Getting Ready for Your FHA Loan Application
June 27, 2023
- Misunderstanding the loan limit:
Homebuyers should be aware of the FHA loan limit for their area and ensure that the home they are interested in purchasing falls within that limit. - Underestimating the cost of mortgage insurance:
FHA loans require mortgage insurance, and this cost can add up over time. Homebuyers should factor in the cost of mortgage insurance when determining their monthly payments. - Not having a solid employment history:
The FHA requires borrowers to have a steady employment history, so homebuyers should ensure that they have a stable job before applying for a loan. - Not repairing credit before applying:
The FHA requires a minimum credit score of 580, and a higher score can result in better loan terms. Homebuyers should take steps to improve their credit before applying for a loan. - Not shopping around for the best interest rate:
Homebuyers should shop around and compare interest rates from multiple lenders to find the best deal. - Ignoring closing costs:
Homebuyers should factor in the cost of closing, including title insurance, appraisal fees, and other costs, when determining their budget. - Not getting pre-approved:
Homebuyers should get pre-approved for a loan before starting the home-buying process. This will help them understand their budget and avoid overspending. - Not working with a real estate agent:
A real estate agent can provide valuable guidance throughout the home-buying process and help homebuyers avoid common mistakes.
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FHA Loan Articles
August 19, 2026Homebuyers who have enough cash for a down payment still need to consider their full financial picture before choosing between a conventional mortgage and an FHA loan. Having cash on hand changes the math for both options, but savings alone won't make a conventional loan the automatic winner. Credit scores, current debt, and the type of property you want to buy all determine which loan will cost less over time.
August 11, 2026Homeowners with FHA adjustable-rate loans need to track their loans more closely. That is because FHA ARM loans start with introductory interest rates that eventually expire and are subject to change afterwards based on market rates. When interest rates rise, monthly housing payments climb on ARM loans, pushing many homeowners to consider refinancing into a fixed-rate mortgage.
August 10, 2026If you want to buy a home with an FHA mortgage, you must set up an escrow account to cover property taxes, homeowner insurance, and upfront closing expenses. While the FHA loan program has rules for funding these accounts, buyers often do not realize those rules can include approved and unallowed sources for escrow funds. What do you need to know before you set up and fund your escrow account for an FHA mortgage?
August 3, 2026Buying a home in a high-cost area requires understanding how FHA loan limits shape your financing options. Does the house for sale have a price above the local FHA loan limit? You may need to explore your jumbo loan options. There are conventional jumbo loans and FHA versions. Which is right for you? Much depends on your financial needs, plans, and goals for the loan.
July 30, 2026There is a common misconception about FHA loans that only a first-time home buyer can use the program. This is not true; repeat buyers can qualify for an FHA loan, but why does this misconception exist? Partially because state and local programs have first-time buyer requirements for down payment and/or closing cost assistance programs. So while you do not need to be a first-time buyer to get an FHA loan, you may need to meet that definition to qualify for down payment help.
