The Home Possible Mortgage Program makes homeownership more realistic for buyers who don’t have perfect credit, a sizable down payment, or a high income. Offered through Freddie Mac, this program helps low- to moderate-income buyers become homeowners with just 3% down…
What if your family’s growing, but you don’t want to sell your current home to buy your next one? Thanks to the FHA second home loan exception, it’s possible to keep your existing property and still use an FHA loan to…
Thinking about making your home more energy-efficient and financing upgrades without using savings or high-interest credit cards? The GreenCHOICE® Home Loan lets you bundle energy-efficient improvements into your mortgage so you can lower utility bills, increase comfort, and build home…
Thinking about buying a home from a family member or selling to your child, and wondering if you can transfer part of the home’s value without using cash? You can, through something called a gift of equity. This guide focuses on the…
Looking at a home with a storefront, backyard rental, or two homes on one lot? You may still be able to use an FHA loan, but only if the property meets FHA guidelines for mixed-use properties and accessory dwelling units (ADUs). These…
Teachers, firefighters, EMTs, and law enforcement officers may be eligible for a unique homebuying opportunity through FHA’s Good Neighbor Next Door program. This HUD-backed initiative offers eligible public servants the chance to buy select homes at 50% off the list…
If you’re buying a home near water, understanding FHA flood zone requirements is critical. A surprise flood zone determination can derail an FHA loan and your purchase if you’re not aware of the rules ahead of time. In this article, I’ll walk…
Think your income is too high for a USDA loan? You might be wrong. Many borrowers overlook one powerful part of USDA eligibility: USDA income deductions. These deductions reduce your official household income before USDA compares it to local income limits,…
Stigmatized Properties and FHA Appraisals can impact whether a home qualifies for financing, how it’s valued, and how easily it can be sold in the future. In 2025, FHA appraisers are trained to flag concerns tied to a property’s reputation; whether…
