Buy Before You Sell with a Bridge Loan
Buying your next home before selling your current one doesn’t have to mean two moves or sleepless nights. Our Bridge Loan turns the equity in your current home into the down payment for your next purchase so you can make a stronger, non-contingent offer and move once. It’s a fixed-rate balloon loan with a 6-month term; payments are calculated on a 240-month amortization schedule, with the remaining balance due when your current home sells or at maturity.
Membership and eligibility requirements apply, with approval subject to application, credit, and property considerations. Actual APR* is based on creditworthiness, collateral, and loan amount. Your home secures the loan. If you fail to repay, you may risk foreclosure. Request the current Truth-in-Lending (TIL) disclosure and rate sheet before applying. Rates, terms, and fees are subject to change without notice. Eligibility note: Bridge Loans are available on primary (owner-occupied) residences only. If you’re financing the purchase of your next home, the new mortgage financing must be through People Driven Credit Union.
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Bridge Loan Details
How a Bridge Loan Works
- Use your primary home’s equity for your next home’s down payment and eligible closing costs.
- 6-month term: payments are calculated on a 240-month amortization schedule; any remaining balance is due when your current home sells or at maturity.
- If your next home purchase is financed, the financing must be through People Driven Credit Union.
- Typically, faster than selling first and removes the home-sale contingency from your offer.
When It Makes Sense
- You need a non-contingent offer to compete in a tight market.
- Your next home is scheduled to close within about 6 months (including select new-construction purchases).
- You’re relocating for work and can’t line up two closings perfectly.
- You’re equity-rich but want to preserve cash/investments until your current home sells.
- If the purchase is being financed, you plan to finance the new home through People Driven Credit Union.
What to Prepare (Checklist)
- Estimated value of your current home and what you owe on it.
- Your target price range for the new home and desired down payment.
- A realistic listing/sale timeline for your current home.
- Comfort with two payments for a short period (bridge loan + new mortgage).
- Basic documents: income verification, homeowner’s insurance, and property details.
Start Your Bridge Loan Conversation
Ready to talk next steps? A People Driven Credit Union lending specialist can help you confirm eligibility, review your timeline and equity, and determine whether a Bridge Loan for your primary residence is the right fit—especially if you plan to finance your purchase through PDCU.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Bridge Loans are available only for primary (owner-occupied) residences.
Have more questions about a Bridge Loan? Start your Bridge Loan conversation with a Home Equity Specialist at People Driven Credit Union.
Connect with a Home Equity Specialist
5 follow-up questions
- What qualifies as a primary (owner-occupied) residence for a Bridge Loan? A primary (owner-occupied) residence is your current home where you live as your main residence. The Bridge Loan uses the equity in your "current primary home" to fund the next home purchase. It must be owner-occupied, and the site consistently refers to it as the "current primary home" in descriptions and FAQs. No additional details, such as minimum ownership duration, are publicly specified; eligibility depends on factors including creditworthiness, loan-to-value ratio, and approval.
- Are there any exceptions or special cases where a Bridge Loan could be used for a second home, vacation property, or investment property? No exceptions are mentioned. Bridge Loans are available only for primary (owner-occupied) residences. This restriction appears repeatedly in their FAQs and home equity loan sections (e.g., "No. Bridge Loans are available for primary (owner-occupied) residences only."). Other home equity products (like fixed-term loans or HELOCs) may be available for second homes or investment properties but not Bridge Loans.
- If a Bridge Loan isn't available for non-primary residences, what other home equity options does People Driven Credit Union offer for purchasing a second home or investment property? For second homes or investment properties, they offer Fixed Term Home Equity Loans and Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOCs), which can be used on primary residences, second homes, or rental/investment properties (subject to good credit, reasonable loan-to-value ratio, and approval). These provide access to equity at competitive rates for various purposes, including potentially supporting a purchase. Rates for second homes add 2% to the base fixed-term home equity rates. Contact a Home Equity Specialist for specifics, as Bridge Loans are not an option here.
- What are the key terms of a Bridge Loan for a primary residence, like the typical length, interest rate structure, or repayment requirements?
- Type: Short-term fixed-rate balloon loan.
- Term/Length: 6-month term.
