Saturday Strategy
Mortgage FAQ's, did you knows and much more...
Is it better to reduce the price or apply money to a Temporary Seller Buydown option?
With rates and home prices at all time highs, I wanted to provide you with a clear understanding of the 2-1 Temporary Seller Buydown option, which can be a beneficial arrangement for both buyers and sellers in a real estate transaction.
In a 2-1 Temporary Seller Buydown, the seller agrees to contribute a certain amount of money upfront to reduce the interest rate on the buyer's mortgage loan for the first two years of the loan term. This results in lower monthly mortgage payments for the buyer during the initial years of homeownership.
Here's how it works:
- Seller Contribution: The seller allocates funds to the buyer's mortgage lender. This money is used to cover the interest rate reduction for the first two years.
- Interest Rate Reduction: The buyer's interest rate is temporarily "bought down" for the initial two years. This means the buyer pays a lower interest rate than the standard market rate during this period.
- Monthly Savings: As a result of the reduced interest rate, the buyer enjoys lower monthly mortgage payments during the first two years. This can make homeownership more affordable and manageable, especially during the early stages.
- Long-Term Benefits: While the seller buydown helps the buyer save money initially, it's important to note that the interest rate will gradually increase to the original market rate after the initial two-year period.
This arrangement can make a property more attractive to potential buyers, as it provides immediate financial relief during the crucial initial years of homeownership. For sellers, it can help expedite the sale of the property by offering a more competitive financing option.
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. * Did you know we can finance in 45 states?
Here is an example of clear mortgage plan for a 2-1 Temporary Seller Buydown option
How Your Equity Could Help Younger Generations Buy a Home
Monday February 23rd, 2026For Sellers,Senior Market,Equity For a lot of parents or grandparents, watching a family member struggle to buy their first home right now is hard. That’s because you saw firsthand how homeownership gave your life more stability and helped grow your net worth – and you want your loved ones to have those…
Inventory Is Rising. Prices Are Adjusting. Leverage Is Shifting
Inside Lending For the week of February 23, 2026 QUOTE OF THE WEEK “Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.”—Thomas Edison, American inventor NATIONAL MARKET UPDATE While Existing home sales cooled in January amid challenging weather conditions, affordability continues to improve, positioning the market for steadier activity this spring as…
The Price You Set Can Make (or Break) Your Sale
There’s one decision you’re going to make when you sell that determines whether your house sells quickly, or it sits. Whether buyers make an offer, or scroll past it. Whether you walk away with the maximum return, or you end up cutting the price later. And that’s your asking price. The #1 Mistake Sellers Make Today:…
10 Conversation Triggers That Signal a Reverse Mortgage Might Help
Every day we talk with homeowners, families, Realtors, and financial pros about money decisions. One tool that gets overlooked is the reverse mortgage. It is not a fit for everyone, but for many homeowners 62+ it can solve real problems by improving cash flow, reducing monthly obligations, or creating a safety net. The key is…
Becoming Your Own Bank: How One Couple Reengineered Their Liabilities
Most homeowners think the only way to manage a mortgage is to make payments and slowly pay it down. One couple learned there was another option: restructure how their debt worked so it supported their long-term plan instead of fighting against it. They didn’t want more debt. They wanted better control of their money. The…
The Real Reason Home Sales Slowed in January. And It’s Not What You Think.
If you saw headlines that talked about how “home sales fell sharply in January,” it probably raised an eyebrow – especially if you’re thinking about selling your house. But context matters. Yes, in January, home sales declined. But that has more to do with seasonality and the weather than it does with any big drop off…
More Listings. Steady Buyers. Spring Is Quietly Taking Shape.
Inside Lending For the week of February 17, 2026 QUOTE OF THE WEEK “I always wanted to be somebody, but now I realize I should have been more specific.”—Lily Tomlin, American actress and comedian NATIONAL MARKET UPDATE Inventory continues to trend higher. Weekly Housing Trends report shows active listings remain above last year’s levels, giving buyers…
Four Ways Your Home Equity Can Work for You
You may have heard homeowners today have a lot of equity built up. But what does that really mean? Let’s break it down. Because your equity isn’t just a number, it’s a powerful asset that can help you take your next big step in life. How Much Equity Does the Typical Homeowner Have? Here’s how…
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,…
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!