Worried About Future Mortgage Rate Increases? Here’s How to ‘Stress Test’ Your Finances

When it comes to real estate, there are always going to be upswings in the market that will have an impact on your mortgage payment and overall financial health. However, with a fluctuating market here to stay, you may be wondering how you can guard your biggest investment and your finances against rate increases. If you’re concerned about rates on the rise, here are a few tips to test out you’re fiscal well-being.

Calculate Your Debt-To-Income Ratio

It’s beneficial to determine your DTI ratio prior to purchasing a home, but since debt and housing costs are always fluctuating, calculating this number again can be a wakeup call. By adding up your monthly expenditures (including any debt), and dividing that number by your pre-tax income, you’ll be able to determine your DTI percentage. While it’s ideal to have a percentage of less than 28%, if your expenditures have risen above this number, it may be time to take a look at your monthly budget and see what you can cut out.

Do You Have Emergency Savings?

Many people make a habit of putting money into their retirement funds each paycheck, but it’s equally important to have emergency savings you can access in the event of car repairs, home maintenance issues or an unforeseen medical problem. While it’s often suggested that a person should have a minimum of 3 months of expenses at their disposal, saving more than this can make you even more prepared in the event that a rate increase requires you to dive into other funds.

Review Your Budget

It’s easy enough to have a monthly budget, but the hard part for most people is sticking to it on a day-to-day basis. If you’ve veered off the trail a little bit in this regard, sit down to review your expenditures and determine what your financial outlook would be if you experienced an interest rate bump next month. In the event that there’s very little cushion and no money for savings, it may be worth your time to craft a new budget that gives you a bit more wiggle room.

Many people are uncertain about what the short-term economy will bring for their mortgage rates, but by reviewing your budget and maintaining emergency savings, you can be better prepared for the future. If you’re currently considering purchasing a home, give me a call for more information – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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5520 N 192nd Lane Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$626,680

5 Beds

4 Baths

3,475 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6786873

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This amazing 5 Bedroom, 4 bath home with a 3-car garage home is on a large lot with a large, covered patio and plenty room for a wonderful pool. It has a full bedroom & bath downstairs, with 4 bedrooms, 3 baths & loft upstairs. Gourmet Kitchen has a large island with Quartz countertops and a custom backsplash, walk in pantry & butler's pantry. Kitchen is open to a large Great Room and has a formal dining that could also serve as a den. All bedrooms are spacious and have walk in closets and connected with a wonderful upstairs loft. Master suite has his & her closets, separate tub & shower along with separate vanities. Come see us. PHOTOS ARE OF A MODEL HOME. SEE SELECTION PHOTO. HOME COMPLETED IN JAN. 2025

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28976 N 174th Lane Surprise, AZ 85387

$626,597

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,878 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784982

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Ready Jan/Feb 2025! Incredible incentives with builder's preferred lender. Brand New Home in True Hidden Oasis on a spacious 8,202sf homesite with 13ft between neighbors for added privacy. Exceptional 1-story features 4 beds, versatile retreat, 3.5 baths, and spacious 3-car side-by-side garage. The inviting layout includes 3 distinct wings of space and seamless indoor-outdoor living with clear backyard views—perfect for entertaining or relaxing. The chef-inspired kitchen boasts an oversized quartz island, 42'' upper cabinets, cushion-close drawers, a wall oven/micro combo, and walk-in pantry. The retreat offers flexible use as a teen room, media hub, or playroom. The primary suite includes 2 walk-in closets and a spa-like tiled shower.

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4780 W Flat Iron Court San Tan Valley, AZ 85144

$626,432

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,665 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6772329

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Lovely new 4-bedroom home in Queen Creek, offering a spacious and welcoming floor plan, 3 bathrooms, an attached 3-car garage, and so much more! The Executive Kitchen features double ovens, designer selected backsplash, quartz countertops, a multi panel sliding glass door, and a Blanco Diamond kitchen sink. Other highlights of the home include white cabinets with 42'' uppers, wood look tile and upgraded carpet, and a separate tub and shower with an enlarged tub. The exterior of the home features pavers at the driveway and front porch as well as a gas line to the back patio!