- Payments: Monthly payments are interest-only or calculated on a 240-month amortization schedule (with the remaining balance due as a single balloon payment).
- Purpose: Taps equity in your current primary home to fund the down payment and costs on your next home.
- Payoff: Balloon payoff when your current home sells (or at maturity if unsold).
- Rates: Not listed publicly in detail; Bridge Loans add 2% to base fixed-term home equity rates (rates vary by creditworthiness and are subject to change). It's designed specifically to "bridge the gap" between buying and selling, with a balloon payoff at sale.
- Can I use a Bridge Loan even if I'm buying a new-construction home or if I don't plan to sell my current home right away? Yes, often for new-construction homes, it's a common use case to stay in your current home while the new build completes, then move once. However, it depends on the timeline: the new home must be scheduled to close within the 6-month term. If the build timeline is longer, a Bridge Loan typically isn't suitable, and alternatives (like construction financing) may be recommended. The site notes that their team can discuss options. If you don't plan to sell right away, the balloon payoff still comes due at maturity (6 months), so contact a specialist to explore feasibility or extensions/options if delayed.
If you are using a People Driven Credit Union Bridge loan, you must allow People Driven to finance your new home as well. If you’re purchasing without financing, ask us how a bridge loan may fit your plan.
Have more questions about a Bridge Loan? Start your Bridge Loan conversation with a Home Equity Specialist at People Driven Credit Union.
Connect with a Home Equity Specialist
Here are 5 more relevant follow-up questions:
- What happens if I already have a mortgage pre-approval or commitment from another lender for the new home, can I still use a People Driven Credit Union Bridge Loan? Answer from the site: No, if you are financing the purchase of your next home, the financing must be through People Driven Credit Union (as explicitly stated in the Fixed Term Home Equity Loans section, which covers Bridge Loans as a type of fixed-term product). The Bridge Loan policy requires PDCU to handle new-home financing when a mortgage is involved. If you have pre-approval elsewhere, you'd need to switch or discuss alternatives with a specialist, contact one to explore options.
- If I'm paying cash for the new home (no mortgage needed), how exactly would a Bridge Loan work in my situation, and what are the benefits compared to other options? Answer from the site: For cash purchases (purchasing without financing), a Bridge Loan can still fit your plan by tapping equity in your current primary home to fund the cash down payment or full purchase costs on the next home, allowing a stronger, non-contingent offer. It's a short-term fixed-rate balloon loan (typically 6 months) with interest-only or amortized payments, and balloon payoff ideally at sale of your current home. Benefits include bridging the gap without selling first, avoiding two moves, and making competitive offers. The site notes to ask how it fits (no specific cash-only restrictions beyond the general terms), and it's positioned as a tool for buy-before-sell scenarios. Compare to HELOCs (revolving/variable) or fixed home equity loans for longer-term needs, specialists can explain tailored fit.
- Does the requirement to finance the new home through People Driven Credit Union apply only if I'm getting a mortgage, or are there other scenarios where it kicks in (like using PDCU for closing costs only)? Answer from the site: The requirement applies specifically "if you are financing the purchase of your next home" meaning when a mortgage/financing is involved for the new home, it must be through PDCU. For pure cash purchases (no financing/mortgage), the FAQ explicitly carves out an exception: "If you’re purchasing without financing, ask us how a bridge loan may fit your plan." No mention of it applying to minor aspects like closing costs alone; the focus is on the primary purchase financing. Bridge Loans are for primary residences only, with equity used to fund the next purchase.
- If my new home purchase is delayed and I've financed it through People Driven Credit Union (to meet the Bridge Loan requirement), what options exist for handling the Bridge Loan's balloon payment or extension? Answer from the site: Bridge Loans are short-term (6-month term) fixed-rate balloon loans, with the remaining balance due at maturity (often tied to sale of current home). If delayed and your home doesn't sell before maturity, contact PDCU immediately to discuss options, the site emphasizes setting realistic timelines upfront and notes the balance is due at maturity, but specialists can explore extensions or alternatives (e.g., refinancing or other home equity products). Since the new home financing is through PDCU in these cases, it may streamline discussions. The FAQ on unsold homes advises reaching out right away.
