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A Guide to Specialized Mortgage Programs

July 16, 2025 by Chevron Federal Credit Union

We know there’s no single path to homeownership. Buying a home looks different for everyone. Some members are purchasing their first homes or moving into condos in the city, while others are using long-earned assets to buy their dream homes in retirement. That’s why we offer more than just traditional mortgage options — so you can choose what fits your life today.

Wherever you are in life, your financial strategy — and your mortgage — should support your goals, not limit them. Here's a closer look at some of the specialized programs designed to work with your unique situation.

First-time homebuyer program helps you get started with confidence

Buying your first home is a huge milestone — and one that comes with a lot of questions. Our First-Time Homebuyer Program is built to guide you through the process with less stress and more support. It’s also designed to make homeownership more accessible by offering lower down payment options, reduced private mortgage insurance requirements, and personalized guidance from our lending team.

This program is especially helpful if you’re still working on building your credit or don’t have a large amount saved for a down payment. You’ll receive expert advice every step of the way, helping you make confident choices and avoid common pitfalls. With the right support, your first home may be closer than you think.

80-10-10 mortgages let you sidestep PMI and keep your monthly costs lower

If you have good credit but want to avoid paying PMI — often required when putting less than 20% down — the 80-10-10 mortgage could be a smart alternative. This structure breaks your financing into three parts: 80% from a primary mortgage, 10% from a second mortgage, and 10% from your down payment.

This approach allows you to buy a home with less cash upfront while avoiding PMI, which can add up significantly over time. It can be ideal for buyers who have strong financial profiles and want to make the most of their cash flow. Plus, it gives you more control over how you allocate your funds without sacrificing the benefits of homeownership.

Asset-based mortgages recognize your full financial picture

Traditional mortgages focus heavily on employment income, but not everyone has a regular paycheck. If you're retired, self-employed, or living off investments or savings, an asset-based mortgage can offer a more flexible path to home financing.

With this option, your ability to repay the loan is evaluated based on your total liquid assets — such as savings accounts, retirement funds, or investment portfolios — rather than W-2 income. This can be especially helpful if your taxable income is low but your net worth is high. It’s a modern solution that values your financial stability, even if it doesn’t come from a typical job.

Condo loans make urban and low-maintenance living more accessible

Condos offer a low-maintenance lifestyle that appeals to a wide range of buyers — from first-time homeowners to retirees and those seeking a more urban or vacation-friendly setting. However, financing a condo can be more complex than purchasing a traditional single-family home. Buyers may face added requirements related to the homeowners association, project approval status, or the building’s financial and occupancy profile.

Condo loans are specifically designed to address these unique challenges. Lenders typically review both the borrower’s qualifications and the details of the condo project itself, including factors like insurance coverage, owner-occupancy rates, and any pending litigation involving the HOA. Understanding how these requirements work — and preparing for them early in the process — can help streamline financing and avoid unexpected delays.

VA home loans honor and support those who serve

VA home loans are a valuable benefit available to eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and certain surviving spouses. Backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, these VA home loans[1]  offer several key advantages, including no down payment in most cases, no private mortgage insurance, competitive interest rates, and more flexible credit requirements compared to conventional loans.

These features are designed to make homeownership more accessible for those who have served in the military. Whether it’s purchasing a first home, relocating after service, or settling into retirement, VA loans can provide a flexible and affordable path to homeownership for those who have earned it through their service.

Your mortgage should reflect your life, not limit it

Your journey to homeownership is unique — and your mortgage should be too. Whether you’re just starting out, building wealth, or settling into a new phase of life, we offer a range of mortgage solutions designed to meet you where you are.

To learn more about the mortgage programs we offer and get personalized help, call our Home Loan Help Desk at 888-334-5120 today.

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