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.

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3440 E Kael Street Mesa, AZ 85213

$2,500,000
4 Beds
5.5 Baths
5,852 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6744700
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Luxury remodel in a gated community! New kitchen with custom cabinetry, cabinet-front fridge/freezer, quartz slab backsplashes, huge island with 2 dishwashers, 48' gas range and custom hood, and beautiful hutch style cabinetry with glass doors. If the kitchen wasn't enough.. there is a butlers pantry equipped with a microwave, a full size oven and an ice maker, in addition to the Costco sized pantry for all your additional storage needs. The primary bedroom will draw you in with its beautiful natural Harwood floors, its soaring ceilings, cozy double-sided fireplace, and its views of the full grown citrus trees that adorn the property. The primary bath has been completely overhauled! It boasts a custom shower with multiple shower heads, a freestanding tub overlooking a private courtyard, and its views of the full grown citrus trees that adorn the property. The primary bath has been completely overhauled! It boasts a custom shower with multiple shower heads, a freestanding tub overlooking a private courtyard, 2 vanities and separate closets. the bedrooms are split, with primary bedroom on the east end of the home & three additional bedrooms split on the west end. The home features 4 bedrooms and 5.5 baths, living room, game room, theater room and formal dining room. Additional features included: 4 car extra deep garage with separate storage area, pool with slide, over 1,000 of covered patio, and much more!

42311 N Sierra Vista Road Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$2,500,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
4,656 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6748202
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
SERENITY! Oasis in Cave Creek only seven minutes from downtown Cave Creek, Buffalo Chip & Harold's. This incredible home is located on over five acres, unsurpassed views of mountains and saguaro cactus, private guest house, private pool, spa, 3 car oversized garage and beautifully upgraded. Home features private front and back porches with peaceful and truly incredible views. You will find Viking appliances, oversized tile flooring, custom paint, open floor plan, negative edge pool, spa & rock waterfall feature. Close to National Forest and preserve for horses, hiking, etc.

5560 E Stella Lane Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$2,500,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,501 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6756352
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
Welcome to Paradise Valley! Where luxury meets breathtaking beauty at Mountain Shadows Resort. This exquisite residence offers panoramic views of the iconic Mummy Mountain from your own living room. The gourmet kitchen features top-of-the-line Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, including a powerful gas stovetop and a Sub-Zero wine refrigerator, perfect for culinary enthusiasts and wine lovers alike. Nestled in the heart of Paradise Valley, Mountain Shadows provides exceptional amenities. Enjoy golf on meticulously maintained courses, relax in expansive swimming pools, and savor fine dining options—all within a guard-gated community that prioritizes your comfort and privacy. This is more than just a home; it's a complete lifestyle experience in one of the most desirable locations! Enjoy the gym at the Mountain Shadows hotel with your Citizens Club Membership that is included with your HOA fee. You also are given a 15% discount on food and gift shop items. And, almost 30% off the golf fees. This community is guard gated 24/7. Additional Member Benefits Sanctuary Resort Spa treatments Tennis, Pickelball 10 % Discount on Spa, Tennis and Pickelball There are NO billing arrangements, so payment is due at Sanctuary. Sanctuary Spa - Sanctuary Tennis - Joya Spa at Montelucia Citizens Club Members can utilize the Joya Spa at Montelucia (our neighbor to the west) and receive a 10% discount on spa treatments. There are NO billing arrangements, so payment is due at the spa. To book a treatment, the concierge at Mountain Shadows at and let them know you are a Citizens Club Member. Our concierge will make the booking and confirm back to you.

5558 E Lafayette Boulevard Phoenix, AZ 85018

$2,500,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,860 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6735220
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your ARCADIA OASIS designed for LUXURIOUS LIVING. Inside, you'll find a SPACIOUS 3,000+ SQ FT MAIN HOUSE featuring 3 BEDS & 3 BATHS in a highly desirable SPLIT-LIVING DESIGN. The great room & kitchen, with breathtaking views of CAMELBACK & PAPAGO mountains, serve as a gorgeous centerpiece for daily living & EXTRAORDINARY ENTERTAINING. The second family room, alongside MUDROOM/LAUNDRY ROOM offers intimacy & practicality conveniently off the 2-car garage. Enter the PRIVATE PRIMARY SUITE, where tranquil POOL & MOUNTAIN VIEWS invite serenity. The SPA-INSPIRED BATHROOM, featuring a dual vanity along with a separate shower & SOAKING TUB, provides the perfect RETREAT for RELAXATION & REJUVENATION, complemented by a sizable custom WALK-IN CLOSET. Outside, an impressive pergola stands.. tall above all-new pavers & the OVERSIZED DIVING POOL, while the generous GRASS LAWN creates an ideal backyard for lifelong memories of PLAY & LEISURE. Beyond, the 850+ SQ FT DETACHED GUEST HOUSE adds exceptional versatility, complete with 1 BED, 1 BATH, a full kitchen & cozy living spaceperfect for guests, a home office or additional living needs. NEW FEATURES INCLUDE: HVAC, PLUMBING, ROOF, ELECTRICAL, TANKLESS WATER HEATER, WINDOWS, APPLIANCES, REFINISHED SWIMMING POOL, THOUSANDS OF SQ FT OF NEW PAVERS, IRRIGATION SYSTEMS, SOD & STUCCO. DO NOT MISS THE OPPORTUNITY TO OWN YOUR DREAM LIFESTYLE IN THIS EXPANSIVE ARCADIA OASIS ON THE HIGHLY COVETED LAFAYETTE BLVD!

