Buying, refinancing, investing, or using your home’s equity? I’ll help you compare the available loan options and understand which ones may fit your situation.
Conventional Loans
Flexible financing for primary homes, second homes, and investment properties, with a variety of down payment and term options.
FHA Loans
Popular financing with flexible credit guidelines and low down payment options for qualified buyers.
VA Loans
Powerful home financing benefits for eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and qualifying military families.
USDA Loans
Financing options for eligible buyers purchasing in qualifying rural and suburban areas, often with low or no down payment.
Jumbo Loans
Financing for higher-priced homes that exceed conventional conforming loan limits.
Refinance Options
Explore ways to lower your payment, change your loan term, access equity, or restructure your mortgage.
Investment Property Loans
Financing options for borrowers purchasing rental properties or expanding a real estate investment portfolio.
First-Time Homebuyer Options
Programs designed to help eligible first-time buyers with flexible financing, lower down payment options, and available assistance programs.
Home Equity / Cash-Out
Use available home equity for goals such as home improvements, debt consolidation, major expenses, or other financial needs.
Green Advantage Down Payment Assistance
Buy a home with less cash out of pocket — and improve your home’s energy efficiency at the same time.
Eligible borrowers may receive 3.5% or 5% assistance that can be used toward down payment and/or closing costs. Assistance may be available as a grant or forgivable second mortgage, depending on the program option.
Program Highlights
- 3.5% or 5% assistance options
- May be used toward down payment and/or closing costs
- Minimum 620 credit score
- Available with qualifying FHA or Fannie Mae financing
- Purchase and qualifying rate/term refinance transactions
- New solar system installed after closing
- No separate solar payment, solar lien, UCC filing, or third-party solar contract
Green Advantage is designed to help qualified buyers preserve more of their savings at closing while improving the home’s long-term energy efficiency.
Program availability, assistance amounts, eligibility requirements, loan terms, and property guidelines are subject to change. Not all borrowers or properties will qualify. Additional restrictions may apply.
Questions & Mortgage Myths
First-time buyers often hear conflicting advice. Here are a few common questions and myths explained in plain English.
Do I Need 20% Down?
Not necessarily. Several mortgage programs may allow qualified buyers to purchase with significantly less than 20% down.
Does My Credit Have to Be Perfect?
No. Credit requirements vary by loan program, and your overall financial picture is considered when reviewing mortgage options.
Should I Get Pre-Approved Before Shopping?
In most cases, yes. A pre-approval can help you understand your potential price range and may make your offer stronger when you find the right home.
Is Renting Always Cheaper?
Not always. The answer depends on rent, home prices, mortgage costs, how long you plan to stay, and the potential for home equity over time.
Can Closing Costs Be Negotiated?
Sometimes. Depending on the transaction and loan program, seller concessions or other options may help with certain closing costs.
Can I Buy If I Have Student Loans?
Possibly. Student loan payments are considered in qualification, but having student debt does not automatically prevent someone from buying a home.
Still Have a Question?
Mortgage questions are often specific to your situation. Getting a personalized review can help you understand which options may apply to you.
Ready for Your Blueprint to Homeownership?
Let’s turn what you’ve learned into a personalized path based on your goals, budget, and mortgage options.