santa maria first time buyer Archives

What Should I Look for in a Santa Maria CA Lender?

I typically recommend local lenders because I find that they are more accountable. Even if a buyer is using a national bank, I find it is better to have a local representative on the file. Nothing is more frustrating than working with some 1-800 number lender who becomes conveniently absent when a deal starts heating up, or timelines get tight on a transaction.

Santa Maria First Time Home Buyer Alert

I’m afraid the days of 100% financing for everyone are gone. Unless you are a veteran with a VA home loan benefit, or buying in a rural area through the USDA loan program, there are not many 100% financing options. (Santa Maria does not qualify as a rural area, but in the past, Guadalupe and parts of Nipomo have qualified).

Santa Maria and Lompoc First Time Buyers, FHA Loan Info

January 10, 2010
Vandenberg AFB Homes
Buyer Info, Lompoc / Vandenberg Village, Santa Maria

What is an FHA loan? -- Essentially a FHA loan is a loan that is guaranteed by the Federal Housing Administration. Lenders typically do not want to lend unless on a home unless a buyer has a 20% down payment. If there is less than a 20% down payment, mortgage insurance is required. And, in today's market unless you have a credit score at least 720 or above you won't be able to get mortgage insurance.