2068 E Tiffany Court Gilbert, AZ 85298

$2,499,999
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,622 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6753265
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Located on nearly an acre, this Circle G remodeled custom home is a dream where you can enjoy small town living in the big city. The perfectly designed floorplan includes 5 bedrooms, office, 4.5 baths, large family room, bonus/teen room, oversized 3 car garage, extended driveway with electric security gate and huge new RV garage. The chef's kitchen features Thermador appliances with WIFI range hood, touch to open refrigerator and freezer, microwave, gas range & griddle, steam oven, warming drawer, oven, built in sub zero under counter ice maker with RO water, 4 ft Galley prep sink with dual touch Brizo faucets, and Cambria quartz counter tops. Perfect for entertaining, the kitchen is open to the large family room, the eat in nook and a large sitting area. Beautiful hand scraped hardwood flooring throughout, Lutron lighting with WIFI control, security cameras, security gate, RO water system, and 2 tankless water heaters. Huge owner's suite is a true retreat with tray ceiling, bay window and sitting area, and outdoor access. Ensuite includes two vanities, jetted tub, separate shower, and stunning walk-in closet w/built-ins. Two secondary bedrooms, each equipped with a private bathroom. Beautiful office with large French doors. Laundry room with a sink & cabinetry. Two more bedrooms with an additional bathroom are located near the bonus room with access to the backyard/patio. Step outside to the large extended patio, pergola and built in BBQ area, all equipped with a top of the line misting system. Diving pool with heated spa and water fall. Manicured lawn with irrigation to the perimeter trees. The 1250 sf climate controlled RV garage is the hidden gem of this home. 14 foot tall by 12 foot wide garage door, plumbing, RV hookup, epoxy floor. Centrally located by the 202, Gilbert Regional Park, San Tan Mall, Mercy Medical Corridor, entertainment and dining. This home is a rare find!

10015 N 55th Street Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$2,499,900
5 Beds
3 Baths
3,766 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6759455
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Amazing residence on a private cul-de-sac lot with views of Camelback Country Club Golf Course & amazing mountains! Double custom iron-work doors open to the dramatic entrance of the staircase overlooking the Great Room, which highlights a fireplace & soaring high ceilings. Panoramic windows, designer tile & natural stone, 3 fireplaces, surround sound speakers, plantation shutters, & elegant light fixtures. Fabulous dining room ideal for dinner parties. Immaculate kitchen showcases a large center island great for entertaining, granite counters, built-in SS appliances & a wine cooler, & tons of cabinets. Oasis backyard offers a pebble-tech pool with gorgeous waterfalls, putting green, & large covered patio. For your vehicles, you'll find a 3-car oversized garage and an RV gate. Huge main retreat features a spa-like bathroom with a shower boasting a glass block wall, a jetted tub, dual square vessel sinks, & walk-in closet. Great home with solar from Tesla. Great opportunity! Bring your buyers, they will love it! Hurry!

