Buying your first home is a big deal, especially for first time homebuyers in Florence, AZ. From loan programs to local market, you need to be educated before you start. Florence is Arizona’s oldest town with a lot of history. It’s got a National Historic District and many of the properties here are on the National Register of Historic Places. In this guide we’ll cover everything you need to know as a first-time homebuyer in Florence, AZ including down payment assistance, mortgage credit certificate programs and why choosing the right mortgage broker is key to a successful home buying experience.
Florence is a historic town right in between Phoenix and Tucson, making it a great place for families and individuals to live in a quiet but central location. As the county seat of Pinal County, it has access to services, growing communities and the charm of one of Arizona’s oldest towns. Florence’s history, especially the National Historic District, has many homes on the National Register of Historic Places.
For first time home buyers in Florence there are several loan programs to make buying a home more affordable. Here are a few:
FHA loans are popular with first time buyers because they have lower down payment requirements making homeownership more attainable. Buyers with lower credit scores can often qualify for this type of loan which is insured by the Federal Housing Administration.
For eligible veterans the VA loan program allows you to purchase a home with no down payment and no private mortgage insurance which means zero upfront costs. This is a great option for qualified veterans looking to live in Florence, AZ.
If you’re buying in the rural areas around Florence a USDA loan could be the way to go. This loan program is for moderate to low income buyers in rural areas to purchase a home with little to no down payment. Additionally, grant money from the Home Plus program can be used to cover closing costs, making it easier for buyers to secure 100% financing.
First time buyers worry about the upfront costs of homeownership especially down payments and closing costs. The home program offers below-market interest rates and down payment assistance to eligible first-time homebuyers. Good news is there are several down payment and payment assistance programs in Arizona including those offered by state and local agencies. These programs offer grants or low interest loans to help buyers pay for these big costs.
In Florence buyers may also qualify for closing cost assistance which can help pay for the fees associated with getting a loan and finalizing the purchase of your home.
The Mortgage Credit Certificate Program is another great resource for first time buyers. This program allows qualified first time homebuyers to get a tax credit based on a portion of the mortgage interest paid annually. By reducing your federal tax liability the Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC) can save you thousands of dollars over the life of the loan.
When applying for loan programs or down payment assistance you need to understand the eligibility requirements. These programs have limits on area median income (AMI) which means your household income must be below a certain amount to qualify for assistance. In Pinal County the income limits vary depending on the size of your family and the program you’re applying for.
A first-time home buyer is generally defined as someone who has not had an ownership interest in a primary residence for at least three years. So even if you’ve owned a home in the past, you may still qualify for first time homebuyer programs if enough time has passed since your last ownership interest.
Buying a home in Florence’s National Historic District is a unique opportunity to own a piece of Arizona’s history. Many homes in this area are on the National Register of Historic Places making homeownership in one of Arizona’s oldest towns even more special. Whether you like the charm of a historic home or modern homes Florence has options for you.
As a mortgage broker and owner of Joonago Mortgage Services I know the first-time home buyer experience in Florence, AZ. Here’s why you should choose me for your home buying journey:
Every buyer is different, and I take the time to understand your financial goals and find the right loan program for you. From FHA to VA loans, I’ll show you the way to the right loan for your budget and lifestyle.
I know down payment assistance, Mortgage Credit Certificates and closing cost assistance programs inside and out so I’ll make sure you get all the funding you’re eligible for.
As a mortgage broker with experience in Pinal County I know the local market and I’m here to help you through the home buying process in Florence.
From application to closing I’ll communicate clearly and guide you every step of the way.
If you’re ready to start the process of homeownership here are the steps to follow:
Many loan programs require buyers to take a first-time homebuyer class to learn about the responsibilities of homeownership and the loan and payment process.
Before you start looking for homes get pre-qualified for a loan. This will give you a clear picture of what you can afford and make you a stronger buyer when you find the right home.
Work with a mortgage broker to choose the right loan for you whether it’s a government backed loan like FHA or VA or a conventional loan.
Once you’ve chosen your loan you’ll need to submit a formal application with all the required documents including proof of income, employment history and any assets you own.
If you qualify for down payment assistance your mortgage broker will help you apply for funds to cover part or all of your down payment and closing costs.
Once your loan is approved the final steps are a home appraisal, underwriting and setting a closing date. At closing you’ll sign the final papers and become a homeowner.
If you’re a first-time home buyer in Florence, AZ and ready to start the process of homeownership, contact me today. With my expertise in mortgage programs and down payment assistance I’ll make sure you have everything you need to make homeownership a reality.
Company NMLS: #249858
AZ Mb-0945285
Personal NMLS: #250873
This is for informational purposes only. This is not a commitment to lend or extend credit. Information and/or dates are subject to change without notice. All loans are subject to credit approval and property qualification. Cash reserves may be required. Joonago Mortgage is not acting on behalf of or at the direction of HUD/FHA or the Federal Government. Joonago Mortgage – 7137 E Rancho Vista Drive Suite B05, Scottsdale, AZ, 85251 | 920-378-0002 | Wisconsin NMLS 249858 AZ Mb-0945285 www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org | Equal Housing Opportunity. You should always be speaking with a highly qualified mortgage advisor that can educate you on all these factors and how to get the best mortgage. A mortgage advisor should educate and empower you to make good financial decisions.
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