In today’s rapidly changing market, it’s important to understand your options so you can move quickly. Our team of loan experts is standing by to answer any of your burning questions, and act as trusty guides to target the best rates, programs and loan products available to you. Get in touch!
Based on income and monthly expenses, how much home can you afford?
Is refinancing right for you?
What savings could you get from a refi?
A fixed-rate mortgage is the most popular type of home loan. There are two big reasons for this: stability and predictability. Both the interest rate and monthly payment stay the same for the life of the loan, so you’ll never have to worry about an increase in payments.
Fixed-rate mortgages usually come in either 15- or 30-year terms.
A 15-year term offers big benefits for homeowners who can comfortably afford the higher monthly payments that come with it. This shorter-term should only be considered by those who have little concern about their income dropping during the life of the loan.
You’ll pay less interest over time with a 15-year term but have higher monthly payments—roughly 50% higher than that of a similar 30-year loan. But the savings from paying less interest are substantial: You could save tens of thousands of dollars if you pay off the loan in 15 years as scheduled.
Other benefits of a 15-year loan include building equity faster since you’ll be paying down the principal balance quicker, and, of course, owning your home outright in 15 years instead of 30.
There are other potential downsides to consider in addition to the higher monthly payments. For one, you’ll qualify for less home than you’d get if you stretched the same loan amount over 30 years at lower payments. And the extra money you’re putting toward high monthly payments could be invested in high-return investments instead.
A mortgage with a 30-year term is by far the most popular. You’ll have lower monthly payments with this option, but more total interest is paid over the life of the loan.
This is a good option if you plan to stay in the home for a long time to come, and it’s beneficial to lower-income families as they can get more home for a lower monthly payment. The lower monthly payment that comes with a 30-year loan also means borrowers have a better chance of qualifying for one.
As mentioned, you will pay much more in interest over time as compared to a 15-year loan. But all the pros of a 30-year loan outweigh this downside for many borrowers.
FHA loans can be a good—and maybe the only—option for first-time homebuyers who aren’t financially secure enough for a conventional mortgage. FHA loans are best for those who can’t afford a big down payment, have low credit scores, or have a higher debt-to-income (DTI) ratio. The requirements for all three of those factors are more lenient with FHA loans as compared to conventional loans.
FHA loans are issued by private lenders, but they’re guaranteed by the Federal Housing Administration, a government agency. FHA loan borrowers must pay a monthly mortgage insurance premium (MIP), too. It’s this coverage that protects lenders against losses if you default.
Though the lower bar to qualify for an FHA loan can be a lifesaver for potential first-time homebuyers, there are downsides to consider. As mentioned, the cost of mortgage insurance needs to be considered. Especially so with FHA loans, because you pay it for the whole life of the loan; it does not get removed once you have a 20% equity in your home.
Additionally, not all types of homes are eligible for purchase with an FHA loan. The houses must meet minimum standards for safety and structural integrity, and these loans can only be used for primary residences.
VA loans offer up to 100% financing on the value of a home for service members, veterans, and eligible surviving spouses. The loans are provided by private lenders, but Veteran Affairs (VA) sets the qualifying standards, dictates the terms of the mortgages offered, and guarantees a portion of the loan.
There are some outstanding benefits to be had for those who qualify for a VA loan. Most all qualified borrowers can get a VA loan with zero down payment on homes worth up to $453,100. And there’s a higher allowable debt-to-income (DTI) ratio; typically up to 41%. But even with no money down and a high DTI ratio, private mortgage insurance (PMI) is never required with a VA loan.
There are a couple of regulations to consider with VA loans. Though PMI is not necessary with them, there is a mandatory VA funding fee. That cost can be financed into the loan, though. And VA loans are only intended for primary residences; they can not be used for second homes or investment properties.
Jumbo financing is anything over the Conventional loan limit which is set yearly, and these loan limits can vary in higher-priced counties.
Minute Mortgage has options for well-qualified Jumbo loan buyers:
Jumbo loans are not eligible for the Minute Mortgage Homebuyer’s Assistance Program.
An asset-based loan is a type of non-traditional loan where a mortgage is secured by leveraging your seasoned, high-balance, personal liquid assets as qualifying income documentation.
A debt service coverage ratio loan (DSCR) is a type of non-traditional loan that allows you to purchase an investment property by waiving your personal debt-to-income requirements, qualifying on potential cash flow from rental property income.
A bank statement loan is another type of non-traditional loan where you are able to purchase or refinance your primary or second home by submitting eligible bank statements to verify self-employment income, in lieu of providing tax returns.
A fixed-rate mortgage is the most popular type of home loan. There are two big reasons for this: stability and predictability. Both the interest rate and monthly payment stay the same for the life of the loan, so you’ll never have to worry about an increase in payments.
Fixed-rate mortgages usually come in either 15- or 30-year terms.
A 15-year term offers big benefits for homeowners who can comfortably afford the higher monthly payments that come with it. This shorter-term should only be considered by those who have little concern about their income dropping during the life of the loan.
You’ll pay less interest over time with a 15-year term but have higher monthly payments—roughly 50% higher than that of a similar 30-year loan. But the savings from paying less interest are substantial: You could save tens of thousands of dollars if you pay off the loan in 15 years as scheduled.
Other benefits of a 15-year loan include building equity faster since you’ll be paying down the principal balance quicker, and, of course, owning your home outright in 15 years instead of 30.
