Estimate your monthly payment, see how buying down your rate with points saves money, compare financing strategies, or look up local tax and insurance rates.
PMI required when down payment is less than 20%. Removable at 80% LTV.
Leave property value blank to use the Estimated Home Value above. Override it here to adjust tax & insurance independently.
Property Tax
Insurance
Estimated Monthly Payment
$2,846
Principal & Interest
$2,528
Property Tax
$521
Insurance
$125
PMI
$0
Extra Payment
$0
New Loan Amount
$400,000
Extra Payment Savings
$0
Interest Saved
0 months
Paid Off Sooner
30 yrs
New Payoff Time
Balance Over Time
Remaining Balance
Principal Paid
Interest Paid
Estimates are for informational purposes only. Actual payments may vary.
Conventional Loan Guidelines
Source: Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac (FHFA)
Minimum Down Payment
Primary residence: 3% (first-time buyers) to 5%. Second home: 10%. Investment property: 15–25%.
Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)
Required when LTV exceeds 80%. Automatically terminated at 78% LTV per the Homeowners Protection Act. Can request removal at 80% with good payment history.
Credit Score
Minimum 620. Higher scores unlock better rates and lower PMI. Best pricing at 740+.
Debt-to-Income (DTI)
Maximum 45% back-end DTI. Up to 50% with strong compensating factors (high reserves, excellent credit).
Loan Limits (2026)
Conforming: $806,500 most counties. High-cost areas up to $1,209,750. Updated annually by FHFA.
Occupancy
Primary residence, second home, and investment property eligible. Terms and pricing vary by occupancy type.
Conventional 97 / HomeReady
Fannie Mae HomeReady and Freddie Mac Home Possible allow 3% down. Income limits apply (≤80% AMI). Reduced PMI rates.
Seller Concessions
LTV >90%: max 3%. LTV 75–90%: max 6%. LTV <75%: max 9%. Investment property: max 2%.
Rate Pricing (LLPAs)
Loan-level price adjustments based on credit score, LTV, property type, and occupancy. Set by FHFA and applied by all conventional lenders.
FHA Loan Guidelines
Source: HUD / FHA Handbook 4000.1
Minimum Down Payment
3.5% with a 580+ credit score. 10% with a 500–579 credit score. Gift funds allowed for 100% of the down payment.
Mortgage Insurance (MIP)
Upfront MIP (UFMIP): 1.75% of the loan amount, can be financed. Annual MIP: 0.55% for most 30-year loans (>95% LTV). Required for the life of the loan if down payment <10%.
Credit Score
Minimum 500 (with 10% down). 580+ for 3.5% down. No credit score tiers for rate pricing — FHA rates are the same regardless of score.
Debt-to-Income (DTI)
Front-end: 31% guideline. Back-end: 43% standard, up to 57% with compensating factors and AUS approval.
Loan Limits (2026)
Floor: $524,225 most counties. Ceiling: $1,209,750 in high-cost areas. FHA limits are set at 65% of conforming limits (floor) to 150% (ceiling).
Occupancy
Primary residence only. FHA does not allow second homes or investment properties. Borrower must move in within 60 days of closing.
Seller Concessions
Maximum 6% of the sale price. Can cover closing costs, prepaids, discount points, and UFMIP.
Property Requirements
Must meet FHA Minimum Property Standards (MPS). Appraisal is valid for 120 days. Properties must be safe, sound, and secure — no peeling paint, missing handrails, or structural defects.
MIP Duration
Down payment <10%: MIP required for the life of the loan (cannot be removed). Down payment ≥10%: MIP drops off after 11 years. Unlike PMI, FHA MIP cannot be cancelled early based on equity.
FHA vs. Conventional
FHA is better for lower credit scores (sub-680) and smaller down payments. Conventional is better for 680+ scores, 5%+ down, and to avoid permanent MIP. Contact Andrew to compare your specific scenario.
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Program guidelines are subject to change. Contact Andrew Baker for current rates, terms, and eligibility requirements specific to your situation.
PMI required when down payment is less than 20%. Removable at 80% LTV.
Leave property value blank to use the Estimated Home Value above. Override it here to adjust tax & insurance independently.
