Core Viewpoint - The housing market is currently facing challenges with limited buyers and homeowners struggling to sell quickly, but Rocket Mortgage's bridge loan may provide a solution for those looking to buy a new home before selling their current one [1][13]. Summary by Sections Bridge Loan Overview - A bridge loan, also known as a swing loan or gap mortgage, is a short-term loan that allows homeowners to borrow against their equity to purchase a new home before selling their existing one [2]. Rocket Mortgage's Offering - Rocket Mortgage offers bridge loans up to 80% of the existing property's value, with loan amounts reaching up to $500,000, structured as a six-month interest-only loan [3]. - For example, a homeowner with a property valued at $600,000 and 80% equity could qualify for a bridge loan of $480,000 [3]. Target Audience - The bridge loan is designed for buyers looking to move up or downsize, enabling them to utilize their home equity for a down payment on a new home without the need to move into a rental [5][10]. Advantages of Bridge Loans - Bridge loans allow buyers to make offers without the contingency of selling their current home first, making their offers more attractive to sellers [7]. - Homeowners can move into their new home while preparing their current home for sale, avoiding the hassle of temporary storage [6]. Guaranteed Buyout Option - If a homeowner does not sell their old home within six months, Rocket Mortgage can facilitate a guaranteed buyout with predetermined pricing, alleviating concerns about existing payments during the transition [8][9]. Popularity Among Downsizers - The program has gained traction among downsizers, including those who own their homes outright and wish to extract equity for a new purchase [10]. Qualification Criteria - To qualify for a bridge loan from Rocket Mortgage, applicants must have a credit score of 740 or higher, a maximum debt-to-income ratio of 45%, and sufficient home equity [12].