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All You Need Is 1% Down — Unlock Home Buying With Minimal Upfront Cost

Buying your dream home can feel out of reach - especially when saving for a down payment. But what if you could unlock homeownership with just 1% down? Well, you're in luck - with our 1% Down program from The Mortgage Firm, that’s exactly possible.

What Is the 1% Down Program?

The 1% Down Program is an affordable mortgage solution for primary residences in Florida. If you have a credit score of 620 or greater, earn 80% or less of the area median income, and are looking to finance a property up to $350,000, you may qualify. Here's what makes it so compelling:

  • Only 1% down required—a fraction of what conventional loans demand.
  • The lender supplies an additional 2% grant, which does not need to be repaid.
  • No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)—saving you hundreds each month.
  • No requirement to be a first‑time buyer—available to repeat buyers too.
  • Must be an owner‑occupied, primary residence.

Who Qualifies?

To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:

  • Credit Score: Minimum 620.
  • Income: At or below 80% of the median income in your area.
  • Loan Amount: Up to $350,000 for a conventional mortgage.
  • Primary Residence: Must be owner-occupied; not for investment or second homes.
  • No PMI Required – the program waives this, unlike most low‑down mortgages.

How It Works

Here's a breakdown:

  • Borrower’s Down Payment: 1% of purchase price
  • Lender’s Grant: 2% of purchase price (forgivable)
  • Total Upfront Equity: Effectively 3% equity at closing
  • PMI: Not required
  • Loan Cap: $350,000

This combination places you closer to equity from day one and helps reduce or eliminate monthly PMI payments—putting more money in your pocket.

Why It's a Game-Changer

  1. Lower Upfront Cost: A 1% down payment turns what used to be a big expense into a manageable amount.
  2. Immediate Equity: The 2% grant means you walk in with 3% equity.
  3. No PMI: Avoiding monthly insurance saves substantial money over time.
  4. Broad Accessibility: No first‑time buyer requirements—available to many repeat buyers.
  5. Quick Entry into the Market: Especially ideal for fast-moving housing markets, letting you compete sooner.

Things to Keep in Mind

  • Credit and Income Caps: Must have a credit score ≥620 and meet the ≤80% AMI requirement.
  • Max Loan Limit: $350,000—if your purchase price exceeds this, you'll need a different option.
  • Still Need Funds for Closing Costs: The program addresses only the down payment, not other fees.
  • Program Conditions: Terms can change; always check for current eligibility and availability.

Next Steps to Explore this Program

  1. Contact Team Tina to discuss program details and eligibility: (386) 756‑0301 or via the form below.
  2. Prepare documentation: credit report, income verification, and area median income data.
  3. Submit your loan application and receive guidance on the process and timing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What’s the minimum down payment required?
Only 1% of the purchase price—and you're next-level approved when combined with the lender's 2% grant.

2. Do I have to be a first-time homebuyer?
Nope. The program accepts both first-time and repeat buyers.

3. Is PMI required?
No—this program removes PMI entirely, saving you monthly insurance costs.

4. What's the maximum loan amount?
$350,000 for a conventional mortgage.

5. What credit score do I need?
At least 620.

6. What about income requirements?
Your income must be at or below 80% of your area’s median income.

7. Does the 2% grant need to be repaid?
No, it’s a forgivable grant, not a loan.

8. Is this for investment properties?
No—only for owner-occupied, primary residences.

9. What if my purchase exceeds $350K?
Contact Team Tina, and let us explore alternative loan programs that will fit your needs.

 

 

Take The First Step!


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We hope this article was of value to you. For more great tips, bookmark our site and for all your mortgage needs, visit Team Tina at TMFFMS.

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