John Burnam Loan Officer NMLS #247530

06/10/2026

🏡 First-Time Homebuyer Tip: The Lowest Rate Isn't Always the Best Deal

Recently we compared two financing options for a first-time homebuyer purchasing a $320,000 home.

Option 1:
✅ 5% down
✅ Lower interest rate (6.5%)
✅ Monthly payment: approximately $1,921 P&I

Option 2:
✅ 5% down from the buyer, AND
✅ 5% Down Payment Assistance through TSAHC (7.25% rate)
✅ Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC) tax benefit
✅ Monthly payment: approximately $1,965 P&I

At first glance, most people focus on the payment difference...

💰 Option 2 costs about $44 more per month.

But here's where it gets interesting.

After 3 years:

📉 Option 1, remaining loan balance:
$293,108

📉 Option 2, remaining loan balance:
Approximately $269,500 after applying the annual MCC tax credits toward principal reduction.

That's a difference of more than:

🔥 $23,000 in additional equity after just 36 months!

Sometimes the best mortgage strategy isn't the one with the lowest interest rate. It's the one that helps you build wealth faster.

The key is understanding all the tools available to you, including down payment assistance programs and Mortgage Credit Certificates that many buyers don't even know exist.

Every buyer's situation is different, and this is exactly why mortgage planning matters.

If you're wondering whether Down Payment Assistance, MCC credits, FHA, Conventional, VA, or other programs make sense for your situation, let's run the numbers together.

📲 Message me anytime for a personalized mortgage strategy session.

05/07/2026

First time buyers: take the time to have a Homebuyer Strategy Session phone call - you will be glad you did!

05/05/2026

Bad things can happen to good people, especially in the world of credit. My clients were able to overcome a newly posted $300 collection to save $44,000 on their interest over time while under contract. Professional guidance is a comprehensive strategy, not just a rate quote

05/04/2026

Excited for my clients moving to Austin, Texas from out of state!

04/29/2026

If you’re waiting for rates to drop before buying a home, here’s something to think about…

When rates do drop, demand typically surges—meaning more buyers enter the market and competition heats up. That often leads to bidding wars and higher home prices.

So the real question is:
Would you rather secure a home now with less competition and refinance later… or compete against multiple buyers when rates fall?

Let’s connect and put together a strategy that makes the most sense for you and your goals.

04/28/2026

Calling all Real Estate Professionals! Join us on Wednesday 4/29 at 1:00pm CST for our ZOOM condo class - this is critical info for all listing agents and buyers agents too! Invest one hour in your business and come learn about the condo lending changes coming soon!
Link in the comments below:

2 likes. "FREE Condo Changes Class This Wednesday, Don't Miss Out!"

04/21/2026

Helping clients feel confident, informed, and supported every step of the way is exactly why we do what we do. Being trusted not just once—but again—is something we never take for granted.

Whitney, thank you for trusting us with your home journey.

04/20/2026

5.0 star review received on Experience.com for John Burnam by Randy P - Great commnuication

Click to see all 98 reviews of John Burnam at CrossCountry Mortgage, Senior Loan Officer | NMLS #247530

04/17/2026

5.0 star review received on Experience.com for John Burnam by Karen F - Wonder communication and great personality

Click to see all 95 reviews of John Burnam at CrossCountry Mortgage, Senior Loan Officer | NMLS #247530

04/14/2026

5.0 star review received on Experience.com for John Burnam by Steven K - John was very responsive and willing to problem solve on the fly and was very involved in the transaction day to day

Click to see all 94 reviews of John Burnam at CrossCountry Mortgage, Senior Loan Officer | NMLS #247530