Finding myself throwing money away monthly on an apartment was very disheartening. I was sorely ready to enter the ownership role once again. Steve Castaneda referred me to Chris Rivas of BofA.

Now as a bit of background, I've never been fond of BofA, having several bad experiences in the past. But when I talked to Chris Rivas, he displayed the utmost in professionalism and a great demeanor.

He quickly took my information and pre-qualified me for the Acorn Housing program.

Chris explained the Acorn program to me and went over all of the minute details accordingly.

Acorn is a great program for first time buyers (but can also be used if you were a previous home owner). What I loved most about this program was the education you receive about home ownership.

When you get started with Acorn you are required to attend a homebuyer?s class which gives you the ins and outs of the procedure. After the four hour class you are scheduled with a loan counselor who reviews your financial information and makes sure that you can afford the home of your choosing.

Be prepared for a "FULL DOC" type of loan. You will have to provide 2 years of W2/Tax returns, 1 month of pay stubs, Rental History, 2 Months of bank statements, and several other documents to satisfy the requirements of this loan.

There are a lot of "hoops" you have to jump through, but trust me with Chris Rivas and Acorn housing guiding you along the way, it's a snap.

Once you get approved you will receive your "rate lock". The great thing about this program is there is 100% financing available, no PMI, and almost always a 3/4 point below market rate interest regardless of your credit beacon score.

Chris Rivas and Acorn Housing helped me to realize that I can afford a nice home to settle down in and helped to make the process easy.

I'm a definite Acorn success story.

I went from Contract execution to closing in less than 25 days.

Thanks a million Steve for recommending Chris and the Acorn program!