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Michigan offers a variety of mortgage loan options for first-time homebuyers, including FHA loans with as little as 3.5% down payment.
For those with a lower credit score, a subprime mortgage loan may be an option, but be aware that these loans often come with higher interest rates and fees.
Michigan's down payment assistance programs can help first-time homebuyers with the upfront costs of buying a home, such as the Detroit Down Payment Assistance Program.
Some mortgage lenders in Michigan also offer special programs for veterans and active military personnel, like the VA loan program, which can provide more favorable terms and lower interest rates.
Worth a look: No down Payment Mortgage Loans Bad Credit
Types of Mortgage Loans
Conventional mortgages are a popular option for homebuyers in Michigan, and they can be obtained with as little as 3% down. This is because conventional mortgages are considered conforming, meaning they meet the standards set by Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae.
If you put down 20% or more, you won't need to worry about private mortgage insurance (PMI). And, working with a lender that offers both Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae programs can be beneficial, as it gives you more options to choose from.
A fixed rate conventional mortgage is a good option if you want consistent monthly payments that won't change throughout the lifetime of the loan. This type of mortgage is ideal for those who plan to stay in their home for several years.
If this caught your attention, see: Fannie Mae Mortgage Loans
Conventional
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Conventional mortgages are a popular choice for homebuyers, and for good reason. They're considered "conforming" and can be financed with as little as 3% down.
If you have 20% or more to put down, you won't need to budget for Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI). This can save you money in the long run. Guild Mortgage works with both Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae, giving you more options to choose from.
Conventional mortgages can be either fixed-rate or adjustable-rate. Fixed-rate mortgages have a rate and monthly payment that stay the same throughout the lifetime of the loan. This can provide peace of mind and help you budget your finances.
Here are some key features of fixed-rate conventional mortgages:
- First-time buyer programs are available
- Low down payment program options exist
- Fixed-rate mortgages come with a variety of term options
- You can see today's fixed mortgage rates
A fixed-rate mortgage is a good option if you want consistent monthly payments that won't change. It's also a good choice if you plan to stay in your home for several years.
Adjustable-rate conventional mortgages (ARMs) offer a lower initial rate than fixed-rate loans, but the rate can adjust up or down periodically. This means your monthly payment could change over time.
ARMs are a good option if you're planning to stay in the home for a short period of time. They're also a good choice if you're confident you can handle higher payments if the rate increases.
In some cases, no down payment is required for a conventional mortgage. This can be a great option for homebuyers who are struggling to save for a down payment. However, this option typically comes with higher interest rates and fees.
Here are some key features of no down payment conventional financing programs:
- No down payment is required
- Competitive rates are available
- Conventional financing is used
- No pre-payment penalty is charged
- Local decision-making and personal services are provided
- Gift funds or seller concessions can be used to cover closing costs
Jumbo
A jumbo mortgage is a loan amount above conventional conforming loan limits.
You can get a jumbo mortgage if you need a loan amount that exceeds the standard limits, which can vary depending on the location.
These loans are often used by homebuyers who need to finance a larger property or have a high income.
Call a lender to discuss if a jumbo mortgage loan program is suited for you.
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Special Programs and Assistance
If you're a first-time homebuyer, you're in luck because Michigan offers several special programs and assistance to help make homeownership more affordable. The Home Possible mortgage program, for example, offers low down payment options and flexible credit terms.
The Michigan State Housing Development Authority offers the MI Home Loan program, which includes down payment assistance of up to $10,000. To qualify, you'll need a minimum credit score of 640 and your household's income can't exceed certain limits.
Some participating lenders, including TCF and Huntington Bank, participate in the Detroit Home Mortgage program, which can waive certain closing costs and offer modest grants for eligible buyers. The program is designed to spur additional investment in the state through homeownership.
Here are some special programs and assistance available in Michigan:
VA
The VA program is a game-changer for veterans and active duty military personnel looking to purchase a home. No private mortgage insurance requirements or stringent credit checks are needed, making it a more accessible option.
You can get a VA mortgage with no down payment as long as the sales price doesn't exceed the appraised value. This is a huge advantage for those who want to buy a home but don't have a lot of savings.
The VA program offers three popular financing products: the VA New Home Purchase Mortgage, the VA 100% Cashout Refinance, and the VA Streamline Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL).
Here are the details on each product:
The VA program also offers flexibility in closing costs, which can be paid by the seller. And if you run into difficulty making payments, the VA may be able to provide some assistance.
Usda Rural Development
The USDA Rural Development program is a game-changer for those looking to purchase a home in rural areas. This program is designed to make rural housing more affordable.
You can finance a home with no down payment, which is a huge relief for many prospective homebuyers.
Expand your knowledge: Rural Mortgage Loans
Homebuyer Assistance Programs
The city of Detroit offers several initiatives to boost homeownership, including the Detroit Neighborhood Initiative, which provides a fixed-rate mortgage without closing expenses or down payment requirements.
The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) connects first-time homebuyers with lenders participating in lower-cost mortgage programs, such as the MI Home Loan.
This loan offers down payment assistance of up to $10,000, but requires a minimum credit score of 640 and income limits that vary by household size and property location.
MSHDA also offers the MI First Home program, which provides down payment assistance up to $7,500 for first-time homebuyers statewide and repeat homebuyers in targeted areas.
The MI Next Home program offers down payment assistance up to $7,500 for repeat homebuyers statewide, with collections and judgments not necessarily needing to be paid off.
The USDA Rural Development program allows for no down payment and little out-of-pocket expense, making rural housing more affordable.
For another approach, see: Car Loans for First Time Buyers with No Credit
The MI 10K DPA loan program offers a 0 percent interest loan up to $10,000 for those who qualify for an MI Home Loan and complete a homebuyer education course.
Here are some homebuyer assistance programs available in Michigan:
These programs can help make homeownership more affordable and accessible for many people in Michigan.
Credit Certificate
You can save some money on taxes when buying a house through the Mortgage Credit Certificate, also known as an MCC. This certificate is a valuable first-time home buyer program in Michigan.
The MCC gives you a credit of 20% of your annual mortgage interest, up to a maximum of $2000 a year. That's a significant reduction in your tax liability.
You'll need to pay a fee of $400 for the MCC, and with the lender's commission, the total cost can range from $500 to $600.
Refinancing and Renovation
Refinancing and renovation can be a great way to improve your home and your financial situation. You can refinance your home loan to reduce your monthly payment, lower your interest rate, or take cash out of your home equity.
Homeowners in Michigan have been taking advantage of refinancing options, with over 5,600 homeowners refinancing in June alone. If you've had your home for a while, you may have a large amount of equity built up, which you can use to accomplish other goals, such as a home renovation project.
Renovation loans allow you to finance the cost of renovations in with your home purchase or refinance. Guild Mortgage Inlanta offers a variety of home renovation loan programs that can help you finance your project.
Here are some options to consider:
Keep in mind that payments do not include taxes and insurance, and actual payments may be higher.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are current mortgage rates in Michigan?
Current mortgage rates in Michigan are 7.032% for a 30-year fixed, 6.311% for a 15-year fixed, and 7.499% for a 5-year adjustable-rate mortgage. Check our rates page for the latest updates and to explore your mortgage options.
What is the $7500 first time home buyer grant in Michigan?
Michigan's Down Payment Assistance program offers up to $7,500 in 0% interest loans for down payments and closing costs, helping first-time homebuyers get started. Additional city-specific programs may also be available in certain areas.
What is the minimum credit score to buy a house in Michigan?
To qualify for an FHA loan in Michigan, you'll need a minimum credit score of 580, but scores between 500-579 may be accepted with certain conditions.
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