Resources

Tools & Guides
for Every Buyer

Free resources to help you understand mortgages, prepare for the process, and make confident decisions.

Guides & Checklists

Everything You Need
to Prepare

Mortgage Glossary

Key Terms Explained Simply

DTI — Debt-to-Income Ratio

Your monthly debt payments divided by your gross monthly income. Most programs allow up to 43–50% DTI.

DSCR — Debt Service Coverage Ratio

Rental income divided by the property's monthly debt payment. A ratio of 1.0+ typically qualifies for a DSCR loan.

PMI — Private Mortgage Insurance

Required on conventional loans with less than 20% down. Protects the lender, not the borrower. Removed once you reach 20% equity.

LTV — Loan-to-Value Ratio

The loan amount divided by the home's appraised value. Lower LTV = better rates and lower risk to lender.

Pre-Approval

A verified review of your credit, income, and assets resulting in a conditional commitment letter — much stronger than pre-qualification.

CalHFA

California Housing Finance Agency — the state entity that provides down payment assistance programs for first-time buyers.

Questions Beyond
the Guides?

Ben is available to walk you through anything — in English or Farsi. No pressure, just answers.

Talk to Ben Today