place Phoenix, AZ 85020

$1,299,950
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,128 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6761156
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Realize your dream home in the heart of North Central Phoenix, surrounded by multi-million-dollar estates. This perfectly remodeled ranch-style residence, featuring a versatile second story, offers an ideal blend of comfort and functionality, perfect for both work and family life. Sixth Place, south of Orangewood Avenue is in a coveted community and delivers impressive curb appeal in a true neighborhood. Inside, over $200,000 was invested in renovations over the past two years. Upgrades include luxury vinyl plank flooring, high-end carpet, and porcelain tile, a new roof (2023), two new AC units, solar panels, and fresh interior paint. The kitchen windows flood the space with natural light framing the exclusive nook and countertop. Choose the oversized island or move into the dining or large family room with views of the park-like backyard, for meals or fun gatherings. The split primary suite boasts motorized shades, two walk-in closets, and a deluxe bath area. On the opposite side of the home, you'll find three additional bedrooms and two bathrooms. The expansive upstairs room is perfect for entertaining or as a spacious home office, featuring vaulted ceilings, ample storage and dual-pane windows throughout. Enjoy your playful paradise as the expansive backyard showcases a large covered patio, diving pool, lush grass space, and mature shade trees. With easy access to all areas of the Valley, your new home offers the ultimate in convenience and luxury living.

37751 N Linda Drive Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$1,299,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,501 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6771022
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Brand New and Move-In Ready! Nestled into a mountain outcropping, an acre lot with no HOA, this gorgeous, modern home offers stunning, up-close views and intimate privacy. Enjoy nearby hiking at Black Mountain Summit Trail and a convenient commute to local shops and dining. Inside, high ceilings, 8' doors, and designer finishes create a light-filled, open-concept living space. The gourmet kitchen boasts a large granite island with bar seating, premium appliances, and a spacious walk-in pantry, flowing seamlessly into the Great Room with a striking fireplace. The luxurious, split primary suite enjoys incredible views of Black Mountain and access to the outdoor patio, perfect for adding a hydro spa for stargazing. The spa-like bathroom boasts dual vanities, a soaking tub, and a large shower with dual heads. Two additional bedrooms include walk-in closets, and an office, (or 4th bedroom) has access to the courtyard. The home is complete with a 3-car garage, hobby room, and high-end finishes throughout, including designer lighting, custom tile, granite countertops, and premium cabinetry. Built by a trusted custom home team with 30+ years of experience, this home blends luxury, craftsmanship, and a prime, in-town location.

12121 E Remuda Lane Mayer, AZ 86333

$1,299,900
5 Beds
5 Baths
6,693 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6746811
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful Home with Magnificent Views in Mayer with no HOA. Plenty of room for cars, toys, and much more on this 3+ acre lot. Downstairs features additional living area including: movie theater room, additional kitchen, 2 bedrooms with a luxurious steam shower in the bathroom. Walk out onto the covered patios for endless views. Home has zoned HVAC with 2 separate zones. Oversized Workshop below. Come take a look at this magnificent home and make it yours.

20554 W Pasadena Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85396

$1,299,900
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,341 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6756062
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning Serendipity by David Weekley home is situatted on corner lot facing Georgia Park in Victory at Verrado has 3 bed, 3.5 bath, den, & hobby room (set up as a gym), features a courtyard at front door with a fountain. Outdoor living abounds with a large covered north-facing rear patio, full-size pool w/ baja shelf, hot tub/spa, gas fire pit, & kitchen/bbq/bar area w/pergola. Inside, the home is equipped with so many options/upgrades/updates, including gourmet kitchen appliances, plantation shutters, upscale ceiling fans, RO system, & full house audio video by Control4. Engineered wood floors run throughout the home, with wood-look tile in the bathrooms. The home also features a spaciuos 2.5-car garage featuring an epoxy floor. Hurry, this will not last long!

8281 E Buteo Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,299,900
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,672 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769512
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled in the guard-gated community of Grayhawk this is a rare property for someone to make it their own! Perfectly positioned at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, this step free property provides soaring ceilings and a convenient split floorpan. The open kitchen is a true delight with granite countertops and ample cabinetry. Enjoy the open living and dining rooms lined with windows to amplify the beauty of your Sonoran surroundings. The massive primary bedroom is complete with private backyard access, plenty of natural lighting, sitting area, and massive en-suite with fantastic walk-in closet. Two additional bedrooms, full bath, powder room, & thoughtful Laundry complete the interior. Additional features include a cabinet line 3 car garage, NEW HVAC units replaced in 2023, and more! Located in one of the most desirable areas, this Greyhawk property is a unique opportunity for those seeking a secure, tranquil, and customizable retreat.

