3 Alaska Real Estate Myths You Can Send Packing

We’ve heard them all, the dozens of Alaska Real Estate myths and comments shared by well-meaning friends and family members as you enter the home-buying ring. Many people would like to purchase a home, but they just aren’t sure it’s possible for them. Would you like to buy a home in the Anchorage, Eagle River, Wasilla and the Mat-Su Valley area? We are here to help you debunk three of the most common myths and help you get on your way to fulfilling your dream of becoming a homeowner.

Myth 1: You must have 20 percent down payment

Despite what you may have heard, you don’t need to be rich to buy a home. Not all of us have the ability to come up with a large down payment. First time home buyers typically put down an average of 6 percent. That doesn’t sound as crazy, does it? You don’t need to have 20% down to land yourself the home of your dreams. Your loan can be approved for as little as 3% down or even zero down, depending on the type of loan you acquire.

Myth 2: Your credit score must be perfect

Credit scores are a tricky beast. It seems as if many of our major life decisions and purchases revolve around one little number (hopefully not too little). There are many factors that can affect your credit score, and yet this one number can open or close doors for you. You’ve been working hard to keep your score up and holding off on your dreams of home ownership, because it’s not quite perfect. Does it have to be?? No, not really. The average credit score of approved loans is usually around 726 according to real estate industry resources. The truth is, you won’t know if you don’t try! Do you know your current score? Do you know what loan you might qualify for? The only way to find out is to meet with a lender and get the facts. Do some research and see where you really sit, and don’t let myths put childproof locks on doors that you don’t need.

Myth 3: You must wait for interest rates to drop

There are a lot of things to consider when buying a house, but don’t allow interest rates to tie your hands. If you want to wait for the ‘perfect’ rate you might as well tie your dream to a brick and drop it into the ocean. The market is relatively unpredictable and changes quite frequently. There are other factors to consider as well. Is it a seller’s market and you’re trying to buy? Even with a lower interest rate you may be spending more on property than you need to. If you wait a few months for the flip to a buyer’s market you can find yourself locked into an even better deal. As for interest rates, according to historical standards, today’s interest rates are incredibly low. If you’re wanting to buy a home right now, this is the best time to lock in today’s lower rates.

If you’re ready to jump on the home buying wagon and make your dreams come true we are here to help. We are happy to help you find a home in the Anchorage, Eagle River, Wasilla, and the Mat-Su Valley area. At Homes by Brooke, we are ready to put the Alaska Real Estate myths to rest and guide you through the process and the transition to home ownership as smooth as possible!