FHA Requirements
Credit Guidelines That FHA Lenders Follow
Before approving a loan, the lender analyzes the integrity of the borrower's past credit performance. Based on FHA requirements, those who have a good credit history demonstrated by a solid track record of timely payments will likely be eligible for a loan. Potential borrowers whose credit history is marred by slow payments, poor financial judgment and delinquent accounts is not a good candidate for loan approval.
The following is a list of items concerning the borrower's credit:
No Credit History
Two lines of credit are necessary to apply for an FHA loan. However, in the event a borrower does not have sufficient credit on their credit report the FHA will allow substitute forms.
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
FHA will consider approving a borrower who is still paying on a Chapter 13 Bankruptcy if those payments have been satisfactorily made and verified for a period of one year. The court trustee's written approval will also be needed in order to proceed with the loan. The borrower will have to give a full explanation of the bankruptcy with the loan application and must also have re-established good credit, qualify financially and have good job stability.
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
At least two years must have elapsed since the discharge date of the borrower and / or spouse's Chapter 7 Bankruptcy, according to FHA guidelines. This is not to be confused with the bankruptcy filing date. A full explanation will be required with the loan application. In order to qualify for an FHA loan, the borrower must qualify financially, have re-established good credit, and have a stable job.
Late Payments
During an underwriter analysis of borrower credit, the overall pattern of credit behavior is being reviewed rather than isolated cases of slow payments. If a good payment pattern has been maintained, regardless of a specific period of financial difficulty preceded it, the borrower may escape disqualification.
Foreclosure
FHA insured mortgages are generally not available to borrowers whose property was foreclosed on or given a deed-in-lieu of foreclosure within the previous three years. However, if the foreclosure of the borrower's main residence was the result of extenuating circumstances, an exception may be granted if they have since established good credit. This does not include the inability to sell a home when transferring from one area to another.
Collections, Judgments, and Federal Debts
A collection is minor in nature usually does not need to be paid off as a condition for loan approval. It is stated as such in FHA guidelines. Any judgments will have to be paid in full prior to closing. Borrowers who are delinquent on any federal debt, such as tax liens, student loans, etc., are not eligible.
FHA Loan Requirements
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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.
