Buying and Selling Strategies Archives

Buying a Home with Student Debt Yes, It’s Possible – Here’s What to Know

Posted on February 11, 2026February 12, 2026 by Michelle Tondu

Buying a Home with Student Debt

Yes, It’s Possible – Here’s What to Know

Carrying student loan debt is a reality for many working professionals. And it often leads to one important question:

“Can I still buy a home?”

The answer is yes. Student loans do not automatically disqualify you. They are simply one part of your overall financial picture – and with the right strategy, they can be managed alongside your homeownership goals.

How Lenders View Student Loans

Many people think lenders focus primarily on the total balance of their loans. In reality, they focus more on your monthly payment. Mortgage approval is heavily influenced by your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio, which compares your total monthly debt payments – including your future mortgage – to your income.

If you’re on an income-driven repayment plan, many loan programs use the payment listed on your documentation, which may help your DTI calculation. Consistent, on-time payments can also strengthen your credit profile.

Student debt is evaluated – but it’s rarely a dealbreaker on its own.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Assuming you won’t qualify without reviewing your numbers
• Waiting to pay off loans completely before exploring options
• Adding new debt before applying
• Not understanding total cash needed (down payment, closing costs, reserves)

Every situation is different. Two people with similar loan balances can have very different paths to homeownership.

Build a Plan Around Your Numbers

If you’re thinking about buying – whether soon or a year from now – proactive planning matters. Through your Employee Homeownership Program, you have access to one-on-one coaching and planning to help you:

• Review your credit and identify improvement opportunities
• Understand how student loans impact qualification
• Explore down payment assistance options
• Evaluate loan programs
• Identify potential closing cost savings

Instead of relying on generalized advice, you can build a strategy based on your specific financial picture.

Bottom Line

Student loans don’t automatically prevent you from becoming a homeowner. What matters most is how they fit into your overall plan.

If you’re wondering how your student debt impacts your ability to buy, your Employee Homeownership Program is available as a trusted resource for guidance, planning, and potential savings.

Clarity today can help you move forward with confidence tomorrow.

SupportSquad@AdvantageHomePlus.com | (800) 511-2197

The information contained and the opinions expressed in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. Advantage Home Plus does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained herein. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision. * Real estate commission contributions are available as state laws allow.

Car Lease vs. Loan: Impact on Homeownership

Posted on January 23, 2026January 23, 2026 by Michelle Tondu

Car Lease vs. Loan: Impact on Homeownership

Choosing between a car lease, loan, or used purchase? Advantage Home Plus can help you see how each option affects your debt-to-income ratio and homebuying plans. — *Viewing your next vehicle as a transportation tool, rather than a status purchase, can free up significant cash flow for your home savings goals.*

Your next vehicle purchase might seem unrelated to buying a home, but in the eyes of a mortgage lender, they are directly connected. A major auto loan or lease commitment can significantly influence your debt-to-income ratio (DTI), one of the most critical numbers in your mortgage application. Understanding this link empowers you to make a car choice that supports, rather than hinders, your homeownership goals.

The Critical Connection: Your Debt-to-Income Ratio

When you apply for a mortgage, lenders calculate your DTI to ensure you can manage the new payment alongside your existing debts. They add up all your minimum monthly obligations including auto loans, leases, student loans, and credit card payments and divide that by your gross monthly income. A lower DTI ratio generally makes you a stronger candidate and can help you qualify for a better interest rate. A large, new car payment can push this ratio higher, potentially reducing the mortgage amount you qualify for or delaying your approval timeline.

Evaluating Your Three Main Options

Each path has a different financial profile and impact on your DTI:

Leasing: Typically offers the lowest monthly payment, which can help keep your DTI ratio lower in the short term. However, it’s a long-term, recurring commitment with no equity at the end. You’ll face another significant payment decision in a few years, which could coincide with your home search or a new mortgage.
Financing a New Car: This often creates the highest monthly payment, substantially increasing your DTI. A large, five or six-year auto loan represents a long-term obligation that lenders view as a fixed reduction in your available income for a mortgage.
Buying a Reliable Used Car (with cash or a short loan): This is often the most strategic move for homebuying readiness. Purchasing with cash eliminates a debt payment entirely. A short-term loan on a modest used vehicle results in a smaller, shorter-lived payment, minimizing the long-term impact on your DTI and freeing up more cash flow for your down payment savings.

