Non-Financial Factors That Affect Home Loan Interest Rates
December 30, 2024
One factor is occupancy type. For FHA loans, this is straightforward because these loans require owner occupancy. Investment properties aren't eligible. While conventional loans may have different rates for primary residences, second homes, and investment properties, this isn't a concern with FHA loans.
Some might not immediately know which loan is best for them, but knowing the occupancy requirement ahead of time can help them make a more informed choice.
Your employment history is another factor. A stable job with consistent income shows lenders you're reliable and can make your mortgage payments. They'll look at how long you've been employed, your income stability, and your industry. Building a strong employment profile can help you get a better interest rate if the lender feels that history shows you are a good credit risk.
The loan term and payoff schedule also play a role. The loan term affects your monthly payments and total interest costs.
The amortization schedule determines how your payments are applied to principal and interest over time. Your lender may offer different interest rates for a 15-year loan compared to a 30-year mortgage, for example.
Standard amortization has early payments mostly going toward interest, while graduated payment mortgages have payments that start lower and increase over time.
Your income projections and financial goals will influence your choice of amortization schedule, and your lender may offer different interest rates for different loan terms and amortization schedules.
Remember, lenders consider various factors when determining your FHA loan interest rate. Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions and potentially secure a lower rate.

FHA Loan Articles
February 6, 2021As an existing homeowner, you may want to take advantage of falling interest rates by refinancing your current mortgage. For many homeowners, the thought of going through the refinancing process can be tiresome. But an FHA Streamline Refinance could help you avoid the extra work.
January 30, 2021As your closing day gets closer and closer, you might start to feel a little nervous. Do you have everything you need? Will something delay the closing? These worries are natural, but the more prepared you are, the less overwhelming it will all seem.
January 16, 2021What you may not know that there are many different types of refinances and different benefits that come with them. The cash-out refinance, or cash-out refi, is one that many borrowers opt for, for several reasons.