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 […]

HELOC vs Cash Out Refi: Which is Right for You?

August 31, 2026

What to Expect in This Blog Post The difference between a HELOC and a cash-out refinance Why today’s mortgage rates matter more than ever When a HELOC makes more sense When a cash-out refinance is the better choice Common ways homeowners use their home equity How Treadstone Funding + Neighborhood Loans can help you compare […]

How Much Money Do You Need to Buy a Home?

August 31, 2026

What to Expect in This Article The biggest costs involved in buying a home How much you’ll need for a down payment What closing costs include Ways to buy with less money upfront Why your monthly budget matters just as much as your savings How Treadstone Funding + Neighborhood Loans helps buyers prepare   TABLE […]

Credit Union vs. Local Mortgage Lender: Which Is Better?

August 31, 2026

What to Expect in This Blog Post How credit unions and local mortgage lenders differ Mortgage loan options available through each Why lender experience matters for complicated scenarios How local mortgage lenders can offer more personalized guidance What Michigan buyers should compare beyond the interest rate Why working with a local mortgage company can make […]

Why You Need Homeowners Insurance to Close on a Mortgage

August 31, 2026

What to Expect in This Blog Post Why homeowners insurance is required before closing What a homeowners insurance policy typically covers How insurance protects both you and your lender What happens if you don’t have insurance before closing How insurance premiums affect your monthly mortgage payment Tips for choosing the right homeowners insurance policy   […]

How to Buy an Off-Market Home

August 31, 2026

What to Expect in This Blog Post What an off-market home is How buyers can find homes that aren’t publicly listed Ways to approach an off-market seller Why financing and inspections still matter The pros and cons of buying an off-market property How Treadstone Funding + Neighborhood Loans can help you prepare   TABLE OF […]

Best Home Renovations for ROI in Michigan

August 31, 2026

What to Expect in This Blog Post Which home renovations deliver the highest return on investment Projects that improve resale value and buyer appeal Renovations that make sense before selling a home When remodeling is worth the investment, and when it isn’t How renovation loans can help finance upgrades Why local market trends matter when […]

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 […]