Home Loan Programs
Conventional Loans
Conventional Loans are mortgage loans that are not insured by the government (like FHA, VA, USDA Loans), but they typically meet the lending guidelines that have been set by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. Typically, conventional loans have better rates, terms and/or lower fees than other types of loans. However, conventional loans typically require a borrower to have good-to-excellent credit, reasonable amounts of monthly debt obligations, a down payment of 5-20% and reliable monthly income. Conventional loans are ideal for borrowers with excellent credit and at least a 5% down payment.
FHA Loans
It's easy to understand why many people looking for a new home are turning to FHA insured loan programs. Because FHA Loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration homebuyers have an easier time qualifying for a mortgage. Those who typically benefit most by an FHA loan are first-time home buyers and those who have less than perfect credit.
USDA Loans
A USDA Loan is a mortgage loan that is insured by the US Department of Agriculture and available to qualified individuals who are purchasing or refinancing their home loan in an area that is not considered a major metropolitan area by USDA.
VA Loans
A VA loan is a mortgage loan guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) that is available to most US service members. It offers some very great benefits to those that have served our country.
Reverse Mortgages
Reverse mortgages often spark curiosity—or fear. The truth is, for homeowners 62 and older, they can unlock home equity without monthly payments. The bank pays you, whether as income, a lump sum, or a line of credit. You keep ownership, live in your home as long as you want, and repayment happens only when you move, sell, or pass away. For many, it means staying in the home they love with more financial flexibility. It’s not for everyone, but for the right homeowner, it can be life-changing.
Portfolio Loans
Portfolio loans don’t follow the government playbook—they’re kept by the lender, who sets the rules. That flexibility helps self-employed borrowers with complex income, investors stretching cash flow, or buyers recovering from credit events. Once seen negatively after 2008, they’ve made a responsible comeback as real solutions for today’s borrowers. If you’ve been told you don’t qualify for traditional loans, a portfolio loan could be your path to homeownership.
HELOC, Second Mortgage or Cash-out Refi?
Homeowners are sitting on record equity, and three common ways to use it are a HELOC, second mortgage, or cash-out refinance. A HELOC works like a revolving line of credit—great for ongoing projects or surprises. A second mortgage gives a lump sum with fixed payments, ideal for one-time needs like debt consolidation. A cash-out refi replaces your mortgage and can sometimes improve your position. Each option puts your home’s value to work in different ways—choosing the right one depends on your goals.
Mortgage Categories
Did you know every mortgage in America falls into just three categories? That’s right—only three: government-insured loans, government-regulated loans, and portfolio loans. Once you understand these buckets, you won’t get lost in marketing jargon or overwhelmed by options. You’ll know exactly where your loan fits and why it’s recommended for you. In the next video, I’ll break down each type, who they’re for, and how they work—so you can approach homebuying with clarity and confidence.
Government Insured Loans
Government-insured loans are some of the most popular—and affordable—options for homebuyers. FHA loans require as little as 3.5% down and are flexible with credit scores, often helping buyers who might not qualify elsewhere. VA loans, a well-deserved benefit for veterans and active-duty service members, offer 100% financing, no mortgage insurance, and competitive rates. USDA loans, designed for rural areas, also provide low or no down payment options with reduced costs, though they’re less commonly used. These programs have opened the door to homeownership for millions of Americans. If you’d like to see if you qualify, let’s connect.
