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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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

A woman sitting at a table writing on paper.

How Homeowners Win When They Downsize

By Kevin Brierton Team | May 4, 2023

Kevin Brierton – 5.4.2023 Downsizing has long been a popular option when homeowners reach retirement age. But there are plenty of other life changes that could make downsizing worthwhile. Homeowners who have experienced a change in their lives or no longer feel like their house fits their needs may benefit from downsizing too. U.S. News…

A yellow arrow is going up and down

Buyer Activity Is Up Despite Higher Mortgage Rates

By Kevin Brierton Team | May 3, 2023

Kevin Brierton – 5.3.2023 If you’re a homeowner thinking about making a move, you may wonder if it’s still a good time to sell your house. Here’s the good news. Even with higher mortgage rates, buyer traffic is actually picking up speed. Data from the latest ShowingTime Showing Index, which is a measure of buyers actively…

A street with houses and trees on the side.

A Recession Doesn’t Equal a Housing Crisis

By Kevin Brierton Team | May 2, 2023

Kevin Brierton – 5.2.2023 Everywhere you look, people are talking about a potential recession. And if you’re planning to buy or sell a house, this may leave you wondering if your plans are still a wise move. To help ease your mind, experts are saying that if we do officially enter a recession, it’ll be…

Three women sitting on steps outside a house.

Why Buying a Home Makes More Sense Than Renting Today

By Kevin Brierton Team | May 1, 2023

Kevin Brierton – 5.1.2023 Wondering if you should continue renting or if you should buy a home this year? If so, consider this. Rental affordability is still a challenge and has been for years. That’s because, historically, rents trend up over time. Data from the Census shows rents have been climbing pretty steadily since 1988. …

A man sitting down reading the paper.

Why Today’s Foreclosure Numbers Are Nothing Like 2008

By Kevin Brierton Team | April 27, 2023

Kevin Brierton – 4.27.2023 You’ve likely seen headlines about the number of foreclosures climbing in today’s housing market. That may leave you with a few questions, especially if you’re thinking about buying a house. Understanding what they really mean is mission-critical if you want to know the truth about what’s happening today. According to a…

A large kitchen with wooden floors and white walls.

The Three Factors Affecting Home Affordability Today

By Kevin Brierton Team | April 26, 2023

Kevin Brierton – 4.26.2023 There’s been a lot of focus on higher mortgage rates and how they’re creating affordability challenges for today’s homebuyers. It’s true that rates climbed dramatically since the record-low we saw during the pandemic. But home affordability is based on more than just mortgage rates – it’s determined by a combination of…

A group of people standing around each other.

What Are the Experts Saying About the Spring Housing Market?

By Kevin Brierton Team | April 25, 2023

Kevin Brierton – 4.25.2023 The housing market’s been going through a lot of change lately, and there’s been uncertainty surrounding what will happen this spring. You may be wondering if more homes will go on the market, what’s next with home prices and mortgage rates, or what the best advice is for someone in your…

A white puzzle piece house on top of blue background.

The Power of Pre-Approval

By Kevin Brierton Team | April 24, 2023

Kevin Brierton – 4.24.2023 If you’re buying a home this spring, today’s housing market can feel like a challenge. With so few houses on the market right now, plus higher mortgage rates, it’s essential to have a firm grasp on your homebuying budget. You’ll also need a sense of determination to find the right house…

A wooden house sitting on top of a table.

What’s the Difference Between a Home Inspection and an Appraisal?

By Kevin Brierton Team | April 20, 2023

Kevin Brierton – 4.20.2023 If you’re planning to buy a home, an inspection is an important step in the process. It assesses the condition of the house before you finalize the transaction. It’s also a different step in the process from an appraisal, which is a professional evaluation of the market value of the home…

Two people standing in front of a window looking out.

Falling out of Love with Your House? It May Be Time To Move.

By Kevin Brierton Team | April 19, 2023

Kevin Brierton – 4.19.2023 Owning a home means having a place that’s solely your own and provides the space, features, and location you and your loved ones need. But what happens when your needs change? If this hits home for you, it may be time to move. According to the latest Home Buyers and Sellers…

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!