Which FHA Loan Is Right for Me?
February 26, 2021
Many borrowers go with the route of an FHA loan. This is because of the numerous ways the FHA has designed their mortgages with first-time homebuyers in mind. FHA loans have a minimum credit score stipulation of 580 with a low- down payment requirement of 3.5%, making it easier for my buyers to qualify.
Another reason many Americans go with FHA loans is that there are a number of mortgage programs that can fit different needs. Here are few of the most popular FHA loan programs:
FHA Fixed-Rate Loan
The fixed rate FHA Home Loan is a popular mortgage choice. With this type, the interest rate remains the same through the term of the loan. The consistent interest rate means that monthly payments remain the same. This is a good option for homebuyers who want to rely on fixed payments to help them set long-term budgets.
FHA ARMs
An Adjustable- rate mortgage (or ARM) has an interest rate that changes over the term of the loan. After an introductory period with a fixed, low interest rate, the rate changes annually, increasing or decreasing, depending on the market indices approved by the FHA. An adjustable- rate loan may work for borrowers who intend move out of the home within a few years. That way they can capitalize on the initial low interest rate and sell before the rates rise.
FHA One-Time Close Loan
The FHA One-Time Close Loan is a construction-to-permanent loan that finances a lot purchase, construction, and permanent loan of a new home as part of one, single mortgage. Borrowers need to qualify just once and pay a single set of closing costs whereas before, they were required to go through the closing process twice, once for the construction loan, then again for the permanent mortgage. The FHA One-Time Close Loan is a great option for those looking to build their home from scratch!
FHA EEMs
The FHA's Energy Efficient Mortgage (EEM) is a special loan program that finances various energy-efficient home improvements as part of a home loan. Along with helping borrowers pay for upgrades on their home, the FHA’s EEM program helps them save money on household utility bills by allowing them to install energy saving appliances in their home. The EEM program is a great way for FHA borrowers to upgrade their home, and can also be used as part of a refinance.
FHA Condominium Loans
In addition to buying single family homes, the FHA finances the purchase of condominiums with its Section 234(c) loan. These loans come with a 30-year term and borrowers can buy residential condos that have at least two units and are located in an FHA-approved condominium projects.
With all the options that the FHA offers, there is bound to be a program that fits your mortgage needs.
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FHA Loan Articles
September 8, 2023Borrowers considering an FHA loan should be familiar with some basic loan terminology. These loans are popular among first-time homebuyers and those with lower credit scores because they often offer more flexible eligibility requirements and lower down payment options.
September 2, 2023You may have heard the terms co-borrower and cosigner in connection with your FHA loan process, but aren't sure about the distinction. Both a co-borrower and a cosigner can help a primary borrower qualify for a mortgage, but they have different roles and responsibilities.
August 27, 2023The Federal Housing Administration has specific credit requirements and guidelines for borrowers looking to buy or refinance homes with an FHA loan. In addition to what FHA guidelines state, lenders may have more stringent requirements that may vary from one lender to another.
August 23, 2023Mortgage APR (Annual Percentage Rate) and a loan's interest rate are two different things, although they are closely related. Understanding the difference is an important part of a borrower's analysis of the true cost of their mortgage.
August 19, 2023FHA refinance loans allow homeowners with existing FHA loans to refinance their mortgages. These loans are designed to help borrowers take advantage of lower interest rates, reduce their monthly mortgage payments, or access equity in their homes for various purposes.
