Important FHA Loan Terminology
September 8, 2023
FHA Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP)
FHA loans require two types of mortgage insurance premiums: an upfront MIP and an annual MIP. The upfront MIP is typically financed into the loan amount or paid as a lump sum at closing.
The annual MIP is an ongoing premium that is added to your monthly mortgage payment. The amount depends on the loan-to-value ratio, the loan amount, and the term of the loan.
Minimum Down Payment
These government-backed mortgages typically require a lower down payment compared to conventional loans. The minimum down payment was 3.5% of the purchase price for borrowers that satisfy a particular lender's requirements. A 10% down payment may be required for borrowers with credit scores between 500 and 580 if a lender has more stringent requirements.
Credit Score Requirements
FHA loans are known for being more lenient with credit score requirements compared to conventional loans. However, individual lenders may still have their own minimum credit score standards.
FHA Loan Limits
FHA loan limits vary by location (county) and establish how much can be borrowed based on property type. They are set annually by the Federal Housing Finance Agency. Borrowers should check the FHA loan limits for their area to ensure their desired home purchase price falls within the limit. Metro areas with higher housing costs, sometimes called high cost areas, tend to have higher loan limits.
Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI)
Simply put, this is the comparison of your total debt to your total income. Lenders will evaluate your debt-to-income ratio to determine your eligibility for an FHA loan. Generally, your total monthly debt payments, including your mortgage payment, should not exceed a certain percentage of your monthly income.
Property Requirements
FHA loans have specific property requirements to ensure the home is safe and livable. The property must meet certain standards, and the borrower may need to pay for a home appraisal to confirm compliance.
Mortgage Term
The number of months you will be making payments on your loan is call the term. FHAloans are available in various terms, including 15-year and 30-year fixed-rate mortgages. Borrowers should choose a term that suits their financial situation and long-term goals.
Streamline Refinance
Borrowers with existing FHA loans may be eligible for a streamline refinance, which can make it easier to lower their interest rate and monthly payments without a full credit check or appraisal.
Prepayment Penalties
This is a fee paid by borrowers when a loan is paid off before the full term. FHA loans typically do not have prepayment penalties. They allowg borrowers to make extra payments or pay off the loan early without incurring any additional fees.
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FHA Loan Articles
September 2, 2021For many first-time home buyers, the FHA loan is a popular option. With its lenient credit and income requirements, it appeals to young borrowers who don’t have an extensive credit history, or enough money saved up for a down payment.
August 9, 2021Many first-time homebuyers need some help understanding and navigating the ins and outs of the mortgage process, and down payments are an essential part of that. A down payment is an upfront installment made on a large purchase while the remainder is paid off with a loan.
July 30, 2021The FHA Streamline Refinance allows mortgage holders to refinance their home loan without going through the process of second appraisal. Since this is a step that was completed with the first FHA mortgage, the FHA waives it for the refinance
July 14, 2021Making the decision to buy a house is a big one, followed by the choice of which house to buy. The next biggest decision you make is going to be the type of home loan you need to go through with the purchase. One option for financing your home is an FHA loan.
June 25, 2021Most first-time homebuyers decide on purchasing a home at least a year in advance, sometimes even a couple of years ahead of time. The earlier you make a decision to buy a home, the more time you have to save up for your down payment.