Property Tax
Insurance
Estimated Monthly Payment
$2,846
Principal & Interest
$2,528
Property Tax
$521
Insurance
$125
PMI
$0
Extra Payment
$0
New Loan Amount
$400,000
Extra Payment Savings
$0
Interest Saved
0 months
Paid Off Sooner
30 yrs
New Payoff Time
Balance Over Time
Remaining Balance
Principal Paid
Interest Paid
Estimates are for informational purposes only. Actual payments may vary.
Conventional Loan Guidelines
Source: Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac (FHFA)
Minimum Down Payment
Primary residence: 3% (first-time buyers) to 5%. Second home: 10%. Investment property: 15–25%.
Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)
Required when LTV exceeds 80%. Automatically terminated at 78% LTV per the Homeowners Protection Act. Can request removal at 80% with good payment history.
Credit Score
Minimum 620. Higher scores unlock better rates and lower PMI. Best pricing at 740+.
Debt-to-Income (DTI)
Maximum 45% back-end DTI. Up to 50% with strong compensating factors (high reserves, excellent credit).
Loan Limits (2026)
Conforming: $806,500 most counties. High-cost areas up to $1,209,750. Updated annually by FHFA.
Occupancy
Primary residence, second home, and investment property eligible. Terms and pricing vary by occupancy type.
Conventional 97 / HomeReady
Fannie Mae HomeReady and Freddie Mac Home Possible allow 3% down. Income limits apply (≤80% AMI). Reduced PMI rates.
Seller Concessions
LTV >90%: max 3%. LTV 75–90%: max 6%. LTV <75%: max 9%. Investment property: max 2%.
Rate Pricing (LLPAs)
Loan-level price adjustments based on credit score, LTV, property type, and occupancy. Set by FHFA and applied by all conventional lenders.
FHA Loan Guidelines
Source: HUD / FHA Handbook 4000.1
Minimum Down Payment
3.5% with a 580+ credit score. 10% with a 500–579 credit score. Gift funds allowed for 100% of the down payment.
Mortgage Insurance (MIP)
Upfront MIP (UFMIP): 1.75% of the loan amount, can be financed. Annual MIP: 0.55% for most 30-year loans (>95% LTV). Required for the life of the loan if down payment <10%.
Credit Score
Minimum 500 (with 10% down). 580+ for 3.5% down. No credit score tiers for rate pricing — FHA rates are the same regardless of score.
Debt-to-Income (DTI)
Front-end: 31% guideline. Back-end: 43% standard, up to 57% with compensating factors and AUS approval.
Loan Limits (2026)
Floor: $524,225 most counties. Ceiling: $1,209,750 in high-cost areas. FHA limits are set at 65% of conforming limits (floor) to 150% (ceiling).
Occupancy
Primary residence only. FHA does not allow second homes or investment properties. Borrower must move in within 60 days of closing.
Seller Concessions
Maximum 6% of the sale price. Can cover closing costs, prepaids, discount points, and UFMIP.
Property Requirements
Must meet FHA Minimum Property Standards (MPS). Appraisal is valid for 120 days. Properties must be safe, sound, and secure — no peeling paint, missing handrails, or structural defects.
MIP Duration
Down payment <10%: MIP required for the life of the loan (cannot be removed). Down payment ≥10%: MIP drops off after 11 years. Unlike PMI, FHA MIP cannot be cancelled early based on equity.
FHA vs. Conventional
FHA is better for lower credit scores (sub-680) and smaller down payments. Conventional is better for 680+ scores, 5%+ down, and to avoid permanent MIP. Contact Andrew to compare your specific scenario.
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Program guidelines are subject to change. Contact Andrew Baker for current rates, terms, and eligibility requirements specific to your situation.
Monthly housing costs (PITIA) divided by gross monthly income. Conventional guideline: 28%. FHA: 31%. VA: no hard cap (residual income used).
Back-End Ratio (Total DTI)
All monthly debts divided by gross income. Conventional max: 45–50%. FHA max: 43–57%. VA: 41% guideline (flexible with residual income).
