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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

Do I Need an FHA Refinance?

Borrowers can choose to refinance for several reasons, but it comes down to prioritizing different benefits. One homeowner may want the lowest possible monthly payment, while another might want the shortest possible term for their loan.

How to Get Credit-Ready for a Mortgage

The FHA helps first-time and low-income homebuyers by having lower down payment requirements for its borrowers. Despite this lower credit eligibility criteria set by FHA, it is important to remember that FHA-approved lenders can set their own requirements

The Three Types of Down Payment Assistance

One of the major arguments people have for renting instead of buying is the large upfront cost of a down payment. Depending on the type of loan program you apply and are approved for, this could mean anything between 3.5% and 20% percent of your purchase price.

Fixed Rate Versus Adjustable-Rate Mortgages

The two basic types of home loans are fixed rate and adjustable-rate mortgages. The mortgage market offers many other options to homebuyers, but these two are the most common, and the first pair from which to pick.

What Homebuyers Should Know About Appraisals

A key step in the mortgage process is the home appraisal. In the case of home purchase or refinance, this is a task that is almost always required by the lender, and it is important that potential homebuyers understand what, how, and why of a home appraisal.  

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