- Are there any advantages, like better rates, discounts, or faster processing, when I use People Driven Credit Union for both the Bridge Loan and the new home mortgage (as required)? Answer from the site: The site doesn't publicly list specific incentives like rate discounts or streamlined processing for bundling Bridge Loan + new mortgage (though general loan rate discounts, e.g., 0.25% for autopay, apply across products). However, requiring PDCU for the new home financing implies integrated handling, potentially easier coordination, single-point servicing, and alignment on timelines/approvals. Bridge Loans add premiums (e.g., rates often 2% above base fixed home equity rates in related contexts), but bundling supports the "bridge the gap" goal with one lender. The emphasis is on specialist consultation for personalized terms, benefits, and how it fits your plan.
A short-term fixed-rate balloon loan that uses the equity in your current primary home to help fund your next home purchase. Payments are calculated on a 240-month amortization schedule, and the remaining balance is due when your current home sells or at the end of the term.
Have more questions about a Bridge Loan? Start your Bridge Loan conversation with Home Equity Specialist at People Driven Credit Union.
Potentially, yes. You may have a bridge loan payment and a new mortgage (or rent) payment at the same time until your current home sells and the bridge loan is paid off.
Have more questions about a Bridge Loan? Start your Bridge Loan conversation with Home Equity Specialist at People Driven Credit Union.
6 months. The remaining balance is due when your current home sells or at maturity.
Have more questions about a Bridge Loan? Start your Bridge Loan conversation with Home Equity Specialist at People Driven Credit Union.
Usually, yes—because it’s short-term financing. Most members carry the bridge only for a few months, trading a slightly higher short-term cost for a stronger purchase offer and a single move.
Have more questions about a Bridge Loan? Start your Bridge Loan conversation with Home Equity Specialist at People Driven Credit Union.
We set expectations up front with a realistic timeline and listing plan. If the sale is delayed, contact us immediately to discuss options. The remaining balance is due at maturity.
Have more questions about a Bridge Loan? Start your Bridge Loan conversation with Home Equity Specialist at People Driven Credit Union.
Sometimes. A bridge loan may be an option when your new-construction home is scheduled to close within the 6-month term. If the timeline is longer, a bridge loan typically isn’t the right tool—our team can walk through alternatives (including construction financing options, if applicable).
Have more questions about a Bridge Loan? Start your Bridge Loan conversation with Home Equity Specialist at People Driven Credit Union.
It depends on your equity, credit, and program limits (like CLTV and DTI). We’ll review your numbers and give you a personalized estimate.
Have more questions about a Bridge Loan? Start your Bridge Loan conversation with Home Equity Specialist at People Driven Credit Union.
You’ll pay standard third-party closing costs and an origination fee if applicable to your program. We’ll disclose all estimated costs before you proceed.
Have more questions about a Bridge Loan? Start your Bridge Loan conversation with Home Equity Specialist at People Driven Credit Union.
A HELOC is a revolving line you can draw on over time (often variable rate). A Bridge Loan is a one-time, short-term loan specifically to span the gap between selling and buying, with a balloon payoff at sale.
Have more questions about a Bridge Loan? Start your Bridge Loan conversation with Home Equity Specialist at People Driven Credit Union.
If cost is the only priority and you can comfortably sell first, that may be cheaper. A Bridge Loan prioritizes speed and certainty—winning the home you want and moving once.
Have more questions about a Bridge Loan? Start your Bridge Loan conversation with Home Equity Specialist at People Driven Credit Union.
Loan-to-Value Ratio (LTV) is a measure of the amount of the loan compared to the appraised value of the property. It is calculated by dividing the loan amount by the appraised value or purchase price of the property, whichever is lower, and is expressed as a percentage.
How is LTV Calculated?
The formula to calculate LTV is:
LTV = (Loan Amount / Appraised Value of the Property) × 100
For example, if you want to borrow $150,000 to buy a house that appraises for $200,000, the LTV would be:
LTV = ($150,000 / $200,000) × 100 = 75%
Why is LTV Important?
- Risk Assessment: Lenders use the LTV ratio to assess risk. A lower LTV ratio means less risk for the lender because the borrower has more equity in the property.
