Tim Powers · September 29, 2026

You probably don't need 20% down

 

Tuesday, September 29, 2026

A Note From Tim Powers

A quick market update for my past clients and friends

🏡 Your Home Is More Than a Place to Live — Make Sure It’s Working for You

The housing and mortgage markets continue to evolve, but there are still plenty of reasons to feel positive about homeownership.

Thinking about buying?
Don’t let headlines or interest rates alone determine whether now is the right time. The better question is: Does buying make sense for your situation? Homeownership can provide stability, potential long-term appreciation, and the opportunity to build equity instead of paying rent. There may also be loan programs, seller concessions, temporary buydowns, or other strategies that can make purchasing more affordable than you think.

Already own a home? You may be sitting on opportunities you haven’t considered.
Your mortgage should be reviewed periodically just like your insurance, investments, or retirement plan. Changes in your home’s value, your debts, your income, or your financial goals can create opportunities to improve your overall financial picture.

🔍 When Was Your Last Mortgage Review?

I offer a FREE Mortgage Review to help homeowners determine whether their current mortgage and equity are being used as effectively as possible.

We can look at opportunities to:

🛠️ Access equity for remodeling, repairs or home improvements
💳 Consolidate higher-interest credit cards or other debt
🎓 Help pay for college or education expenses
💍 Fund a wedding or other major life event
💰 Improve monthly cash flow
🏠 Review your current rate, term and mortgage insurance
📈 Develop a strategy for your home equity and future financial goals

Sometimes the best recommendation is to leave your mortgage exactly as it is. If that’s the case, I’ll tell you. The goal is simply to make sure you know your options.

📞 Let’s Take 10 Minutes and Review It

Whether you’re considering buying a home, wondering if refinancing makes sense, or simply want a second opinion on your existing mortgage, I’m happy to run the numbers.

There’s no cost, no obligation and no pressure — just good information so you can make an informed decision.

👉 Reply to this email or contact me for your FREE Mortgage Review.

Tim Powers | The Powers Team
Barrett Financial Group LLC

Mortgage Market Update

You probably don't need 20% down

The 20%-down rule keeps a lot of would-be buyers renting — and it's mostly a myth. Here's the real picture.

National Mortgage Rates · September 28, 2026

Conventional 30-Year

7.81%

FHA 30-Year

7.04%

VA 30-Year

7.16%

Rate trend

Source: Freddie Mac PMMS & Optimal Blue via FRED

Rates shown are national averages and are provided for informational purposes only. Actual rates vary based on credit profile, loan amount, and market conditions. Please contact us for a personalized rate quote.

Check My Rate →

First-Time Buyers

The Down Payment Myth That Keeps Buyers Renting

One of the biggest reasons people keep renting is the belief that you need 20% down to buy a home. You don't. Plenty of loan programs let qualified buyers get in with 3% to 5% down, and some — like VA and USDA loans — allow zero down for those who qualify. There are also down payment assistance programs that provide grants or low-cost second loans to help cover the upfront cost. The catch is that these programs vary by area and have limited funding, so it pays to know your options early. If you've been waiting to save a huge lump sum, you might already be closer to ready than you think. A short conversation can map out exactly what you'd need and which programs fit your situation.

Wondering what it would actually take to buy? Let's map out your path.

Tip of the Week

If you're self-employed, keeping clean financial records for two years makes mortgage qualification much smoother.

Tips for Homeowners

Debt-to-Income Ratio: What Lenders Are Looking At

1.

Your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) compares your monthly debt payments to your gross monthly income. Most conventional loans require a DTI below 45%, with the best rates reserved for those under 36%.

2.

DTI has two parts: front-end (housing costs only ÷ income) and back-end (all debts ÷ income). Lenders focus on back-end DTI but both matter.

3.

Paying off installment loans or car loans before applying can meaningfully reduce your DTI. Even a small reduction can move you into a better rate tier or expand your purchase power.

Have questions about how any of this affects your mortgage or home purchase? We're here to help — reach out to the Tim Powers team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

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Your Mortgage Advisor

Tim Powers

Tim Powers

Tim Powers

tpowers@barrettfinancial.com

+1 253-209-4247

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16427 N Scottsdale Rd Ste 410, Scottsdale, AZ 85254

+1 253-209-4247

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