familiar with private mortgage insurance (PMI). This insurance is typically required by lenders to protect themselves in case a borrower defaults. For a few recent tax years, homeowners had the opportunity to deduct PMI premiums on their federal returns, offering some relief on their overall tax burden. However, that deduction expired after the 2021 tax year, and currently, PMI is no longer tax-deductible.

Between 2018 and 2021, eligible homeowners who itemized their deductions could write off PMI premiums. This was a welcome break for many, especially those paying hundreds annually in PMI costs. If you didn’t take advantage of the deduction during those years, there’s still a chance: you may be able to file an amended return and claim those missed deductions. Just keep in mind that your mortgage must have originated (or been refinanced) on or after January 1, 2007, to qualify.

So, where does that leave us now? As of the 2022 tax year and beyond, the PMI deduction is no longer available. A new bill has been introduced in Congress to potentially reinstate it, but until it’s passed and signed into law, homeowners should plan their taxes accordingly. This change highlights the importance of staying up to date with tax law changes, especially if you’re navigating homeownership with a tight budget.

While the expired deduction may not have been a game-changer for everyone, it could have still saved you a few hundred dollars a year—money that adds up over time. If you’re unsure whether you missed out on this deduction in previous years or want to know if an amended return makes sense, it’s worth speaking with a tax professional or schedule a review with us on our website and we can help you decide.

Buying a home is often a team effort, whether it’s with family, friends, or business partners. A common question among potential homebuyers is how many people can join forces on a mortgage. Although there’s technically no legal limit, most lenders typically allow up to four borrowers on a conventional mortgage. This limitation usually comes down to underwriting software, which comfortably accommodates up to four borrowers without requiring manual handling.

Applying for a mortgage with co-borrowers offers several great benefits. It can make qualifying for a loan easier, as combined incomes and credit scores often increase your buying power and help secure more favorable mortgage terms. Plus, sharing costs makes homeownership more affordable and accessible. This arrangement works especially well for multi-generational households, co-living setups, or friends investing together.

However, having multiple borrowers can come with some challenges. Each borrower is fully responsible for paying back the loan. If one person struggles to contribute their share, the others need to cover the shortfall to avoid damaging their credit or facing foreclosure. Joint homeownership also involves shared decision-making, which can become tricky if co-owners disagree on maintenance, upgrades, or selling the property.

If you’re thinking about buying a home with others, it’s important to be prepared. Check with us of course, if you are in a situation similar to this and we may recommend chatting with a real estate attorney about the best legal structure for your situation, like an LLC or a partnership, which can protect everyone involved and clarify roles.

Refinancing a second home or investment property can be a smart financial move, but it’s essential to understand the process and requirements before making a decision. Homeowners and investors refinance for various reasons, such as securing a lower interest rate, reducing monthly payments, or accessing equity through a cash-out refinance. However, refinancing a second home or rental property comes with additional considerations compared to refinancing a primary residence. Lenders impose stricter qualification requirements, including higher credit score thresholds, lower loan-to-value (LTV) limits, and additional cash reserves.

One of the most common reasons to refinance a second home or investment property is to take advantage of lower interest rates or change the loan term. If your credit score has improved since you originally obtained your mortgage, you may qualify for a more competitive rate. Borrowers may also opt to refinance from an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) to a fixed-rate mortgage for greater stability in payments. For those with multiple mortgages, consolidating loans into one can simplify finances. Additionally, a cash-out refinance allows property owners to tap into their home’s equity to fund renovations, purchase additional properties, or cover other significant expenses.

The refinancing process for a second home involves choosing between a rate-and-term refinance or a cash-out refinance. A rate-and-term refinance replaces your current mortgage with a new one that has a different interest rate or loan term, potentially lowering monthly payments. Meanwhile, a cash-out refinance provides homeowners with a lump sum by replacing their mortgage with a larger loan, with the difference paid out in cash. Before refinancing, ensure you meet lender qualifications, including a sufficient credit score, stable income, and adequate cash reserves. Most lenders require a minimum of 20% equity in a second home or investment property and may limit cash-out amounts to 80% of the home’s value.

Refinancing a second home or investment property differs from refinancing a primary residence in a few key ways. Because lenders consider second homes and rental properties riskier, interest rates tend to be slightly higher, and eligibility requirements are stricter. Some lenders may also have more limited options for investment property loans. To maximize your savings, shop around and obtain at least three refinance quotes to compare rates and fees. Understanding these differences and being prepared with the necessary financial documentation can help streamline the process and ensure you secure the best refinance deal for your second home or investment property.

