Loan Programs

Conventional mortgage loans are a type of home financing that is not insured or guaranteed by a government agency, such as the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) or the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). These loans are offered by private lenders, such as banks and mortgage companies, and are subject to the guidelines set by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, two government-sponsored enterprises. Conventional mortgages typically require a down payment, with 20% being a common benchmark, although down payment options as low as 3% may be available. Borrowers with strong credit profiles and stable financial backgrounds often find conventional loans suitable, and these loans can be used for various types of residential properties, including single-family homes, condominiums, and townhouses.

FHA mortgage loans, backed by the Federal Housing Administration, are designed to make homeownership more accessible, especially for first-time buyers and those with moderate incomes. These loans offer favorable terms, including lower down payment requirements compared to conventional mortgages. With an FHA loan, borrowers may qualify for a down payment as low as 3.5% of the home's purchase price, making it a viable option for individuals with limited savings. Additionally, FHA loans often have more lenient credit score requirements, providing an opportunity for those with less-than-perfect credit to become homeowners. The government-backed support of FHA loans makes them a popular choice for many aspiring homeowners looking to enter the real estate market with increased affordability and flexibility.

VA mortgage loans, guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, are exclusive benefits for eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and surviving spouses. These loans are a powerful tool for military personnel to achieve homeownership with favorable terms. One standout feature is the possibility of securing a VA loan with no down payment, making it an attractive option for those who have served in the military. Additionally, VA loans often come with competitive interest rates and may have more flexible qualification criteria, considering the unique circumstances of military service. With the backing of the VA, these loans honor the sacrifice and dedication of our servicemen and women by providing them with a streamlined path to homeownership.

Stride Mortgage has a dedicated team of VA loan specialists to help make VA home ownership a reality for veterans and active-duty service members across the country.

USDA mortgage loans, offered by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), are a type of home financing program designed to support rural and suburban homeownership. These loans aim to assist low to moderate-income individuals in purchasing homes in eligible rural areas, promoting economic development in these communities. One key feature of USDA mortgage loans is the option for 100% financing, meaning borrowers may not be required to make a down payment. Additionally, these loans often come with competitive interest rates and flexible credit requirements, making homeownership more accessible to those who may not qualify for conventional financing. It's important to note that USDA mortgage loans are subject to income and property location eligibility criteria set by the USDA.

Section 184 mortgage loans, administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), are tailored to support Native American and Alaska Native families in achieving homeownership. These loans provide a unique opportunity for eligible borrowers from tribal communities to access affordable financing options. Section 184 loans offer competitive interest rates and low down payment requirements, making it easier for Native American individuals and families to purchase homes on tribal trust lands or within approved areas. The program aims to address the specific challenges faced by Native communities in obtaining mortgage financing, promoting sustainable homeownership and economic development.

Jumbo or non-conforming mortgage loans are specialized financing options designed to accommodate home purchases that exceed the conventional loan limits set by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. These loans are necessary when buying high-value properties that require larger loan amounts. Unlike conventional mortgages, jumbo loans do not conform to the standard limits, making them suitable for luxury homes or real estate in high-cost areas. Due to their larger loan sizes, jumbo mortgages often involve higher down payments and interest rates. Lenders may also impose stricter credit scores and financial requirements on borrowers seeking jumbo loans. These loans provide flexibility for individuals seeking high-end real estate but require careful consideration of the associated financial obligations.

Construction mortgage loans offer a unique financing option for individuals undertaking construction projects, providing flexibility in managing initial costs. With this type of loan, borrowers have the option to pay only the interest on the loan during the construction phase, typically lasting a specified period. This allows for lower initial monthly payments, freeing up funds for other project-related expenses. Once the construction is complete, the loan structure will transition to include both principal and interest payments. While offering flexibility, it's essential for borrowers to carefully consider the long-term financial implications and plan for the eventual transition to full principal and interest payments.

