2 Myths Holding Back Home Buyers
Freddie Mac recently released a report entitled, “Perceptions of Down Payment Consumer Research.” Their research revealed that,
“For many prospective homebuyers, saving for a down payment is the largest barrier to achieving the goal of homeownership. Part of the challenge for those planning to purchase a home is their perception of how much they will need to save for the down payment…
…Based on our recent survey of individuals planning to purchase a home in the next three years, nearly a third think they need to put more than 20% down.”
Myth #1: “I Need a 20% Down Payment”
Buyers often overestimate the funds needed to qualify for a home loan. According to the same report:
22% of renters and 31% of homeowners believe lenders require 20% or more of a home’s sale price as a down payment for a typical mortgage today. And,
“If a 20% down payment was required, 70% of those who were planning to buy a home in the next three years said it would delay them from purchasing and nearly 30% indicated they would never be able to afford a home.”
While many believe at least 20% down is necessary to buy the home of their dreams, they do not realize programs are available which permit as little as 3%. Many renters may actually be able to enter the housing market sooner than they ever imagined!
Myth #2: “I Need a 780 FICO® Score or Higher to Buy”
Many either don’t know or are misinformed concerning the FICO® score necessary to qualify, believing a ‘good’ credit score is 780 or higher.
To debunk this myth, let’s take a look at Ellie Mae’s latest Origination Insight Report, which focuses on recently closed (approved) loans.As indicated in the chart above, 52.4% of approved mortgages had a credit score of 600-749.
Bottom Line
Whether buying your first home or moving up to your dream home, knowing your options will make the mortgage process easier. Your dream home may already be within your reach.

Property Tax Trends Across the US
Rising property values have led to higher tax burdens, though some states cap assessments to limit drastic increases. Northeastern and Midwestern states generally impose higher property taxes, while Southern and Western states tend to have lower rates.

Value Adjustments according to Ai
Appraisal adjustments vary according to build quality and area While specific dollar values for adjustments in residential home appraisals can vary based on numerous factors, including the specific neighborhood and current market conditions, here are some typical...
7 Things I Wish I’d Known as a First-Time Homebuyer
Robert and Kacie share insights on personal finance and home buying. Robert emphasizes the importance of a good real estate agent and home inspections. Kacie advises looking beyond bad online listings for potential hidden gems. Both stress the financial challenges and...
10 Tips for Finding Cheap Housing
Looking in less popular neighborhoods or cities and being willing to relocate can reduce housing costs. Strategies include low-income housing programs, finding roommates, negotiating rent, and making compromises. Making a detailed budget plan is crucial to determine...

Selling Your Home in 2025? Expect More Competition
More homeowners will list their properties as mortgage rates stabilize, improving inventory but increasing competition.Buyers may gain leverage, leading sellers to offer price cuts or concessions in competitive markets.

New Tariffs Could Raise Construction Costs by 60%!
U.S. construction faces rising costs as new tariffs could increase material prices by up to 60%. Construction inputs for multifamily projects have already surged 35% in 5 years, squeezing project feasibility.

Follow These 5 Steps to Own a Home in 2025!
Before buying a house in 2025, ensure you are debt-free and have 3–6 months of expenses saved. Limit your home budget to 25% of your take-home pay, covering mortgage, taxes, insurance, and HOA fees.
Renting costs a lot less than buying a home, especially in the West
Salt Lake City ranks fifth in the U.S. for the rent-buy cost gap, with renting at $1,680 monthly and buying at $3,197, making buying 90.4% more expensive. Nationwide, renting is cheaper as mortgage payments rise while rents decline or stabilize. The largest gaps are...

Happy Mother’s Day
Mother's Day is a celebration honoring the mother of the family or individual, as well as motherhood, maternal bonds, and the influence of mothers in society. The origins of commemorating motherhood dates back to the Ancient Greeks, where in spring festival, they...

What 2025 Housing Trends Keep Foreclosure Rates Low?
2025 home prices will rise slowly, with an average price of $510,300 and median at $419,200. In 2025, home prices will stabilize; expect to pay close to asking price, especially in tight markets.