Saving for a down payment can sometimes feel like a constant uphill climb. Between rising home prices, elevated interest rates, and everyday financial demands, it’s easy to see why many would-be buyers feel stuck. Even with careful budgeting, unexpected costs and competing priorities can easily derail the goal of buying a home. The good news is that with a few strategic moves, you can get back on track and make homeownership a reality sooner than you might think.

One of the main roadblocks for many first-time buyers is simply keeping up with everyday expenses while trying to stash extra cash for a future house. Rents have climbed steadily in recent years, and credit card debt continues to be a burden for many households. On top of that, grocery bills, gas prices and other routine costs haven’t shown much sign of slowing down. All these factors can eat away at your income, leaving less to set aside in your savings.

Additionally, big-picture economic factors like inflation and student loan payments can squeeze your budget even further. When prices are climbing faster than paychecks, it’s only natural to focus on pressing needs before a future purchase. However, consistently putting off that down payment goal can delay your plans by months or even years. The key is to tackle these challenges step by step: carefully manage high-interest debts, create a realistic monthly budget, and look for ways to trim expenses or boost your income.

If homeownership is your goal, it’s worth exploring every strategy available. Consider opening a high-yield savings account or a certificate of deposit (CD) for your house fund, so you can earn more interest while you save. Investigate assistance programs that might be offered by your state, your local housing agency or certain nonprofits. And if you’re fortunate enough to have a relative who’s willing to help, a financial gift can make a meaningful difference. With a bit of planning, discipline and resourcefulness, you can sidestep the biggest pitfalls and make steady progress toward that down payment. After all, no matter how tough it gets, every dollar you save brings you one step closer to unlocking the door to your new home.

Mortgage rates edged lower recently, with the average 30-year fixed rate now hovering around 6.84 percent—down from around 7.0 percent just a short time ago. This slight drop marks one of the lowest levels seen in recent months, creating an opportune moment for buyers and those looking to refinance. At the same time, many lenders report that the average discount and origination points remain relatively manageable, offering further incentives for prospective borrowers to explore their options.

For a typical family making the national median income of around \$97,800 and purchasing a home at the median price of \$396,900, the monthly mortgage payment on a 30-year fixed rate of 6.84 percent (with a 20 percent down payment) comes in around \$2,078. That equates to roughly 25 percent of the household’s monthly income. While this figure can vary based on local property taxes and insurance costs, it provides a helpful snapshot of affordability in the current market.

Looking ahead, mortgage rates tend to respond more closely to investor behavior and broader economic factors, such as inflation, rather than directly to central bank rate decisions. With inflation still running above the ideal target, uncertainty in financial markets and the global economy could continue to drive rate fluctuations. However, if price pressures ease and investor confidence stabilizes, there’s potential for mortgage rates to hold steady or even move lower in the coming months—offering a window of opportunity for buyers and homeowners seeking the best possible financing.

A balloon mortgage is a unique type of non-qualified (non-QM) home loan that offers lower monthly payments upfront but requires a large lump sum—known as a balloon payment—at the end of the loan term. Typically structured for five, seven, or ten years, balloon mortgages are appealing for those looking for short-term affordability. However, they also come with risks, including higher interest rates and the potential for financial strain if the borrower cannot afford the final payment. Since these loans don’t conform to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s standards for a qualified mortgage, they are less common and often come with more flexible application requirements.

How Does a Balloon Mortgage Work?
Unlike traditional mortgages, balloon loans can have different payment structures depending on the lender. Some loans require both principal and interest payments calculated over a 15- or 30-year period, with the remaining balance due at the end of the term. Others may be interest-only, where borrowers make smaller monthly payments covering just the interest, leaving the full principal to be paid as the final lump sum. In rare cases, some balloon mortgages require no payments at all during the loan term, meaning the borrower must pay the entire principal and interest in one large final payment. Because of this structure, these loans are best suited for those with a clear financial plan to cover the final payment.

Managing a Balloon Mortgage Payment
When the balloon payment is due, borrowers generally have three options. The most straightforward is to pay the lump sum in full, but this requires significant financial resources. Another option is to refinance the mortgage, replacing it with a new loan—though approval for refinancing depends on factors like home equity and credit standing. Lastly, some borrowers choose to sell the home before the balloon payment is due, using the proceeds to cover the remaining balance. However, selling isn’t always a guaranteed solution, as market conditions can impact home values and the ability to find a buyer in time.

