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6 Things You Must Know Before You Get a Mortgage in Arizona

Mortgage Regulations Have Changed . . .

Mortgage regulations have changed significantly over the last few years, making your options wider than ever. Subtle changes in the way you approach mortgage shopping, and even small differences in the way you structure you r mortgage, can literally cost or save you thousands of dollars and years of expenses.

Get the Right Information

Whether you are about to buy your first home or are planning to make a move to your next home, it is critical that you inform yourself about the factors involved. Industry research has revealed that there are 6 common mistakes that most homebuyers make in mortgage shopping that can have a significant impact on the outcome of this critical negotiation. If handled correctly, these issues could result in a mortgage that will cost you less over a shorter period of time.

“Subtle changes in the way you approach mortgage shopping, and even small differences in the way you structure your mortgage, can cost or save you literally thousands of dollars and years of expense.”

6 Things You Must Know Before Obtaining a Mortgage

Before you commit your hard earned dollars to monthly mortgage payments, consider these 6 issues. Effective consideration of these important areas can make your payments work much harder for you.

  1. You can, and should, get pre-approved for a mortgage before you go looking for a home. Pre-approval is easy and can give you complete peace of mind when shopping for your home. Your local lending institution can provide you with written pre-approval for you at no cost or obligation, and it can all be done quite easily over the phone. More than just a verbal approval from your lending institution, a written pre-approval is as good as money in the bank. It entails a completed credit application and a certificate which guarantees you a mortgage to the specified level when you find the home you’re looking for.
  2. Know what monthly dollar amount you feel comfortable committing to. When you discuss mortgage pre-approval with your lending institution, find out what level you qualify for, but also pre-assess for yourself what monthly dollar amount you feel comfortable committing to. Your situation may give you a pre-approval amount that is higher (or lower) than the amount of money you would want to pay out each month. By working back and forth with your lending institution to determine what this monthly amount is and what value of home this translates into at today’s rates, you won’t waste time looking at homes that are not in your price range.
  3. You should be thinking about you r long term goals and expected situation to determine the type of mortgage that will best suit your needs. There are a number of questions you should be asking yourself before you commit to a certain type of mortgage. How long do you think you will own this home? What direction are interest rates going in and how quickly? Is your income expected to change (up or down) in the near term, impacting how much money you can afford to pay to your mortgage? The answers to these and other questions will help you determine the most appropriate mortgage you should be seeking.
  4. Make sure you understand what prepayment privileges and payment frequency options are available to you. More frequent payments (for example weekly or biweekly) can literally shave years off your mortgage. Structuring your payments so that they come out more frequently will significantly lessen the amount of interest that you will be charged over the term. For the same reason, authorized pre-payment of a certain percentage of your mortgage, or an increase in the amount you pay monthly, will have a major impact on the number of years you will have to pay and could shorten your payment term considerably. These two payment options can cut years off your mortgage and save you thousands of dollars in interest. However, not every mortgage has these prepayment privileges built in, so make sure you ask the proper questions.
  5. Ask if your mortgage is both portable and/or assumable. A portable mortgage, where available, is one that you can carry with you when you buy your next home and avoid paying any discharge penalties. This means that you will not have to go through the entire mortgage process again unless you are making a move up to a much more expensive home. An assumable mortgage is one that the buyer for your home can take over when you move to your next home. This can be a very powerful tool at the negotiating table making it much easier and more desirable for a buyer to buy your home and again saves you any discharge penalties.
  6. You should seriously consider dealing with a Mortgage Expert. Consider dealing only with a professional who specializes in mortgages. Enlisting their services can make a significant difference in the cost and effectiveness of the mortgage you obtain. For example, they can make the process faster thereby avoiding costly delays. Typically there is no cost or obligation to inquire.

