I am current looking for teachers and first time buyers in the Santa Cruz County, and any other part of California, who are interested in the programs offered by CALHFA (California Housing Finance Agency). These programs are designed to assist Californians with the difficult to achieve dream of owning a home. If you know anyone who be interested in learning more about these programs let me know and I will be happy to follow up with them.
BRIEF BACKGROUND:
As many of you know, my first career was as a 2nd grade teacher with PVUSD in Watsonville, CA. Like many teachers, I was working hard and paying rent month after month. My primary motivation in getting my real estate license was to try and figure out how to buy a home in Santa Cruz County and learn how to help teachers do the same. It’s now been five years, and I can look back and feel proud that I own a home here in Santa Cruz and have been successful in helping many teachers and first time buyers purchase their homes as well. That’s not to say that it was easy, but I have learned that if someone is motivated and resourceful home ownership is possible for teachers and first time buyers in Santa Cruz County.
CALHFA
Most teachers and first time buyers can not do it alone. Just as I needed assistance to purchase my first property, most first time buyers need help as well. I am currently working with CALHFA and local, approved lenders to qualify potential home buyers for one or more of their programs. Here is a brief breakdown of some of the programs offered and qualifications.
MINUMUM QUALIFICATIONS FOR SANTA CRUZ COUNTY:
• First time buyer (have not owned property in last 3 years)
• Max. income is $92,682 for 1-2 people in household or $108,129 3 or more in household
• Minimum Credit score of 620 (FICO)
• Single family home, condominium or manufactured home on permanent foundation
LOW INTEREST RATES ON FIXED LOANS
• Up to 100% financing
• 30 Year fixed mortgages
• 40 Year fixed mortgage
• 35 year fixed mortgage with an option to pay interest only for the first 5 years
DOWNPAYMENT ASSISTANCE
• Housing Assistance Program up to 3% of purchase price
• Extra Credit Teacher Program: Additional help for qualifying teachers, administrators, staff and classified employees of eligible schools. Can be used with other down payment assistance
• High Cost Area Purchase Program- Additional assistance up to $7500 for high cost areas such as Santa Cruz County.
This is only a brief description of the programs offered. If you know anyone who may be interested I am offering a free consultation. Just call me to set up an appointment in person or on the phone. You can also go to the website CALHFA for more information.