Is a Balloon Mortgage Right for You?
Balloon mortgages aren’t for everyone, but they can be beneficial for real estate investors, house flippers, or buyers who plan to sell or refinance before the balloon payment is due. Some sellers also offer balloon mortgages as owner financing for buyers who may not qualify for a traditional loan. While these loans provide flexibility and lower initial payments, they carry substantial risk if a borrower cannot secure funds for the final payment. If you are thinking about a balloon mortgage schedule a consultation on our website and we can see if its right for you!

No-doc loans (short for “no documentation” loans) can sound like a dream come true for borrowers who want to avoid the usual hassle of paperwork. Unlike traditional mortgages, which require reams of income and asset statements, pay stubs, and tax returns, no-doc loans promise a more streamlined process. But as easy as they might sound, these types of mortgages come with unique requirements, higher risks, and often steeper interest rates.

In a typical mortgage application, lenders scrutinize everything from your credit score to your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) and employment history. With a no-doc loan, the name says it all: You’re not asked to provide detailed paperwork to prove your income. Instead, you generally just state what you earn — though be aware, lenders still run credit checks and require some form of verification to reduce their risk. Because the lender is taking on more uncertainty, you can expect higher credit score thresholds and larger down payment demands in many cases.

These loans are popular among certain self-employed individuals, entrepreneurs, or those who might have complex finances that are difficult to document. If you have funds coming from multiple sources — or if you’ve gone through events like a bankruptcy in the recent past and your financial statements don’t paint the whole picture — a no-doc loan could be an option. However, it’s crucial to understand that just because you don’t supply the usual paperwork doesn’t mean you’re free of the usual mortgage obligations. You’ll still need to meet monthly payments, and if your lender perceives you as a bigger risk, you may pay a premium via a higher interest rate.

Before deciding on a no-doc loan, weigh the pros and cons. On the plus side, you skip the typical documentation hurdles and may be able to close more quickly. On the downside, you’ll likely need a hefty down payment, solid credit, and a willingness to pay a higher interest rate. Of course check with us to see if a no doc loan is the best prescription for you.

If you’ve been dreaming of a luxurious home or a property in a high-priced neighborhood, a regular mortgage might not cut it. In cases where the price tag climbs above standard loan limits — typically over $806,500 in most of the U.S. for 2025 — you’ll need what’s known as a “jumbo loan”. These mortgages are designed to finance homes with higher price points, whether it’s a sprawling mansion or simply a modest home in a more expensive market.

Jumbo loans share much in common with “regular” mortgages: You can opt for fixed or adjustable rates, choose from various term lengths, and use the loan for primary residences, vacation homes, or even investment properties. However, there are some key differences. Jumbo loans generally have stricter qualification guidelines because they aren’t backed by government-sponsored enterprises like Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. Lenders often require higher credit scores, lower debt-to-income ratios (DTI), larger down payments, and ample cash reserves to ensure you can comfortably handle a super-sized mortgage.

Another difference you’ll notice is the interest rate. Jumbo mortgages historically have come with higher rates than conforming loans — although at times, this gap has been narrow. As of early 2025, jumbo loans are often just a tad pricier than the standard 30-year fixed mortgages, which is partly due to evolving fees and regulations for conforming loans. Still, since jumbo loans represent a greater risk for lenders, expect to provide more evidence of your ability to repay, including robust financial documentation of your income, assets, and credit history.

Qualifying for a jumbo loan takes a bit more homework. Most lenders want to see a credit score of **700 or higher**, and a DTI ratio that doesn’t exceed roughly 43 percent (some lenders are even stricter). You’ll also likely need a **down payment of 10 to 20 percent**. If you can check all those boxes, though, a jumbo loan can be a fantastic way to break into a higher-end property. Whether you’re considering a custom-built dream home or an upscale condo in a competitive market, schedule a consultation on our website to see whether a jumbo loan is right for you — and make sure your financial ducks are in a row before you dive in.

Securing a mortgage doesn’t hinge on meeting a single, magic income threshold. Instead, lenders look at a variety of factors, including your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio, credit score, and even your employment history, to determine if you’re able to afford your monthly payments. While certain programs like HomeReady and Home Possible do impose maximum income limits, most conventional or government-backed mortgages simply require that your income supports your monthly debts and prospective mortgage payment. So, don’t be deterred if you think your salary isn’t high enough — there’s likely a loan program that fits your financial situation.