5250 E Deer Valley Drive Unit 353, Phoenix
$1,450,000
3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 7098397 MLS ⋅ 2,175 SqFt.
Experience contemporary luxury at The Luxe at Desert Ridge, a prestigious guard-gated community offering an exceptional collection of resort-inspired amenities in a premier North Phoenix location. This desirable third-floor end-corner residence features three bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths, showcasing sophisticated, contemporary open living w/a neutral palette, custom chandeliers, recessed lighting, and refined designer finishes throughout. The great room makes a striking statement w/a floor-to-ceiling tile-surround linear fireplace and an expansive four-panel glass door opening to the outdoor living space. The gourmet kitchen is beautifully appointed w/a large quartz island w/seating, quartz countertops, a herringbone tile backsplash, premium stainless steel appliances, a gas range with vent hood, and ceiling-height shaker cabinetry accented by glass display cabinets and under-cabinet lighting. The primary suite offers a beautifully finished bath featuring dual vanities, quartz countertops, custom lighting and mirrors, and a distinctive herringbone tile accent wall. Both full bathrooms feature quartz countertops and thoughtfully selected finishes. A well-appointed utility room adds exceptional functionality with quartz countertops, a prep sink, and Electrolux washer and dryer. The expansive wraparound balcony extends the living space outdoors, featuring a built-in Coyote BBQ with vent hood, quartz countertop, and herringbone tile backsplash, along with select mountain views. Additional conveniences include two underground parking spaces with wiring for an EV charging station and a large private storage unit adjacent to the parking spaces. The Luxe's impressive community amenities elevate everyday living, highlighted by a 12,767-square-foot clubhouse, Olympic-size community pool, state-of-the-art 4,000-square-foot fitness center, and infrared sauna. Residents can also enjoy beer-garden-inspired outdoor gathering spaces, outdoor kitchens, a catering kitchen, a luxury wine room, a multi-seat movie room, an indoor mail room, and a business center, along with a sports court and playground. Ideally located near Desert Ridge Marketplace, Mayo Clinic Hospital, premier Scottsdale shopping and dining, championship golf, hiking trails, and convenient freeway access, this exceptional residence offers a sophisticated lock-and-leave lifestyle with contemporary design, resort-style amenities, and outstanding convenience.

5250 E Deer Valley Drive Unit 353, Phoenix

744 W Harvard Drive, Tempe
$315,000
2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 7098382 MLS ⋅ 1,120 SqFt.
Welcome to easy, low-maintenance living in the desirable Pepperwood community in the heart of Tempe! Tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac with no homes directly behind, this well-maintained 2-bedroom, 2-bath townhome offers a wonderful combination of privacy, comfort and convenience. The inviting, functional layout features two skylights that fill the home with natural light, an updated primary bathroom, and a kitchen with select newer appliances. Step outside to a private backyard featuring a spacious covered patio, storage shed and low-maintenance landscaping in both the front and back, creating the perfect setting to relax and enjoy Arizona's beautiful weather without the upkeep. A private 2-car carport adds everyday convenience. Additional highlights include a roof updated in September 2026 and an HVAC system that has been serviced annually, reflecting pride of ownership and ongoing care. Enjoy nearby community amenities, including a heated pool, spa and RV/boat storage, with the pool and neighborhood school just a short distance away while maintaining comfortable separation. Ideally situated near Kiwanis Park, Arizona State University, shopping, dining and entertainment, with convenient access to US-60, Loop 101 and Loop 202 for easy travel throughout the Valley. Whether you're looking for a primary residence, seasonal retreat or investment opportunity, this Pepperwood townhome offers an appealing blend of location, privacy and easy Arizona living.

744 W Harvard Drive, Tempe

844 W Wagner Drive, Gilbert
$850,000
4 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 7098326 MLS ⋅ 2,592 SqFt.
STUNNING single-story home featuring a private backyard oasis in Gilbert's highly sought-after Islands community! Meticulously maintained and move-in ready, this home boasts over $100,000 in custom, upgraded travertine tile work throughout the interior, bathrooms, and outdoor living spaces, along with major big-ticket updates: NEW Roof, NEW HVAC, NEW Pool Filtration System, and NEW Landscape Irrigation & Upgraded Lighting. Step inside to soaring vaulted ceilings and expansive family room windows that flood the home with natural light. The inviting layout features elegant travertine tile flooring, sleek granite countertops, and a cozy wood-burning fireplace. Double French doors welcome you into the spacious primary suite, complete with custom travertine bathroom finishes. Escape to your private outdoor retreat, featuring a premium travertine pool deck and patio topped with a modern louvered pergola for adjustable shade. Relax year-round with a sparkling heated pool & spa and lush mature landscaping, perfect for quiet afternoons or lively evening entertaining. Additional highlights include an epoxy-coated garage floor, built-in garage cabinets, and an updated water heater. Enjoy resort-style living with access to private community lakes, permitted boating, catch-and-release fishing, scenic walking paths, and parks, all just minutes from Downtown Gilbert, Chandler dining, shopping, and major freeways!

844 W Wagner Drive, Gilbert

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