Buying a Home With Low Credit

September 1, 2026

At a Glance Buyers with lower credit scores may still have multiple mortgage options in Michigan. FHA loans are often a flexible starting point for buyers with lower credit scores. Lenders consider income, debt, savings, payment history, and other factors in addition to credit score. Improving your credit before applying may expand your loan options […]

Gift Money Guide: How to Use Gift Money to Qualify for a Mortgage

August 30, 2026

At a Glance Gift money can help eligible homebuyers cover down payments and closing costs. Gift funds must be a genuine gift and generally require a signed gift letter. Conventional, FHA, VA, and USDA loans each have their own rules for using gift funds. Proper documentation from the beginning can help prevent delays during the […]

Summer Property Taxes vs Winter Property Taxes

August 15, 2026

At a Glance Michigan homeowners typically receive two property tax bills each year: a summer bill and a winter bill. Summer and winter property taxes may fund different schools, local governments, and community services. Most homeowners with a mortgage pay property taxes through an escrow account as part of their monthly payment. Property taxes may […]

Buying a Home For a Disabled Family Member

July 31, 2026

At a Glance The Family Opportunity Mortgage may help qualified families purchase a home for a disabled loved one. Eligible borrowers may receive owner-occupied financing instead of investment property financing. Homeownership can provide long-term stability and independence for disabled adults. Michigan families are increasingly using this program to create stable housing. TABLE OF CONTENTS: Michigan […]

Ingham County $30,000 Down Payment Assistance Program

July 30, 2026

At a Glance Eligible homebuyers may receive up to $30,000 toward a down payment and closing costs. The assistance is a zero-interest, deferred loan that may be forgiven after seven years for existing homes or twenty years for new construction. The home must be located within Ingham County and meet all program eligibility requirements. The […]

How to Buy Your First Rental Property: A Guide for Beginners

July 27, 2026

What You Need to Know Buying your first rental property is within reach. Lenders evaluate your finances, credit, and usually require 15-25% down payments. Michigan’s affordable prices and strong rental demand make it ideal for new property investors. Working with a local lender who understands investor loans is important. TABLE OF CONTENTS: What to Look […]

Michigan Is Winning on Affordability — And Our Buyers Are Proof

July 22, 2026

At a Glance Michigan remains one of the most affordable housing markets in the United States. Steady home price growth has helped many buyers build long-term equity. Affordable communities throughout Michigan continue attracting both homeowners and investors. Buying sooner may help buyers take advantage of today’s pricing before values continue to rise.   TABLE OF […]

Can You Buy a House at 20? Here’s How One Michigan Homebuyer Made It Happen

July 20, 2026

At a Glance: How one 20-year-old became a homeowner by purchasing a duplex What “house hacking” is and how it works Why buying a multifamily home can make homeownership more affordable How Treadstone Funding + Neighborhood Loans can help you explore your option   Buying a Home Doesn’t Always Look the Way You’d Expect Many […]

How Buying a Home for Your Elderly Parents Can Delay Nursing Home Care

June 5, 2026

What You Need to Know The Family Opportunity Mortgage allows qualified borrowers to purchase a home for aging parents using owner-occupied financing terms. Buying a home may help elderly parents maintain independence longer while postponing the need for a nursing home or assisted living facility. Compared to long-term care facilities, homeownership can provide greater flexibility […]

Moving to Grand Rapids, Michigan (2026): Top Things to Know

May 28, 2026

Grand Rapids, Michigan is one of the most underrated cities in the Midwest — and an increasingly popular destination for homebuyers and families relocating from larger metros. Finding the right place to live, whether you’re looking for a cute starter home or a big family home, is no easy feat these days. Buying a home […]