Qualified Mortgage (QM)
Under the CFPB's ATR rule, QM loans provide a safe harbor for lenders. General QM: DTI up to 43% or meets GSE/agency standards.
Residual Income
VA loans use residual income (money left after all obligations) rather than strict DTI ratios. Minimums vary by family size and region.
Reserves
Savings remaining after closing. Conventional: 0–6 months depending on loan type. Jumbo: 6–12 months typically required.
Gift Funds
Conventional: Gift funds allowed for down payment on primary residence (100% gift permitted with 20%+ down). FHA: 100% gift funds allowed. VA: No down payment required. Gift donors must be related by blood, marriage, or legal relationship (varies by program).
Self-Employment Income
Self-employed borrowers typically need 2 years of tax returns. Income is averaged and adjusted for depreciation, depletion, and business losses per Fannie Mae and FHA guidelines. A year-to-date P&L may be required.
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Program guidelines are subject to change. Contact Andrew Baker for current rates, terms, and eligibility requirements specific to your situation.
Rent vs. Buy Calculator
Compare the true cost of renting versus buying over time to see when buying becomes the better financial decision.
The break-even point is when your total cost of buying equals total cost of renting. Below 3-4 years, renting usually wins. Above 5-7 years, buying almost always wins due to equity and appreciation.
Renting Considerations
When renting may be the better choice
Short Timeline: Moving within 1-3 years — closing costs won't be recovered
Job Flexibility: Career may require relocation
Credit Building: Score below 580 — use time to improve
Savings Goal: Building toward a larger down payment
Market Timing: Local market overheated with declining values
No Maintenance: Landlord covers repairs and upkeep
Rent Increases: Average 3-5% annually — compounds over time
No Equity: Rent payments build zero ownership
Remember: rent never goes down long-term, but a fixed-rate mortgage payment stays the same for 30 years. Even if buying costs more today, renting will likely cost more within a few years.
Closing Cost Estimator
Estimate your total closing costs for a purchase or refinance based on loan amount and location.
These fees are estimates only. Actual closing costs may vary based on lender, location, loan program, and transaction specifics. Contact Andrew for a detailed Loan Estimate.
Purchase Closing Costs
Typical 2-5% of loan amount
Origination Fee: 0.5-3% of loan amount
Appraisal: $500-$800 (varies by property)
Title Insurance: $1,000-$3,000+ based on loan amount
Escrow/Settlement: $500-$1,500
Recording Fees: $100-$500 (county-specific)
Prepaid Interest: Per diem from closing to month-end
Escrow Reserves: 2-6 months taxes + insurance
Transfer Tax: Varies by state and county
Seller concessions can cover some or all closing costs: Conventional allows 3-9%, FHA allows 6%, VA allows 4% + customary fees. Ask your agent to negotiate seller credits.
Refinance Closing Costs
Typical 1.5-3% of loan amount
Origination Fee: 0.5-1.5% of loan amount
Appraisal: $450-$700 (may be waived on streamlines)
Title Insurance: Reissue rate — often 40-60% less than purchase
No Transfer Tax: Not applicable for refinances
Roll Into Loan: Most costs can be financed into new balance
No-Cost Option: Higher rate in exchange for zero out-of-pocket
Break-Even: Monthly savings should recover costs within your timeline
Streamline Refis: FHA/VA streamlines have reduced fees and no appraisal
As a broker, I can offer lender credits to offset closing costs — trading a slightly higher rate for lower out-of-pocket. I'll show you both options so you can decide what's best for your situation.
Refinance Savings Calculator
See exactly how much you'd save by refinancing, when you break even, and your total savings over the life of the loan.
When to Refi: Rate drop of 0.5%+ or eliminating PMI
Max LTV: 97% conventional, 97.75% FHA, 100% VA IRRRL
Seasoning: 6+ payments on current loan (most programs)
Net Tangible Benefit: Must demonstrate savings (FHA/VA requirement)
Credit Score: 620+ conventional, 580+ FHA, no min VA
Break-Even: Closing costs ÷ monthly savings = months to recover
Rule of thumb: if your break-even is under 24 months and you plan to keep the loan 3+ years, refinancing makes sense. VA IRRRL and FHA Streamline offer the fastest, lowest-cost refi options.
