Check out the latest edition of Your First Home Mortgage Guide.
Although I wrote this book with first time home buyers in mind, a majority of the content is relevant to all home buyers.
What is a Mortgage Credit Certificate or MCC?
April 10, 2014 by 10 Comments
Mortgage Credit Certificate (or also referred to as MCC) is a federal tax credit available to first time home buyers who meet certain requirements. With the tax credit, eligible home buyers can adjust their their withholding to take advantage of the savings monthly instead of waiting until they file their taxes. The MCC remains available as long as the borrower owns and occupies the property.
WSHFC now offers reduced mortgage rates with no DPA
March 31, 2014 by Leave a Comment
The Washington State Housing Finance Commission offers several mortgage programs with various types of down payment assistance for home buyers. In order to qualify for the program, home buyers need to have household income of $97,000 or lower and attend a WSHFC sponsored home buyers class.
Why would anyone want an FHA mortgage?
January 16, 2014 by Leave a Comment
Let me start by saying there’s nothing wrong with having an FHA insured mortgage. FHA mortgages have been a resource for first time home buyers and borrowers who lack significant down payment since their inception 40 years ago…. BUT with the increases to the upfront and monthly mortgage insurance premiums and the reduced loan limits, many borrowers could be better off considering loans other than FHA.
When I’m working with a home buyer who’s considering an FHA mortgage, here are some of the other mortgage programs I suggest they consider:
Question about Home Advantage Down Payment Assistance (DPA)
September 17, 2013 by Leave a Comment
Yesterday I received an email with this question that I thought would be helpful to my readers considering the popular Home Advantage Mortgage program with down payment assistance:
I’ve been studying the different loan programs in WA State and came across your website. We’re considering taking out a Home Advantage mortgage but need clarification on one of the restrictions.
Freddie Mac Home Possible Mortgage
August 30, 2013 by 17 Comments
Freddie Mac’s Home Possible Mortgage is a great mortgage program designed for first time home buyers. What’s so special about this program is that it allows a home buyer to qualify for dramatically reduced mortgage insurance premiums with a minimum down payment. The down payment may be gifted by a family member. No reserves are required for a single family dwelling.
Your First Home Mortgage Guide Book
April 23, 2013 by 2 Comments
My most recent guide book, Your First Home Mortgage, is filled with information that I hope first time home buyers will find useful. Please feel free to share this book with anyone you know who is considering buying their first home.
You can find a collection of my other guide books and slide shows by visiting the Mortgage Porter library.
Remember, if I can help you with your mortgage needs, including buying or refinancing a home located anywhere in Washington state, I’m happy to help you! Click here for a free rate quote.
PS: If you’re interested in attending one of my home buyer seminars sponsored by the Washington State Housing Finance Commission, click here.
Home Advantage Mortgage with Down Payment Assistance
April 11, 2013 by 4 Comments
Home Advantage is a program that is offered through the Washington State Housing Finance Commission. Home Advantage is typically combined with a Home Advantage second mortgage that can finance closing cost and the down payment. Unlike the House Key program (state bond), this program has unlimited funds available for qualified Washington home buyers.
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