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Tips For Buying A House In California

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Compare Closing LLC
Tips For Buying A House In California

The average home purchase price in California is comparatively higher than in most states.

So here are a few homeownership programs for eligible first-time buyers who can stand to benefit.

The most recent average home sale price is $758,990.

If you are going for a 20% down payment it would be upfront money of $151,798, but with a conventional mortgage, a 3% downpayment can also work provided you have a minimum credit score of 620 and you are open to paying the private mortgage insurance.

You can get into a new home with as little as 3% or even 0% down (if you eligible for a VA loan or a USDA loan) You can take advantage of any of these mortgage programs:

  • Conventional 97 — is a government-backed program from Freddie Mac or Fannie Mae. Requiring 3% down payment and minimum credit score of 620. The mortgage insurance will stop after a few years (your lender will give more details)
  • FHA loan — is the Federal Housing Administration-backed loan. With a down of 3.5% and a minimum credit score of 580. And until you refinance to a different type of mortgage, move home, or pay off your loan you will be paying for the mortgage insurance.
  • VA loans — Only veterans and service members can apply for this loan. It does not require any down payment. The minimum credit score depends on the lender but usually, 620 is an acceptable score. It doesn’t require you to pay any mortgage insurance after closing. so if you’re eligible don’t miss out on the best mortgages available.
  • USDA loan — Borrowers with low-to-moderate incomes can qualify provided they are okay with buying in designated rural areas. Again requirement of zero down payment. Credit score requirements are often 640 but could vary by lender. This is a program with low mortgage insurance rates.
  • CalHFA mortgage programs — California Housing Finance Agency offering government and conventional home loans. Along with homebuyer assistance, it offers 30-year fixed-rate first mortgages.

Depending on your choice, pocket, and requirement you could apply for any of the above programs.

Some programs let you use gifted money or provide down payment assistance to cover the down payment and closing costs.

The interest rate you qualify for depends on various factors like your credit score, down payment, loan type, and more.

We suggest you shop around for the best mortgage rates and get quotes from a minimum of 3 to 5 lenders to get the best deal and save in thousands.

Reference Source: The Mortgage Reports

https://www.compareclosing.com/mortgagenews/tips-for-buying-a-house-in-california/

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