If you wish to become a homeowner, you will certainly need to obtain a house loan. Even though you might try to acquire a standard house mortgage from many lenders, you may need to check into alternatives, such as government-guaranteed loans such as the FHA (Federal Housing Administration) loan.
However, you must always consider knowing about the advantages that your mortgage option can render you and if you are eligible to apply to it.
What Is A FHA Loan?
FHA loans are a type of federal government-backed loans. They are given by authorized lenders, and qualification is easier since they are government-insured.
Borrowers who would not have qualified for a regular mortgage can now get a home loan through an FHA loan. Since the federal government guarantees the FHA loans, lenders that issue them face less risk. If a borrower fails on their FHA loan, the lender is protected. Keeping this in mind, FHA loans are an excellent choice for individuals who do not have the best financial histories.
Who Is Eligible For The FHA Loan?
To qualify for an FHA loan, you must fulfill all of the following requirements:
- Borrowing Limit
The FHA limits the amount you can loan. The length is defined by where you reside and the property type you purchase. The limitation for a two-family home will be different from a four-family home.
- Down Payment And Credit Score
If your credit rating is at least 580, you’ll require a down payment of 3.5 percent. And, if your score is between 500 and 579, then you’ll need 10%.
- Property Type
An FHA loan can be used to purchase a single-family house or a multi-family property for up to four different families. You can also purchase a condominium or a prefab house.
- Debt-to-Income (DTI) Ratio
The DTI ratio is calculated by dividing the money you pay toward loans each month with your monthly income. Your DTI ratio should be 43 percent or less for an FHA loan.
- Property Standards
An FHA loan can be used to purchase a property with wear and tear but not one with significant structural or safety problems. For example, your roof must be in good shape, and the house must not be located near a hazardous waste site.
What Are The Advantages of FHA Loan
- No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)
No Private Mortgage Insurance. The traditional mortgages require you to obtain PMI if your down payment is less than 20%. The PMI generally costs between 0.2 percent and 2 percent of your mortgage amount. FHA loans, on the other hand, do not need PMI.
- Lenient Borrowing Rules
The rules for FHA loans in terms of credit scores, DTI ratios, and down payments are less strict than traditional financing loans. It means that you can buy a house even if your finances aren’t in perfect order.
- No Income Restriction
The government-sponsored mortgage firms offer conventional mortgages with as little as 3% down. These are good loans, but you won’t be able to get one if your salary is higher than the median in your area. However, regardless of your income level, you may be qualified for an FHA loan.