Aspects to Consider Prior to Applying for Federal Housing Administration Loan

If you want a home loan, you can get one via the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loan. Nonetheless, in case you’ve got a different option it’s better to go for it as FHA loans aren’t the best option. If you make a mistake while applying for the loan it can cost you a lot. It is therefore crucial to have in mind what the loan entails before getting one. Here are some of the aspects you need to know about FHA loans before signing up for one.

FHA loans are valuable because they offer a more comfortable borrowing criteria and smaller down payment conditions which can be as low as 3. 5%. The problem to this type of loan is that if you’ve got a good credit score and substantial down payment, then you’re likely to pay more interest and fees on the loan compared to other conventional loans. However, FHA loans can be the best option if your credit score is below 600. To determine whether you are qualified to apply for the loan, you can use an FHA affordability calculator for calculating your credit score. On the other hand, VA loan can be a better option than the FHA loan as the loan offers better terms for veterans who want to buy a house regardless of their credit score. Also the USDA loan can be a better choice for people who want to purchase rural properties or live in a farm.

Another downside to FHA loan is that their use is limited. The loan is purposely for buying primary residence. The loan does not cover the purchase of rental properties, vacation homes, or cottages. If you purchase such properties under the guise of your permanent residence and you are discovered, you’ll be highly penalized. The standard maximum amount of FHA loan allowed is $625, 000 as of 2016 although the calculation will factor in the region where the home is found up to 115% of median home price in such an area.

Another limitation of FHA loan is that it can only be used to purchase a livable house. This means you can’t use the loan to purchase a condemned house with the expectations of fixing it. FHA loan doesn’t finance the purchase of homes that doesn’t meet its safety, security and livability standards. However, FHA 203(k) Rehab Mortgage can permit you to get property which needs repairs but you must hire a general contractor to do the repairs instead of doing it yourself.

House flipping is not allowed as per FHA mortgage rules. You’re also required to move into the house within 60 days after closing the purchase. Financing a home via FHA loan and then renting it out is categorized as bank fraud and is punishable as per FHA rules.