Chris Graves, Certified Mortgage Advisor

Providing Mortgage Services in MA, NH, ME, RI and FL

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Mortgage Information

HomeReady Mortgage Program Changes

The HomeReady mortgage program is a special program through Fannie Mae for low to moderate income families. Fannie Mae recently announced some changes to this program that may allow more home buyers to take advantage. Here’s an overview of the HomeReady Mortgage Program changes:

Income Requirement Increases

Income requirements are typically calculated based on a percentage of the median income in the area. The limits have now been raised to match 100% of the median income. This means that more home buyers will qualify!

Homebuyer Education

Since this program targets first time home buyers, taking a homeownership course is one the prerequisites. In the past, only classes offered by Framework qualified. However, home buyers may now receive one-on-one guidance directly from a qualified lender. This allows buyers to qualify more quickly than waiting for classes to be offered in their area.

There are two other important changes related to education. First, buyers looking to refinance (with only a small amount of cash out) are no longer required to take a course. Secondly, buyers purchasing multi-family properties (up to 4 units) are not required to take landlord education.

Property Ownership

Previously, homebuyers looking to use the HomeReady Mortgage Program were not allowed to own any other residential properties. This is no longer true with the recent changes. This important change extends the program to more buyers.

HomeReady Mortgage Program Changes Coming Soon

In addition to the above changes that are already in effect, a few other significant changes are expected later this year. The first is a 3% down payment option. Low down payments allow cash-sensitive buyers to take advantage of this program. Buy Down and Adjustable Rate Loans will be allowed on three and four unit properties. Lastly, incentives will be offered to buyers who opt for one-on-one counseling with a lender (as opposed to the formal classes).

These HomeReady Mortgage Program changes take a huge step in allowing more homebuyers to qualify for a mortgage. If you are looking to purchase a home, contact me for a free pre-approval. I will evaluate your qualification for HomeReady and other special programs available.

 

Chris Graves's avatar

Chris Graves

I grew up in Massachusetts, spent the majority of my young adult life in Boston, and own a home in Windham NH. I have owned properties in MA and NH. I specialize in mortgage lending in Massachusetts and New Hampshire and my company does have the ability to lend in other states. I graduated from the University of Massachusetts in Amherst Massachusetts in 2002. I have a Bachelor’s in Science. In addition to managing a team of loan officers my personal loan production is always in the top of the entire of company. I have personally been in the mortgage business for over 13 years. I pride myself with taking my clients from application to close in the smoothest and quickest way possible, while keeping them well informed during the entire process. I originate my own loans from start to finish and work hand in hand with my loan processors & underwriters to make sure I am updated to the minute with all of my files. I stay up to date with lending guidelines and speak with underwriters on a daily basis to ensure I am aware of all of the lending guidelines in place.