Introduction

In today’s San Antonio housing market, affordability is the number one challenge for buyers. With mortgage rates hovering near 6 to 7 percent, many families are searching for creative ways to lower monthly payments. Two of the most common strategies are VA loan assumptions and rate buydowns offered by builders or sellers. Both methods can provide meaningful relief, but the savings look very different depending on whether you are buying your forever home or planning a short-term move.

VA Loan Assumption Benefits

VA loan assumptions allow buyers to step directly into a seller’s existing mortgage. This means keeping the same interest rate, payment schedule, and loan balance already in place.

For example, if a seller locked in a 2.75 percent VA loan in 2021, a buyer in 2025 can assume that same loan rather than taking out a new mortgage at today’s higher rates.

Why assumptions stand out in San Antonio:

• Permanent rate savings: The assumed loan keeps the original low rate for the entire term.
• Attracts more buyers: Homes marketed with assumable VA loans stand out in a crowded market.
• Supports military families: With Joint Base San Antonio and constant PCS moves, assumable loans provide flexibility for both incoming and outgoing military households.

Rate Buydown Basics

A rate buydown is a temporary reduction in the buyer’s interest rate, often funded by the builder or seller.

• A 2-1 buydown lowers the rate by 2 percent in the first year and 1 percent in the second year before adjusting to the permanent rate.
• A 3-2-1 buydown extends this structure for three years but still resets to the higher permanent rate.

Why builders promote buydowns:

• They are easier to implement than VA loan assumptions.
• They create the impression of affordability at the beginning of homeownership.
• They help builders sell inventory quickly without cutting base prices.

Long-Term Savings Comparison

Here is how the two strategies stack up for a $350,000 home in San Antonio:

• VA Loan Assumption at 2.75 percent: About $1,476/month, fixed for the life of the loan.
• New Mortgage at 6.5 percent: About $2,213/month.
• 2-1 Buydown starting at 4.5 percent: Around $1,773/month in year one, $1,993/month in year two, then $2,213/month in year three and beyond.

Key takeaway:

• Assumptions win for long-term buyers. The savings last for decades, not just a few years.
• Buydowns help short-term buyers. If you plan to refinance or move within three years, a buydown can provide temporary relief.

For readers looking to dive deeper, consider reading these articles:

• VA Loan Assumptions Explained blog

• New Construction Homes blog

Final Thoughts

For buyers in San Antonio, choosing between a VA loan assumption and a rate buydown depends on your timeline and financial goals. If you plan to stay in the home for several years, a VA loan assumption offers unmatched long-term savings. If your move is temporary or you expect to refinance soon, a buydown may provide short-term relief.

Either way, the right strategy can make homeownership more affordable and position you for success in San Antonio’s competitive real estate market.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which is better for long-term savings?
A: VA loan assumptions. The low interest rate is permanent, while buydowns reset after a short period.

Q: Do buydowns help short-term buyers?
A: Yes. If you plan to sell or refinance before the rate increases, a buydown can make sense.

Q: Can you combine a VA assumption with a buydown?
A: No. Assumptions follow the seller’s existing loan terms, so temporary buydowns do not apply.

Q: Why do builders push buydowns more than assumptions?
A: Buydowns are simple for builders to offer, while assumptions require an existing VA loan and approval from the loan servicer.

📲 Contact Tami Price, Realtor® | Broker Associate | Real Broker, LLC for expert guidance on VA loan assumptions, builder incentives, and how to maximize your buying power in San Antonio.