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10027 W Verde Lane Avondale, AZ 85392

$626,261

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,581 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6752647

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Find your dream home at Acclaim-a Fulton homes master planned community! The North Bend is a fantastic single story home with a private primary suite and four spacious guest bedrooms. Beautiful gourmet kitchen with separate nook and a spacious great room with a 16' atrium door that opens to the covered patio. Exclusive features include 10' ceilings, 8' doors, paver driveways and much more. Fulton homes are ''Zero Energy Ready'' and include tankless water heaters, spray foam insulation, electric vehicle ready and pre plumb for solar installation. Residents enjoy a community pool, basketball courts, pickle ball courts, sand volleyball, bocce ball, greenbelts and children's playgrounds. Buyer can upgrade appliances at additional cost. Estimated completion-12/2024

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15626 N 50th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$626,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,649 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6773784

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your serene retreat in Paradise Manor! A courtyard at the entry provides a charming first impression and a lovely spot to relax. This single-level home features 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, and a 2-car garage, perfect for families or those looking to downsize. Inside, you'll find a thoughtful mix of engineered hardwood, tile, and carpet flooring that adds warmth and style. The inviting great room with vaulted ceiling features a cozy wood-burning fireplace, perfect for gatherings or quiet evenings at home.With an AC unit that's only 5 years old, you can enjoy comfort year-round. Enjoy the tranquility of a quiet neighborhood while being conveniently located near Kierland Commons & many other shopping & dining options. This home is ready for you to make it your own! Don't miss out!

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10649 E Lomita Avenue Mesa, AZ 85209

$626,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,628 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6759011

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Gorgeous Home in The Villages of Eastridge! Discover this beautiful 3-bedroom+den(with Murphy bed)& Loft 2.5-bathroom home offering a versatile floor plan that's perfect for a home office, guest space, or a potential 4th bedroom! Begin your experience by stepping into a private, courtyard. Inside, the expansive eat-in kitchen is a chef's dream, equipped with a sleek induction cooktop, Samsung S/S refrigerator-less than 2 years old, and beautiful quartz countertops. The kitchen flows seamlessly into an open formal dining room & family room, creating an inviting space for gatherings and everyday living.This home is filled with custom touches, including fresh interior paint, detailed custom trim moldings, stylish lighting fixtures, newer carpet, Low E windows & new exterior paint. See more. Upstairs, unwind in the oversized master suite with an en-suite bathroom complete with dual vanities, a large walk-in closet, a separate shower, and a luxurious soaker tub. Two additional bedrooms, a full bathroom, and a cozy loft space provide plenty of room for everyone. Your private backyard oasis awaits with a 9-foot Pebble Tec diving pool featuring a fountain, a new turf lawn, a fire pit, and a lockable dog door perfect for enjoying Arizona's beautiful weather year-round. Parking and storage are no issue with the extended 3-car garage that comfortably fits a truck, complete with built-in cabinets and a widened driveway slab. The seller also has plans available for converting the third car garage into a casita, offering even more flexibility to suit your needs. Convenient access to the 60 and 202 freeways, and proximity to shopping, movies, and excellent school choices.

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15732 E Yucca Drive Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

Open House

New

$626,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,838 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6788026

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Seller may consider buyer concessions if made in an offer. Welcome to a beautifully updated property boasting a neutral color paint scheme and fresh interior paint throughout. The inviting living area features a cozy fireplace, while the kitchen comes equipped with all stainless steel appliances and a center island for added convenience. The primary bathroom is a relaxing haven with double sinks, and a separate tub and shower for your comfort. The home also features a partial flooring replacement, adding a touch of modern elegance. Outside, enjoy a covered patio and a fenced-in backyard, perfect for outdoor gatherings. This property is more than just a house, it's your future home.

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4021 W Willis Lane Show Low, AZ 85901

$625,888

4 Beds

3 Baths

3,022 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6756128

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

INCOME POTENTIAL! Welcome to your dream home with a potential income generating guest house, located on the serene fairway of Bison Golf Club. This exquisite property offers not only a prime location with stunning views of the manicured greens but also the added luxury of an attached guest house, perfect for hosting friends and family or generating rental income. Guest House: The attached guest house includes a fully-equipped kitchen with modern appliances, perfect for short or long-term stays. A comfortable bedroom with ample closet space and one full bathroom featuring modern amenities. The cozy living room has its own private entrance, ensuring complete privacy for your guests. Approximately 730 SqFt with its own washer and dryer.

