Saturday Strategy
Mortgage FAQ's, did you knows and much more...
House Hackers! Buy a Multi Family with 5 % Down!
Fannie Mae just made a big announcement that's going to make it easier for families to buy homes. Let's break it down in simple terms.
Here is the announcement from Fannie Mea on Oct 4 2023
Lower Down Payments for Multifamily Homes
Before this update, if you wanted to buy a multifamily home (that's a place with more than one apartment), you had to put down a big down payment – either 15% or 25%, depending on the unit you were buying. But starting in November, things are changing.
The Big Change
Now, if you're buying a multifamily home to live in as your primary home, you can put down just 5% of the cost of the home. That's great news because it means you don't need as much money upfront to become a homeowner.
There Are Some Rules
But hold on, there are some rules you need to follow. First, you have to live in one of the units for at least 12 months. That means it has to be your main place to live. You can't just buy it and then rent it out right away.
Why This Matters
This is a big deal because it helps people own homes and build wealth. Imagine buying a place with multiple units, living in one for a year, and then renting out the others. It's a smart way to invest in your future.
So, if you know someone who dreams of owning a multifamily home, share this news with them. It's a fantastic opportunity to make homeownership more affordable.
Have a fantastic weekend, everyone!
P.S. Can I count on you to call us when any friends, family or coworkers are looking to buy, sell or refinance a home? We'd love to help! You can just text/call me at 480.553.8770.
Reverse Mortgage Helped a Couple Stay in Their Home for Life
For many retirees, the home is their biggest asset. But when income drops and expenses rise, that same home can feel like a burden instead of a blessing. That was the situation for one retired couple in their 80s. They owned their home outright. No mortgage. But their monthly income was limited to Social Security,…
Inventory Is Making a Comeback in 2026
After a long stretch where buyers were competing for too few homes, inventory has made a comeback over the past year. And depending on where you live, that’s opening up your options in a meaningful way. According to Realtor.com, the number of homes available for sale in January was the highest it’s been since 2020. Here’s why that’s such…
Why Townhomes Are Popular with Today’s First-Time Buyers
Buying your first home can feel frustrating when the numbers don’t line up the way you expected. You may know you’re ready but finding something that fits your life and your budget is the hard part. That’s where townhomes come in. Townhomes are becoming a bigger part of today’s housing supply, and that shift is opening doors for first-time…
Early-Year Momentum Is Quietly Building in the Housing Market
Inside Lending – Week of February 9, 2026 QUOTE OF THE WEEK “I didn’t fail the test. I just found 100 ways to do it wrong.”—Benjamin Franklin, American statesman and inventor NATIONAL MARKET UPDATE Housing inventory continues to improve. Weekly Housing Trends report shows active listings remain well above year-ago levels, giving buyers more options…
Top 3 Reasons To Buy a Home Before Spring
If you’re planning to buy a home this year, you may be focused on the spring market. And hoping that when spring does hit, you’ll see: But here’s what most buyers don’t realize. Buying just a few weeks earlier could mean paying less, dealing with less stress, and feeling less rushed. Here are three reasons why…
The Retiree Who Used Mortgage Planning to Boost Income by $1,100 a Month
Most retirees think their mortgage is something they should rush to pay off. This retiree learned a different lesson: the right mortgage plan can actually increase monthly income. The Problem This homeowner was nearing retirement with a large home and a 15-year mortgage.The payment was high, leaving very little room to save, invest, or cover…
It’s Getting More Affordable To Buy a Home
There’s finally a little good news for anyone who’s been priced out or sitting on the sidelines. Buying a home is getting more affordable. Monthly payments have started to come down, and the squeeze buyers have been feeling for the past few years is slowly loosening. Now, that doesn’t mean everyone can suddenly afford a…
Home Insurance Costs Are Rising: What Buyers Should Plan For
Buying a home is one of the biggest purchases you’ll ever make. And homeowner’s insurance is what protects that investment. Think of it as your safety net. NerdWallet explains it: But that peace of mind does come with a cost, and lately those costs have been rising. Why Home Insurance Premiums Are Going Up There are a…
🛠 Top 4 Myths (and Truths) About Reverse Mortgages
Reverse mortgages often get a bad rap, but most of what people think they know simply isn’t true. Let’s set the record straight with the top myths and facts: ❌ Myth #1: The bank takes your house ✅ Truth: You own your home—your name stays on title. A reverse mortgage is just a loan, structured…
A Calm Start to 2026 May Be the Opportunity Most Buyers Miss
Inside Lending For the week of February 2, 2026 QUOTE OF THE WEEK “Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything.”—George Bernard Shaw, Irish playwright and critic NATIONAL MARKET UPDATE The housing market is finding a comfortable early-year pace. According to the National Association of REALTORS®, Existing Home Sales…
P.S. Can I count on you to contact me if you hear that a friend, family or coworker is looking to buy, sell or refinance? Call/Text 480.553.8770 - We'd be honored to help them too!