Allentown is home to a diverse range of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. From the historic homes of the West End to the vibrant nightlife of Center City, there's something for everyone in Allentown. The city's neighborhoods are also close to amenities like parks, restaurants, and shopping centers, making them highly desirable for homebuyers. At NMHL, we can provide more information on these neighborhoods and help you find the best fit for your lifestyle and budget.

• West End: Known for its historic homes and tree-lined streets, the West End is a popular neighborhood for families and young professionals.
• Center City: This vibrant neighborhood is home to a variety of restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues, making it a great option for those who want to be in the heart of the action.
• South Whitehall: This suburban neighborhood offers a more relaxed pace of life, with highly rated schools and a strong sense of community.

Property taxes are an essential consideration for homebuyers in Allentown, as they can impact your monthly mortgage payments. The average property tax rate in Allentown is around 1.50%, which is relatively high compared to other parts of the country. However, this rate is still lower than what you'd find in many urban areas, and the overall cost of living in Allentown remains relatively affordable. At NMHL, we can help you understand the property tax landscape in Allentown and explore options for reducing your tax burden, such as homestead exemptions or tax abatements.

It's also important to note that property taxes can vary depending on the neighborhood and location. For example, homes in the West End may have higher property taxes due to their historic nature and proximity to downtown amenities. On the other hand, homes in suburban neighborhoods like South Whitehall may have lower property taxes due to their more rural location.

School districts play a significant role in determining home values in Allentown, as they are a key factor in the quality of life and desirability of a neighborhood. The Allentown School District, as well as surrounding districts like Parkland and Southern Lehigh, are highly regarded and can increase property values. At NMHL, we can provide information on local school districts and help you understand how they may impact your mortgage options and home buying decisions.

For example, homes in the Parkland School District may be more expensive due to the district's high ratings and reputation for excellence. On the other hand, homes in the Allentown School District may be more affordable, but still offer a quality education and a strong sense of community.

Pennsylvania offers several first-time homebuyer programs, including the Keystone Home Loan Program and the HOMEstead Program, which provide down payment assistance and favorable mortgage terms. At NMHL, we can help you navigate these programs and determine which ones you may be eligible for. Our team can also provide guidance on credit score requirements, income limits, and other qualifications, ensuring that you're well-prepared to take advantage of these opportunities.

For example, the Keystone Home Loan Program offers a competitive interest rate and a low down payment requirement, making it an attractive option for first-time homebuyers. The HOMEstead Program, on the other hand, provides down payment assistance and closing cost assistance, helping to make homeownership more affordable for low-to-moderate income borrowers.

At NMHL, we're committed to serving underserved borrowers, including those with bad credit, self-employed individuals, and veterans. We believe that everyone deserves access to affordable and sustainable mortgage options, regardless of their credit history or employment status. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized service and tailored mortgage solutions to meet the unique needs of each borrower.

For example, our bad credit mortgage program offers competitive interest rates and flexible credit score requirements, making it easier for borrowers with less-than-perfect credit to qualify for a mortgage. Our self-employed mortgage program, on the other hand, provides flexible income verification and credit score requirements, helping self-employed individuals to achieve their dream of homeownership.

Allentown offers several down payment assistance programs, including the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA) and the Lehigh Valley Housing Alliance. These programs provide financial assistance to help with down payments and closing costs, making it easier for first-time homebuyers and low-to-moderate income borrowers to purchase a home. At NMHL, we can help you explore these options and determine which ones you may be eligible for.

For example, the PHFA offers a down payment assistance program that provides up to 4% of the purchase price of the home, helping to make homeownership more affordable for first-time homebuyers. The Lehigh Valley Housing Alliance, on the other hand, offers a down payment assistance program that provides up to $10,000 in assistance, helping to make homeownership more accessible for low-to-moderate income borrowers.