How To Get an FHA Loan with Credit Issues

Navigating the home-buying journey with little to no credit history can seem daunting. However, FHA loans, insured by the Federal Housing Administration, can be a lifesaver for prospective homebuyers with such financial constraints. Their flexible financial prerequisites make them an excellent alternative for those dealing with debt or other personal finance challenges. The FHA loan program's forgiving nature makes it easier to obtain than traditional loans, helping more people join the homeowner's club. However, an easier application process doesn't mean a less serious commitment; diligent preparation is crucial to sidestep common errors in home loan applications. If the appeal of less stringent requirements entices you, stick around as we delve into how to secure an FHA loan with low credit. Understanding FHA Loan Eligibility and Requirements for Low Credit The…
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New Home Builders and Their Buyers Are Finally Getting Their Day In The Sun

Real estate and home buyers needed some good news somewhere, and it finally arrived. While it’s true homes “with experience” are few and far between, new construction homes are rising like a phoenix out of the pandemic/high interest rate ashes. Realtor’s Kimberly Dawn Neumann explains, “Many homebuyers might assume a brand-new house—with its pristine, gleaming countertops and flawless wood floors—must cost more than a preexisting property. And normally it does. The latest housing statistics place the median price of a new-construction home at $449,800—a steep premium compared with $375,700 for a property that’s been lived in already.” But things have changed and this rule is no longer true across the board. High mortgage interest rates combined with severely constrained housing inventory have turned the tables in certain areas, presenting some…
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How To Get A Mortgage If You’re Self-Employed

There are numerous benefits to being self-employed - you're your own boss. However, when it comes to securing a mortgage, the process deviates slightly from traditional mortgages. It often involves additional requirements and more administrative procedures. Here are some tips to help you get organized and approved if you're self-employed. Apply for a mortgage when your income is high. We understand this is easier said than done, but lenders will focus most on your income from the last two years. If your income fluctuates, it's best to apply in a high-income year. This strategy can help you qualify for a larger loan amount and a lower interest rate. Lower your DTI. Your debt-to-income ratio is one of the critical factors in getting approved. Therefore, it's beneficial to pay down both…
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Market Watch – Rates Dip

We saw more activity in the market as rates dropped in a volatile business environment. Applications were up 7% and Freddie Mac reported the average rate on the average 30-year fixed mortgage was 6.60% this fell to 6.60% this week down from last weeks rate of 6.73%. In statement by Freddie Mac’s Chief Economist Sam Khater, he said “turbulence in the financial markets is putting significant downward pressure on rates, which should benefit borrowers in the short-term.” And he continued, “our research concludes that homebuyers can potentially save $600 to $1,200 annually by taking the time to shop among multiple lenders.” Check with us about your options as the market is in a period of volatility. You can use our quick analysis our website and we will auto-schedule a review…
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Costs Drop For Some Buyers

With recent market volatility we have good news for some new home buyers. Starting in March, those who are receiving FHA financing and paying mortgage insurance will see the monthly fee reduced from 0.85% to 0.55%. This is expected to affect 850,000 borrowers this year and result in an average savings of $800 annually. The savings will vary based on the loan amount, for example a person with a $500,000 FHA loan would save $1,500 annually. We are able to offer this savings on 2/27/23 - saving borrowers more money before the scheduled start date of March 20, 2023. If you are in the market for a new home, fill out our quick home qualifier on our website and we can help determine what loan best fits your needs and…
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ARM Loans 2023 Overview

An adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) is a type of mortgage in which the interest rate can fluctuate over time. The key advantage of an ARM is that its initial interest rate is usually lower than that of a similar fixed-rate mortgage, making your monthly payments more affordable initially. Depending on the terms of the ARM, these lower payments can last for several years or even a decade. This makes it a good option for those who plan to stay in their home for a short period of time, and move before the ARM resets to a variable rate. As interest rates rise, payments will also increase. ARMs can also be beneficial if you anticipate a significant increase in income or assets in the future. When the ARM resets, you will…
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Considering An ADU?

As we continue to see low inventory in the housing market and high rent prices, many home owners are adding ADUs (which stands for Accessory Dwelling Units). ADUs often called granny flats, are guest houses or rooms added to garages to create rental income for home owners. Home owners typically add ADUs to increase cash flow, as well as looking for their property value to appreciate. Whether ADUs are right for you, depends on a number of factors. ADUs often costs at least $100,000 to build so being in a high rent market helps to offset the initial investment. You’ll also need to make sure local ordinances allow them and what the regulations are. The old real estate adage about location stays true for ADUs as well. If you are…
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Pre-Approved Or Pre-Qualified

If you’re in the market for a new house, you’ve probably heard that you want to get pre… qualified or pre-approved? What’s the difference anyways? There’s actually a big difference. Pre-qualified is more of a preliminary step. It gives you a general idea of much home you can afford. We will examine your credit, income, assets, and debts and you’ll have a general idea of the price range you’re looking for. You may also see that you need to increase your savings or lower debts before you buy. While pre-qualifying is an initial step, pre-approval is a deeper dive and being pre-approved carries more weight with sellers. To get pre-approved we will verify you income, assets, etc. and you will be more official (of course you still have to apply…
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WTD If Mortgage App Denied

If you were recently denied for a mortgage application, it doesn’t mean you can’t get approved somewhere else. There are some application issues that are fixable. The first thing you’ll want to know is why you were denied. We can take a look and shop for other loans options. Credit issues are a common reason for getting denied. The first thing to do is to examine your credit report to see if there are any errors that can be fixed. There are also other loan programs if your score doesn’t fit conventional loans. Debt to income ration or DTI that is too high is another common reason to be denied. The first thing if possible, would be to pay down debt. Another common source of debt is student loans -…
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Mortgage Rate Update

As the Federal Reserve has indicated lowering inflation is a top priority and raising short term interest rates as its primary tool to do this, we have seen mortgage markets react with higher rates (mortgage rates are not directly tied to the Fed rate, but they often move in the same direction). The 30 year rate moved up to 5.89% this week accord B ing to Freddie Mac. While these rates are higher than pandemic lows, the still fall into the historic “normal” range. While the Fed is taking a strong position against inflation, we are seeing market conditions improve in some areas. As Dawit Kebede, an economist for the Credit Union National Association noted recently, “there are signs that some of the main drivers of inflation are easing, such…
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