Remove Banks Remove Closing costs Remove Debt-to-income ratio
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Today’s Mortgage Rates March 4, 2025: Rates Have Dropped Sharply

Marco Santarelli

Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI): Lenders want to see that you have a handle on your debt. A lower DTI (the percentage of your gross monthly income that goes towards debt payments) signals that you're a less risky borrower. Credit Score: A higher credit score (typically 740 or above) will get you the best rates.

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Second-Time Homebuyer: What to Expect This Time Around

Redfin

If your score is lower, focus on paying down debt and improving your credit before applying. Debt-to-income ratio: This compares your monthly debt payments to your gross income. If your ratio is higher, explore loan options like VA or FHA loans that accept higher DTIs.

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Do I Need a Mortgage Commitment Letter? What Homebuyers Should Know

Redfin

This helps you plan for closing costs and monthly payments. These conditions might include: Additional documentation (proof of income, tax returns, bank statements) A satisfactory home appraisal A final credit check Debt-to-income ratio verification A clear title report 2. Bank statements.

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6 Types of First-Time Homebuyer Loans: Everything New Buyers Should Know

Redfin

Conventional loans Offered by private lenders such as banks and mortgage companies, Conventional loans are one of the most common choices for first-time buyers. An FHA loan may be ideal for those with a lower credit score or a higher debt-to-income ratio. Why does the debt-to-income ratio matter for my loan?

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Creative Strategies To Come Up With The Down Payment

The Mortgage Report

For example, the FHA requires that it be a true gift with no implication of repayment of funds to the donor, and many times this needs verification of receipt such as a bank statement or wire transfer receipt.” They may be able to point you to special programs that national banks sometimes overlook,” says Fortune. Authored By: Erik J.

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First-Time Homebuyer Qualifications: A Beginner’s Guide

Redfin

Key takeaways: First-time homebuyer: Anyone who hasn’t owned a primary residence in the past three years Common first-time homebuyer qualifications: Credit score, debt-to-income ratio, down payment, income limits, employment history, purchase limits, homebuyer education Buying your first home?

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Do you need a down payment to refinance a mortgage?

Redfin

However, you will almost certainly have to cover closing costs. We’ll explain how it’s possible to roll closing costs into your new loan, potentially eliminating the need for upfront cash. How to avoid paying closing costs. How to avoid paying closing costs on a refinance?