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
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The other FHA construction loan option, the one-time close mortgage, comes in here. This option is for those who want to approve floor plans, have a say in the types of materials used to build the home and choose its features.
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October 30, 2024Just because an FHA loan is designed to be more lenient with FICO scores and require a lower down payment doesn’t mean the house you buy with that loan is less than ideal. Did you know that FHA loans have minimum property standards to ensure the home is safe and livable? Those standards require the home to have an “economic life” for the entire term of the loan so you can freely sell the property later on if you choose to do so.
October 29, 2024Buying a home with an FHA mortgage is a major life decision, and preparation is essential before you start house hunting or consider making an offer on a property.
How to get started? In the early stages, establishing your budget and how much work you need to do on your credit is key. But once you have gotten past the initial phase of that planning you’ll want to consider the house itself and what you want from it.
