Remove Closing costs Remove Earnest money deposit Remove Equity Remove VA loan
article thumbnail

51 Brilliant Real Estate Tips for Buyers to Edge Past the Competition

HomeLight

Mortgage insurance is extremely common for first-time buyers, and it’s often the fastest way to achieve homeownership and start building equity today, rather than waiting until you’ve saved up 20% — an unrealistic feat for many buyers. Plus, it only costs between 0.5% and 1% of your loan amount, annually.

article thumbnail

When Is a House Down Payment Due and How Much Do I Need?

HomeLight

In other words, there won’t be any surprises at the closing table — you’ll know exactly what you’re paying and to whom. Don’t forget about closing costs. Some of these costs are the seller’s responsibility, and some will be yours. A VA loan provides 100% financing with no money down — so no down payment.

Insiders

Sign Up for our Newsletter

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

article thumbnail

Your Top 11 Questions About Down Payments, Answered (Including: What’s an Average Down Payment?)

HomeLight

There are three kinds of USDA loans: Guaranteed USDA Loans (loans from approved lenders that are guaranteed by the USDA), Direct USDA Loans , and housing repair loans and grants. Home loan benefits and housing programs offered through the U.S. Source: (Daniel Santiagø / Unsplash).

article thumbnail

How to Buy a House in the Bay Area: 14 Steps to Close the Sale

HomeLight

Consider factors such as how long you plan to be in the area, if you have steady employment, and if you have enough money saved for not just the down payment, but for closing costs , maintenance, property taxes, and more. down payment and/or closing cost assistance. Loans are between 3%-3.5%

Closing 84
article thumbnail

Beaches, Mountains, Sunshine? Yes, Please. Here’s How to Buy a California Home

HomeLight

GSFA Platinum® Down Payment Assistance Program – Down payment and closing cost assistance up to 5.0% of the mortgage loan amount. GSFA OpenDoors® Down Payment Assistance Program – Down payment and/or closing cost assistance up to 7% of mortgage loan amount. Send your earnest money deposit.

article thumbnail

131 Real Estate Terms & Definitions Your Clients Expect You to Know in 2023

The Close

Clients might be interested in an ARM because it allows borrowers to take advantage of interest rate decreases without having to go through a whole refinance process and pay additional closing costs. It’s an official form certifying that a veteran has met the terms that qualify someone for a VA loan. Closing costs.