Cash-Out Refinance Guidelines
Access your home equity
Max LTV: 80% conventional, 80% FHA, 90% VA
Seasoning: 6-12 months ownership required
Rate Premium: Typically 0.125-0.375% higher than rate & term
Credit Score: 620+ conventional, 580+ FHA, 620+ VA cash-out
Common Uses: Home improvements, debt consolidation, investment, education
Tax Note: Interest may be deductible if used for home improvement
Consider a HELOC or HELOAN instead if your current first mortgage rate is below market — a second lien preserves your low rate while accessing equity. I'll compare both options for you.
VA IRRRL Calculator
Estimate your savings with a VA Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan. Also known as a VA Streamline Refinance — available to veterans with an existing VA loan.
Estimates are for informational purposes only. No PMI required on VA loans.
VA IRRRL Program Guidelines
Source: VA Circular 26-23-14 / 38 CFR Part 36
Eligibility
Must have an existing VA-backed home loan. The IRRRL refinances a VA loan into a new VA loan with better terms. Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is automatically transferred.
Net Tangible Benefit
Required by the VA. The new loan must provide a clear financial benefit: lower rate, lower payment, or conversion from adjustable to fixed rate.
Funding Fee
Standard IRRRL funding fee is 0.5% of the loan amount. Exempt for veterans with a 10% or higher service-connected disability rating.
No Appraisal Required
VA IRRRLs do not require a new appraisal or credit underwriting package, though lenders may require a credit check.
Occupancy
Borrower must certify they previously occupied the property. Current occupancy is not required (e.g., the home can now be a rental).
Seasoning
The existing VA loan must be at least 210 days old, and at least 6 monthly payments must have been made.
Cash-Out
No cash to the borrower is permitted on an IRRRL (except a maximum $6,000 for energy efficiency improvements).
36-Month Recoupment Requirement
The VA requires that all costs of the IRRRL (funding fee, closing costs, and any fees rolled into the loan) must be recouped through monthly payment savings within 36 months. If costs cannot be recovered within this period, the loan fails the Net Tangible Benefit test and cannot close.
Recoupment Calculation
Recoupment = Total Loan Costs ÷ Monthly Savings. Example: $3,000 in costs with $150/month savings = 20 months to recoup (passes). If recoupment exceeds 36 months, the lender must document an alternative net tangible benefit (e.g., ARM to fixed conversion).
Loan Churning Protections
Per VA Circular 26-19-15, lenders are prohibited from repeatedly refinancing VA loans without meaningful benefit. The VA monitors IRRRL activity and may sanction lenders who engage in loan churning. Borrowers should see a genuine reduction in rate or payment.
Rate Reduction Requirement
For fixed-to-fixed refinances, the new rate must be at least 0.5% lower than the existing rate (net of any increase in the funding fee). For ARM-to-fixed conversions, no minimum rate reduction is required — the stability of a fixed rate qualifies as the benefit.
Maximum Loan Term
The new loan term cannot exceed the original loan term plus 10 years. For example, if 25 years remain on the current loan, the maximum new term is 30 years (not 35).
Escrow Requirements
VA loans generally require escrow accounts for property taxes and homeowners insurance. When refinancing, the new escrow account must be properly funded at closing.
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Program guidelines are subject to change. Contact Andrew Baker for current rates, terms, and eligibility requirements specific to your situation.
FHA Streamline Calculator
Estimate your savings with an FHA Streamline Refinance — available to borrowers with an existing FHA loan. No appraisal, no income verification, and reduced documentation.
Typically 0.01% if refinancing within 3 years of original FHA loan. Otherwise 1.75%.
Most FHA streamlines: 0.55% for 30-yr, 0.15–0.40% for 15-yr.
Estimates are for informational purposes only. Must have existing FHA loan to qualify for streamline.
FHA Streamline Refinance Guidelines
Source: HUD Mortgagee Letter 2023-05 / 24 CFR Part 203
Eligibility
Must have an existing FHA-insured mortgage. The new loan must result in a Net Tangible Benefit (lower combined rate + MIP, or conversion from ARM to fixed).
