Why Your Property Taxes Go Up After Buying A Home

March 28, 2023

What are property taxes? When you own a property, you are required to pay property taxes based on the assessed value of your land and buildings. Unlike federal tax brackets which are dependent on a particular filing status, property taxes are different for each individual property. Real estate listings often show the prior year’s property […]

Deciding between FHA vs Conventional Loans in 2023

February 24, 2023

When it comes to choosing a mortgage, homebuyers have several options. Two of the most popular types of mortgages are FHA loans and conventional mortgages, but what are the differences between the two, and which one is right for you?   FHA vs Conventional Key Differences Which is cheaper?   FHA vs Conventional Loans FHA […]

What is DTI (debt-to-income) Ratio, and Why Does it Matter?

January 25, 2023

What is the debt-to-income ratio? The debt-to-income (DTI) ratio is a measure of how much of your monthly income goes towards paying your debts. Lenders use it to determine how much of a mortgage you can afford to take on. When you are buying a home, your DTI ratio is an important factor that lenders […]

What is the Opt-Out Pre-Screen and How to Opt-Out in 2023

January 2, 2023

At Treadstone, nothing makes us more frustrated than the fact that pulling a client’s credit report gives the 3 major credit bureaus the legal right to sell your information to other companies. You will also experience this when you open a credit card or finance a new car. Don’t worry—they don’t get your social security […]

Renting vs Buying a Home in 2023: Which is Better Right Now?

December 12, 2022

Making the jump from renter to becoming a first-time home buyer can feel like a big commitment! While the feeling is real, buying a home can be hugely rewarding both financially and emotionally in the long run. Here’s our advice: Buy a home if you’re planning on staying in one place for more than 2 […]

USDA Eligibility Property Checker for Grand Rapids, MI

December 9, 2022

USDA Loans, also known as RD loans, are a home mortgage option that offers 0% down—but only in rural areas! RD stands for Rural Development. The Rural Development loan program was created and is backed by the United States government to encourage the growth and improvement of rural areas. Because “rural” is a generic label, […]

Current Mortgage Interest Rates in Michigan — 2023

November 16, 2022

What Are Today’s Home Interest Rates in Grand Rapids? Below is a mortgage interest rates chart* for rate trends in Grand Rapids, Michigan:   *Displayed interest rates represent industry trends, and do not represent rates offered by Treadstone Funding or Neighborhood Loans. For an accurate, up-to-date quote on mortgage rates, please talk to a licensed […]

How to Get Down Payment Assistance in Michigan — 2023 Buyers

November 7, 2022

Want to become a home owner, but you’re short on funds for the necessary down payment or closing costs? We have down payment assistance options available for Michigan home buyers to help get you across the finish line! These programs range from state-sponsored programs and grants to local municipalities and non-profits, and also include programs […]

Your Guide to Buying a Home After Bankruptcy, Foreclosure, or Short Sale

November 1, 2022

We get it. Sh*t happens! Emergency expenses, job loss, health issues, even global pandemics—anything can cause financial hardship. Treadstone is proud to help folks going through financial hardship get back into their normal rhythm, and back into their own home. As we like to say: onward and upward! No matter your situation, we’re here to help. We […]

How to Protect your Home During the Winter Months

October 24, 2022

The home buying process doesn’t exactly end at closing, it simply transitions into the home owning process! Depending on where you live and how extreme the winter season is, there are useful tips and tricks to help protect your biggest and newest investment—your home. West Michigan Buyers who purchase in the late fall are often […]