Build Or Buy?
November 2, 2024
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.
FHA Loan Articles
February 24, 2022One of the major hurdles that keeps families from purchasing a home is the need for a down payment. The FHA’s goal is to offer more homebuying opportunities to low- and moderate-income Americans and set more easily achievable down payment requirements for borrowers.
January 31, 2022One of the first steps to take when you decide to buy a home is getting pre-approved for a mortgage. It is important to know what it means to get pre-approved for a home loan, and what the pre-approval letter does and doesn’t do for your home buying chances.
January 10, 2022A home loan is one of the most important investments you can make. Buying a home means owning property, and being a homeowner means there's potential to watch your investment grow in value over time. But first, the lender has to make sure the borrower is a good credit risk.
December 9, 2021This wait isn’t easy when you've been shopping for a new home. But getting a home inspection is a crucial step, and not one you should consider skipping. Make sure you hire a reliable home inspector, wait for your inspection report, and watch out for these red flags.
November 2, 2021Interest rates started to decline in 2019 and still seem considerably low. The average rate for a 30-year, fixed rate home loan has fallen from 4.94% in November 2018 to 3.13% in October 2021. A point drop in your interest rate could translate to huge savings with each monthly payment