Bank Statement Loans

A Non-QM Bank Statement Loan is designed for self-employed borrowers who may have difficulty qualifying using standard means. Instead of traditional income verification methods, such as tax returns, lenders use bank statements (typically 12 to 24 months of personal or business statements) to assess the borrower's cash flow and determine their ability to repay the loan. This loan option provides flexibility and caters to creditworthy individuals who may not qualify for conventional loans. 

 

1099 Loans

A Non-QM 1099 Loan is a specialized loan program for self-employed or independent contractors who receive income through 1099 forms rather than W-2s. Unlike traditional mortgages that require extensive income documentation, this loan allows borrower to qualify based on their 1099 income. By analyzing income shown on 1099 forms over the past 2 years, lenders assess the borrower's ability to repay, making it an ideal option for individuals with non-traditional or fluctuating income who may not qualify for conventional loans. 

 

DSCR Loans

A Non-QM DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio) Loan is a specialized financing option for real estate investors. Instead of relying on the borrower's personal income, the DSCR loan evaluates the cash flow generated by the investment property to qualify the borrower. The Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) measures the property's rental income against the loan's monthly principal and interest payment. This loan is ideal for investors seeking flexibility and aiming to expand their portfolios without needing to provide extensive personal income documentation. 

 

Asset Amortization Loans

A Non-QM Asset Amortization Loan is a flexible loan option for borrowers who may not have traditional income but possess significant liquid assets. Instead of relying on employment income, lenders assess the borrower's assets (such as savings, investments, or retirement funds) and "amortize" or spread these assets over a set period to determine their income for repayment purposes. This type of loan is ideal for high-net-worth individuals, retirees, or others with substantial assets, offering an alternative path to homeownership without the need for conventional income verification. 

Lot or land mortgage loans are specialized financing options designed for individuals looking to purchase undeveloped land or lots for future construction. Unlike traditional mortgages that are specific to property with existing structures, lot loans cater to the unique needs of those interested in acquiring vacant land. These loans typically have different terms and conditions, including higher interest rates and shorter repayment periods. Lenders may require a larger down payment for lot loans, and borrowers often need to provide detailed plans for how they intend to use the land, such as building a primary residence. Lot loans serve as a starting point for individuals looking to secure the ideal piece of land before embarking on construction projects.

Bridge mortgage loans serve as a financial bridge, enabling individuals to navigate the gap between buying a new home and selling their existing one. These short-term loans provide temporary funding, allowing borrowers to seize an attractive property or complete a home purchase before selling their current residence. Bridge loans typically have higher interest rates but offer quick access to capital, ensuring a seamless transition between homes. Once the existing property is sold, the proceeds can be used to pay off the bridge loan. This flexible financing option is ideal for those looking to avoid missed opportunities in a competitive real estate market or those in need of immediate funds for a new home purchase while awaiting the sale of their current property.

Fixed-rate mortgage loans offer stability and predictability to homeowners by locking in a consistent interest rate throughout the entire loan term. With a fixed-rate mortgage, borrowers enjoy the assurance that their monthly payments will remain unchanged, providing financial security and easier budgeting over the life of the loan. This type of mortgage is particularly appealing in times of low-interest rates, as it allows borrowers to secure a favorable rate for the long term.

Adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) loans provide borrowers with flexibility by offering interest rates that can change periodically based on fluctuations in market conditions. These loans typically have an initial fixed-rate period, often lasting a few years, after which the interest rate may adjust periodically. Borrowers may benefit from lower initial interest rates during the fixed period, making homeownership more affordable in the short term. However, it's important to note that once the adjustable period begins, the interest rate may rise or fall, impacting monthly payments. ARMs are suitable for those who anticipate changes in their financial situation or plan to sell or refinance before the adjustable period kicks in. As with any mortgage, it's crucial for borrowers to carefully consider their financial goals and risk tolerance when choosing an adjustable-rate mortgage.