Harris touts a $25K down payment grant. Will homebuyers care?

The question we should be asking about Kamala Harris’ down payment grant proposal, Dr. Lee Davenport writes, is, “Will anyone jump through hurdles to take part in the program?” Continue reading

How to use down payment assistance to close more deals

Looking for a way to differentiate the service you provide to buyers? Luke Babich writes that a top-down knowledge of down payment assistance programs in your area can help you stand out from the crowd of other agents. Continue reading

Trump, Harris housing policies emerging from the rhetoric

Housing policy has gotten short shrift in the debates, with a tight focus on immigration and inflation. But the candidates’ platforms — and Project 2025 — provide more details. Continue reading

Don’t facilitate source of income discrimination by sellers

Don’t discourage your sellers from talking to FHA, VA, USDA or DPA buyers, fair housing advocate Dr. Lee Davenport writes. Help facilitate both a timely sale and greater affordability. Continue reading

Cardone slams Harris-Walz $25K down payment assistance plan

Cardone Capital CEO Grant Cardone slammed VP Kamala Harris’ housing policies on Fox Business, saying they will lead to the collapse of the housing market in Democratic-led states. Continue reading

UWM’s 0-down loans a hit with buyers, worry consumer advocates

Unlike subprime loans that were subjected to minimal underwriting standards in the runup to the housing crash and 2007-09 Great Recession, UWM’s zero-down loans have to meet criteria set by mortgage giant Freddie Mac. Continue reading

At long last — down payment assistance is finally cool

By making homeownership more affordable, Bernice Ross writes, DPA enhances the value agents bring to the table and plays a vital role in helping those who might otherwise be excluded from the housing market. Continue reading

This first-time homebuyer program is like winning the lottery

California to use lottery system to allocate $220 million in “Dream for All” shared appreciation loans that cover down payments for first-time homebuyers. Continue reading

Mortgage giants offering very low income homebuyers a spring break

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are offering a $2,500 credit that borrowers can put toward their down payment, closing costs, escrow or mortgage insurance premiums. Continue reading

LoanDepot lets buyers cover FHA down payment with 2nd mortgage

Available everywhere except New York, loanDepot’s new “accessZERO” program provides a down payment of up to 5 percent in the form of a 10-year fully amortized second mortgage. Continue reading