24809 N Vado Court Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$1,299,900
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,170 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6777688
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Spectacular Views on Amazing lot. This is the Location of locations. The Rodeo Drive of Rio Verde. Sprawling great room with amazing Mountain & Golf Course views. Heightened wood beam ceilings, Ceiling fans, Dining area & breakfast bar, granite counters fire place inside & out. Wrap around patio offers amazing views and several places to relax & enjoy the day. Huge elevated lot offers tons of privacy. Outdoor fireplace with built in BBQ. Garage features storage cabinets & a service door to walled & gated side storage area. Large separated bedrooms, jetted tub and so much more. Don't miss out, this type of property doesn't come along often.

1920 E Schooner Court Gilbert, AZ 85234

$1,299,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,542 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6708481
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home in the exclusive gated community of The Regatta at Val Vista Lakes. This custom residence, masterfully redesigned by award-winning designer Steve Price of Beautiful Space Co., offers over $400,000 in luxurious modern upgrades. Be greeted by soaring vaulted ceilings + an open great room concept. Engineered wood floors span the downstairs Massive central kitchen with a 13' quartz island, high end stainless steel appliances, GE Monogram refrigerator + freezer, gas cook-top, double convection ovens, + abundant cabinetry. The inviting great room features a custom built-in wall unit with an electric fireplace. Office with amazing waterfront views off the entry, + patio access. Main floor primary suite is comple expansive en suite with a soaker tub and unique water feature, and a generous walk-in closet. The upstairs entertainment area is perfect for guests or family, including a built-in TV, bar, bathroom, and bedroom, making it ideal for a mother-in-law suite, guest suite, or kids' play area. The private backyard is a paradise where you can relax in the oversized spa that doubles as a cocktail pool. The side patio offers stunning views of the lake, accessible from the kitchen, den, and living room. Enjoy a front entrance portico and ample room to relax in the shade. The spacious private driveway leads to a 3-car secluded garage, perfect for all your storage needs. Val Vista Lakes Clubhouse offers country club living with a heated Olympic-size pool, beach pool, spa, sand volleyball, tennis, racquetball, pickleball, fishing, cardio & weight room, classes, fire pits, and more. Conveniently close to Dana Park shopping complex and top notch restaurants, including recently announced The Vig, Heritage District in Downtown Gilbert, San Tan Mall, and the 60 freeway access. Discover the unparalleled beauty and luxury of this remarkable home. Come see today and experience the best of Val Vista Lakes living!

2131 Golf Links Drive Prescott, AZ 86301

$1,299,900
5 Beds
5 Baths
3,850 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6714951
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
WATER -200ft ''Lakefront'' property!! Overlooking the 3rd Fairway Lake of the of Antelope Hills Golf Course with panoramic mountains, this custom contemporary has views from every room. One level living: spacious Master w/Fireplace, Great room w/Fireplace, 2nd Living/Dining room, Chef's Kitchen, Office (3rd bed) 1/2 bath, Laundry with flex space, 3/4 Bath plus a 3 car garage & Wine Cellar! The kitchen includes a 6 burner gas range, wall oven, granite counters, prep sink & huge island. Additional living and dining space includes a grand double door entrance with 25' Soaring Ceilings and a wet bar with (2) 3 panel sliders accessing the covered patio. The upper level has a 2nd Master, 2 more bedrooms w/private patios. New Exterior paint and many updates -see docs tab. A gem like no other!

6235 E Larkspur Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,299,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,528 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6734145
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
NO HOA - Welcome HOME to your private oasis in the coveted 85254 zip code. Situated on over half an acre, this meticulously updated property offers an abundance of amenities. Step into elegance with this remodeled home featuring an open concept design that seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living. Enjoy the warmth of plank tile flooring in the spacious living and family rooms, complete with a cozy fireplace. The upgraded kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances & an oversized butcherblock island with sleek finishes. Overlook your personal paradise through expansive kitchen window to see sprawling landscape of mature trees & a vast park-like yard, complemented by a stunning PebbleTec diving pool and a charming gazebo (with misting system). Kids will revel in their own wonderland with a great lighted climbing tree & jungle gym offering endless joy and laughter from morning to night. For the adventurous adults, the property features a generously sized RV gate with 30amp power on one side & another RV gate ideal for a boat or trailer on the opposite side. Additional 2 car detached garage with workshop. Conveniently located near Kierland Commons & Scottsdale Quarter, this exceptional home caters to every family member's desires. Don't miss this opportunity to own a slice of Scottsdale paradise!

