Qualified Mortgage – QM
You may have heard some of the buzz in the news about a qualifed mortgage rule rolling out in the begining of January. I want to try and dispell some of the rumors because the media as always makes this sound like a big deal. The fact is Lenders are already doing this and its... Read More
Another Happy Customer
Meet the Eckerts, closed a loan for them a few months back. After lots of hard work on their part they were finaly able to make their dreams come true. Here's their story:... Read More
RD Update: Government Shutdown
UPDATE FROM BELOW INFO: RD is issuing conditional commitments "subject to funding" We ARE Currently Closing and Funding RD Loans! I want to update you on the status of RD lending with the government coming back on line last night. Rural Development has sent out a couple different notices here is a brief summary: They... Read More
Government Shutdown: Whats the big deal?
Yeah the shutdown is a big deal for a lot of people and their families, but the houseing market certinaly hasnt come to a screaching hault. I was headed into work today listening to the radio and all the news about the government shutdown. We all knew it was possible and by the end of... Read More
Attention Investors: Finding the dollars
Wanted to let everyone know I'll be speaking in front of a group of investors in Kalamazoo, Michigan on August 27th. If you are thinking about buying a rental property or looking to expand your portfolio this would be a great opportunity to not only learn more about the mortgage guidelines and process, but also... Read More
City Of Kalamazoo Housing Inspection News
Well the City of Kalamazoo has release there Summer 2013 Newsletter. Couple interesting things to note. Landlords so be sure to schedual reinspection for renew certificates well in advance to take advantage of the 40 month certificate. To find out when a certificate expires click this link Property Tax then select city of kalamazoo, then click... Read More
Traffic Jam At Rural Development
USDA Rural Development - RD program backlogged! **** As of 1/16/2014 the backlog is nearly worked thru and turn times are running approx 2 weeks. Just wanted to make sure everyone is aware of the backlog at rural development. The process for lenders originating RD loans is the following: Lender works up and underwrites file... Read More
Appraiser Nailed You With Required Repairs – No Worries!
With all the foreclosed homes on the market right now required repairs have become very common in the home buying process. No worries, its just another hurdle and there are a number of ways to get to closing even when the appraisal comes back with required repairs. All loan programs FHA, VA, Rural Development, &... Read More
203k Renovation Loan – Info For Realtors
This event was brought to GKAR members buy GKAR's education committee and sponsored by Amerifirst Home mortgage. Great info crammed into an hour and a half event. We do tons of these 203k renovation loans for our borrowers. All shorts of repairs such as bathroom updates, kithcen remodels, roofs, windows, electric upgrades, the list is... Read More
FHA Changes Comming April 1st, 2013
Effective April 1st 2013: FHA borrowers should make sure their lender has the purchase contract and pulls the case number prior to April 1st! Once again FHA has made moves to bolster capital reserves. Without getting too mush in to the why, lets just say HUD felt that their reserves may dip too low, so... Read More
Latest Blog Post
FHA vs Conventional Loan for First Time Buyer in Portage MI: Your 2026 Flight Plan
What if the traditional advice you’ve heard about down payments is actually the very thing keeping your homeownership dreams grounded? Deciding between an FHA vs conventional loan for first time buyer in Portage MI often feels like preparing for a high-stakes takeoff. It’s completely natural to feel a bit of turbulence when you’re staring down credit requirements or confusing mortgage insurance terms. You want to ensure your financial foundation is secure before you leave the runway, yet the fear of rejection can make the whole process feel like a gamble rather than a significant life milestone.
We believe every neighbor deserves a clear flight plan that replaces anxiety with expert guidance. In this detailed comparison, you’ll discover which mortgage path provides the smoothest ascent for your specific situation in the 2026 market. We’ll break down the latest loan limits, compare monthly costs, and show you how to layer MSHDA assistance to give your down payment some extra lift. By the time we finish, you’ll have the confidence to choose the right loan and successfully pilot your way to a new front door in Portage.