Shifting Your Mindset: Transportation vs. Transaction

When homeownership is a primary goal, it can be helpful to view your next vehicle first as transportation. This doesn’t mean sacrificing reliability, but it does encourage prioritizing financial efficiency over prestige. Asking, “Which option best supports my financial fitness and home buying timeline?” leads to a more empowering decision than, “Which model do I want?”

Planning Your Path Forward

The right choice depends on your current savings, credit, target home price, and personal timeline. The key is to run the numbers before you visit the dealership. See how a potential $400 or $600 monthly auto payment affects a mock mortgage approval amount.

Making this informed choice is a powerful act of financial control. Understanding how all your financial decisions interconnect is the foundation of confident planning. The resources and personalized guidance available through your employer’s financial wellness benefit, including support from a trusted partner like Advantage Home Plus, can help you model these scenarios and see the direct impact on your homeownership readiness.

¿Está Pensando En Vender Su Casa Tal Como Está? Lea Esto Primero

Posted on January 21, 2026January 21, 2026 by Michelle Tondu

¿Está Pensando En Vender Su Casa Tal Como Está? Lea Esto Primero

ISi está pensando en vender su casa este año, probablemente esté considerando dos opciones:

Venderla tal como está y evitar cualquier reparación.
Realizar algunas mejoras para que luzca mejor y, potencialmente, se venda a un precio más alto.

En 2026, esta decisión será más importante que antes. Le explicamos por qué.

Más Viviendas En Venta: El Estado De La Propiedad Vuelve A Ser Clave

El inventario de viviendas ha aumentado y, según las previsiones de Realtor.com, el número de casas en venta podría incrementarse un 8,9% este año. Con más opciones disponibles, los compradores pueden permitirse ser más selectivos, lo que significa que los detalles y el estado de la propiedad vuelven a ser importantes.

Esa Es Una De Las Razones Por Las Que La Mayoría De Los Vendedores No Optan Por Vender La Propiedad Tal Como Está.

Un estudio reciente de la Asociación Nacional de Agentes Inmobiliarios (NAR) reveló que el 65% de los vendedores realizaron pequeñas reparaciones o mejoras antes de vender, mientras que solo el 35% vendió sus casas en el estado en que se encontraban (véase el gráfico).

Qué Significa Realmente Vender Una Propiedad «Tal Cual»

Vender una propiedad «tal cual» significa informar a los compradores desde el principio que no se realizarán reparaciones antes de la venta ni se negociarán arreglos después de la inspección. Si bien esto puede simplificar el proceso para el vendedor, a menudo limita el número de compradores potenciales.

Las casas listas para habitar suelen atraer más interés y recibir ofertas más atractivas. Las propiedades que necesitan reformas suelen tener menos visitas, menos ofertas y pueden permanecer más tiempo en el mercado, lo que a menudo resulta en un precio final más bajo.

Esto no significa que una casa que se vende «tal cual» no se venda. Simplemente significa que es posible que no se venda al precio máximo que podría alcanzar.

Cómo El Asesoramiento Marca La Diferencia

No existe una respuesta única para todos. La mejor opción depende de su vivienda, su presupuesto y el mercado local.

Ahí es donde el asesoramiento de un experto resulta fundamental. Un profesional con experiencia puede ayudarle a comprender qué reparaciones (si las hay) vale la pena realizar y cuál podría ser el precio de venta de su casa en cualquier caso.

Si vende la propiedad tal como está: la atención se centra en destacar la ubicación, la distribución y el potencial a largo plazo.
Si realiza reformas: puede priorizar las mejoras que más importan a los compradores, sin gastar de más.

¿La buena noticia? Dado que la primavera suele ser la temporada alta para la compra de viviendas, todavía hay tiempo para tomar decisiones bien pensadas sin prisas.

En Resumen

Vender una propiedad tal como está puede ser una buena opción en ciertas situaciones, pero en el mercado actual, podría tener un costo. No es necesario realizar reparaciones antes de poner la casa en venta, pero vale la pena analizar todas las opciones antes de tomar una decisión.

