As a busy single mother of three and a United States Air Force veteran, Letticia Kramer knew how to handle life’s challenges. But when she decided to become a homeowner after years of renting, she was unprepared for the roadblocks she encountered in her quest to find a mortgage lender who could help her.
After several disappointing experiences, Letticia worked with experienced NASB loan officer Todd Kangas, NMLS#942252, to get a VA mortgage and finally realize her dream of owning her own home for her family. Letticia shared her experience with NASB to help other parents better navigate the mortgage process.
What first prompted you to become a homeowner?
I was prompted to buy a home for my kids after moving around for years because of ridiculous rent increases. I went online to find a lender, but two of my pre-approvals with other lenders fell through after they said everything was good. Then, at the last minute, they could only approve me for half of what I’d applied for. I decided to go with NASB because I felt they were honest and upfront and didn’t hassle me.
What challenges did you face as a first-time home buyer?
Because of the long process, the house I wanted went back on the market, and I felt like all hope was lost. I’m glad I didn’t give up after that initial letdown. The home-buying process was super challenging—basically a nightmare at first. I got pre-approvals from six different lenders. Several lenders wanted to charge thousands of dollars in lender fees and high interest rates.
"Owning my own home means freedom to do what I want with my place and not worry about property managers or yearly rent increases."
As a single mother and the United States Air Force Veteran with three kids (one with autism), I needed a lender willing to be more helpful and provide a loan with less out-of-pocket costs. Todd worked with me to get the payment and interest rate right where I needed them.
What does owning a home mean to you and your family?
Owning my own home means the freedom to do what I want with my place and not worry about property managers or yearly rent increases.
What advice would you give fellow veterans and single parents about home buying?
Don’t give up on what you want. I wanted this home more than anything and was determined to make this house mine. I had to fight to get what I wanted and endure being turned down over and over by other lenders. I can now say that after all the fighting, it was worth it to find the right lender, and now my kids and I have a place to call home. No more moving for me and my little family. This makes me very happy!
For more information on how NASB can help you with your home loan, contact us here.
*Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It does not comprise an endorsement of NASB by any government agency, program, or veteran’s organization/agency. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the interviewee. They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of NASB or its members, nor does NASB claim that the interviewee is an expert in mortgage lending.
