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 wooden box with a sign sitting on top of it.

Is It Really Better To Rent Than To Own a Home Right Now?

By Kevin Brierton Team | March 6, 2023

Kevin Brierton – 3.6.2023 You may have seen reports in the news recently saying it’s better to rent right now than it is to own your home. But before you let that impact your decisions, you should understand what these claims are based on. A lot of the time, these reports are assuming things that aren’t…

A view of houses from above with trees in the background.

What You Should Know About Rising Mortgage Rates

By Kevin Brierton Team | March 2, 2023

Kevin Brierton – 3.2.2023 After steadily falling over the winter, mortgage rates have started to rise in recent weeks. This is concerning to some potential homebuyers as the combination of higher mortgage rates and higher prices have made homes less affordable. So, if you’re planning to purchase a home this year, you too may be wondering if now’s the…

A stack of coins with a house on top.

One Major Benefit of Investing in a Home

By Kevin Brierton Team | March 1, 2023

Kevin Brierton – 3.1.2023 One of the many reasons to buy a home is that it’s a major way to build wealth and gain financial stability. According to Freddie Mac: “Building equity through your monthly principal payments and appreciation is a critical part of homeownership that can help you create financial stability.†With spring approaching, now’s a great…

A man and woman holding hands with a little girl.

Equity Gains for Today’s Homeowners

By Kevin Brierton Team | February 28, 2023

Kevin Brierton – 2.28.2023 Today’s homeowners are sitting on significant equity, even as home price appreciation has eased recently. If you’re a homeowner, your net worth got a boost over the past few years thanks to rising home prices. Here’s what it means for you, even as the market moderates. How Equity Has Grown in Recent Years …

Two women sitting in a living room talking.

An Expert Makes All the Difference When You Sell Your House

By Kevin Brierton Team | February 27, 2023

Kevin Brierton – 2.27.2023 If you’re thinking of selling your house, it’s important to work with someone who understands how the market is changing and what it means for you. Here are five reasons working with a professional can ensure you’ll get the most out of your sale. 1. They’re Experts on Market Trends With today’s housing…

A key chain with a house on it

How To Make Your Dream of Homeownership a Reality

By Kevin Brierton Team | February 23, 2023

Kevin Brierton – 2.23.2023 According to a recent Harris Poll survey, 8 in 10 Americans say buying a home is a priority, and 28 million Americans actually plan to buy within the next 12 months. Homeownership provides many financial and nonfinancial benefits so that interest is understandable. However, it’s unlikely all 28 million Americans will accomplish that goal in the…

Two women sitting at a piano together smiling.

A Smaller Home Could Be Your Best Option

By Kevin Brierton Team | February 22, 2023

Kevin Brierton – 2.22.2023 Many people are reaching the point in their lives when they need to decide where they want to live when they retire. If you’re a homeowner approaching this stage, you have several options to explore. Jessica Lautz, Deputy Chief Economist and Vice President of Research at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), says: “As…

A cup of coffee on top of a wooden table.

The Two Big Issues the Housing Market’s Facing Right Now

By Kevin Brierton Team | February 21, 2023

Kevin Brierton – 2.21.2023 The biggest challenge the housing market faces is how few homes there are for sale. Mark Fleming, Chief Economist at First American, explains the root causes of today’s low supply: “Two dynamics are keeping existing-home inventory historically low – rate-locked existing homeowners and the fear of not finding something to buy.†Let’s break down these two big…

A woman standing in front of a wall holding a remote.

Spring into Action: Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal with Expert Guidance

By Kevin Brierton Team | February 20, 2023

Kevin Brierton – 2.20.2023 To sell your home this spring, it may need more preparation than it would have a year or two ago. Today’s housing market has a different feel. There are more homes for sale than there were at this time last year, but inventory is still historically low. So, if a house has been…

A red house sitting on top of a green field.

Wondering What’s Going on with Home Prices?

By Kevin Brierton Team | February 16, 2023

Kevin Brierton – 2.16.2023 The recent changes in home prices are top of mind for many as the housing market begins gearing up for spring. It can be hard to navigate misleading headlines and confusing data, so here’s what you should know about today’s home prices. Local price trends still vary by market. But looking at national…

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!