Home Affordable Refinance Program (HARP) Explained & 2024 Refinance Programs

January 10, 2023

What is the home affordable refinance program? A HARP mortgage, also known as a Home Affordable Refinancing Program, was a flexible home loan type that allows homeowners, who were underwater or near underwater in their loan, to refinance their mortgage to avoid a default if they struggled to make payments. HARP was created in 2009 […]

What is the Opt-Out Pre-Screen and How to Opt-Out in 2024

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 […]

The Family Opportunity Mortgage Program Explained

January 1, 2023

What is the Family Opportunity Mortgage Program? The Family Opportunity Mortgage Program is a specialized mortgage program designed to help family members purchase a home for a loved one. The program was created to address the challenges faced by families who want to help their elderly or disabled relatives buy a home, but may not […]

How to Decide Between Renting vs Buying a House in Michigan in 2024

December 12, 2022

Making the jump from renter to becoming a first-time home buyer in Michigan 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 […]

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 — 2024

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. The rates below are for educational purposes only. Displayed figures indicate trends and are not rates offered by Treadstone Funding to any particular borrower, as interest rates are affected by factors including […]

How to Get Down Payment Assistance in Michigan — 2024 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 […]

How to Improve Your Credit Score Before Buying a Home

October 11, 2022

Why is Your Credit Score Important for Mortgages? Lenders estimate your ability to pay back money borrowed based on your credit score. A high credit score can result in a lower interest rate and save you thousands of dollars in interest paid over the life of the loan. At a glance, credit scores measure your […]