Credit & Income
No credit qualifying streamline: no income verification, no credit score minimum, no appraisal. Credit qualifying streamline: standard FHA underwriting applies.
UFMIP (Upfront MIP)
Reduced to 0.01% if refinancing within 3 years of the original FHA loan. Otherwise, the standard 1.75% UFMIP applies. Can be financed into the loan.
Annual MIP
Current rates: 0.55% annually for most 30-year loans with LTV >95%. 0.50% for LTV ≤95%. 15-year terms: 0.15–0.40% depending on LTV.
Seasoning
At least 210 days must have passed since closing, and at least 6 monthly payments must have been made on the existing FHA loan.
Net Tangible Benefit
The combined reduction in interest rate + annual MIP must be at least 0.5%. Refinancing from a fixed to an ARM requires at least a 2% rate reduction.
Maximum Loan Amount
Limited to the existing principal balance plus the new UFMIP. No cash-out is permitted on a streamline refinance.
36-Month Recoupment Requirement
HUD requires that the borrower must recoup all costs of the streamline refinance (including the UFMIP, closing costs, and prepaids) within 36 months through the reduction in monthly mortgage payments. This ensures the refinance provides a genuine financial benefit to the borrower.
Recoupment Calculation
Recoupment = Total Costs (UFMIP + closing costs + prepaids) ÷ Monthly Payment Reduction. The result must be 36 months or less. If rolling the UFMIP into the loan, the financed amount is included in the cost calculation.
MIP Refund (UFMIP Credit)
If refinancing within 3 years of the original FHA loan, borrowers receive a partial refund of the original UFMIP on a declining scale. This refund is typically applied as a credit toward the new UFMIP, significantly reducing the upfront cost.
MIP Duration
For FHA loans with a down payment of less than 10%, annual MIP is required for the life of the loan. For loans with 10%+ down payment, MIP can be removed after 11 years. This applies to the new streamline loan based on the original LTV.
Payment History
Borrower must be current on the existing FHA mortgage with no late payments in the last 6 months and no more than one 30-day late payment in the last 12 months. This is verified even on non-credit qualifying streamlines.
Loan-to-Value (LTV)
No maximum LTV on FHA Streamline refinances — borrowers can be underwater (owe more than the home is worth) and still qualify. This is a key advantage over conventional refinancing.
Occupancy
The property must have been the borrower's primary residence at the time the original FHA loan closed. Current occupancy is not strictly required — the home may have since been converted to a rental or investment property.
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Program guidelines are subject to change. Contact Andrew Baker for current rates, terms, and eligibility requirements specific to your situation.
Cash-Out Refi vs. Second Mortgage
Compare refinancing your first mortgage against adding a second mortgage to access your equity.
Your Current First Mortgage
Your Existing Second Mortgage
Cash You Need
Option A — Cash-Out Refinance (New First Mortgage)
Option B — Keep First Mortgage + Add Second Mortgage
Option A: Cash-Out Refi
Replace current mortgage with new, larger loan
New Monthly Payment
vs. Current Payment
Total Interest Over Life
Total Cost (Interest + Closing)
Option B: Keep 1st + Add 2nd
Keep your current rate, add a second mortgage
Combined Monthly Payment
vs. Current Payment
Total Interest Over Life (Both Loans)
Total Cost (Interest + Closing)
Remaining Balance Over Time
Option A: Cash-Out Refi
Option B: 1st + 2nd Mortgage
Cumulative Interest Paid
Option A: Cash-Out Refi
Option B: 1st + 2nd Mortgage
Year-by-Year Amortization
See how each option performs over time
Option A: Cash-Out Refi
Year
Payment
Principal
Interest
Balance
Option B: 1st + 2nd Mortgage
Year
Combined Pmt
Principal
Interest
Combined Bal
These estimates are for comparison purposes only. Actual rates, payments, and costs will vary. Contact me to run your real numbers.
Refinance vs. Second Mortgage Guidelines
Source: CFPB & Federal Lending Regulations
Cash-Out Refinance
Replaces your existing mortgage with a new, larger loan. Max LTV: 80% conventional, 85% FHA, 100% VA. Closing costs typically 2–5% of loan amount.
