Question for the mortgage-minded folks. I've got 6 months to close on new construction. In the meantime, should I direct extra cash flow to the down deposit or to pay down 1 used car loan? The answer is probably both, but I'm trying to decide what would lower my interest rate more.

If you can fully pay off the debt it helps, otherwise that monthly payment will count towards DTI even if smaller balance. Down payment Savings good if can jump significant. Like moving up to 20%. But if moving from 5% to 6% it really wont be significant for your rate. But I will say having cash on hand for moving in is the best. There are always more expenses than you plan. Something needs fixed, you realize you need some tool or appliance etc. I'm just a run of the mill homeowner though, not a real estate professional.

New construction...guessing you will have a 30year loan. Set to close in 6months, so guessing you are already comfortable with the house payment. There are calculators where you can increase your down payment and see the reduction in your monthly payment. For my money, I would get rid of the car loan, then you have extra money sooner. With that you can save half the former car payment and pay extra principle with the other half of the car payment. Then you always have the extra half going to principle if needed.