At Femme Capital Partners, we believe homeownership should be within reach, even if you’re working with modest savings or unique income sources. That’s where the Smart Start Conventional Program shines. Designed for buyers with solid credit, this option offers flexibility and a smarter path to owning your home.
What is the Smart Start Conventional Program?
This low down payment conventional loan is built for buyers who want options. It offers:
✅ Just 3% down required
✅ Flexible income sources. You can include income from parents, roommates, or boarders to help qualify
✅ Lower mortgage insurance (PMI) compared to standard conventional loans
✅ No first-time buyer requirement
✅ Available for 1- to 4-unit primary residences
✅ Minimum credit score: 620+
You don’t need to be a first-time buyer. This is smart financing designed for today’s buyers.
Who Can Benefit?
- First-time homebuyers with limited savings
- Multi-generational households or those using non-borrower household income
- Borrowers earning under 80% of the area median income (AMI)
If large down payments or strict income rules have held you back, this could open new doors.
Example: Bringing Homeownership Within Reach
Take Maria, a teacher earning $52,000 a year. Maria was struggling to qualify because of her debt-to-income ratio. With the Smart Start program, she was able to include her parents’ income to strengthen her application. She bought a $250,000 townhome with just 3% down, and the reduced PMI kept her monthly payment affordable.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
- Income limits apply, typically capped at 80% AMI
- Homeownership education is required, but it’s easy to complete online
- Some down payment assistance or niche loan programs may not be compatible with Smart Start
Ready to Learn More?
If you’re exploring homeownership options and want a loan that works with your situation, the Smart Start program is worth a closer look.
The next step is to reach out to your lender or mortgage advisor to see if you qualify. If you’d like tailored advice, feel free to connect with us at Femme Capital Partners. We’re here to help you map out the best strategy for your goals.