Homebuyers have plenty of options for funding the purchase of their new home. One of the more popular options is FHA loans, which were created to make homeownership more accessible and affordable for most Americans.
What is an FHA Loan?
The Federal Housing Administration has been helping Americans secure housing since 1934. This commitment to affordable homeownership lives to this day through the FHA home loan program, which plays an indispensable role in the country’s economy. Despite the name, the Federal Housing Administration guarantees FHA loans. Private lenders issue FHA loans, but the government’s insurance against defaults allows them to finance homes for buyers.
FHA Loan Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for an FHA loan in Texas, you must fulfill the following requirements:
- Credit Rating
Individuals with a credit score of at least 580 can get an FHA loan with a 3.5% down payment. You may qualify for an FHA loan even with a credit score as low as 500, but you’ll have to make a 10% down payment.
- Down Payment –
Lenders generally follow the down payment rate set by the FHA, but some may be more flexible and accept a 3% down payment from borrowers with excellent credit scores.
- Bankruptcy –
You may qualify for an FHA loan even with a history of bankruptcy for as long as the waiting period has passed. You may apply and get approved for FHA loans two years after your debts were discharged through a Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
- Additional Requirements for FHA Loans –
FHA loans have no income restrictions, but borrowers must demonstrate their capacity to make monthly payments based on their debt-to-income ratio. Local house prices may also influence the funding a lender is ready to provide.
Should You Get an FHA Loan?
FHA loans come with significant benefits for homebuyers. They are:
- Easier to qualify for.
- Lower down payment.
- Lower credit score requirement.
- Better interest rates.
Unlike conventional loans, where homebuyers don’t need to pay mortgage insurance if they put down 20% or more of the home’s purchase price, FHA mortgages come with two types of mortgage insurance that you may have to pay for the life of the loan. Still, the FHA loan might be the loan for you if you’re looking for a mortgage accessible to lower-income households and people with not-so-ideal credit scores. FHA loans can benefit first-time homebuyers who don’t have much saved for a down payment or are still working on improving their credit ratings, but they are not exclusive to a specific demographic. Anybody can get an FHA loan as long as they meet the qualifications.
Apply for an FHA Loan in Texas with Capital Home Mortgage
With interest rates hovering near all-time lows, now is an excellent time to buy a home. Financing is possible with the FHA loan regardless of your credit history or income. The FHA loan specialists at Capital Home Mortgage can answer any questions about the program and help you determine whether or not an FHA loan is the most suitable choice. For more information about FHA loans, call us at 800-960-4565.