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FHA loans are one of the best options for young, first-time home buyers who have not had as much time to save for a large down payment or establish a high credit score.

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Build Or Buy?


Build Or Buy?
When it’s time to consider buying a home, the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) offers two popular options. One is the traditional FHA purchase loan many use to buy a house in the suburbs. But not everyone wants to buy an existing property. Some want more control over the design and configuration of the home.

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. 

Both loan types require the same low down payment of 3.5% and, depending on your downpayment, loan term, and other variables, require mortgage insurance for either 11 years or the lifetime of the mortgage. 

Is A One-Time Close Construction Loan Right For You?

An FHA construction loan, often called a "one-time close" loan, combines construction financing and a permanent mortgage into a single transaction, approval, and loan closing day. 

The borrower must choose contractors, approve floor plans, and work with the lender and builders to complete the project. 

You should have plans for a temporary living space during the construction phase if needed. In typical cases, you won’t be able to live in your new home until the work is fully completed.

This loan suits anyone looking to build a custom home tailored to their needs and preferences. However, to qualify, you may need more cash reserves, higher FICO scores, and the ability to save up your own downpayment.

Is An FHA Purchase Loan Right For You?

An FHA purchase loan is a mortgage insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). It is designed to help applicants with lower FICO scores and/or those who need a smaller down payment find affordable homes.

Creditwise, many feel FHA loans are more lenient compared to conventional loans. FHA loans allow the maximum financing for applicants with FICO scores of 580 or above, though your lender may have additional standards to meet.

Who is right for an FHA purchase loan? With its escape clause guarantee that you can’t be forced to buy a home that appraises lower than the asking price, those who need an affordable home who need a house, condo, mobile home, or even a fixer-upper should look into an FHA purchase loan.

If you need downpayment assistance, an FHA purchase loan may be the best option.
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FHA Loan Articles

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FHA loan limits serve as a crucial mechanism to balance financial sustainability, regional variations in housing costs, and the agency's mission to promote homeownership, particularly for those with limited financial resources.

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Mortgage rates are hitting prospective homeowners hard this year and are approaching 8%, a rate that didn't seem very likely last winter. With so many people priced out of the market by the combination of high rates and a dwindling supply of homes.

What to Know About the FHA Handbook

The FHA Handbook serves as a crucial resource for mortgage lenders, appraisers, underwriters, and other professionals involved in the origination and servicing of FHA-insured home loans. It outlines the policies and requirements for FHA-insured mortgages.

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