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NEW HOPE FOR THE CHICAGO CONDO MARKET

Some mortgage lenders are dipping their toes back into the Chicago condo market, a development that could re-ignite local sale transactions. In recent weeks, I have learned of at least two different programs targeting area home buyers who do not want to make large down payment.

Mark Johnson at US Bank is offering a 97% LTV program. Vassili Sakkas at Wells Fargo recently turned me on to his company's new 95% loan products.

Yes, you read that right. At least two lenders are offering conventional, low down payment loans to Chicago are home buyers.

Chicago are condo buyers (and sellers) have faced a pretty tough challenge of late. The only game in town have been FHA guaranteed loans. The underwriting has been tough. Not all condominium buildings qualify for loans, let alone buyers.

The return of conventional lending alternatives should re-engergize the market. At least it will offer Buyers some new choices.

Please let me know if you hear of other lenders offering comparable products.
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