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FHA mortgage loans are a great option for first-time homebuyers since they have low interest rates and lower credit requirements than other mortgages. They also require just a 3.5% down payment for buyers who qualify.
Here’s what you should know about FHA loans:
- What is an FHA loan?
- There are different types of FHA loans
- FHA loan limits for 2022
- How to get an FHA loan
- FHA loans vs. conventional: Which one is best?
What is an FHA loan?
An FHA loan is a mortgage that is insured by the Federal Housing Administration, a government agency that sets standards for how homes are constructed and financed in the U.S.
When a mortgage is FHA-insured (also referred to as FHA-backed or FHA-guaranteed), it means that in the event of a foreclosure, the FHA will step in and cover part or all of the lender’s financial losses. Because of this added protection, these loans come with low interest rates and lower down payment requirements.
To be eligible for an FHA loan, you’ll need to meet the borrower requirements, which include a credit score of at least 500 and a down payment of 3.5% to 10%.
There are different types of FHA loans
Broadly, FHA loans come in fixed-rate or adjustable-rate options. A fixed-rate loan offers a consistent interest rate the entire time you have the loan, whereas, an adjustable-rate mortgage has an interest rate that can fluctuate.
But there are also FHA mortgage programs for specific purposes. These include:
- 203(b) loans: These are what most people think of when talking about FHA loans. They’re used to either purchase or refinance a home and require down payments as low as 3.5%.
- 203(k) loans: Also called 203(k) Rehabilitation mortgages, these loans are designed for both buyers and existing homeowners, allowing them to finance eligible home repairs and improvements.
- EEM loans: Energy Efficient Mortgages help homeowners finance home improvements that reduce energy use on the property. They can be used to purchase a home and improve it all at once or to improve a home you already own.
- HECMs: Home Equity Conversion Mortgages are more commonly known as reverse mortgages. They’re designed for homeowners over the age of 62, allowing them to turn their home’s equity into a form of income.
For existing homeowners who already have FHA loans, there is also the streamline refinance. This is a sped-up refinance option that requires little financial documentation. You also might not need a credit check for this type of loan.
Check Out: These States Help People With Student Loan Debt Buy A House
FHA loan limits for 2022
FHA limits increased at the beginning of 2022 and now range from $420,680 in low-cost regions to $970,800 in higher-cost areas.
In an affordable market like Harris County, Texas, for example, buyers can get an FHA loan up to the $420,680 limit — what FHA calls the “floor.” In a market that’s higher priced like Los Angeles, buyers can borrow up to the FHA’s “ceiling” — the $970,800 limit.
There are also different limits for borrowers purchasing two-unit, three-unit, and four-unit properties, maxing out at $1,867,275 (the highest amount allowed for four-unit properties in high costs areas).
Learn More: FHA Approved Condos: How to Find One
How to get an FHA loan
Not all mortgage lenders offer FHA loans, so the first step is to find one who does. Once you’ve done that, you’ll need to:
- Get pre-approved: The mortgage pre-approval process varies depending on the lender or platform you use, but typically involves filling out some basic information.
- Fill out the lender’s loan application and submit to a credit check: This process is a bit more detailed than a pre-approval. For example, you might need recent pay stub and bank statement information to fill out the application accurately.
- Provide financial documentation: This should include your recent pay stubs, W-2s, tax returns, bank account statements, and more. Your loan officer will tell you the exact documents you’ll need to provide.
- Wait for your property appraisal: This ensures your home is worth the amount of money you’re looking to borrow for it. The appraiser will also check to ensure the property meets FHA construction guidelines.
- Keep in touch with your loan officer: As your mortgage is processed and underwritten, your loan officer might need additional paperwork along the way, so keep in contact with your loan officer to ensure everything is in order.
- Attend your closing appointment: This includes paying your closing costs and down payment as well as getting your keys.
Learn More: How to Buy a House
FHA loans vs. conventional: Which one is best?
FHA loans are typically better-suited for lower-credit and first-time homebuyers, while conventional loans are a good fit for high-credit borrowers or real estate investors. Here’s a look at how the two types of mortgage loans compare:
FHA loans | Conventional loans | |
---|---|---|
Minimum credit score | 500 with 10% down 580 with 3.5% down | 620 |
Maximum debt-to-income ratio | 50% | 50% |
Down payment | 3.5% | 3.0% |
Single-family loan limit | $356,362 in most areas | $548,250 in most areas |
Mortgage insurance | MIP required regardless of down payment size | PMI required with less than 20% down |
Property types | Primary residence | Primary, secondary, or investment |
Read On: FHA vs. Conventional Loans: Which One’s Right for You?
The best type of home loan really depends on your budget, goals for the property, and your credit score. If you’re still not sure what loan is best suited for your home purchase, Credible can help you compare many mortgage options.