Mortgages Explained Florida: Different Programs

So, you’re ready for a mortgage? Are you a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor? Maybe you’re ready to refinance for better rates or get cash out to update your home. No matter what your home loan needs are, you’re in good hands. We have mortgage programs for every situation.

First Time Home Buyer Mortgage

Buying a home for the first time can be a stressful and confusing situation. Where do you start? Can you afford it? The good news is we have a comprehensive list of the best loan programs that you, as a first time home buyer, can take advantage of. These programs offer different benefits depending on your unique situation and are designed to help you reach your goal of homeownership. All with less money out of your own pocket.

• Down payment as low as 3%
• Numerous programs available
• 640 credit score required

Conventional Mortgage

Conventional mortgage loans offer a unique opportunity for borrowers to become homeowners or refinance with more favorable terms. The program has stricter guidelines compared to other loan programs but can be more affordable depending on your financial situation (income, credit score, debts). You will often see down payment requirements as low as 3% – 5% in most cases. One thing you need to know about a conventional home loan is that it is not guaranteed by Uncle Sam. These loans may be a bit tougher to get and can have more stringent qualifications, but the benefit may be worth it.

• 3%-5% down payment
• Above average credit
• Low fixed payment

FHA Mortgage

The FHA loan program has been more popular than ever the last few years as credit has become harder to get. Getting an FHA loan is popular for new first-time home buyers as well as those who have been through a financial credit event like a short sale, foreclosure or other financial hardship in the past and are looking to get a mortgage to get back on track. It was created to help more borrowers realize the dream of homeownership due to its lenient underwriting guidelines and low-down payment options. Due to this, it’s considered the most flexible home loan program available today.

• 3.5% down payment
• Past credit event OK
• Low credit OK

VA Mortgage

The three core advantages of a VA Loan are that it’s specifically tailored to meet the home buying needs of veterans, current service members and military families with flexible terms. These Government backed loans make it possible for veterans to get some of the best financing available for purchasing a new home. The three main areas that benefit Veterans the most are:

• 100% financing
• Below market rates
• No mortgage insurance

Jumbo Mortgage

Jumbo Mortgages offer a unique opportunity for borrowers to buy luxury homes that exceed the conforming loan limit of $647,200. Jumbo mortgage loans have a little stricter lending requirement than other programs but still packs a punch when it comes to upping your buying power. A common misconception about jumbo loans is that you need a 20% down payment in order to qualify. The reality is jumbo financing allows you to purchase with as little as 5% to 10% down with a little creative financing. Yes, that’s right! 5% to 10% down, not the traditional 20%. This is accomplished by establishing a 1st mortgage at the conventional loan limit of $647,200 and 2nd mortgage for the rest of the balance. This “combo loan” avoids mortgage insurance and usually offers the lowest fixed payment.

• 5%-10% down payment
• 660 credit score required
• No mortgage insurance

USDA Mortgage

The USDA Rural Development’s Single-Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program is designed to help borrowers, low to moderate income earners purchase homes in rural areas. USDA home purchase loans are an excellent benefit for first time home buyers as well as growing families looking to upgrade their living situation. USDA loans are a very attractive 100% financing option for borrowers looking for an affordable home loan option.

• 100% financing
• Rural properties only
• 620 credit score required