Learn More About Mortgages
There are countless different mortgage options available for prospective buyers, but it’s important to choose the right mortgage for your specific needs. The Jim Dolanch Team is here to help you narrow down your options.
Check out a few of the most popular mortgages for the Pittsburgh area, and feel free to reach out to us for more personalized recommendations.
Common Mortgage Options Near Pittsburgh
Conventional loan
- Frequently used by buyers with good credit, low debt, and moderate to high income
- Most buyers need a 20% down payment to qualify
- Typically lasts between 15 – 30 years
- Can have a fixed or adjustable rate
VA loan
- Available to most active, retired, and veteran military members and their spouses
- Backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and financed by approved lenders
- Low down payment requirements without mortgage insurance
FHA loan
- Designed for first-time or lower-income homebuyers
- Wide variety of lower down payment options
- Private mortgage insurance (PMI) required
- Can have higher interest rates
USDA loan
- Targeted towards buyers in more rural areas
- Will fund up to 100% of the purchase price for an eligible home, which means you don’t have to put money down
- Private mortgage insurance (PMI) required
- Check the USDA’s eligibility map for more details
Balloon mortgage
- Payments are based on a 30-year term but are paid over five to seven years
- At the end of the term, the borrower must pay off the balance, refinance, or sell
- Suitable for commercial properties or buyers who don’t plan to stay in their homes for very long
Lender-specialty loans
- Available to niche groups, such as first-time and lower-income buyers
- Can have lower interest rates or down payment requirements
- Requires additional research to shop around and find the best deal—contact your lender for more information
Ready to Calculate Your Monthly Payments?
Now that you’ve discovered the different mortgage options available, it’s time to start crunching some numbers. Use our mortgage calculator to accurately estimate your monthly payments, and our pre-qualification form will let you know what type of mortgage loan best suits your specific needs. Just reach out to The Jim Dolanch Team if you need further assistance with financing your home!