Como parte de su Programa de Adquisición de Vivienda para Empleados de Advantage Home Plus, no tiene que tomar esta decisión solo. Los empleados que estén pensando en vender su casa pueden acceder a asesoramiento para:

Comprender cómo la venta tal como está, en comparación con la realización de mejoras, puede afectar el precio y el plazo de venta.

Analizar las prioridades de reparación y si es probable que las mejoras resulten rentables.

Planificar su próximo paso, incluyendo la compra de otra vivienda o la coordinación de los plazos de venta.

Obtener claridad antes de poner la casa en venta, para evitar sorpresas.

Una breve conversación puede ayudarle a evaluar las ventajas y desventajas y decidir qué es lo más conveniente para su situación, antes de poner su casa en el mercado.

Una breve conversación puede ayudarle a evaluar las ventajas y desventajas y decidir qué es lo más conveniente para su situación, antes de poner su casa en el mercado.

SupportSquad@AdvantageHomePlus.com | (800) 511-2197

La información y las opiniones expresadas en este artículo no deben interpretarse como asesoramiento de inversión. Advantage Home Plus no garantiza la exactitud ni la integridad de la información ni de las opiniones aquí contenidas. Nada de lo aquí expuesto debe considerarse asesoramiento de inversión. Siempre debe realizar su propia investigación y análisis, y obtener asesoramiento profesional antes de tomar cualquier decisión de inversión. * Las contribuciones a las comisiones inmobiliarias están disponibles según lo permitan las leyes estatales.

Por Qué Los Empleados Planean Refinanciar Sus Hipotecas En 2026. Y Qué Significa Esto Para Usted.

Posted on January 21, 2026January 21, 2026 by Michelle Tondu

Por Qué Los Empleados Planean Refinanciar Sus Hipotecas En 2026. Y Qué Significa Esto Para Usted.

Al comenzar el año 2026, muchos propietarios de viviendas están revisando sus finanzas, y para un número creciente de empleados, esto incluye reconsiderar su hipoteca.

La refinanciación repuntó en 2025, no porque la gente buscara la tasa de interés más baja posible, sino porque querían que su hipoteca se adaptara mejor a su situación actual. Estas mismas razones explican por qué muchos propietarios planean refinanciar este año.

Creando Margen De Maniobra En El Presupuesto Mensual

El aumento de los gastos cotidianos ha hecho que muchos hogares sientan que su presupuesto está más ajustado de lo esperado, incluso con ingresos estables.

“No teníamos dificultades económicas, pero nos sentíamos ahogados”, compartió Mark, quien refinanció su hipoteca a finales de 2025. Tras analizar sus opciones a través del Programa de Acceso a la Vivienda para Empleados, logró reducir su pago mensual, lo que le permitió ahorrar 350 dólares al mes.

Para los empleados en situaciones similares, refinanciar su hipoteca en 2026 puede ayudarles a mejorar su flujo de caja y reducir el estrés financiero.

Eliminación De Deudas Con Altos Intereses

Otra razón común por la que los empleados refinanciaron sus hipotecas el año pasado fue para consolidar deudas.

Angela, propietaria de una vivienda desde hace siete años, refinanció su hipoteca en 2025 para incluir los saldos de sus tarjetas de crédito. “No se trataba de gastar más“, dijo. “Se trataba de evitar que los intereses nos perjudicaran“.

Muchos empleados que planean refinanciar sus hipotecas en 2026 están explorando esta misma opción para reemplazar múltiples pagos con altos intereses por un solo pago.

Adaptándose A Los Cambios De La Vida

La vida cambia y las hipotecas no siempre se adaptan a esos cambios. En 2025, muchos empleados refinanciaron sus hipotecas debido a matrimonios, divorcios, planificación a largo plazo o el deseo de cambiar de una hipoteca de tasa variable a una de tasa fija.

Jason, quien refinanció el año pasado, lo resumió así: “Nuestro préstamo tenía sentido cuando compramos la casa. Ahora ya no lo tiene”.

¿Por Qué 2026 Es Un Buen Momento Para Reconsiderar La Situación?

