Types of Renovation Mortgage Programs

Renovation Mortgage Programs If I had a dollar for every time someone responded to my comment about remodeling and DIY projects with the phrase “welcome to home ownership!”– I’d be rich!  Not everyone has the means to build their pinterest-inspired dream home from the ground up– but what if I told you there are mortgage programs designed to help renovate existing structures?  What… Read more »

Who has the Best Fall Donuts in West Michigan?

Cider & Donut Season in West Michigan Fall is officially upon us, and every good Michigander knows what that means– cider and donuts! A friendly office debate about where to find the best apple cider and donuts in West Michigan inspired a donut tasting at the Riverbank Finance office today.  So, here are the results; a definitive ranking of… Read more »

Trended Credit Data: How Will It Affect You?

You may have heard some buzz this spring about mortgage giant Fannie Mae and trended credit data, changes which were set to take effect in June. Just days before the launch, however, the new system was delayed unexpectedly. Well folks, long-awaited Desktop Underwriter 10.0 launched this past weekend, and with it, the requirement that lenders… Read more »

Using Gift Funds for your Down Payment

Using Gift Funds for your Down Payment Not everyone has thousands of dollars lying around for a down payment when they are in the market to purchase a home, so receiving a gift can be a great option!  Here’s what you need to know, if you’re lucky enough to receive a down payment gift. There… Read more »

USDA Lowers Upfront and Annual Fees for RD Loans

USDA Lowers Fees for RD Loans Great news for homebuyers considering a USDA rural development home loan (RD Loan)!  The already popular zero down mortgage is getting even better. The USDA announced this week that they will be decreasing both the upfront guarantee fee—a closing cost which is financed into the total loan amount at close; and… Read more »

What is a Loan-to-Value (LTV) Ratio?

What is a LTV

If you’ve ever been in the market for a mortgage, you’ve probably heard the phrase ‘loan-to-value ratio’ or ‘LTV’ for short.  Obtaining a new mortgage can be nerve-wracking, even without the financial jargon and acronyms—so let’s talk about LTV, what it means, and how it affects you and your mortgage. How are Loan-to-Value ratios calculated?… Read more »

Manufactured Home Loans

manufactured home loan requirements

Finding a lender who will finance a manufactured home can be quite a task, but luckily Riverbank Finance is able to provide programs to help you! It is important to know what to expect and the difference between financing a stick built home and a manufactured home. There are various programs that will allow for… Read more »