For most people, home ownership is part of the American dream, but it can turn into a nightmare without the proper guidance, said Ben Anderson, a Midwest BankCentre mortgage loan officer.
He said those interested in purchasing a home should turn to Midwest BankCentre, which has 17 branches in the St. Louis area, including ones in Arnold, Imperial, Crystal City, De Soto and Fenton.
“The loan officers here have been in the business for a long time, and we know the area,” he said. “Having that local expertise is important.”
Anderson said people who want to buy a home need to know some key facts, like the fact that it is not always necessary to make a large down payment.
“There are down payment assistance programs to offset the cost,” he said.
Anderson said a person’s low credit rating may not be an obstacle either.
“Having a lower score or even nontraditional credit is not necessarily a dealbreaker,” he said. “I would encourage people to get some guidance, and even if now is not the right time, we can give tips on how to improve scores.”
Anderson said people may be concerned they do not have a long employment history, especially when they are new to the workforce. However, that may not be a problem either.
“If someone is new to the workforce but is fresh out of college or a trade school, that education history counts toward their employment history,” he said. “That is something people don’t typically know.”
Anderson said numerous mortgage programs are available, and Midwest BankCentre representatives will make sure clients are paired with the correct program for them.
“We have access to programs that can meet people’s specific needs,” he said.
For information, go to the company’s website at midwestbankcentre.com.