- Interest Rates: Higher LTV ratios often result in higher interest rates because the loan is considered riskier.
- Loan Approval: Some loans have maximum LTV ratios. For instance, conventional loans typically require an LTV of 80% or less to avoid private mortgage insurance (PMI).
- Borrower Equity: The LTV ratio gives borrowers an idea of how much equity they have in their property. Higher equity can lead to better loan terms.
Typical LTV Ratios
- Conventional Loans: Generally, lenders prefer an LTV of 80% or lower.
- FHA Loans: These can allow for higher LTV ratios, often up to 96.5%.
- VA Loans: These can have LTV ratios up to 100%.
Impact on Home Equity Loans and HELOCs
For Home Equity Loans and Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOCs), lenders often require a combined loan-to-value (CLTV) ratio, which includes the first mortgage and the home equity loan or line of credit. A typical CLTV requirement might be 85% or lower.
Understanding the LTV ratio is crucial for both lenders and borrowers, as it affects loan approval, terms, and the overall cost of borrowing.
How do I skip a payment at People Driven Credit Union?
People Driven Credit Union may offer skip-a-payment opportunities during eligible periods and for qualifying loans. Many members ask how skipping a payment helps when they need temporary relief.How skip-a-payment works
- Eligibility can depend on loan type and payment history.
- Program windows and terms may vary during the year.
- A fee or additional interest impact may apply.
Skip-a-Payment Requirements
You must be in good standing with all loans current. The $35 fee must be available in your checking or savings account. Most consumer loans qualify. Exclusions include Fresh Start Auto loans, lines of credit, mortgages, commercial loans, credit cards, and several other special loan types.To get started, you can either complete the process through the MyPDCU app, via PDCU’s Online Banking portal or by filling out a Authorization Form and submitting it to any of our branches or mailing it to:
Skip-A-Payment People Driven Credit Union 24333 Lahser Road Southfield, MI 48033Common Questions
How do I know if I qualify? Contact PDCU to confirm current program details, eligibility, and timing.Get Help from Our Team
Call us at 248-263-4100 during business hours. Our team checks your eligibility right away. You can also visit any branch in Livonia, Southfield, Warren, Ypsilanti, or Romeo.5 Helpful Hints for Skipping a Payment
- Call at least one business day before your payment is due.
- Have your loan number and member number ready.
- Ensure $35 is available in your account for the fee.
- Remember interest still accrues during the skipped month.
- Contact us at 248-263-4100 to confirm your loan qualifies.
- Pay through online or mobile banking.
- Set up recurring automatic payments.
- Use approved in-branch or phone-supported options when needed.
- Make payments at least one business day before the due date.
- Enroll in AutoPay to never miss a payment and possibly save on interest.
- Use the mobile app for payments anytime and anywhere.
- Keep your loan number handy when calling or visiting a branch.
- Contact us at 248-263-4100 if you need payment arrangements.
Learn More About Home Equity Loans
Disclosures
Equal Housing Lender. Federally insured by the NCUA. NMLS #776727. Membership eligibility required. All loans are subject to credit approval and property qualification. Bridge Loans are available for primary (owner-occupied) residences only and are not offered for second homes or investment properties.
*APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Rates range from 6.65% to 15.40% APR and are based on creditworthiness, loan amount, term, property type, and combined loan-to-value (CLTV) ratio. Minimum loan amount and property requirements apply. Rates are current as of today and subject to change at any time.
This loan is secured by your residence. Failure to make payments may result in foreclosure. Maximum financing available up to 90% CLTV; lower limits may apply based on your credit profile. A typical preferred debt-to-income (DTI) ratio is 43% or less.
3-Day Right of Rescission: For owner-occupied homes, borrowers have the right to cancel the loan within three business days after closing under the Truth in Lending Act.
Tax Deductibility: Interest may be tax-deductible if used for qualified home improvements. Consult your tax advisor for details.
Fixed Term Home Equity Loan Fees: Fees include credit report, property valuation, title work, flood search, tax tracking, mortgage recording, processing, and closing. Total costs vary by loan amount and generally range from $800 to $1,400 or more depending on loan size and property type. Please request an itemized estimate before applying.

