If you have been finding the current lack of inventory a challenge, you may want to consider a renovation mortgage. A renovation mortgage (or rehab loan) allows you to finance improvements to the property beyond the sales price of the home. The renovations begin after closing and there are no restrictions on the types of improvements. You can even use this on your existing home as a refinance if you love your location and neighbors and just want to make changes to your home. [Read more…]
Mortgage Programs
Not all mortgage loans are the same — and choosing the right program can make a significant difference in your payment, qualification, and long-term financial flexibility.
This section covers the most common and specialty mortgage programs available to homebuyers and homeowners, including:
- FHA Loans
- VA Loans
- USDA Loans
- Conventional & Jumbo Loans
- HomeReady & Home Possible
- Down payment assistance programs
- Washington State Housing Finance Commission (WSHFC) programs
- Specialty programs for medical professionals and unique scenarios
Understanding eligibility guidelines, loan limits, credit requirements, and program benefits allows you to compare options strategically rather than relying on headlines or general advice.
As a Mortgage Advisor with over 25 years of experience, I help clients evaluate which program best aligns with their income, assets, and long-term plans.
Explore the programs below to better understand your options.
Are you considering an ADU?
April 30, 2024 by Leave a Comment
Have you been considering a “mother-in-law” apartment or backyard cottage? This type of dwelling is technically referred to an accessory dwelling unit aka “attached dwelling unit” (ADU) or detached dwelling unit (DADU). [Read more…]
Home Improvement and Construction Loans
February 29, 2024 by Leave a Comment
There are many options available for financing home improvements not to mention using cash or available funds.
What type of program is used may depend on the scope and amount of funds needed for the project. We can help you with everything from a home equity line of credit where you can do the work yourself or a full construction loan if you’re working with a vacant lot or a complete tear-down property. Larger projects may require a general contractor and/or to have the contractor approved by the lender.
Loans that do not require a general contractor are our home equity line of credit, stand-alone second mortgage or a cash-out refi. With the home equity loan of credit or second mortgage, you could keep your existing first mortgage (if there is one).
Here are some possible programs to consider: [Read more…]
2024 FHA Loan Limits for Homes in Washington State
November 28, 2023 by Leave a Comment
HUD has just announced the 2024 loan limits for FHA mortgages. FHA loan limits vary by the county the home is located in. In Washington state, some counties have higher limits than 2023 and other counties have the same loan limits from 2023.
Here are the 2024 FHA loan limits for homes located in Washington state: [Read more…]
What is the difference between a Bridge Loan and a Cash Buyer Program
November 17, 2023 by Leave a Comment
Bridge loans allow people who want to buy their next home to access a portion of their home equity to use as down payment and/or closing cost. They have been around for quite a while and has been a great tool to help accommodate home purchases. [Read more…]