42144 N Mountain Cove Drive Anthem, AZ 85086

$1,299,900
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,437 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6742477
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This incredible property showcases 3,437 square feet of stunningly appointed indoor/outdoor living space and boasts exceptional mountain views! Step inside to discover a newly remodeled kitchen featuring elegant Misterio Gold quartz countertops, conveniently located pot filler, custom coffee bar, and extended island. New soft-close custom cabinetry includes drawer pull-outs, pull-out waste containers, and a pull-out spice rack, all complemented by under and over-cabinet lighting. Top-of-the-line appliances include a Wi-Fi compatible 48'' Wolf Dual Fuel Gas Range, Sub Zero Refrigerator, and Sharp Drawer Microwave. The main living area has crown moldings and takes full advantage of the breathtaking mountain views with expansive windows that frame the landscape and fill the space with natural light. The spacious owner's suite features a beautiful gas fireplace and provides captivating views of Daisy Mountain, creating a serene and private retreat. The freshly remodeled bathroom showcases new Kohler illuminated mirrors, Misterio Gold quartz countertops, new Delta Brizo fixtures, added custom linen cabinet, new custom shower interior with dual shower heads, and a new luxurious tub with a Misterio Gold quartz waterfall surround. Owner's suite includes two spacious walk-in closets. The outdoor space is an entertainer's dream with NEW artificial turf, a heated pool and spa featuring in-floor cleaning and Wi-Fi connectivity, an outdoor ramada with gas fireplace, a spacious covered patio, and putting green. Pavers have been extended down the side yard for added charm and functionality. ALL new Energy Star Certified Marvin windows with fiberglass frames and full HVAC replacement in 2018 with programmable Wi-Fi thermostats. Plantation shutters and honed Travertine throughout --no carpet. This home has been meticulously cared for, ensuring every detail is in pristine condition. Remodeled laundry room features new shaker-style cabinetry with under-cabinet lighting and granite countertops with backsplash. Extended-length garage includes insulated doors and new garage door openers with Wi-Fi connectivity, fresh epoxy flooring, and an added side door for convenience. Anthem Golf and Country Club is a guard-gated community offering two private 18-hole golf courses, two clubhouses with restaurants and fitness centers, resort-style pools, tennis and pickleball courts, and numerous classes/clubs available.

4222 E Brown Road Unit 5 Mesa, AZ 85205

$1,299,888
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,730 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6739448
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning custom home in private gated neighborhood! Experience luxury living in this exclusive north Mesa enclave. NEW SOLAR OWNED, energy-efficient home on a PREMIUM cul-de-sac lot w/ flood irrigation. Interior boasts attention to detail w/ plantation shutters, new tile flooring, vaulted ceilings, surround sound, a den/office, & formal dining room. Bonus room in the BASEMENT w/ built-in cabinets. The great room is enriched by exposed ceiling beams, media niches & a warm fireplace. Beautiful kitchen equipped w/ Dacor S/S appliances, GAS stove, mosaic backsplash, walk-in pantry, custom cabinets, island, desk, breakfast bar & nook. The 3.5 tandem car garage offers 22V outlet for an electric vehicle, epoxy flooring, mud room & built-in cabinets. The backyard is great for outdoor entertaining The backyard is great for outdoor entertaining, featuring a pool with water feature, NEW variable speed pump, 2 NEWlarge permanent rotating umbrellas 360 degrees, & volleyball net. PLUS a putting green, bocce court, built-in BBQ, fire pit, outdoor shower, & extended covered patio. More features include: Pool is plumbed using waterfall for return 2 NEW water heaters (12/22 & 7/23) 2 NEW variable speed A/C units (9/21) NEWER roof (2019) Aluminum patio cover 400 amp service, 2 electrical panels Many windows have tint Dog run or garden area Citrus, apple and apricot trees Motion exterior lights Metal plants in pots and the metal wall art do not convey. Metal plants in ground do convey. All furniture and solar torches available on separate bill of sale. BBQ is on natural gas. 34 solar panels for a total of 12.24kw. HOA service includes irrigation and the opening/closing of irrigation ports/gates. 35 homes in the community The lifestyle here is exceptional because of the blend of tranquility and convenience, with nearby stores, restaurants, and the vibrant cultural scene of Downtown Mesa just minutes away. This peaceful, gated community offers the best of both worlds, surrounded by lush orange groves and abundant outdoor activities like hiking at Usery Mountain Regional Park and enjoying the scenic beauty of Saguaro Lake.

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