13
Jun
By First Rate Financial Group
Mortgage Tips

Creative Strategies for Saving on Closing Costs

When you are budgeting for a new home, it’s easy to focus on the down payment, but do not forget the closing costs. These fees typically range from 2% to 5% of the home’s purchase price and cover things like the appraisal, title search, loan origination, and other administrative expenses. For many buyers, especially first-timers, they can feel like an unwelcome surprise.

The good news? There are creative, effective ways to reduce these expenses and make homeownership more affordable.

1. Negotiate With the Seller

In a buyer-friendly market, you may be able to negotiate for the seller to cover part (or all) of your closing costs. This is called a seller concession, and it can be a powerful tool when structured correctly in your purchase agreement. Keep in mind that there are limits based on loan type and how much you’re putting down, so it’s important to strategize with your mortgage professional and real estate agent.

2. Ask About Lender Credits

Some lenders offer credits that can reduce your upfront closing costs in exchange for a slightly higher interest rate. While this might mean paying more overtime, it can be a smart move if you’re short on cash now and plan to refinance or sell within a few years.

3. Shop Around for Services

Not all closing costs are set in stone. Fees like title insurance, pest inspection, or the survey can vary depending on the provider. Ask your lender for a Loan Estimate early in the process and compare quotes from multiple providers for the services you’re allowed to shop for. A few calls can save you hundreds.

4. Use a First-Time Buyer Program or Grant

There are local, state, and even national programs that offer down payment and closing cost assistance to qualified buyers. Many of these are aimed at first-time buyers, veterans, or low-to-moderate income households. These programs may offer grants or forgivable loans to help reduce out-of-pocket costs.

5. Roll Costs Into the Loan (If Eligible)

For some loan types, like VA or USDA loans, you may be able to roll certain closing costs into your loan balance. While this increases your total loan amount, it can ease the upfront burden when cash is tight.

6. Plan Your Timing Carefully

The day you close can impact certain prorated costs like property taxes or prepaid interest. Closing at the end of the month, for example, can lower the amount of prepaid interest you owe at closing. Small timing tweaks can add up to big savings.

Closing costs do not have to catch you off guard or break your budget. With a little planning, negotiation, and the right guidance, you can minimize what you pay without sacrificing the quality of your loan or service.

Give me a call to discuss your goals and explore which strategies might work best for your situation!

11
Jun
By First Rate Financial Group
Mortgage Tips

Are Interest-Only Mortgages A Smart Strategy or Risky Business?

When exploring home financing options, many borrowers are intrigued by interest-only mortgages. These loans offer the benefit of lower initial monthly payments, which can seem attractive, especially in high-cost areas or when cash flow is tight. But how exactly do they work, and are they the right fit for your financial goals?

What Is an Interest-Only Mortgage?
An interest-only mortgage allows you to pay just the interest on your loan for a set period, typically 5 to 10 years. During this time, your payments do not reduce the loan’s principal balance. Once that period ends, you begin paying both principal and interest, which often results in significantly higher monthly payments.

For example, on a $400,000 loan with a 6% interest rate, your monthly interest-only payment would be $2,000. But once the interest-only period ends, your payments could jump to over $2,800 depending on the remaining loan term.

Who Might Consider This Strategy?
An interest-only mortgage can be a strategic tool for:

  • High-income earners with variable bonuses who plan to make lump-sum payments toward the principal.
  • Real estate investors who plan to sell or refinance before the interest-only period ends.
  • Homebuyers expecting higher future income, such as professionals early in their careers.
  • Borrowers needing short-term cash flow relief who are confident they’ll be able to pay more later.

The Pros

  • Lower initial payments: This can free up cash for investments, renovations, or other financial goals.
  • Flexibility: You can make additional principal payments if desired, even during the interest-only period.
  • Short-term ownership strategy: If you plan to move or refinance before the repayment period kicks in, this option might make sense.

The Cons

  • No equity built: You won’t reduce your principal unless you make extra payments.
  • Higher payments later: Once the interest-only period ends, your payments can increase significantly.
  • Market risk: If property values drop, you could owe more than your home is worth.
  • Loan complexity: These mortgages often come with adjustable rates, which can be unpredictable.

Should You Choose an Interest-Only Loan?
Like any financial tool, the value of an interest-only mortgage depends on how you use it. If you’re financially disciplined, have a strong long-term plan, and understand the risks, it can be a smart strategy. However, if you’re looking for a long-term solution or might struggle with higher payments down the line, a traditional fixed-rate mortgage may offer more stability.

Want to learn more about which loan type best fits your lifestyle? Let’s connect and run the numbers together.

10
Jun
By First Rate Financial Group
Mortgage Tips

Can Freelancers Get a Mortgage?

If you are self-employed or work as a freelancer, you may be wondering whether buying a home is even possible. The good news? It absolutely is, but you will want to be prepared for a few extra steps in the process. Here are five common questions freelancers ask when it comes to getting a mortgage.

  1. What Makes It Harder for Freelancers To Get Approved?
    Freelancers don’t receive W-2s or paystubs, which means documenting income can be more involved. Instead, lenders look at tax returns, bank statements, and sometimes profit-and-loss statements. The key issue is proving your income is stable and ongoing. Irregular or seasonal income patterns can raise concerns for underwriters, so consistency is everything.
  2. How Long Do I Need To Be Freelancing To Qualify?
    Most lenders want to see at least two years of self-employment history. This allows them to average your income and assess its reliability. However, if you’ve been freelancing for less than two years but have previous experience in the same field, you might still qualify. In some cases, alternative mortgage programs allow qualification with just one year of income, though they often require higher down payments or interest rates.
  3. Do I Need To Earn More Than a W-2 Employee?
    Yes. That’s because your qualifying income is calculated after expenses are deducted. If you gross $150,000 annually but write off $75,000 in expenses, your qualifying income is $75,000. Meanwhile, a W-2 employee earning $100,000 would typically be able to use the full amount to qualify. So, the cleaner your books, and the fewer deductions you take, the better your numbers will look on a mortgage application.
  4. Does Already Owning a Home Help My Chances?
    Absolutely. Having a track record of on-time mortgage payments shows lenders that you’re capable of managing homeownership, even with freelance income. That said, lenders will still require updated documentation to prove your income can support a new or larger loan.
  5. What Can I Do To Boost My Approval Odds?
    Here are a few practical steps to put yourself in a stronger position:
    • Keep your business and personal finances separate with different bank accounts.
    • Build cash reserves for a down payment and emergency savings.
    • Pay down existing debts to lower your debt-to-income ratio.
    • Work with a mortgage professional who understands the self-employed borrower process.
    • Be honest on your tax returns. Don’t inflate numbers just to qualify, that is a red flag for both lenders and the IRS.

While the road to homeownership as a freelancer may involve a few more hurdles, with the right planning and guidance, it is definitely within reach.