Las tasas de interés han bajado desde sus máximos recientes, pero nadie sabe qué sucederá después. En lugar de intentar predecir el mercado, muchos propietarios están optando por informarse sobre sus opciones ahora. Esto comienza con comparar las opciones de préstamos actuales, comprender los costos y calcular cuánto tiempo tardarían en obtener ahorros.

Cómo Le Apoya Su Programa De Propiedad De Vivienda Para Empleados

A través de su Programa de Propiedad de Vivienda para Empleados con Advantage Home Plus, tiene acceso a herramientas diseñadas para ayudarle a tomar decisiones informadas, sin presiones.

Los empleados que estén considerando refinanciar su hipoteca en 2026 pueden acceder a:

Análisis detallado de refinanciamiento
Seguimiento de tasas de interés
Costos de cierre con descuento
Asesoramiento personalizado para evaluar diferentes opciones antes de tomar una decisión

Muchos de los empleados que refinanciaron su hipoteca a través del Programa de Propiedad de Vivienda para Empleados en 2025 afirmaron que el mayor beneficio no fueron solo los ahorros, sino la tranquilidad. Saber que la decisión que tomaron era la más conveniente para ellos y se ajustaba a sus planes de vida a largo plazo.

En Resumen

Refinanciar una hipoteca es diferente para cada persona, pero el objetivo es el mismo: que su hipoteca se adapte mejor a sus necesidades.

Si está considerando refinanciar su hipoteca en 2026, hable con uno de los asesores de beneficios de su Programa de Adquisición de Vivienda para Empleados a través de Advantage Home Plus. Su objetivo es guiarle y ayudarle a ahorrar dinero.

SupportSquad@AdvantageHomePlus.com | (800) 511-2197

¿No Estás Seguro De Si Estás Listo Para Comprar Una Casa En 2026? Empieza Con Estas 5 Preguntas

Posted on January 21, 2026January 21, 2026 by Michelle Tondu

¿No Estás Seguro De Si Estás Listo Para Comprar Una Casa En 2026? Empieza Con Estas 5 Preguntas

Si estás pensando en comprar una casa el próximo año, probablemente estés considerando muchos factores a la vez: tus finanzas, las tasas hipotecarias actuales, los precios de las viviendas y la posible evolución de la economía. Puede resultar abrumador, sobre todo cuando todo el mundo parece tener una opinión sobre si este es el momento adecuado para comprar.

Aquí está la buena noticia: si bien las condiciones del mercado son importantes, solo son una parte del panorama. Tu preparación personal es igual de importante, y eso es algo que sí puedes controlar.

Como señala NerdWallet:

“Las tendencias del mercado inmobiliario brindan un contexto importante. Pero si este es un buen momento para comprar una casa también depende de tu situación financiera, tus objetivos de vida y tu disposición para convertirte en propietario.”

Si comprar una vivienda está entre tus planes para 2026, estas cinco preguntas pueden ayudarte a decidir si estás realmente preparado y qué pasos debes seguir a continuación.

1. ¿Sus Ingresos Son Lo Suficientemente Estables Como Para Afrontar Un Pago Mensual?

Comprar una casa es un compromiso a largo plazo, por lo que tener ingresos estables es un punto de partida importante. Esto no significa que su trabajo tenga que ser perfecto, pero saber que su salario es confiable le brindará tranquilidad al planificar.

Si no está seguro de cómo sus ingresos se traducen en un rango de pagos cómodo, este es un buen momento para detenerse y buscar asesoramiento antes de continuar.

2. ¿Sabe Lo Que Realmente Puede Permitirse, No Solo Para Lo Que Califica?

Muchos compradores se sorprenden al descubrir que existe una diferencia entre lo que un prestamista puede aprobar y lo que realmente se ajusta a su presupuesto.

Comprender la capacidad de pago implica considerar:

La comodidad del pago mensual
Las deudas existentes
Otros objetivos financieros que desea proteger

Aquí es donde la planificación personalizada puede ser especialmente útil: analizar las cifras antes de hablar con un prestamista o comenzar la búsqueda de una casa.

3. ¿Su Historial Crediticio Está En Buen Estado?

