Help finding a lender

July 29, 2006

Many assistance programs can be combined or layered to provide greater opportunity for the borrower to purchase a home. Kris Wilson at Summit Mortgage says layering products is difficult, which is why not all lenders are willing or able to offer them. "You need a full-service lender who knows what they are doing -- someone who is committed to affordable and emerging markets products," she said. "It's a patchwork quilt and what you need is a good seamstress."

Lenderswho care. org has a directory of mortgage lenders who are knowledgeable about emerging markets lending programs, as well as information on loan programs in Minnesota.

To find a lender who offers CASA loans in your community, visit www.mhfa.state.mn.us/homes/CASA.htm or call 651-296-8215.

To find a lender who offers CityLiving loans in your community, visit stpaul.gov/depts/ped/cityliving/lenders.pdf or call 612-673-5282 (Minneapolis) or 651-255-6626 (St. Paul)