"The key to success is to start before you are ready." - Marie Forleo

Hey Everyone,

Welcome to this week’s edition of The Ridgeline Rundown! I'm thrilled to have you join our community of savvy homebuyers and sellers.

This week, we're focusing on something crucial for anyone navigating today's real estate market: finding the right resources to support your home buying journey. It can be a complex process, but with the right tools and information, you can confidently make informed decisions.

In this issue, we'll explore two valuable resources that can empower you as a buyer: [ Briefly mention the two resources and what they offer. For example: a local down payment assistance program and a guide to understanding mortgage options].

Whether you're just starting your home search or are ready to make an offer, remember I'm here as a no-strings-attached resource for all your real estate needs. Feel free to reach out with any questions about the market, specific properties, or anything else real estate related!

Enjoy this week's updates, and happy house hunting!

Mortgage Minute

Mortgage rates held steady today, despite some weakness in the bond market. This is positive considering the recent market volatility. The Fed's announcement this afternoon is unlikely to cause significant changes, but Powell's press conference could create some movement. Overall, expect a quiet day for mortgage rates with potential for minor adjustments.

The Insider’s Guide to Real Estate | Tips

Two Resources That Can Help You Buy a Home Right Now

A recent report from Realtor.com says 20% of Americans don’t think homeownership is achievable. Maybe you feel the same way. With inflation driving up day-to-day expenses, saving enough to buy your first home is more of a challenge. But here’s the thing. With the right resources and help, you can still make it happen.

There are options that can help make buying a home possible today — even if your savings are limited or your credit isn’t perfect. Let’s explore just two of the solutions that could help get you into your first home no matter the market.

1. FHA Loans 

   If your down payment savings and your credit score aren’t where you want them to be, an FHA loan could be your pathway to buying a home. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and Bankrate, the big perks of an FHA home loan are:

• Lower Down Payments: They typically require a smaller down payment than conventional loans, sometimes as low as 3.5% of the home’s purchase price.

• Lower Credit Score Requirements: They’re designed to help buyers with credit scores that might not qualify for conventional financing. This means, when conventional loans aren’t an option, you may still be able to get an FHA loan.

  The first step is to connect with a lender who can help you explore your options and determine if you qualify.

2. Homeownership Assistance Programs 

   And if you need a more budget-friendly down payment, that’s not your only option. Did you know there are over 2,000 homeownership assistance programs available across the U.S. according to Down Payment Resource? And more than 75% of these programs are designed to help buyers with their down payment. Here’s a bit more information about why these could be such powerful tools for you:

• Financial Support: The average benefit for buyers who qualify for down payment assistance is $17,000. And that’s not a small number.

• Stackable Benefits: To make it even better, in some cases, you may be able to qualify for multiple programs at once, giving your down payment an even bigger boost.

  Rob Chrane, CEO of Down Payment Resource confirms a little-known fact:

If you want to learn more or see what you qualify for, be sure to lean on the pros. A trusted real estate agent and a lender can guide you through the process, explain the help that’s out there, and connect you with resources to make buying a home a reality.

Bottom Line

If you’re ready to stop wondering if buying a home is possible and start exploring solutions, let’s connect.

Featured Listing

Colorado Springs Social Scene

Military News and Updates

Colorado Springs-based nonprofit trains military spouses for portable careers

Two Colorado Springs-based military spouses recently joined a national cohort receiving free advanced training as professional photographers in exchange for donating their time to help transitioning service members prepare for the civilian job market.

Portraits for Patriots, a nonprofit that provides free portfolio-quality portraits for separating service members, spouses and Gold Star families, recently launched the Portraits for Patriots Academy, a self-paced online training program that provides military spouses with a full array of portrait photography skills. Participants learn advanced camera operations, studio lighting, posing techniques and much more.

Feel free to reach out with any real estate questions—I’m here to help, no matter the state!

Referrals are the biggest compliment, so send anyone my way. Until next time!