What is a Bank Statement Loan?

by Irene Moustakas | Jul 28, 2026 | 1st Time Homebuyers, Loan Programs and Products

If you’re self-employed, own a business, work as an independent contractor, or earn income that’s difficult to document through traditional pay stubs and W2s, you’ve probably wondered whether qualifying for a mortgage is even possible. The good news?...

Waiting for Interest Rates to Drop? Here’s Why That Might Not Be the Best Strategy.

by Irene Moustakas | Jul 14, 2026 | 1st Time Homebuyers

I often get asked: “Should I wait until interest rates come down before buying a home?” I completely understand the thought process. Everyone wants the lowest rate possible, and with all the headlines about where rates might be headed, it can feel like...

CalHFA’s Dream For All Program Is Back: What California Homebuyers Need to Know

by Irene Moustakas | Feb 23, 2026 | 1st Time Homebuyers, Industry News

California’s highly anticipated Dream for All (DFA) program is nearly here, and for the right buyer, it can be a game-changer. The voucher application window is February 24 – March 16, and you must have a preapproval letter in hand in order to apply. This...

First Time Homebuyer eBook – UPDATED!

by Irene Moustakas | Sep 11, 2024 | 1st Time Homebuyers, Business Promotion

I first published this e-book in 2014 and have now updated it with new and current information. It reviews the basics of homebuying, what lenders look for, and provides an overview of loan products and programs. Check it out here and let me know how I can help! Share...

Down Payment Assistance Options: National Homebuyers Fund, Inc® for 100% or 102% Financing

by Irene Moustakas | Sep 4, 2024 | 1st Time Homebuyers, FHA, Industry News, Loan Programs and Products

The National Homebuyers Fund (NHF) serves to provide down payment assistance to both returning and first time homebuyers. It’s one of the few down payment assistance programs available that does not have a first time homebuyer or income limitation stipulation! I...

DID YOU KNOW? There Are Interest Rate Incentives for First Time Homebuyers

by Irene Moustakas | Aug 14, 2024 | 1st Time Homebuyers, Rates

If you are a first time homebuyer and your gross income is below your specific county’s Area Median Income (AMI) limit, did you know that you qualify for some pretty attractive interest rate incentives? It can usually result in savings of approximately .5% to .875%,...