The Handy Lender · Homeownership Path Finder

Every buyer's path
looks different.

Answer a few honest questions and I'll show you every path that's realistic for your situation, including options most lenders never bring up.

First, does any of this describe your situation?
This one question changes which paths are available to you. Select everything that applies.
🎖
Veteran or active duty military
VA loan eligibility, often the strongest option available
🩺
Medical or legal professional
MD, DO, DDS, PharmD, JD, and other qualifying designations
💼
Self-employed, aggressive write-offs
Tax returns show low income despite strong cash flow
🔑
I own a home I need to sell first
Can't carry two payments, need a bridge or buy-before-you-sell
✓
None of these apply
Standard buyer, let's look at all conventional paths
What price range are you targeting?
If you're not sure yet, use your best estimate. You can always adjust.
$500,000
Mid-range Colorado home
How much do you have saved for a down payment?
Include checking, savings, and investment accounts you'd consider using. Don't include retirement funds you can't easily access.
$15,000
Calculating as % of target price...
Gift funds available?
Family contributions that can be documented as a gift, not a loan.
No gift funds
Some available
$5k–$20k range
Significant
$20k+ available
What's your estimated credit score?
Being honest here matters, the paths change meaningfully by score range. Free check at Credit Karma or your bank app if you're not sure.
760 or above
Excellent, best rates available
720 – 759
Very good, strong options
680 – 719
Good, most programs available
640 – 679
Fair, solid options still available
580 – 639
Lower, limited but not impossible
Below 580
Most programs not available yet
What's your annual household income?
Combined if purchasing with a partner. Before taxes.
$110,000
Gross annual, before taxes
Monthly debt obligations?
Car payments, student loans, minimum credit card payments. Not utilities or rent.
$350
Monthly committed payments
First-time homebuyer?
Generally defined as not having owned a primary residence in the past 3 years.
Yes, first-time buyer
Haven't owned in 3+ years
I've owned before
Previous homeowner
Colorado county?
Affects property tax estimates and some program availability.
Step 1 of 6

No personal information required. Educational purposes only. Talk to Dean for a precise assessment.

D

Based on everything you shared, here's how I see your situation...

, Dean Reiber, The Handy Lender
,
,
,
,
,
Your homeownership paths, ranked by fit
Your next best move

Here's what I'd do first.

Talk through your options with Dean → See the real monthly cost

Important: All figures are estimates for educational purposes only. VA loan eligibility requires Certificate of Eligibility and lender approval. Doctor/professional loan programs vary by lender and designation. Bank statement loan programs require 12–24 months statements and vary by lender. Bridge loan and buy-before-you-sell programs have specific equity, income, and property requirements. Down payment assistance programs have income limits and eligibility requirements that change. Rates shown are approximate. This tool does not constitute a loan commitment or pre-approval. Dean Reiber NMLS #2463805 · Cornerstone First Mortgage NMLS #173855 · Equal Housing Lender.

The Handy Lender
Equal Housing LenderDean Reiber · NMLS #2463805 · Cornerstone First Mortgage, LLC · NMLS #173855
©2026 Cornerstone First Mortgage, LLC supports Equal Housing Opportunity. NMLS ID# 173855. This is informational only and is not an offer of credit or commitment to lend. Interest rates, products, and loan terms are subject to change without notice and may not be available at the time of loan application or loan lock-in. Contact Cornerstone First Mortgage, LLC to learn more about your eligibility for its mortgage products. Loans are subject to buyer, builder, and property qualification. Cash reserves may be required. Cornerstone First Mortgage, LLC is not acting on behalf of or at the direction of HUD/FHA or the Federal Government. (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org)