Clarification on 3-2-1 Buydowns

A standard 3-2-1 buydown always follows the same structure:

Year 1: Interest rate is reduced by 3% from the note rate

Year 2: Reduced by 2%

Year 3: Reduced by 1%

Year 4 onward: Returns to the full note rate

The percentages themselves don’t vary — that’s why it’s called a 3-2-1. What does vary is the cost of the buydown, which depends on the loan amount, current market rates, and the buyer’s qualifications. It’s an excellent tool for helping buyers ease into payments, with the flexibility to refinance if rates drop before the buydown period ends.

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Brookhaven and the greater Atlanta, Georgia area is booming with new development - and smart home sellers know how to leverage it. Two experts in this episode join host Judy Jernigan to share key insights that affect home values in Atlanta's hottest neighborhoods and all areas seeing growth. Which, let's face it, is just about everywhere.

Judy interviews Geoff Smith, local mortgage advisor and economic development pro, to discuss how new development, walkability, and major commercial investments are reshaping local landscapes in Brookhaven, in Atlanta, and beyond. Plus, home loan lender Martene Nadeau breaks down how temporary interest rate buydowns are helping home sellers attract more homebuyers and create stronger home sales contracts.

Connect with Judy Jernigan

Sell your Atlanta home faster, for top dollar, and with less hassle. Schedule a real estate listing consultation with show host Judy Jernigan now, or simply book a chat.

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Featured Guests:

Geoff Smith is an experienced mortgage advisor who understands the connection between neighborhood growth and home values. He is a Branch Manager and Senior Loan Officer in the Roswell, Georgia Branch of Assurance Financial servicing all of North Metro Atlanta.

Martene Nadeau is a mortgage loan officer known for her client-first approach. Martene helps both home buyers and home sellers navigate changing interest rates through tools like temporary buydowns and seller-paid incentives that create win-win outcomes.

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