2 Major Myths Holding Back Home Buyers

Urban Institute recently released a report entitled, “Barriers to Accessing Homeownership,” which revealed that “eighty percent of consumers either are unaware of how much lenders require for a down payment or believe all lenders require a down payment above 5 percent.”

Myth #1: “I Need a 20% Down Payment”

Buyers often overestimate the down payment funds needed to qualify for a home loan. According to the same report:

“Consumers are often unaware of the option to take out low-down-payment mortgages. Only 19% of consumers believe lenders would make loans with a down payment of 5% or less… While 15% believe lenders require a 20% down payment, and 30% believe lenders expect a 20% down payment.”

These numbers do not differ much between non-owners and homeowners; 39% of non-owners believe they need more than 20% for a down payment and 30% of homeowners believe they need more than 20% for a down payment.

While many believe that they need at least 20% down to buy their dream home, they do not realize that programs are available that allow them to put down as little as 3%. Many renters may actually be able to enter the housing market sooner than they ever imagined with programs that have emerged allowing less cash out of pocket.

Myth #2: “I Need a 780 FICO® Score or Higher to Buy”

Similar to the down payment, many either don’t know or are misinformed about what FICO^® score is necessary to qualify.

Many Americans believe a ‘good’ credit score is 780 or higher.

To help debunk this myth, let’s take a look at Ellie Mae’s latest Origination Insight Report, which focuses on recently closed (approved) loans.

As you can see in the chart above, 53.5% of approved mortgages had a credit score of 600-749.

Bottom Line

Whether buying your first home or moving up to your dream home, knowing your options will make the mortgage process easier. Your dream home may already be within your reach.

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2 Baths

1,972 SqFt

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$459,000

3 Beds

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3635 E Turney Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85018

$459,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,500 SqFt

Status Active

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$459,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,200 SqFt

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Property Type Single Family Residence

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NOW PRICED TO SELL - ACT FAST. FOR INSTANT EQUITY. Classic charm, updated style in this beautifully remodeled home. Mid-century Modern with an updated exterior & interior, it is move in ready for you. Recently repainted inside and out, New flooring throughout, Open concept floorplan with a spacious kitchen adorned with sleek quartz countertops New Smart stainless steel appliances. All new interior doors. Beautifully renovated bathrooms. Inside Laundry W/D incl. Leased solar w/battery=low bills. Outside, the large covered patio and expansive backyard, large space for pets, a pool and a garden. This home will not last at this price. Come and see it today! relaxation and entertainment, while the front yard boasts a convenient sprinkler system for easy maintenance. Perfectly situated near shops, restaurants, and with quick access to Loop 202, this home offers convenience and connectivity. Whether it's a jaunt to north Tempe, south Scottsdale, or Downtown Phoenix, this location puts everything within reach.

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