It’s easy to understand why many people looking for a new home are turning to FHA-insured loan programs. Because FHA Loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration homebuyers have an easier time qualifying for a mortgage. Those who typically benefit most from an FHA loan are first-time home buyers and those who have less-than-perfect credit.
The links to the right are articles aimed at helping you better understand FHA loans. With this information, you can make a more informed decision on whether these government-insured loans are right for you and your family.
New Changes in FHA Loans
In response to the growing housing situation in the United States, the loan limits for FHA Loans have been temporarily raised. Depending on where you live you might find it even easier to qualify for a FHA loan.
As FHA Loan specialists we can help you understand any new changes to the FHA loan program. We’re here to create a customized solution that works best for you and your family. To learn more call us at 561-862-8880 or contact us via email by clicking here.
These materials are not from HUD or FHA and were not approved by HUD or a government agency.
How FHA Loans Work
At Atlantic Mortgage we want to help you understand how a FHA mortgage loan works. In all actuality the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) doesn’t loan any money, they insure it. This means that you’re considered to be a less risky borrower than someone who might not have the backing of the federal government. Our role is to make sure that you qualify for an FHA mortgage and structure our loan to reflect it.
The other pages in the FHA loan center can help you understand more about this unique program. Whether you are trying to determine if you qualify or if you are interested in finding out what kind of documentation you’ll need to ultimately get your loan, our site can provide you with the information you are seeking. Additionally, we’re more than happy to take your phone calls at 561-862-8880 .
An important resource for considering a FHA loan is the official Housing and Urban Development website. There you can find even more answers to questions and learn more about insuring your loan through the Federal Housing Administration.
These materials are not from HUD or FHA and were not approved by HUD or a government agency.
FHA Loan Benefits
FHA-insured mortgages are some of the best kinds of mortgages available. This is because they can help more people into the home-buying market. Check out the list below to understand some of the most basic benefits of an FHA mortgage.
Easier to Qualify for – because they’re backed by the federal government lenders are more likely to give you the kind of loan that you need.
Low Down Payment – FHA-insured mortgages only require a 3.5% down payment which makes it easier for people to own homes. Additionally, the 3.5% can come in the form of gifts, unlike many other loan programs.
Lower Credit Borrowers Qualify – because FHA-insured loans are backed by the government those with a poor credit history have an easier time getting this kind of loan.
Better Interest Rates – with the backing of the government these loans typically have a better interest rate than most traditional mortgage loans.
Better Home Stability – the FHA has programs designed to help homeowners keep their homes during hard times. They will work with you to help your home from falling into foreclosure. Always try to work out problems with your lender before the situation becomes dire.
These materials are not from HUD or FHA and were not approved by HUD or a government agency.
FHA Loan Checklist
When you’re applying for an FHA loan the following list of documents will help expedite the process. We can help you understand any part of the FHA loan process so don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions.
Employment Info
- Past two years completed tax returns.
- Past two years W-2’s, 1099’s, and any other necessary tax forms.
- One month’s worth of the newest pay stubs.
- Self-employed will need three years of tax returns and a YTD Profit & Loss Statement.
Savings Info
- Past three months’ full bank statements for all accounts.
- Any recent statements from investment accounts (retirement, 410k, mutual funds, etc.).
Personal Info
- Driver’s License or other official State identification.
- Social Security Card.
- Any Divorce, Palimony, Alimony Documents.
- Green card or work permit (if applicable).
These materials are not from HUD or FHA and were not approved by HUD or a government agency.
FHA Loan Common Questions
Check out our list of common questions related to FHA mortgages. Check out our list of common questions related to FHA mortgages.
What is the FHA?
- FHA stands for the Federal Housing Administration. It was created in 1934 to help Americans get into homes.
What makes a FHA-insured mortgage beneficial?
- An FHA-insured mortgage is easy to qualify for, can be obtained with less-than-perfect credit, costs less, and requires a smaller down payment.
Where can I find FHA forms and other literature?
- A great source for FHA forms and information is https://www.hud.gov/topics/buying_a_home.
What is the FHA loan limit in my area?
- The loan limit across the country is different. Click here to see limits in your area.
Can I pay an FHA loan early?
- Yes, however, be sure to check the pre-payment section of your contract before signing.