There are other potential downsides to consider in addition to the higher monthly payments. For one, you’ll qualify for less home than you’d get if you stretched the same loan amount over 30 years at lower payments. And the extra money you’re putting toward high monthly payments could be invested in high-return investments instead.
A mortgage with a 30-year term is by far the most popular. You’ll have lower monthly payments with this option, but more total interest is paid over the life of the loan.
This is a good option if you plan to stay in the home for a long time to come, and it’s beneficial to lower-income families as they can get more home for a lower monthly payment. The lower monthly payment that comes with a 30-year loan also means borrowers have a better chance of qualifying for one.
As mentioned, you will pay much more in interest over time as compared to a 15-year loan. But all the pros of a 30-year loan outweigh this downside for many borrowers.
FHA loans can be a good—and maybe the only—option for first-time homebuyers who aren’t financially secure enough for a conventional mortgage. FHA loans are best for those who can’t afford a big down payment, have low credit scores, or have a higher debt-to-income (DTI) ratio. The requirements for all three of those factors are more lenient with FHA loans as compared to conventional loans.
FHA loans are issued by private lenders, but they’re guaranteed by the Federal Housing Administration, a government agency. FHA loan borrowers must pay a monthly mortgage insurance premium (MIP), too. It’s this coverage that protects lenders against losses if you default.
Though the lower bar to qualify for an FHA loan can be a lifesaver for potential first-time homebuyers, there are downsides to consider. As mentioned, the cost of mortgage insurance needs to be considered. Especially so with FHA loans, because you pay it for the whole life of the loan; it does not get removed once you have a 20% equity in your home.
Additionally, not all types of homes are eligible for purchase with an FHA loan. The houses must meet minimum standards for safety and structural integrity, and these loans can only be used for primary residences.
VA loans offer up to 100% financing on the value of a home for service members, veterans, and eligible surviving spouses. The loans are provided by private lenders, but Veteran Affairs (VA) sets the qualifying standards, dictates the terms of the mortgages offered, and guarantees a portion of the loan.
There are some outstanding benefits to be had for those who qualify for a VA loan. Most all qualified borrowers can get a VA loan with zero down payment on homes worth up to $453,100. And there’s a higher allowable debt-to-income (DTI) ratio; typically up to 41%. But even with no money down and a high DTI ratio, private mortgage insurance (PMI) is never required with a VA loan.
There are a couple of regulations to consider with VA loans. Though PMI is not necessary with them, there is a mandatory VA funding fee. That cost can be financed into the loan, though. And VA loans are only intended for primary residences; they can not be used for second homes or investment properties.
Jumbo financing is anything over the Conventional loan limit which is set yearly, and these loan limits can vary in higher-priced counties.
Minute Mortgage has options for well-qualified Jumbo loan buyers:
Jumbo loans are not eligible for the Minute Mortgage Homebuyer’s Assistance Program.
An asset-based loan is a type of non-traditional loan where a mortgage is secured by leveraging your seasoned, high-balance, personal liquid assets as qualifying income documentation.
A debt service coverage ratio loan (DSCR) is a type of non-traditional loan that allows you to purchase an investment property by waiving your personal debt-to-income requirements, qualifying on potential cash flow from rental property income.
A bank statement loan is another type of non-traditional loan where you are able to purchase or refinance your primary or second home by submitting eligible bank statements to verify self-employment income, in lieu of providing tax returns.
Some good words from folks “moved” by our service:
“Angel made my first-time homebuying experience painless … I knew very little about the process and she was communicative and thoughtful, providing clear and helpful explanations. Angel worked hard to secure a fantastic rate for me and made me feel like I didn’t need to worry about a thing. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience — all thanks to Angel!”
- Tiffany S.Some good words from folks “moved” by our service:
“Angel Chambers did an amazing job as our loan officer. She is extremely knowledgeable, walking us through everything we needed. Her professionalism, detailed approach, patience and kindness put us at ease, making us feel comfortable in all of our conversations. Highly recommend Angel as your loan officer.”
- Kathy & Jay ThomasSome good words from folks “moved” by our service:
“The service provided to us was amazing! The entire process was as smooth as possible and they were always available to help us and answer any questions. We truly appreciated it!”
- Brandi H.Some good words from folks “moved” by our service:
“I loved working with Minute Mortgage. I was able to close on my new home on time and at a pretty great rate. The team is awesome.”
- Adam B.Some good words from folks “moved” by our service:
“Minute Mortgage has great customer service and an incredibly knowledgeable staff. Our homebuying process was simple and we felt like we knew what was going on the whole time because of their quick communication.”
- William C.Some good words from folks “moved” by our service:
“I’ve bought and sold multiple homes and I’ve never worked with a better mortgage professional. There was clear communication with my wife and I throughout the process and our experience was superb, thanks to Minute Mortgage’s technology.”
- Bryan B.Connect with a friendly expert loan officer in your neighborhood!
Scottsdale, AZ
Servicing AZ, CO, TX
602.443.5056
[email protected]
Scottsdale, AZ
602.810-4300
[email protected]
Scottsdale, AZ
Servicing AZ, CO, TX
602.443.5056
[email protected]
Scottsdale, AZ
Servicing AZ, CO, TX
602.443.5056
[email protected]
Scottsdale, AZ
Servicing AZ, CO, TX
602.443.5056
[email protected]
Scottsdale, AZ
Servicing AZ, CO, TX
602.443.5056
[email protected]
Scottsdale, AZ
Servicing AZ, CO, TX
602.443.5056
[email protected]