FHA Loan Tips for Improving Credit
Track Your Credit Score and Stay on Top of Problems
While FHA loans are known as a great service for people looking for help buying a house, applicants can make the process even easier if they take steps toward ensuring their credit history is in tip-top shape. The agency advises prospective homebuyers to approach FHA loans with their best possible credit history to eliminate any potential risk of not qualifying.
Whether you're looking for a loan to mortgage a new house or to refinance a house you already own, it makes the most sense open up all your options with an optimal credit rating. The FHA recommends having a satisfactory payment history of at least one year before applying for a loan.
Credit Tips for Your FHA Loan
Here are some tips to help you on your way:
- Take a Close Look at Your Credit Reports
You don't know what could be hurting your credit score unless you actually check. Get your credit reports from the three national credit bureaus--Experian, Equifax and TransUnion--at no cost and comb them over for anything suspicious or questionable. - Dispute Inaccuracies
If you find errors on your credit report, notify the reporting bureau in writing so you have a record. Provide any additional records or evidence you have to support your dispute. - Find Professional Help
The FHA recommends applicants with credit problems get help from a Consumer Credit Counseling program. A credit counselor can help you get back on track. - Bankruptcy / Foreclosure
If you've suffered from a bankruptcy or foreclosure in the past few years, you might still be able to qualify for an FHA loan. Develop a satisfactory payment history, re-establish good credit and meet the other FHA requirements.
While your credit history is just one of the many factors that make up your eligibility for an FHA loan, it is no doubt one of the most important. Having a higher score not only helps you qualify, you can also benefit from the low 3.5 percent down payment on mortgage loans available to applicants with a FICO score over 580. FHA approved lenders don't take your credit history lightly, and neither should you.
Credit Scores for FHA Loans
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FHA Loan Articles and Mortgage News
November 27, 2023 - Major career changes may make your lender reconsider your loan application until you have had enough time in the new job to prove your new income is likely to continue. Your lender typically needs at least 24 months as a self-employed person, freelancer, or new contact employee.
November 21, 2023 - The lowest down payment possible for an FHA mortgage is 3.5% of the price of the home. But how much should you aim for when setting your budget to save up for that down payment?
The short answer is no. But why?
November 15, 2023 - What credit score do you need to buy a home? The answer might seem simple enough, but it can change depending on the type of home loan you seek and the options you want. You may have difficulty getting lender approval for a purchase loan with a FICO score below 580.
November 13, 2023 - The FHA and HUD feel these alterations will improve the valuation of these homes for borrowers seeking FHA-insured mortgages. These changes also contribute to FHA’s efforts to increase the availability and affordability of manufactured housing.
November 7, 2023 - What can borrowers do to fight the cost of higher mortgage loan interest rates on the way to buying a home? In addition to down payment assistance, an adjustable rate mortgage, or lender help with closing costs, there’s another option.
