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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1.5 Baths

800 SqFt

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MLS # 6662829

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$19,000

1 Bed

1 Bath

840 SqFt

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Property Type Single Family Residence

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$18,000

2 Beds

1 Bath

600 SqFt

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***Highly Motivated Seller***55+Park***You will enjoy the spacious feeling in this 2 bedroom 1 bathroom home, a super cute home, and a bargain to boot! This adorable place could be either your primary home or your Arizona getaway! Boasts an beautiful Arizona room, which is where the second bedroom is. The interior of this darling place has been well taken care of, with upgrades galore: New wall unit style AC/Heating units remotely controlled as well in Front room, bedroom and 2nd bedroom. Freshly painted inside recently inside. The refrigerator and dryer stay. Low maintenance yard. Buyer to verify schools. New hot water heater as of Jan 2024! The water and sewer are also included in the lot rent! Lot rent is approximately $855.00, Live in a great 55+ park with many amenities to enjoy. Heated pools and spas, or enjoy your days playing pool or reading from the vast library. The walking and biking path winds through the community. This place is bargain paradise!

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9333 E University Drive Mesa, AZ 85207

$18,000

1 Bed

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728 SqFt

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7807 E Main Street Mesa, AZ 85207

$18,000

1 Bed

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896 SqFt

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This home comes furnished !! You'll definitely LOVE this single-story residence with carport space in Mesa. Once inside, you'll immediately be welcomed by the perfectly-sized great room graced with wood-look flooring in all the right places. Cook your favorite recipes in the kitchen, displaying matching appliances and plenty of cabinet space. The sizable primary bedroom will give you a good night's sleep after an exhausting day! Sit back and relax under the covered patio. Take advantage of the excellent amenities this Community has to offer, such as a swimming pool, spa, and many more directly across the street from you ! Library sits next door to your home and the laundry mat is steps away from your front door. What are you waiting for? This value is ready for you to move in and enjoy!

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16005 N 32nd Street Phoenix, AZ 85032

$17,000

1 Bed

1 Bath

800 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6635032

Property Type Manufactured Home

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Seller Financing Available! This one bedroom, one bath is located within the 55+ age restricted community of Paradise Valley Ranch. Freshly painted, this home features central AC and heat, gas cooking and all appliances including W/D. It features two extended covered carports offering privacy and shade. Located at Paradise Valley Ranch 55+ Community operated by Treehouse Communities. Community amenities include, pool, spa, fitness, recreation center, outdoor dining and laundry. The lots are spacious and private.

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$17,000

2 Beds

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$15,000

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1 Bath

672 SqFt

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Economical 1bed/1bath home located is 55+ Desert Valley Oasis. Spacious Living Room with Eat In Kitchen Counter space. Spacious Kitchen with plenty of cabinet space for dining. Gas Stove and Oven. Appliances Included. Many Updates Including NEW AC and ROOF 2020, New Flooring 2021, New Awning 2023. Large FENCED lot. Storage Shed includes Washer & Dryer. Easy Commute To Shopping, Entertainment, and Freeways. Seller Is Motivated!

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425 E Mckellips Road Mesa, AZ 85203

$15,000

2 Beds

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