Thursday, April 28, 2011

100% Loan Programs

Many buyers that I talk to want to buy a home with as little initial investment as possible.  When you buy a home the initial investment consists of earnest deposit, down payment, closing costs and pre-paids.

One way to lower these cost is to utilize loan programs which require little or no down payment.  There are several options for a 100% loan.  Keep in mind, you must qualify for these programs.

1) VA  If you are a veteran, you may qualify for this loan.  This is an excellent benefit!  There is 0 down payment required!  There is an up front funding fee but no monthly mortgage insurance so your payment is fairly equivalent to an FHA loan with 3.5% down!

2)  NIFA HBA  (Nebraska Investment Finance Authority - Home Buyer’s Assistance)  This is for a first time home buyer or someone who has not owned a home in the last 3 years.  There are purchase price and income maximums as well.  This loan pairs with an FHA or CONV loan.  The down payment is covered by a 2nd loan which is at a very low rate amortized over 7 years.  You must have a minimum investment of $500 for an FHA loan and $1000 for a CONV loan.  See www.nifa.org for more information.

3)  USDA  This is a 100% loan program for homes in rural areas.  There are income maximums.  The buyer must take a home buyer’s education course.   This is a great fit for those who want to live in a smaller town and don’t have a down payment.  Our Eagle area qualifies for this type of financing. See www.rurdev.usda.gov/ne

4)  We don’t have a 100% loan, but when you buy a Hartland Home, you can save a lot on your initial costs!  We pay up to 2% of your closing costs (ave. of $2500).  Also, when you purchase a new home, if you don’t make too much money, you may qualify for an impact fee rebate.  This rebate is credited directly towards your down payment reducing the amount of money you need at closing!  Maximum rebate at this time is approximately $4600!

Wednesday, April 27, 2011

Is now the right time for you to buy?

The Lincoln market has really started to move since January 2011.  Buyers are tired of waiting.  Home owners are ready to move up.  Homeowners selling their homes and buying bigger homes is creating housing for mid-range and first time homebuyers. 

Interest rates and prices are still low.  Rates are still at 5% and below!  It is safe to assume that interest rates will start to rise this year.  As the demand increases, prices of homes will start to rise as well.  Economically, it is a great time to buy.  Interest rates and prices will probably not get any lower.

So, is now the right time for you to buy?    There are a few questions you should ask before starting the home buying process. 

1) Do you plan on staying in your home for at least 3 years?  If the answer is no, then make sure you will be able to sell your home for a price that will not require additional funds. Or you may want to consider renting out the home when you leave. 

2) How stable is your job?  If there are impending layoffs or you are seriously thinking about quitting, you should probably wait until things are more stable.  On a positive note, there is a special program out there that if you get laid off in the first 12 months of your home loan, the company will pay 4 of your house payments.  Make sure you ask for this program if you are concerned about losing your job.

If you are planning on staying put for a couple of years and your job is fairly stable, then now could be the right time for you to buy!  For more information, call us today.  402-419-6589