2208 E Belmont Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85020

$2,499,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
4,168 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6765713
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
BACKING to the coveted Phoenix Mountain Preserve, a rare opportunity to own a piece of the mountain in the heart of metro Phoenix. Second driveway provides step-free access to downstrs bedrooms, family rooms and kitchen. Great in-law set up. Open white kitchen with both city skyline and mountain views. Gas fireplace in dining adjacent kitchen Quiet private backyard. Outdoor kitchen with 2 grills and pool under the awe-inspiring Mountain backdrop. Foyer opens to brushed chrome rail staircase to the loft game with full wet bar positioned under view portals perfectly framing the Phoenix skyline. Glass doors invite to south patio to stargaze & enjoy the dark sky and serenity of the best street in the coveted Biltmore Highlands. Upstairs master has view deck with views of mountain trails from Bed, office or fitness room, large walk in closet, with portals throughout for mountain views, including views from the large walk-in shower. Private commode room, modern double lab. The backyard features paved covered patio and several removable sail coverings for seasonal comfort, and its own gate into the Mountain Preserve. Just steps from the 22nd Street Trailhead to Squaw Peak, this location offers both privacy and easy access to over 200 miles of hiking trails in the Phoenix Mountain Preserve. A second master bedroom is tucked away on the main floor with glass doors leading to the mountain. The secondary driveway provides step-free access to this bedroom door as well as to the back patio and patio door to kitchen and dining room areas. An oversized third bedroom (once two bedrooms) can be divided or create a large media room, game room, office, study or guest suite. Also downstairs is a spacious laundry room with mop sink and cabinets. Garage accommodates 3 to 6 cars depending on your vehicle, golf cart bay, workshop with sink. The storage areas are configured on either size of the primary parking spaces to accommodate those needing access to a van or ramped vehicle. Phoenix is renowned for its urban hiking, with the Phoenix Mountain Preserve (formerly known as Squaw Peak) weaving through the city and just minutes from Sky Harbor Airport. This national oasis invites visitors to immerse themselves in the stunning landscapes of the Sonoran Desert, exploring its diverse flora and fauna while enjoying the tranquility of this natural sanctuary. This home offers a unique chance to reconnect with nature, explore rugged terrains, and appreciate the resilience of desert ecosystems.

5314 N 41st Place Phoenix, AZ 85018

$2,499,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
4,013 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6752736
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
The kitchen showcases a stunning view of Camelback Mountain & the Praying Monk. This beautifully renovated home features an open, entertaining plan with an inviting entry by way of a charming conversation patio. Spanning over 4,000 sq ft, enjoy 5BR/3BA, handsome library, LR, formal dining and great rm/family rm - complete with a breakfast bar & en suite eating area. The spacious split master suite occupies the entire south wing - 2 access doors to pool/patio areas - one right off the gym room. Resort-style backyard with a heated pool & spa, plus a freestanding 3-car garage equipped with a mini-split. Four private patios, one of which features an automated screen. There are surprises & vignettes everywhere. Please review the detailed list of features & improvements found in the docs tab.

7909 E Santa Catalina Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$2,498,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
4,403 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6777120
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this beautifully updated, modern home in the heart of North Scottsdale! This spacious 4-bed,4-bath residence offers a stunning blend of luxury and functionality. Completely remodeled with all-new flooring and stylishly upgraded bathrooms, this house sits on a desirable south-facing lot, flooding the interior with natural light. The expansive backyard is perfect for entertaining, featuring a sparkling pool, spa, BBQ, putting green, and ample space for entertaining—steps to a view deck to enjoy breathtaking sunset views. Inside, a large den provides space for a home office or media room, while the extra large 4-car garage offers abundant storage for vehicles and recreational gear. Situated for easy access to all of North Scottsdale's top amenities, golf, and hiking, this home offers the perfect combination of tranquility and convenience. Don't miss your chance to experience luxury living in an ideal Scottsdale location.

41504 N 107th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$2,497,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,941 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6745885
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
SEVEN GOLF MEMBERSHIP AVAILABLE. Welcome to this Remodeled and fully Furnished home located in the exclusive guard-gated community of Desert Mountain. Nestled at the end of a cul-de-sac on a large lot, with ample room to add a casita, this rare find in the village of Cochise Ridge offers an expansive and private outdoor patio with negative edge pool, beautiful rock waterfall and spa overlooking the natural open space, mountains and city lights. The open floor plan residence with modern finishes that exudes elegance and comfort is ideal for both relaxed family gatherings and entertaining with a huge flat screen TV and Sonos surround sound audio. The open residence seamlessly flows from living room/great room into a fully stocked gourmet kitchen, equipped with high-end appliances, large pantry in 100+ bottle dual zone wine cooler, sleek countertops, and ample cabinetry for the culinary enthusiast. The home offers three generously sized ensuite bedrooms, each with its own private bathroom, ensuring a serene retreat for family and guests. The primary bedroom is secluded on a separate wing with a large walk-in closet, gas fireplace and private patio. Step outside to discover your personal oasis: a negative edge pool integrated with a desert rock waterfall spa offering ample patio/deck space with breathtaking views and the perfect setting for a refreshing swim or sunset cocktails. Entertain with ease in the separate outdoor BBQ and al fresco dining area, where you can host unforgettable gatherings with friends and family. Spa and Pool Equipment all New. An oversized two-car garage with epoxy floor coating, whole house water conditioning system, industrial shelving and double garage doors provides ample space for your vehicles and additional storage needs. This home is available TURNKEY including furniture, full kitchen supplies, linens, some art and more. - just bring your toothbrush. A transferrable SEVEN GOLF MEMBERSHIP is available to transfer via a separate purchase through the Desert Mountain Club. Extensive list of upgrades. New Spa New pool equipment $3500 pellet grill Newly reconditioned bbq Almost New (barely used) Furniture New AC unit New Air Handler Industrial Garage Shelving All new TV's and Sonos sound system Two wine refrigerators Large gun/valuables fire safe Original art Extensive landscape lighting Smart home controls for multi area temperature control, pool temperature and wifi weather station. Embrace the Desert Mountain lifestyle with world-class amenities, stunning natural beauty, and the privacy of a prestigious community. Make this your full-time residence or the ultimate vacation getaway.

