The Mortgage Files

Nationally syndicated mortgage news and advice from Senior Loan Officer Scott Sheldon.

Seller Credit vs Price Reduction vs Rate Buydown: What Saves You More When Buying a Home?

By Scott Sheldon / May 6, 2026

Picture this. You’re in contract on a home. The seller agrees to give you $15,000 in concessions. Now comes the real decision: Do you use that money to: Cover your closing costs? Buy down your interest rate? Or reduce the purchase price? All three options sound good. But they impact your finances very differently—both now…