Seth Stern - Waterstone Mortgage NMLS #450329

Happy Father’s Day to the dads, stepdads, grandpas, and father figures helping turn houses into homes. 🏡 Wishing you a day filled with love, family, and a few dad jokes.

One question we’re seeing a lot throughout the industry right now is: “How do I buy a house if I’m self-employed?”

The process DOES look a little different for those who are self-employed, freelancers, small business owners, or gig workers.

Normally, you’ll need to provide a W-2 when applying for a mortgage.

But with Statement Select, Waterstone Mortgage’s bank statement program, you can use your bank statements to qualify — no W-2 needed.

This article walks through the process — check it out: https://bit.ly/4wY4pHu

Imagine having a little more room in your budget during your first year as a homeowner.

With Smart Start Buydown, eligible buyers benefit from reduced mortgage payments during year one, helping make the transition into homeownership a little easier. Best of all, Waterstone Mortgage covers the cost of the temporary rate buydown.

Let’s make your move together. Send a message to go over your options!

Could refinancing put more money back in your pocket?

If you bought a home between 2023 and 2025, it may be worth taking another look at your mortgage. New research from LendingTree shows nearly one-third of homeowners who purchased during those years may be able to lower their rate or monthly payment in today’s market.

Even a small rate reduction could mean meaningful monthly savings — helping free up room for home improvements, savings, debt payoff, or everyday expenses.

Every situation is different, so it’s important to review your full financial picture.

If you’d like to explore whether refinancing makes sense, let’s crunch the numbers together. Send a message, and we’ll explore which option makes the most sense for you.

In case you missed it — June is National Homeownership Month! 🎉

There’s never a bad time to start preparing for homeownership — whether that means improving your credit, saving for a down payment, or getting pre-approved to understand your buying power.

No matter where you are in the journey, let’s walk through it together.

The internet can answer a lot of questions — but when it comes to home financing, nothing replaces working with a trusted professional who understands your goals and unique situation.

Personalized guidance. Local expertise. 🙌

Reach out anytime to get started.

Did you know you can buy a house with no down payment (or a very small one)?

Many homebuyers still think you have to put 20% down to buy a house. This is a myth!

Waterstone Mortgage offers a variety of mortgage programs designed to help buyers get into a home sooner, with flexible down payment options to fit different financial situations.

Some options include…

✅ FHA loans
✅ VA loans
✅ USDA loans
✅ Loans for local heroes and experts
✅ Waterstone Mortgage’s “Powerhouse 100”
✅ 3% down conventional options

Learn more here: https://bit.ly/4uGDvlX

Don’t let internet mortgage advice make major financial decisions for you.

Rates are important, but they’re only one piece of the puzzle. Loan structure, monthly payment, cash-to-close, future plans, and market timing all matter just as much.

Plus, many buyers are discovering they can refinance later, but they can’t always go back and buy at yesterday’s home prices.

The good news is you don’t have to navigate your homebuying journey alone. Let’s go over your situation and discuss your options together. Send a message to get started.

5.0 star review received on Experience.com for Seth Stern by Thomas H B - Extremely professional. Everything done on time. I couldn't have been happier with the all aspects.

New ★★★★★ 5 Star Experience.com Review by Thomas H B Click to see all 186 reviews of Seth Stern, Mortgage Banker

House hunting often starts with one big question: How much house can I ACTUALLY afford? 🏡

Before you start scrolling listings, take a closer look at the factors that shape your homebuying budget — from credit score and debt-to-income ratio to down payment options and monthly comfort level.

For a closer look at how a home’s list price translates to your monthly payment, start here: https://bit.ly/4vbRmjR

Congratulations on your recent closing, Kelly Kepler! I’m grateful to work alongside you.

Engel & Völkers Belleair Waterstone Mortgage Corporation - St. Pete