Home Equity Loan (Second Mortgage)
Fixed-rate lump sum with a second lien. Combined LTV (CLTV) typically capped at 85–90%. Does not disturb your first mortgage rate.
HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit)
Variable-rate revolving credit line secured by your home. Draw period typically 10 years, repayment period 20 years. Rate adjusts with prime.
Right of Rescission
Per the Truth in Lending Act (TILA), borrowers have a 3-business-day right to cancel refinances and HELOCs on primary residences.
When to Refinance vs. Borrow
If your current rate is high, a cash-out refi may lower your overall cost. If your rate is low, a second mortgage preserves it while accessing equity.
Break-Even / Recoupment Analysis
The CFPB recommends calculating your break-even point before refinancing: Total Closing Costs ÷ Monthly Savings = Months to Recoup. If you plan to stay in the home longer than the break-even period, refinancing makes financial sense. If you may move sooner, a HELOC or home equity loan may be more cost-effective.
VA Cash-Out Refinance
VA cash-out refinances allow up to 100% LTV. The VA funding fee for a cash-out refi is 2.15% (first use) or 3.3% (subsequent use). Exempt for veterans with 10%+ disability. A 36-month recoupment test also applies to VA cash-out refis.
FHA Cash-Out Refinance
FHA cash-out refinances allow up to 80% LTV. Requires a new appraisal. UFMIP of 1.75% applies. The existing loan does not need to be FHA — any mortgage type can be refinanced into an FHA cash-out.
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Program guidelines are subject to change. Contact Andrew Baker for current rates, terms, and eligibility requirements specific to your situation.
Loan Program Comparison
Compare Conventional, FHA, and VA loan programs side by side for the same property.
Best for: borrowers with 680+ credit, 5%+ down, who want removable MI. Lowest total cost for strong-credit borrowers.
FHA Loan Guidelines
Federal Housing Administration
Min Down Payment: 3.5% (580+ score) / 10% (500-579)
Min Credit Score: 580 (3.5% down) / 500 (10% down)
Max DTI: 43% standard / up to 57% with AUS approval
Upfront MIP: 1.75% of base loan (financed into loan)
Annual MIP: 0.55% — life of loan (< 10% down)
Loan Limit: $524,225 – $1,209,750 by county
Property Types: SFR, 2-4 unit, FHA-approved condos
Occupancy: Primary residence only
Gift Funds: 100% of down payment can be gift
Seller Concessions: Up to 6%
Best for: first-time buyers, credit scores 580-679, borrowers using gift funds, those with higher DTI. MIP is permanent with less than 10% down — drops after 11 years with 10%+ down.
VA Loan Guidelines
Department of Veterans Affairs
Min Down Payment: 0%
Min Credit Score: None (most lenders overlay 580-620)
Max DTI: 41% guideline / higher with residual income
Fee Waiver: 10%+ service-connected disability = no fee
Loan Limit: No limit with full entitlement
Property Types: SFR, 2-4 unit, VA-approved condos
Occupancy: Primary residence only
Eligibility: Active duty, veterans, Guard/Reserves, surviving spouses
Best for: eligible veterans and service members. Lowest rates, zero down, no MI. Funding fee can be financed or waived with disability. Residual income used instead of strict DTI — more flexible for families.
Rate Buydown Calculator
See how buying discount points upfront can lower your rate, reduce your monthly payment, and save you money over the life of the loan.
−4+4
Lender CreditDiscount Points
1.000 points
Base Rate — No Points
Rate
6.750%
Monthly P&I
$0
Total Interest
$0
Saves $0/mo
With Points
New Rate
6.500%
Monthly P&I
$0
Total Interest
$0
Cost of Points
$0
Monthly Savings
$0
Breakeven
0 mo
Net Lifetime Savings
$0
Net Savings Over Time
Net Savings / Cost Over Time
Breakeven Point
All Point & Credit Levels at a Glance
Points
Cost / Credit
Rate
Monthly P&I
Mo. Difference
Breakeven
Net Savings (Life)
One discount point = 1% of the loan amount paid upfront at closing to lower your rate. A lender credit is the reverse — you accept a higher rate and receive a credit toward closing costs. All values shown in ⅛-point (0.125) increments for fine-tuning. This calculator models diminishing returns — the first point gives the full stated reduction, with each additional point yielding slightly less, reflecting real-world lender pricing. Actual rate adjustments vary by lender and market conditions. Contact me to see your real options.