1805 E Rocky Slope Drive Phoenix, AZ 85048

$2,495,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
4,628 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6765462
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to 1805 E Rocky Slope Dr, a stunning single-family home nestled in the highly desirable and gated community of Tapestry Canyon in Ahwatukee. This spacious 4-bedroom, 4-bathroom home boasts over 4,600 square feet of living space and is located on a quiet, scenic street with some of the best views in all of Phoenix. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by a bright and airy floor plan with soaring 18 foot ceilings, large windows, and modern finishes throughout. The gourmet kitchen features granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a center island perfect for entertaining. The adjacent living and dining areas offer plenty of room for family gatherings, while the cozy fireplace adds warmth and charm. The luxurious master suite is a private retreat, complete with a spa- like ensuite bathroom featuring dual sinks, a soaking tub, and a walk-in shower. The additional bedrooms are generously sized with ample closet space and privacy. Your private elevator makes accessing the home a breeze. Outside, enjoy Arizona's beautiful weather in your private backyard oasis. With several patios facing every direction, you will have breathtaking views from sunrise to sunset. The sparkling pool will allow you to cool off after a hike at one of the local trails. The home's proximity to South Mountain Park means you'll have access to hiking trails, parks, and outdoor activities right at your doorstep. A large 3-car garage, 2 living rooms, a butler's pantry and close proximity to top-rated schools, shopping, and dining. This home combines luxury, comfort, and convenience, making it a must-see for anyone looking to live in the heart of Phoenix's vibrant Ahwatukee Foothills community.

10284 E Filaree Lane Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$2,495,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,244 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6686113
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Golf Membership to the Desert Mountain Club Available.This classic Spanish-inspired Santa Fe residence seamlessly blends traditional charm with modern comforts, boasting soft curves alongside contemporary lines and angles. Its hacienda shape offers a distinctive layout, with gathering spaces on one side, outdoor living in the center and private ensuites and a casita on the other. Located centrally within Desert Mountain, it enjoys convenient proximity to the Sonoran Fitness Clubhouse and quick access to town via the nearby back gate. The homes large picture windows capture sweeping vistas from south to northwest, showcasing vibrant sunsets, majestic mountain ranges and twinkling city lights, as well as up-close views of mature cacti. Step outside, and youll discover a haven of outdoor bliss. A meandering water feature flows gracefully through the Sonoran landscape, leading to a geometric-shaped pool where you can bask in the Arizona sun. The covered breezeway connects living spaces, offering seamless indoor-outdoor living. Whether youre dining Al Fresco, star gazing by the firepit, or taking a dip in the pool, every moment is accompanied by captivating views at every turn. Stepping inside, guests are greeted with a prominent rustic front door, leading the eye through glass French doors to the stunning outdoor space beyond. The open floor plan centers around the kitchen, a hub of activity with a spacious island, Wolf, Sub Zero appliances, and ample Alder wood cabinets. Adjacent, a cozy circular casual dining area with a kiva fireplace offers a picturesque spot to savor meals while soaking in the views. The great room invites relaxation with its panoramic vistas, fireplace warmth, and easy access to outdoor pleasures. For additional entertainment, a media room/den awaits with blackout shades, a mounted TV, and French door access to the outdoors. The primary ensuite is a luxurious retreat, showing off stunning views, a kiva fireplace, and a spa-like bath with double vanities, a soaking tub, walk-in shower and designer closet. Two generously appointed guest ensuites offer comfortable accommodations, each with carpeted floors, designer baths, and walk-in showers. A standalone guest casita provides additional privacy and convenience, complete with a breakfast bar, media entertainment and a luxury bath. Throughout the interior, hand-hewn vigas, latilla poles and wire brushed interior doors complement modern design elements like angular cut corbels, substantial picture and viga framed windows and high ceilings, creating a harmonious blend of authenticity and sophistication. Saltillo tile floors flow seamlessly indoor and out, while carpeted bedrooms offer cozy retreats. Beyond the home, Desert Mountain offers an unparalleled lifestyle, with access to 7 clubhouses, 7 golf courses, multiple dining options, and a 20-mile trail system bordering the Tonto National Forest. It promises years of diverse living experiences amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Welcome home to Desert Mountain.

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