Su puntaje crediticio influye significativamente en la tasa de interés y en el costo total del préstamo. Incluso pequeñas mejoras pueden marcar una gran diferencia a largo plazo. Si su crédito aún no está donde le gustaría, eso no significa que comprar una casa sea imposible; simplemente puede significar tomar algunas medidas inteligentes ahora para estar en una mejor posición más adelante este año.

4. ¿Está Preparado Para Los Costos Iniciales Y Los Gastos A Largo Plazo?

Comprar una casa implica más que solo el pago inicial. Los gastos de cierre, los costos de mudanza y el mantenimiento futuro son factores importantes a considerar.

Según la Asociación Nacional de Agentes Inmobiliarios (NAR), permanecer en una casa durante varios años suele ser clave para que esos costos iniciales valgan la pena. Si planea establecerse en un lugar, comprar una casa puede ser una buena opción, pero es importante analizar primero su situación financiera completa.

5. ¿Cuenta Con Un Asesor De Confianza Antes De Elegir Un Agente O Prestamista?

Before selecting a real estate agent or lender, it can be helpful to talk with someone whose role is simply toAntes de seleccionar un agente inmobiliario o prestamista, puede ser útil hablar con alguien cuya función sea simplemente ayudarle a planificar, no a vender.

A través de su Programa de Adquisición de Vivienda para Empleados de Advantage Home Plus, usted tiene acceso a:

Sesiones individuales de asesoramiento y planificación
Revisión de crédito y orientación para mejorarlo
Ahorro en los gastos de cierre cuando esté listo para avanzar

Having this kind of support early can help you avoid surprises, make confident decisions, and feel prepared before taking the next step.

En Resumen

Comprar una casa no se trata de encontrar el momento perfecto en el mercado, sino de comprender tus finanzas, tus objetivos y tus opciones.

Si estás considerando seriamente comprar una casa en 2026, hablar con el Programa de Propiedad de Vivienda para Empleados de Advantage Home Plus puede ayudarte a aclarar tus dudas y elaborar un plan, antes de elegir un agente inmobiliario, solicitar un préstamo o hacer una oferta.

SupportSquad@AdvantageHomePlus.com | (800) 511-2197

Thinking About Selling Your House As-Is? Read This First.

Posted on January 20, 2026January 20, 2026 by Michelle Tondu

Thinking About Selling Your House As-Is? Read This First

If you’re thinking about selling your home this year, you may be weighing two options:

Sell it as-is and skip repairs altogether

Make a few updates so it shows better and potentially sells for more

In 2026, that decision matters more than it used to. Here’s why.

More Homes for Sale Means Condition Matters Again

Inventory has been rising, and according to a Realtor.com forecast, the number of homes for sale could increase another 8.9% this year. With more choices available, buyers can afford to be selective again, which means details and condition are back in focus.

That’s one reason most sellers don’t choose the as-is route.

A recent National Association of Realtors (NAR) study found that 65% of sellers completed minor repairs or improvements before selling, while only 35% sold their homes as-is (see chart).

What Selling As-Is Really Means

Selling as-is means you’re letting buyers know upfront that you won’t make repairs before listing or negotiate fixes after inspection. While that can simplify things on your end, it often limits your buyer pool.

Move-in-ready homes tend to attract more interest and stronger offers. Homes that need work usually see fewer showings, fewer offers, and may sit on the market longer, often resulting in a lower final price.

That doesn’t mean an as-is home won’t sell. It just means it may not sell for as much as it could.

How Guidance Makes the Difference

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right choice depends on your home, your budget, and your local market.

That’s where expert guidance helps. A knowledgeable professional can help you understand what repairs (if any) are worth making and what your home might sell for either way.

If you sell as-is: The focus shifts to highlighting location, layout, and long-term potential.

If you make updates: You can prioritize improvements that matter most to buyers, without overspending.

The good news? With spring typically being the peak homebuying season, there’s still time to make thoughtful decisions without rushing.

Bottom Line

Selling as-is can make sense in certain situations – but in today’s market, it may come at a cost. You don’t have to make repairs before listing, but it’s worth fully understanding your options before you decide.