Rate Buydown Guidelines
Source: Fannie Mae Selling Guide & FHA/VA Handbooks
What Is a Buydown?
A temporary or permanent reduction in the mortgage interest rate, typically paid upfront by the seller, builder, or borrower as prepaid interest.
Temporary Buydowns (2-1, 3-2-1)
The rate increases annually until it reaches the note rate. Borrowers must qualify at the full note rate, not the bought-down rate.
Permanent Buydowns (Discount Points)
Each point costs 1% of the loan amount and typically reduces the rate by 0.25%. The benefit is permanent for the life of the loan.
Discount points paid by the borrower may be tax-deductible in the year of purchase. Consult a tax advisor for your specific situation.
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Program guidelines are subject to change. Contact Andrew Baker for current rates, terms, and eligibility requirements specific to your situation.
DSCR Loan Calculator
See if your investment property's rental income qualifies for a DSCR loan — no personal income verification needed.
DSCR = Gross Rent ÷ PITIA. Lender requirements vary. Contact me to discuss your deal.
DSCR Loan Program Guidelines
Source: Non-QM / Private Lending Standards
What Is a DSCR Loan?
A Debt Service Coverage Ratio loan qualifies based on the property's rental income rather than the borrower's personal income. DSCR = Gross Rent ÷ PITIA.
Minimum DSCR
Most lenders require a DSCR of 1.0 or higher (rent covers the full payment). Some programs allow 0.75 DSCR with higher down payments.
Down Payment
Typically 20–25% minimum. Lower DSCRs or lower credit scores may require 25–30% down.
Credit Score
Minimum 660–680 for most DSCR programs. Best rates available at 740+.
Non-QM Disclosure
DSCR loans are Non-Qualified Mortgages. They are not backed by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, FHA, or VA. Rates are typically higher than conventional loans.
Property Types
Single-family, 2–4 units, condos, and short-term rentals (Airbnb/VRBO) may be eligible depending on the lender.
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Program guidelines are subject to change. Contact Andrew Baker for current rates, terms, and eligibility requirements specific to your situation.
Property Tax & Insurance Lookup
Enter a zip code to get estimated property taxes and homeowners insurance rates for that area.
Searching property tax records…
Property Tax
Effective Rate
Homeowners Insurance
Rate per $1k
Combined Annual Estimate
Monthly
Adjust Home Value
$100k$2M
Data note: Estimates are averages and may vary based on property specifics, insurer, coverage level, and exemptions.
Property Tax & Insurance Guidelines
Source: HUD, RESPA & State Regulations
Property Tax
Assessed by county/local government, typically 0.5–2.5% of assessed value annually. Rates vary significantly by state and county.
Homeowners Insurance
Required by all mortgage lenders. Coverage must equal at least the replacement cost of the home. Shop annually for competitive rates.
Escrow Accounts
Per RESPA, lenders may require escrow accounts for taxes and insurance. Lenders can hold a 2-month cushion beyond what's needed for annual disbursements.
Flood Insurance
Required in FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA). National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private flood insurance accepted.
HOA Dues
Not federally regulated but factored into DTI calculations. Lenders verify HOA financial health for condo approvals.
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Program guidelines are subject to change. Contact Andrew Baker for current rates, terms, and eligibility requirements specific to your situation.
Property Value Estimator
Enter an address to auto-fill property details, or enter them manually below.
Property Details
Source 1 · Online Estimate
Enter a Zestimate, Redfin Estimate, or any online home value estimate you have.
Source 2 · Comparable Sales
Enter 1–3 recent nearby sales. Check Zillow's "recently sold" section or ask your Realtor.
Source 3 · Tax Assessment
From your property tax bill or county assessor website.
