UNDERSTANDING HOME FINANCING

A clearer budget.

A more confident home search.

Your homebuying plan starts with understanding the numbers. I’ll help you organize your questions and connect with a mortgage professional to explore your options.

START WITH YOUR COMFORT LEVEL

Think beyond the purchase.

A useful financing conversation covers your monthly payment, upfront expenses, and the money you want to keep available after moving. Your budget should leave room for everyday life and the responsibilities of homeownership.

Ask your lender about principal, interest, taxes, insurance, and any applicable mortgage insurance or HOA dues.

Monthly payment

YOUR FINANCING CONVERSATION

Four steps to get started.

Set your priorities

01

Think about a comfortable payment, your savings, and your buying timeline.

02

Connect with a lender

Discuss your circumstances and ask what documents are needed to review your options.

03

Compare your options

Review loan terms, estimated costs, and questions about assistance or seller credits.

04

Build your buying plan

Use your lender’s guidance to focus your search and prepare for the next steps.

QUESTIONS WORTH ASKING

Explore what could fit your situation.

Loan Programs

Ask your lender to compare conventional, FHA, VA, or other options relevant to your eligibility and goals.

Down Payment Assistance

Ask about CHFA and other assistance resources, current eligibility, availability, costs, and repayment terms.

Seller Concessions

Discuss whether requesting a seller contribution could fit your loan and offer strategy.

Rate Buydowns

Ask about upfront costs, how long any payment reduction lasts, and the payment after a temporary reduction ends.

YOUR QUESTIONS, ANSWERED

Financing FAQs

  • How do I figure out what I can comfortably afford?

    Start with your household budget and the savings you want to preserve. Ask your lender to estimate the full monthly housing cost and cash needed to close, then consider maintenance and your other financial priorities.


  • What should I compare besides the interest rate?



  • Where can I ask about down payment assistance?

    Ask your lender to check current CHFA and other assistance options for your situation. Request an explanation of eligibility, fees, repayment obligations, and how assistance affects the overall loan.


  • What should I ask about a rate buydown?

    Ask who pays for it, the upfront cost, the payment schedule, and whether it is temporary or changes the loan’s interest rate. Request a comparison with an option without the buydown.

  • Can I start planning before I’m ready to buy?

    Absolutely. We can talk about your timeline and questions, and a lender can help you understand what information to gather before moving forward.

  • Do I have to use a lender you recommend?

    No. You are welcome to choose your own lender and compare offers. I can provide an introduction if you need a place to start.

You don't have to figure it out alone.

I can introduce you to lenders to discuss your financing questions. You’re always welcome to use the lender of your choice.