Down Payment Assistance, Discovery Calls & Lending Myths (INTERVIEW) - 340

Stackable grants, strategy-based lending, and insider truths about mortgage math—this episode unpacks what really sets unicorn lenders apart in today’s market. In part two of this masterclass with unicorn lender Kelly Cort, David and Kelly go deep on the real numbers behind down payment assistance, adjustable rate mortgages, lender-paid buy-downs, and PMI myths. Learn why pre-approvals aren’t enough, how lenders can actually help you win bidding wars, and what it means to build a plan instead of chase a rate. From DTI math to offer letters and insurance shocks, this is the kind of lending guidance most first-time buyers never get.

Quote:

“You just loan yourself $35,000 for $44 bucks a month. Cheapest money you’ll ever buy.” — Kelly Cort, Episode 340

Highlights:

• What is down payment assistance—and can you use it even if you have 20% down?
• How does stacking assistance programs work—and what are the tradeoffs?
• Why does Kelly personally call the listing agent to help your offer stand out?
• How can your lender strategy beat a higher competing offer in a bidding war?
• What’s the real difference between a 6.5% rate and a “clickbait” 5.5% rate?
• Can you buy a home with just an offer letter for a job you haven’t started yet?
• Why is PMI sometimes the smartest move—and how low can it actually go?

Referenced Episodes:

• Episode 19 – Financial Prep for Homeownership
• Episode 94 – Real Estate Terms & Definitions
• Episode 328 – 10 Real Action Steps for First-Time Buyers
• Episode 339 – Part 1 with Kelly Cort

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David Sidoni, the "How to Buy a Home Guy," is a seasoned real estate professional and consumer advocate with two decades of experience helping first-time homebuyers navigate the real estate market. His podcast, "How to Buy a Home," is a trusted resource for anyone looking to buy their first home. It offers expert advice, actionable tips, and inspiring stories from real first-time homebuyers. With a focus on making the home-buying process accessible and understandable, David breaks down complex topics into easy-to-follow steps, c