As the real estate market continues to improve and current market conditions give buyers a greater advantage, many of those who had previously been wary or downright nervous about buying new homes in Birmingham are starting to look to the near future. Average home prices in Birmingham are on the rise once again and the outlook for 2011 is positive as we close out the 4rth Quarter. First-time home buyers are are seeking out responsible financial options to take advantage of the current market. One such option is an FHA loan (Federal Housing Administration).
To assist home buyers, the US Department of Housing and Urban Development has put together a checklist entitled "100 Questions & Answers About Buying A New Home." Below is a snippet of this checklist which answers some questions home buyers may have about FHA loans.
WHAT IS THE FHA?
Now an agency within HUD, the Federal Housing Administration was established in 1934 to advance opportunities for Americans to own homes. By providing private lenders with mortgage insurance, the FHA gives them the security they need to lend to first-time buyers who might not be able to qualify for conventional loans. The FHA has helped more than 26 million Americans buy a home.
HOW CAN THE FHA ASSIST ME IN BUYING A HOME?
The FHA works to make homeownership a possibility for more Americans. With the FHA, you don't need perfect credit or a high-paying job to qualify for a loan. The FHA also makes loans more accessible by requiring smaller down payments than conventional loans. In fact, an FHA down payment could be as little as a few months rent. And your monthly payments may not be much more than rent.
HOW IS THE FHA FUNDED?
Lender claims paid by the FHA mortgage insurance program are drawn from the Mutual Mortgage Insurance fund. This fund is made up of premiums paid by FHA-insured loan borrowers. No tax dollars are used to fund the program.
WHO CAN QUALIFY FOR FHA LOANS
anyone who meets the credit requirements, can afford the mortgage payments and cash investment, and who plans to use the mortgaged property as a primary residence may apply for an FHA-insured loan.
WHAT IS THE FHA LOAN LIMIT?
FHA loan limits vary throughout the country, from $115,200 in low-cost areas to $208,800 in high-cost areas. The loan maximums for multi-unit homes are higher than those for single units and also vary by area.
Because these maximums are linked to the conforming loan limit and average area home prices, FHA loan limits are periodically subject to change. Ask your lender for details and confirmation of current limits.
WHAT ARE THE STEPS INVOLVED IN THE FHA LOAN PROCESS?
With the exception of a few additional forms, the FHA loan application process is similar to that of a conventional loan (see Question 47). With new automation measures, FHA loans may be originated more quickly than before. And, if you don't prefer a face-to-face meeting, you can apply for an FHA loan via mail, telephone, the Internet, or video conference.
HOW MUCH INCOME DO I NEED TO HAVE TO QUALIFY FOR AN FHA LOAN?
There is no minimum income requirement. But you must prove steady income for at least three years, and demonstrate that you've consistently paid your bills on time.
HOW LARGE A DOWN PAYMENT DO I NEED WITH AN FHA LOAN?
You must have a down payment of at least 3% of the purchase price of the home. Most affordable loan programs offered by private lenders require between a 3%-5% down payment, with a minimum of 3% coming directly from the borrower's own funds.
WHAT TYPES OF CLOSING COSTS ARE ASSOCIATED WITH FHA-INSURED LOANS?
Except for the addition of an FHA mortgage insurance premium, FHA closing costs are similar to those of a conventional loan outlined in Question 63. The FHA requires a single, upfront mortgage insurance premium equal to 2.25% of the mortgage to be paid at closing (or 1.75% if you complete the HELP program- see Question 91). This initial premium may be partially refunded if the loan is paid in full during the first seven years of the loan term. After closing, you will then be responsible for an annual premium – paid monthly – if your mortgage is over 15 years or if you have a 15-year loan with an LTV greater than 90%.
For many other great home buying questions and answers and to read the full original article, visit
http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/sfh/buying/buyhm.cfm#How