Student loan debts may be at all-time highs, but Americans aren't letting that stop them from buying a home.
In fact, a recent report shows that 27 percent of all homebuyers have student loan debt. And first-time buyers? A whopping 40 percent have student loans.
So how do they do it? How do they keep making monthly loan installments while saving for a down payment or paying a mortgage at the same time?
HERE'S HOW TODAY'S BUYERS ARE MAKING IT HAPPEN.
- They're choosing the right loan programs. For buyers with student loan debt, an FHA loan can be a great option. And both Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have made favorable changes to how student loan debt factors into the mortgage qualification.
- They're getting gifts and co-borrowing. Many buyers are choosing to use gift money from family members to pay their down payment or other costs, while others are choosing to co-borrow their mortgage with a significant other or roommate. Both of these help lower the costs of homebuying at the outset.
- They're taking advantage of down payment assistance programs. Saving for a down payment is often the hardest part when you've got student loan debt on your shoulders. Fortunately, there are hundreds of down payment (and closing cost) assistance programs that can help cover these expenses and more. Check your state, city and county to find out if there are any you qualify for.
- They're working on their credit. A great credit score means a great mortgage rate -- and less money paid monthly and over the life of the loan. Today's buyers are boosting their scores by paying down their debts, avoiding late payments and watching their credit reports carefully.
As they say, "where there's a will, there's a way." And today's young buyers are proof of that. Do you have questions about buying a home while dealing with student loan debt? Get in touch today.