As part of your Employee Homeownership Program through Advantage Home Plus, you don’t have to navigate that decision alone. Employees who are thinking about selling can access guidance to help them:

Understand how selling as-is versus making updates could impact price and timing

Think through repair priorities and whether improvements are likely to pay off

Plan their next move, including buying another home or coordinating sale timing

Get clarity before listing, so there are fewer surprises along the way

A quick conversation can help you weigh the trade-offs and decide what makes the most sense for your situation – before you put your home on the market.

A quick conversation can help you weigh the trade-offs and decide what makes the most sense for your situation – before you put your home on the market.

SupportSquad@AdvantageHomePlus.com | (800) 511-2197

Why Employees Plan to Refinance in 2026 And What It Means for You

Posted on January 20, 2026January 20, 2026 by Michelle Tondu

Why Employees Plan to Refinance in 2026 And What It Means for You

As 2026 begins, many homeowners are taking a fresh look at their finances – and for a growing number of employees, that includes revisiting their mortgage.

Refinancing picked up in 2025, not because people were chasing the lowest possible rate, but because they wanted their mortgage to better fit their life today. Those same reasons are why many homeowners plan to refinance this year.

Creating Breathing Room in the Monthly Budget

Rising everyday expenses have left many households feeling tighter than expected, even with steady income.

“We weren’t struggling, but we felt stretched,” shared Mark, who refinanced in late 2025. After reviewing his options through his Employee Homeownership Program, he lowered his monthly payment – freeing up $350 dollars each month.

For employees in similar situations, refinancing in 2026 may help improve their cash flow and reduce financial stress.

Eliminating High-Interest Debt

Another common reason employees refinanced last year was to consolidate debt.

Angela, a homeowner for seven years, refinanced in 2025 to roll credit card balances into her mortgage. “It wasn’t about spending more,” she said. “It was about stopping the interest from working against us.”

Many employees planning to refinance in 2026 are exploring this same approach to replace multiple high-interest payments with one.

Adjusting as Life Changes

Life changes and mortgages don’t always keep up. Employees refinanced in 2025 due to marriage, divorce, long-term planning, or a desire to move from an adjustable-rate loan to a fixed-rate loan.

Jason, who refinanced last year, summed it up: “Our loan made sense when we bought the house. It didn’t make sense anymore.”

Why 2026 Is a Good Time to Revisit the Question

Interest rates have come down from recent highs, but no one knows what’s next. Rather than trying to time the market, many homeowners are choosing to understand their options now. That starts with comparing today’s loan options, understanding costs, and seeing how long it would take to realize savings.

How Your Employee Homeownership Program Supports You

Through your Employee Homeownership Program with Advantage Home Plus, you have access to tools designed to support informed decisions – without pressure.

Employees considering refinancing in 2026 can access:

A detailed refinance analysis

Rate monitoring

Discounted closing costs

One-on-one guidance to review scenarios before deciding

Many of the employees who refinanced using their Employee Homeownership Program in 2025 said the biggest benefit wasn’t just the savings – it was clarity. Knowing the decision they made was in their best interest and fit their overall all life-plan.

Bottom Line

Refinancing looks different for everyone, but the goal is the same: making your mortgage work better for your life.

If refinancing is something you’re considering in 2026, have a conversation with one of your Benefits Advisors at your Employee Homeownership Program through Advantage Home Plus. Their goal is to guide and help you save money.

SupportSquad@AdvantageHomePlus.com | (800) 511-2197

Not Sure If You’re Ready to Buy a Home in 2026? Start With These 5 Questions

Posted on January 20, 2026January 20, 2026 by Michelle Tondu

Not Sure If You’re Ready to Buy a Home in 2026? Start With These 5 Questions

If you’re thinking about buying a home in the next year, you’re probably weighing a lot at once – your finances, today’s mortgage rates, home prices, and what the economy might do next. It can feel overwhelming, especially when everyone seems to have an opinion about whether now is the right time to buy.

Here’s the good news: while market conditions matter, they’re only part of the picture. Your personal readiness matters just as much — and that’s something you can actually control.

As NerdWallet puts it:

“Housing market trends give important context. But whether this is a good time to buy a house also depends on your financial situation, life goals, and readiness to become a homeowner.”