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2182 Shaded Spring Trail Flagstaff, AZ 86005

$625,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,597 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6776808

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

** NEW CONSTRUCTION. Nestled within the world's largest stand of Ponderosa Pines, The Highlands at Tovar Springs offers the perfect harmony of natural beauty and modern living. Situated in Flagstaff's stunning landscapes, this new community provides the tranquility of mountain living with the convenience of a vibrant, thriving town. The Oak floorplan, a single-story home featuring 2 bedrooms and 2 baths with an optional third bedroom, is thoughtfully designed for comfort and flexibility. Located on Homesite #15, this is a unique opportunity to secure a home at introductory pricing. Scheduled for delivery in Winter 2025, this home is crafted for year-round enjoyment, ideal as a seasonal getaway or a primary residence. The Highlands at Tovar Springs boasts easy access to miles of scenic trails and a nearby wildlife-rich natural wetland. Adventure is just outside your door, with hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing set against the stunning backdrop of the San Francisco Peaks. Only minutes from downtown Flagstaff, renowned for its culinary scene with two James Beard finalists, you'll also enjoy a rich cultural experience. Seamlessly connect to the Flagstaff Urban Trail Systema 75-mile network that winds through forests, canyons, and open spaces, linking parks, schools, and neighborhoods. Flagstaff is not only a gateway to outdoor adventure but a high-altitude training hub, attracting elite athletes and Olympians from across the globe.

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15728 W Montgomery Road Peoria, AZ 85383

$625,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,472 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6616298

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Construction about to start on this beautiful NEW BUILD. Contract now at 2023 prices and be apart of the final touches to make it truly your dream home.

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6069 E Knolls Way Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$625,000

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,516 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6757997

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

You won't want to miss this beautifully remodeled gem in Cave Creek's most desired area! Displaying a delightful curb appeal with a 2-car garage that features a NEW garage door, NEW direct drive garage opener and NEW epoxy flooring (2024)! High ceilings, plantation shutters, tile flooring in high-traffic areas, soft carpet in all the right places, & a sun-filled living/dining room are features that can't be left unsaid. Immaculate kitchen showcases recessed lighting, white shaker cabinets, gleaming granite counters, mosaic tile backsplash, and sparkling SS appliances. Primary bedroom offers plush carpet, a sitting area w/a bay window, & a pristine ensuite w/sliding barn doors, dual sinks, & a walk-in closet. Another main bedroom enjoys a private bathroom w/sliding barn door. The property also NEW west wall in the patio added for privacy, NEW hard wired path lighting, & NEW auto rear irrigation system. This is a property you won't want to miss!

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2206 Shaded Spring Trail Flagstaff, AZ 86005

$625,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,597 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6772917

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

** NEW CONSTRUCTION. Nestled within the world's largest stand of Ponderosa Pines, The Highlands at Tovar Springs offers the perfect harmony of natural beauty and modern living. Situated in Flagstaff's stunning landscapes, this new community provides the tranquility of mountain living with the convenience of a vibrant, thriving town. The Oak floorplan, a single-story home featuring 2 bedrooms and 2 baths with an optional third bedroom, is thoughtfully designed for comfort and flexibility. Located on Homesite #14, this is a unique opportunity to secure a home at introductory pricing. Scheduled for delivery in Winter 2025, this home is crafted for year-round enjoyment, ideal as a seasonal getaway or a primary residence. The Highlands at Tovar Springs boasts easy access to miles of scenic trails and a nearby wildlife-rich natural wetland. Adventure is just outside your door, with hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing set against the stunning backdrop of the San Francisco Peaks. Only minutes from downtown Flagstaff, renowned for its culinary scene with two James Beard finalists, you'll also enjoy a rich cultural experience. Seamlessly connect to the Flagstaff Urban Trail Systema 75-mile network that winds through forests, canyons, and open spaces, linking parks, schools, and neighborhoods. Flagstaff is not only a gateway to outdoor adventure but a high-altitude training hub, attracting elite athletes and Olympians from across the globe.

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