Unlock Homeownership with Just 1% Down – The Game-Changing Loan Program for First-Time Buyers
- Mark Hicks
- Jun 20
- 3 min read
Are you dreaming of owning a home but struggling to come up with a hefty down payment? At Seabrooke Group, we’re committed to helping first-time buyers and hardworking families make their homeownership dreams come true. One of the most exciting tools in our toolkit is the Conventional 1% Down Program — a low-down-payment mortgage option that makes buying a home more affordable than ever before.
Let’s break down how this powerful loan program works and how it can help you or your clients move into a home sooner — with less out-of-pocket expense.

What Is the 1% Down Program?
The Conventional 1% Down Program is designed to assist qualified borrowers by minimizing upfront costs. Instead of the typical 3% down payment required for conventional loans, you’ll only need to put down 1%. The lender (UWM) will contribute the remaining 2%, up to $7,000, to make up the full 3% down payment.
This program is ideal for low-to-moderate income buyers, especially those who qualify under Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac’s income limits.
Key Features of the Program
1% down payment from the borrower
2% lender contribution (up to $7,000)
30-Year Fixed mortgage
97% Loan-to-Value (LTV)
Minimum FICO score: 620
Conforming loan limits only (no High Balance loans)
Must be Broker Channel originated
DU (Desktop Underwriter) or LPA (Loan Product Advisor) Accept/Eligible findings required
Who Qualifies?
To be eligible, your income must be 80% or less of the Area Median Income (AMI). You can check your eligibility using the Fannie Mae Area Median Income Lookup Tool.
This program is especially great for:
First-time homebuyers
Renters looking to transition into ownership
Families who need to prioritize savings for other costs like moving, furniture, or repairs

Why the 1% Down Program Is a Game-Changer
For Borrowers:
✅ Move into a home sooner ✅ Use saved cash for furniture, moving expenses, or home improvements ✅ Possibility of buying down your interest rate for long-term savings ✅ No need for perfect credit – a 620 score is enough
For Loan Officers & Agents:
✅ Stand out with a competitive, accessible product ✅ Help clients achieve their goals with less upfront cost ✅ Build long-term relationships with buyers and agents
What You Need to Know About Guidelines & Counseling
The loan must follow HomeReady or Home Possible guidelines.
Homebuyer education is required only if all occupying borrowers are first-time buyers (no ownership in the last 3 years).
Non-occupant co-borrowers are not allowed.
Temporary rate buydowns are permitted for 1-unit primary residences.
Marketing Tips from the Seabrooke Group
At Seabrooke Group, we specialize in helping borrowers understand complex loan options in simple terms. Here’s how we’re making this program accessible to our community:
First-time Homebuyer Workshops: Learn about credit scores, down payments, and qualifying income.
Easy-to-understand infographics: We break down the math of the 1% down.
Real stories from real buyers: We showcase clients who have used this program to buy their first home.
Partnering with local agents: We ensure that buyers have a seamless experience from loan approval to move-in day.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re ready to own a home with as little as 1% down, or you're an agent looking to provide more value to your clients — the Seabrooke Group is here to help.
👉 Contact us today to find out if you qualify for this incredible loan program. Let’s turn your homeownership dreams into reality — one percent at a time.
📞 Call: (408) 640-3501
📧 Email: mark@seabrookegroup.com
🌐 Visit: www.seabrookegroup.com
Seabrooke Group — Helping California Families Own More, Save More, and Live Better.
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