Yes, you can get a home loan!

Despite the daily doom and gloom news regarding the slow housing market, if you are thinking of buying a home, you can probably get a loan. Yes, that applies to first time buyers as well who may not have a down payment.

It's true that mortgage companies are tightening their underwriting guidelines and loans with non-verifiable income, plus the sub prime market (those buyers with credit scores under 600) are virtually gone.

But there is good news! It is an excellent time to be a buyer because of all the homes for sale right now--too much inventory gives you more negotiating power. Fixed interest rates are still low, just above 6%.

If you have a good credit score and income to support it--you can get a home loan. If your score needs some tweaking, dedicate yourself to improving your score over the next few months and plan to buy next year.

I specialize in working with first time buyers. If you are thinking of purchasing a home or condo and have questions, email me at

mary.hutchison@prukc.com I'm here to help.