Land Contract

An alternative to a non-conforming loan is the use of a land contract, which is allowed in some states. A land contract is an agreement between a buyer and a seller, where the buyer agrees to make periodic payments to the seller. The title to the property only transfers to the land contract buyer on fulfillment of the land contract obligations.

A land contract can be helpful for those who need time to establish or improve their credit rating. There are only small closing costs, and payment can help establish a good mortgage payment record. This can help establish an overall good credit rating, and it is possible for the buyer to later refinance the land contract with a conforming loan.

On the other hand, there are risks associated with land contracts. Land contract purchases are not necessarily recorded in the public record, and there are no guarantees that the seller will be able to transfer a clear title to the buyer upon fulfillment of the land contract. There also is no lender assuring that the purchase price for the property is justified, and no inspection of the property’s condition.

Another alternative to a non-conforming loan is assuming the seller’s mortgage. By assuming a mortgage, if the mortgage is assumable, it is possible to save on closing costs and may allow you to obtain a favorable interest rate.

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My service areas include Santa Ynez Valley and Santa Barbara County Central Coast region of California including Santa Barbara, Solvang, Buellton, Santa Ynez, Goleta, Los Olivos, Lompoc and Santa Maria. My areas of specialty are newcomers to Santa Barbara County, Trust and Trustee sales, first-time home buyers, those who are looking to sell and buy simultaneously. I aim to take the stress out of all of those situations! I am also an area specialist in the town of Buellton, where I have resided for over 20 years.

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Is Buying a Home Still a Smart Plan

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