Archive for the ‘FHA Home Loans’ Category

FHA Mortgage Loans

Friday, March 7th, 2008

Mortgage Insurance
FHA insured loans require mortgage insurance to protect lenders against losses that result from defaults on home mortgages.

FHA Lending Limits
FHA mortgage lending limits vary based on a variety of housing types and the state and county in which the property is located.

Loan Checklist
Before you start the loan process, you’ll want to be prepared for the loan application. Have your information organized and ready for your loan officer. Be prepared to pay for property appraisal and a credit report.

Closing Costs
While FHA defines which closing costs are allowable as charges to the borrower, the specific costs and amounts that are deemed reasonable and customary are determined by each local FHA office.

Debt to Income Ratios
In order to prevent homebuyers from getting into a home they cannot afford, FHA guidelines have been set in place requiring borrowers and/or their spouse to qualify according to set debt to income ratios.

Credit Issues
An FHA loan applicant’s past credit performance that demonstrates good credit history and a solid track record of timely payments will likely be eligible for the mortgage.

FHA Loan Types

Friday, March 7th, 2008

Adjustable Rate Mortgages - Section 251
The FHA adjustable rate mortgage is a HUD mortgage specifically designed for low and moderate-income families who are trying to make the transition into home ownership.

Fixed Rate Mortgages - Section 203(b)
An FHA loan benefits those who would like to purchase a home but haven’t been able to put money away for the purchase, like recent college graduates, newlyweds, or people who are still trying to complete their education.

Energy Efficient Mortgages
The Energy Efficient Mortgage program (EEM) helps current or potential homeowners significantly lower their monthly utility bills. It allows them to incorporate the cost of energy efficient improvements into their new FHA home loan or FHA refinancing loan.

Graduated Payment Mortgages - Section 245
Graduated Payment Mortgages are FHA loans for homebuyers who currently have low to moderate incomes but expect them to increase substantially over the next 5 to 10 years.

Mortgages for Condominium Units - Section 234(c)
FHA Condominium Loans are specifically designed toward those who purchase housing units in a condominium building.

Growing Equity Mortgages - Section 245(a)
FHA Section 245(a) allows those who currently have a limited income, but expect that their monthly earnings will increase, to purchase a home with the help of a Growing Equity Mortgage in which payments start small and increase gradually over time.