Can an FHA-insured loan help me lower energy costs?
- Yes, through the Energy Efficient Mortgages Program, you can finance 100 percent of the cost of making your home more energy efficient. Contact us to see how.
Is there a FHA program to help me refinance my loan?
- Yes, the recently created FHASecure is one of the ways that we can help you refinance your current home loan. Contact us now to see what we can do for you.
Can I refinance a fixed-rate FHA loan?
- Yes. Talk with one of our professionals today to see if refinancing makes sense for you.
What is the recommended debt-to-income ratio for FHA loans?
- The recommended debt-to-income ratio for a FHA loan is 30%.
Are FHA loans assumable?
- You can assume an existing FHA loan or allow a buyer to assume yours.
Will I have to pay mortgage insurance with an FHA loan?
- Yes, FHA mortgages often require you to carry mortgage insurance for longer than most conventional loans.
Can I get a “fixer-upper” of a home with a FHA mortgage?
- Yes, however, you might be required to fix certain problems in the home before you can get the full loan. Speak with us today for details on this.
These materials are not from HUD or FHA and were not approved by HUD or a government agency.
FHA Qualifications
Qualifying for a home mortgage loan can be difficult, near impossible without a sizable down payment and a moderate credit report. If this describes you and your financial position, an FHA loan may be for you! There are fewer restrictions for FHA loan qualification in comparison to a standard mortgage loan. Qualifications for an FHA loan are:
- Proven employment status of at least 2 years.
- Steady or increasing income over 2 years.
- History of on-time payment. No more than two missed payments on your credit.
- If you’ve filed for bankruptcy you must wait at least 2 years and have good credit since you filed.
- Those with foreclosures must wait at least 3 years since the most recent foreclosure.
- Monthly mortgage payments should be roughly 30% of your gross income.
- You must pay a minimum of a 3.5% down payment.
- Agree to 2.25% in closing costs
- Only certain properties are eligible – single-family homes, condominiums, double-wide manufactured homes, modular homes, and 2-4 unit properties.
- The property must be your primary residence.
These are the basic qualifications for an FHA loan through #COMPANY_NAME#, as you can see FHA loans can be to qualify for. To learn more contact us or apply online to get the process started.
These materials are not from HUD or FHA and were not approved by HUD or a government agency.
FHA Streamline Refinance
What Is An FHA Streamline Refinance?
If you already have an FHA mortgage then you might qualify for a FHA Streamline Refinance. An FHA Streamline Refinance is a great way for a borrower with an existing FHA-backed mortgage to reduce their interest rate, reduce their payment, or possibly both.
Here are some cool facts about an FHA Streamline Refinance:
- No Appraisal is Required – because your loan is already guaranteed by your existing FHA loan, the FHA will allow you to use your home’s original purchase price as your home’s current value.
- You can still refinance even if you are underwater – even if you owe more than your home is worth, you might still be able to get an FHA Streamline Refinance loan.
- There is no FHA prepayment penalty to worry about.
- FHA Streamline refinance rates are the same as “regular” FHA loan rates.
- Employment verification is not required with an FHA Streamline Refinance – in other words, no paystubs, W-2s, or tax returns are required for approval.
- Income verification is not required with an FHA Streamline Refinance
- Credit score verification is not required with an FHA Streamline Refinance – instead of checking your credit, your payment history is used to determine if you qualify or not. You must have no late payments in the last 90 days and only one or fewer late payments within the last 12 months.
The Refinance Must Have A “Purpose”
Streamline Refinance applicants must demonstrate that there’s a Net Tangible Benefit in the refinance or in other words a legitimate reason for refinancing. For Example:
- Refinancing from an Adjustable Rate Mortgage to a Fixed Rate Loan.
- or Reducing your principal + interest + mortgage insurance by 5 percent or more.
Your Loan Balance May Not Increase To Cover The New Loan Costs
The FHA prohibits increasing a Streamline Refinance’s loan balance to cover associated loan charges. The new loan balance may increase but only by the cost of the Upfront Mortgage Insurance Premium. All other costs — origination charges, title charges, escrow — must either be paid by the borrower as cash at closing, or credited by the loan officer in full.
These materials are not from HUD or FHA and were not approved by HUD or a government agency and in some cases, a refinance loan might result in higher finance charges over the life of the loan.