If buying is on your radar for 2026, these five questions can help you decide whether you’re truly ready – and what steps to take next.

1. Is your income stable enough for a monthly payment?

Buying a home is a long-term commitment, so having a steady income is an important starting point. That doesn’t mean your job has to be perfect – but knowing your paycheck is reliable can give you confidence as you plan.

If you’re unsure how your income translates into a comfortable payment range, this is a good place to pause and get guidance before moving forward.

2. Do you know what you can comfortably afford — not just what you qualify for?

Many buyers are surprised to learn there’s a difference between what a lender may approve and what actually fits their budget.

Understanding affordability means looking at:

Monthly payment comfort

Existing debts

Other financial goals you want to protect

This is where one-on-one planning can be especially helpful – walking through numbers before you ever talk to a lender or start house hunting.

3. Is your credit where it needs to be?

Your credit score plays a major role in your interest rate and overall loan costs. Even small improvements can make a meaningful difference over time. If your credit isn’t quite where you want it to be yet, that doesn’t mean buying is off the table – it may simply mean taking a few smart steps now so you’re in a better position later this year.

4. Are you prepared for upfront costs and long-term expenses?

Buying a home involves more than a down payment. Closing costs, moving expenses, and future maintenance all factor into the decision.

According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), staying in a home for several years is often key to making those upfront costs worthwhile. If you’re planning to put down roots, buying may make sense – but it’s important to look at the full financial picture first.

5. Do you have a trusted guide — before choosing an agent or lender?

Before selecting a real estate agent or lender, it can be helpful to talk with someone whose role is simply to help you plan – not sell.

Through your Employee Homeownership Program through Advantage Home Plus, you have access to:

One-on-one coaching and planning conversations

Credit review and improvement guidance

Savings on closing costs when you’re ready to move forward

Having this kind of support early can help you avoid surprises, make confident decisions, and feel prepared before taking the next step.

Bottom Line

Being ready to buy a home isn’t about timing the market perfectly – it’s about understanding your finances, your goals, and your options.

If buying a home in 2026 is something you’re seriously considering, having a conversation with your Employee Homeownership Program through Advantage Home Plus can help you get clarity and build a plan – before choosing an agent, applying for a loan, or making an offer.

SupportSquad@AdvantageHomePlus.com | (800) 511-2197

The 20% Down Payment Myth Explained

Posted on December 30, 2025December 30, 2025 by Michelle Tondu

The 20% Down Payment Myth Explained

For many aspiring homeowners, the dream hits a seemingly immovable wall: the belief that you must save a full 20% of a home’s price for a down payment. This “rule” is one of the most pervasive and damaging myths in real estate. While 20% has benefits, it is far from a universal requirement. Understanding the reality can transform homeownership from a distant someday into a tangible near-term goal.

Why the 20% Myth Persists (And Its One Big Benefit)

The 20% figure is often cited because it’s the threshold for avoiding Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI). PMI is an added monthly fee that protects the lender if you default. Putting down 20% signals strong financial commitment, eliminates this cost, and can sometimes secure a marginally better interest rate. However, for many, especially first-time buyers, waiting to save 20% can mean waiting years longer as prices rise, making the goal harder to reach.

The Reality: Legitimate Low-Down-Payment Options

A wide range of reputable loan programs are designed for buyers with smaller savings. Here are the most common:

FHA Loans: Backed by the Federal Housing Administration, these popular loans require as little as 3.5% down with a minimum 580 credit score. They are a cornerstone of first-time homebuyer programs.
Conventional 97 Loans: Despite the “conventional” name, these loans from private lenders require just 3% down. They typically require a slightly higher credit score (often 620+) than FHA but can have competitive terms.
VA Loans: For eligible veterans, service members, and surviving spouses, VA loans offer the incredible benefit of 0% down payment with no PMI.
USDA Loans: For homes in designated rural areas, USDA loans also offer 0% down options for moderate-income buyers.

