Helping Hands Community Partners

When shopping for a mortgage, it's tempting to choose the program with the lowest interest rate. However, the best option for you depends on your down payment and financial situation.

For example, an FHA loan may offer a competitive rate, but if you're planning to put down a larger down payment, a Conventional loan could be a better choice. Conventional loans often have lower mortgage insurance (MI) for borrowers who put down more money, which can save you money in the long run.

Remember: It's not just about the rate – consider how the loan's structure, including down payment, MI, and other factors, will impact your monthly payment and overall cost.

If you're unsure which option is right for you, reach out for a personalized consultation!

Lock or Float? Here are 3 Benefits of Locking
1️⃣ Shields you from rising rates
2️⃣ Ensures stable monthly payments
3️⃣ Provides peace of mind during market uncertainty

Take the guesswork out of your home financing! 🏠🔑

This Earth Day, we’re reminded that the planet is our first and forever home.

Whether you’re buying your first house or just starting to plan, creating a sustainable future begins with the choices we make—at home.

From energy-efficient upgrades to choosing eco-conscious materials, small steps at home can have a big impact on the Earth we all share.

Let’s celebrate Earth Day by honoring the place we all call home, together.

Planning to use gift money for your down payment? 🎁 That’s allowed, but there’s a catch.

✅ Lenders require a gift letter stating that the money is a gift and not a loan.

📑 You’ll also need a paper trail, like bank statements showing the transfer and deposit.

🏡 Pro tip: Make sure the gift comes from an approved source (typically a family member), and coordinate the documentation early to avoid delays!

At Helping Hands Community Partners, our mission is to guide people toward successful homeownership through programs like K.E.Y.S.™ a no-cost roadmap to help you Know Exactly Your Status.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, rebuilding credit, or just want to understand your options, we’re here to help.

🏡 Thinking about tapping into your home’s equity?
Whether you're planning a renovation, managing debt, or funding a big milestone—your home could help make it happen.

📲 Let’s talk about whether a home equity loan is the right fit for your financial goals.

Getting Your House In Order 🏡
Join us for a powerful homebuying seminar hosted by ! Whether you’re just starting to explore homeownership or ready to take the next step, this event will cover everything from credit and financing to budgeting, down payment assistance, and the RI housing market.

📅 Saturday, April 19th, 2025
🕘 9:30–11:30 AM
📍 Brown University Health CHI, Providence
✨ Refreshments provided

https://hubs.ly/QO3gLtMDO to register or share with someone ready to start their homeownership journey!

Before starting your mortgage application, take a moment to review your finances the way an underwriter would:
✔️ Do you have a stable income history?
✔️ Are your bank deposits easy to trace?
✔️ Are there any large, unexplained transactions?

Getting ahead of these details now can prevent hiccups later and make your loan process smoother and faster!

📞 Ready for a mortgage check-up? Let’s talk.

If you're a veteran or active-duty service member, did you know that your VA loan benefits never expire? That's right! You can use them to buy a home now—or later—without worrying about time limits. Whether you're purchasing your first home or refinancing, VA loans offer some of the best terms in the industry:

✅ No down payment required ✅ No private mortgage insurance (PMI) ✅ Competitive interest rates ✅ Lenient credit requirements

Take advantage of this incredible benefit whenever you're ready, no matter how long it's been since your service. The VA loan program is here for you, and it can help make homeownership more affordable.

Have questions about how a VA loan can work for you? Reach out today to learn more!

*Subject to eligibility and bank approval.

🏡 Know Your Needs vs. Wants!

Starting your home search? It’s easy to get overwhelmed with the endless options. One of the best ways to narrow things down is by making a list of your must-haves (NEEDS) and nice-to-haves (WANTS). This will help you focus on what really matters and ensure you’re looking at homes that fit both your lifestyle and budget.

Need help getting started? We’re here to guide you every step of the way! Let’s chat and find the right path toward your dream home. 🗝️

To qualify, you must:
• Be a first-time homebuyer buying a 1-4 family home or
condominium in Rhode Island
• Have a minimum credit score of 620
• Complete a homebuyer education class available through RIHousing*
• Get a RIHousing first mortgage through one of our Participating
Lenders or the RIHousing Loan Center
• Live in the home as your primary residence

Terms and Conditions:
• Up to 6% of the purchase price, or $20,000, whichever is lower
• The interest rate on an Extra Assistance loan will be the same as the
interest rate on your RIHousing First Mortgage
• No fees or charges
• 15 year term
• An Extra Assistance loan is a second mortgage lien on your home

Learn more about our homeownership programs and get started on your journey today!