Plain-English answers to the questions buyers actually ask, written by Mindy Hay, a senior loan officer with 16+ years of experience serving Oregon, Washington, and Arizona. More guides are added regularly.
Who qualifies, how the savings work, and why you don't need a separate hero agent.
Read the guide →Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, Tempe and Tucson heroes: who qualifies and how you save.
Read the guide →Vancouver, Camas, Battle Ground and Clark County heroes, plus buying across the river.
Read the guide →$0-down options, 3% and 3.5% loans, assistance, and the truth about the 20% myth.
Read the guide →Minimum scores by loan type, why it affects your rate, and how to raise it fast.
Read the guide →Low-down-payment loans, down payment assistance, and who counts as a first-time buyer.
Read the guide →How they compare on down payment, mortgage insurance, fees, and when each one wins.
Read the guide →The reasons to refinance, the break-even rule, and when it is not worth it.
Read the guide →What happens at each stage from pre-approval to closing, and how to keep it smooth.
Read the guide →What they include, how much to expect, who can pay them, and how to lower them.
Read the guide →How lenders decide, the 28/36 rule, what counts in the payment, and finding your number.
Read the guide →How self-employed buyers and investors qualify on cash flow instead of tax returns.
Read the guide →Have a question a guide doesn't cover? Just call Mindy, she is happy to help.
Real answers, no pressure, call, text, or start online any time.