What You Do Need: The Real Checklist

Shifting focus from an arbitrary 20% target allows you to concentrate on what lenders and a successful purchase truly require:

A Solid Credit Profile: Your credit score and history are critical for loan approval and securing a good interest rate, especially with a lower down payment.
A Manageable Debt-to-Income (DTI) Ratio: Lenders need to see that your total monthly debt payments (including the new mortgage) are a sustainable portion of your income.
Cash for Closing Costs: The down payment is only one part of the upfront cash needed. You must also budget for closing costs, which typically range from 2% to 5% of the loan amount.
Financial Reserves: Having extra savings left over after closing even one or two months of mortgage payments demonstrates stability to lenders and provides you with a crucial safety net.
A Clear Understanding of PMI: If you put down less than 20%, factor PMI into your monthly budget. Know that it is not permanent; you can request its removal once you reach 20% equity.

Creating Your Personalized Plan

The right down payment amount is personal. It balances your savings, monthly budget comfort, and long-term goals. An analysis can show if paying PMI for a few years to buy now is financially smarter than waiting several more years to save 20% in a rising market.

Navigating these options and calculating the true cost of each path is where expert guidance becomes invaluable. The financial wellness resources provided by your employer, including access to partners like Advantage Home Plus, can help you move beyond myths. By providing clarity on different loan programs and helping you assess your complete financial readiness, these resources empower you to make an informed, confident decision about one of the most important steps in your homeownership journey. Schedule your free consultation today to explore your path to homeownership.

A Survival Guide for Selling and Buying a Home

Posted on December 30, 2025December 30, 2025 by Michelle Tondu

A Survival Guide for Selling and Buying a Home

The “dual-track” move selling your current home while buying your next one is often the most logistically and emotionally complex real estate scenario. It feels like a high-stakes juggling act where the timing of one ball determines the fate of the other. This inherent pressure creates significant stress, but with a strategic plan, you can navigate this process with more clarity and less chaos. The key is to understand your options and build a framework that minimizes your risk.

First, Define Your Sequence & Risk Tolerance

Your entire strategy hinges on one question: Which comes first, the sale or the purchase? There is no universally right answer, only what’s right for your market, finances, and peace of mind.

Sell First, Then Buy: This is the lower-risk financial path. You’ll know exactly what you have to spend and can make a non-contingent offer, which is stronger in competitive markets. The trade-off is potentially needing interim housing.
Buy First, Then Sell: This offers continuity and avoids a double move. However, it often requires a sale contingency on your new offer (making it less attractive) or bridge financing to carry two mortgages, which increases financial pressure.

Master the Art of the Contingency

If you choose to buy before selling, the home sale contingency is your primary lever, but it must be used wisely.

The Clause: This makes your new purchase contract dependent on the successful sale of your current home within a specified period.
The Reality: In a seller’s market, a contingent offer is often a disadvantage. To strengthen it, consider offering a higher price, a larger earnest money deposit, or a “kick-out clause” that gives the seller the right to keep marketing the home.
The Backup: Always have a Plan B. What if your home doesn’t sell in time? Would you use bridge financing, or are you prepared to walk away from the new home? Knowing this answer reduces panic.

Explore Financial Bridging Options

If a gap exists between closing dates, you may need short-term financing.

Bridge Loans: A short-term loan that uses the equity in your current home to fund the down payment on the new one. It’s convenient but comes with added fees and interest costs.
HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit): If established in advance, a HELOC can provide flexible funds for a down payment, which you repay when your old home sells.

Assemble and Synchronize Your Team

This is not a DIY endeavor. You need a coordinated team:

A Listing Agent & a Buyer’s Agent: Often the same person, must be a master strategist who can coordinate both timelines.
Your Lender: Crucial for explaining bridge loan options, re-qualifying you, and ensuring your financing is agile.
Your Financial Guide: An objective advisor to help you model different scenarios (contingent sale vs. bridge loan) and understand the true financial impact of each path.

Navigating a dual-track move demands expert guidance to evaluate these complex trade-offs. The educational resources and personalized coaching available through your employer’s financial wellness benefits are designed for this level of strategic planning. A partner like Advantage Home Plus can help you analyze your equity, understand financing options, and create a phased plan that aligns with your financial safety and personal needs, turning a potential source of extreme stress into a managed transition.

Schedule your free consultation today to explore your path to homeownership.