If you’re thinking about purchasing a home, you may have heard the term “FHA loan” thrown around. But what is it exactly? An FHA loan is a mortgage that’s insured by the Federal Housing Administration, which is part of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This type of loan is popular among first-time homebuyers because it requires a smaller down payment than most other mortgages.
FHA loans come with many benefits for qualified borrowers. The most notable benefit is the low down payment requirement of 3.5%. This can make homeownership more achievable for buyers who may not have a lot of savings or strong credit scores. In addition, FHA loans are available to borrowers with credit scores as low as 580. As a result, FHA loans can be a great option for borrowers who may not qualify for other types of financing. Before applying for an FHA loan, it’s important to understand the program requirements and restrictions. For example, FHA loans are only available for certain types of properties, and they come with mortgage insurance premiums that could add to your monthly payments. However, if you’re looking for a low-down-payment option with flexible credit requirements, an FHA loan could be a good choice.
When you’re ready to buy a home, you’ll likely want to explore all your loan options. Two of the most common types of home loans are FHA loans and conventional loans. Both can have their advantages, depending on your situation. Here’s a quick overview of the key differences between FHA loans and conventional loans:
– Down payment: FHA loans typically require a lower down payment than conventional loans, making them a good option for first-time homebuyers or buyers with limited funds.
– Credit score: You may be able to qualify for an FHA loan with a lower credit score than you would need for a conventional loan.
– Mortgage insurance: FHA loans require mortgage insurance, which can add to the cost of your loan. Conventional loans do not require mortgage insurance.
– Loan limits: FHA loan limits vary by location and can be significantly lower than conventional loan limits. This can be especially important if you’re looking to buy a more expensive home.
To be eligible for an FHA loan, borrowers must have a credit score of 580 or higher. Borrowers with credit scores between 500 and 579 can still qualify for an FHA loan, but they will need to put down a 10% down payment instead of the usual 3.5%. In terms of income, borrowers should have a steady employment history and verifiable income. Self-employed borrowers may still qualify, but they may need to provide additional documentation to show their income.
Ready to qualify? Send me an e-mail at edavis@guildmortgage.net. If I can’t help you out directly, I’ll point you in the right direction so that financing your dream home is a breeze!
