Lee looks at every source of below-market financing.

But he said two of the bank's 15 condominium projects were already offering below-market financing to buyers.

And a pension fund that was financing the project offered below-market financing.

They should also try for below-market financing and the elimination of any points charges, appraisal or attorney's fees connected with the purchase.

Among these are discounts, extra features, free trips and below-market financing.

As a sweetener, the project sponsor will provide below-market financing with cash down payments as low as 5 percent.

The automakers have ponied up billions of dollars to their financing units to make up the difference on the below-market financing.

By blending its own market-rate funds with city funds, it is able to offer below-market financing.

And a seller may market the home without a broker and may offer potential buyers below-market financing.

The sponsors are recruiting entrepreneurs to team up with local community development groups to buy the franchises, benefiting from below-market financing and looser equity requirements.