When you apply, one of the first things your lender will calculate is your DTI ratio. They’ll add up your monthly debt obligations (like credit card payments, car loans, and student loans), plus your potential mortgage payment, and compare that total to your gross monthly income. While many conventional loans cap DTI at around 36 percent (though some allow up to 50 percent with compensating factors), government programs like FHA, VA, and USDA have slightly different limits — some as high as 43 or 41 percent, respectively. This means your income isn’t the sole deciding factor; it’s how all your financial pieces fit together.

Another common misconception is that only a standard paycheck counts as income. In reality, lenders can consider everything from Social Security and retirement disbursements to rental income and even trust or alimony payments. As long as you can document it and demonstrate steady or predictable cash flow, most lenders will factor it in. That’s why it’s a good idea to gather your pay stubs, tax returns, and bank statements ahead of time — the more thorough your paperwork, the smoother your application process will go.

Finally, it’s worth knowing that certain loan programs are specifically geared toward buyers who earn less than the area’s median income. HomeReady and Home Possible, for instance, allow for a down payment as low as 3 percent but have income thresholds you’ll need to stay under. Other options, like FHA, VA, and USDA loans, have more flexible credit requirements, low or no down payment requirements, and can help you get approved even if your income isn’t sky-high. So, whether you earn an entry-level salary or are closer to retirement, there’s a mortgage out there that can help you on the path to homeownership. The key is understanding how your finances measure up – of course we recommend scheduling a consultation to see what best fits your needs.

For years, private mortgage insurance (PMI) had a bad reputation among homebuyers, often seen as an unnecessary expense to avoid at all costs. PMI is typically required for conventional mortgage borrowers who put down less than 20% on a home, and many buyers viewed it as just another financial burden. However, recent changes in the industry have made PMI more affordable and, for some, an appealing option that can actually help unlock homeownership sooner.
What Is PMI and How Does It Work?
PMI is a type of insurance that protects the lender if the borrower defaults on their mortgage. Although the borrower pays the premium, it’s the lender who benefits. PMI is required when your down payment is less than 20% of the home’s purchase price, but it’s not a permanent expense. By law, lenders must cancel PMI once your loan balance reaches 78% of the home’s original value or at the halfway point of your loan term. Borrowers can also request early cancellation when their loan balance hits 80%, provided they cover the cost of an appraisal to confirm the home’s value.
For many years, buyers went to great lengths to avoid PMI, including taking out secondary loans to sidestep the requirement. However, these “piggyback loans” often came with higher interest rates and additional costs. With today’s more competitive PMI pricing, paying this insurance upfront may actually make more financial sense for many buyers.
Why PMI Costs Have Dropped
In recent years, the cost of PMI has decreased significantly. Today, the average PMI premium is around 0.4% of the loan amount annually, compared to 0.5% or higher in the past. This means that for a $400,000 loan, you’d pay roughly $1,600 per year, or about $133 per month—far less than what borrowers might have faced just a few years ago.
This shift is largely due to private mortgage insurers adopting more sophisticated pricing models. These models now take into account individual factors such as credit score, debt-to-income ratio, and local housing market conditions. The result is a more personalized premium that better reflects each borrower’s unique risk profile. For example, a buyer with excellent credit and a 10% down payment might pay far less than someone with a smaller down payment and lower credit score.
Is PMI Right for You?
With home prices at record highs, saving up for a 20% down payment can feel impossible for many first-time buyers. PMI offers a way to purchase a home with as little as 3-5% down, helping buyers get into the market sooner without exhausting their savings.
For buyers with financial flexibility, the decision often comes down to what else you can do with your money. Instead of using $100,000 for a 20% down payment on a $500,000 home, you could put down 10% and invest the remaining $50,000 elsewhere. While this increases your monthly payment slightly, including PMI costs, it gives you more liquidity for other financial goals.
Ultimately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. PMI might be an added expense, but with today’s reduced rates, it’s worth reconsidering its role in your homebuying strategy. Instead of avoiding it entirely, think of PMI as a tool that can make your path to homeownership more accessible and financially strategic. If you are looking to fund your home and not sure about PMI of course schedule a consultation with us on our website today!