Tax Assessment: County assessed value — often below market value
Replacement Cost: Land value + cost to rebuild the structure
Income Approach: Value based on rental income potential (investors)
Professional Appraisal: Licensed appraiser — required for mortgage lending
Online estimates are useful for ballpark figures but can vary significantly. For mortgage purposes, only a professional appraisal determines the official value. This calculator uses multiple methods weighted by reliability.
The Appraisal Process
What to expect during a mortgage appraisal
Cost: $500-$800 for standard, $800-$1,500 for complex/luxury
Comps Used: 3-6 comparable sales within 6-12 months
Low Appraisal: Can renegotiate price, increase down payment, or dispute
Waivers: Some refis qualify for appraisal waiver (PIW/ACE)
FHA Requirements: Must meet Minimum Property Standards (safety/soundness)
VA Requirements: Must meet Minimum Property Requirements + termite inspection
Tip: clean and declutter before the appraiser visits. Document any improvements (new roof, kitchen remodel, HVAC) with receipts. These can support a higher valuation.
Reverse Mortgage Calculator
Estimate how much you could receive from a HECM reverse mortgage based on your age, home value, and current rates.
These figures are estimates only. Actual reverse mortgage proceeds depend on FHA lending limits, interest rates, and individual circumstances. HUD-approved counseling is required before closing. Must be 62+ and occupy the home as your primary residence. Contact Andrew for a personalized analysis.
HECM Loan Guidelines
Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (FHA-insured)
Min Age: 62 years old
Occupancy: Primary residence only
Property Types: SFR, 2-4 unit (owner-occupied), FHA-approved condos, manufactured homes
FHA Limit: $1,209,750 (2026)
Upfront MIP: 2% of appraised value
Annual MIP: 0.5% of loan balance
Credit Score: No FHA minimum (lender overlays may apply)
Income: Not used for qualifying
Counseling: HUD-approved counseling required
Payout Options: Lump sum, monthly tenure/term, line of credit, or combination
Rate Types: Fixed (lump sum only) or adjustable (all options)
Repayment: When borrower sells, moves permanently, or passes away
Borrower must maintain property, pay property taxes, and keep homeowner's insurance current. Failure to meet obligations may result in loan default. Non-recourse: borrower/heirs never owe more than home value.
Piggyback Reverse Mortgage Guidelines
Forward Mortgage + HECM Combined Strategy
Structure: Traditional 1st mortgage + HECM 2nd lien
Purpose: HECM pays the 1st mortgage payment monthly
Min Age: 62 years old
Occupancy: Primary residence only
Best For: Higher-value homes exceeding standalone HECM limits
1st Mortgage: Conventional or FHA (standard qualifying)
2nd Lien (HECM): Reverse mortgage per HECM guidelines
Net Effect: No out-of-pocket mortgage payments
Down Payment: Varies — typically 30-50% combined equity needed
Not all lenders offer piggyback reverse structures. Both loans must be coordinated and closed simultaneously. Borrower must qualify for the forward mortgage under standard guidelines. As a broker with 175+ lenders, Andrew can source both sides of this transaction. Contact (949) 665-9090 for a personalized analysis.
Important Disclosures
Information accurate as of 07/10/2026. Not all programs are available in all areas. Not all borrowers will qualify for all programs. Program restrictions apply. Please contact our office at (949) 665-9090 to determine eligibility. This is not an offer or extension of credit or a commitment to lend. All loan programs are subject to the specific lender's underwriting guidelines and available loan terms. Approvals may be subject to appraisals and other documentation requirements. Interest rates, loan programs, available loan terms, and other information on this website are subject to change without notice. The Loan Originator named in this advertisement is licensed in the following states only: AL, AR, AZ, CA, CT, DE, FL, IA, ID, KS, KY, MA (DSCR only), ME, MI, MN, MO, NC (DSCR only), ND, NH, NJ (DSCR only), OH, OK, OR, PA, RI (DSCR only), SC (DSCR only), SD, TN, TX, VA, WA, WI, WY. The information on this site is not intended for consumers of any other state. To determine broker or loan originator eligibility please visit: www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org
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