Identify and Fix Credit Report Errors
Things to Do Before Applying for an FHA Loan
When the Federal Housing Administration announced rule changes to help strengthen finances and protect against risk, one of the biggest changes was requiring a minimum FICO score of 580 to qualify for the attractive 3.5 percent down payment on mortgage loans.
Know Your FICO Score
Applicants who fall below the 580 score will have to put down a 10 percent down payment in order to qualify for an FHA mortgage loan. For many applicants hovering just below that threshold, this policy change may serve as a great opportunity to take close look at their credit report and improve it.
The FICO score is actually comprised of your credit scores from the three national credit bureaus--Experian, TransUnion and Equifax. If your FICO score is just below the FHA limit, you should take the proper steps to check your credit report with the three agencies.
How to Check Your Credit Report
There are many ways people can check their credit scores. There are many online resources for people wishing to identify where they stand with lenders. Once you've gotten your report from the three bureaus, carefully examine your credit history for anything out of the ordinary, such as unauthorized loans taken out in your name, incorrect late payment records or anything that seems questionable, no matter how minor you think it is.
While your credit reports and credit score are what lenders use to judge your reliability in paying back loans, errors in your reports can happen. Make sure they aren't hindering you and your life's plans.
Correct Errors as Soon as Possible
The longer you wait to correct your credit history, the more potential damage errors can do. Prevention is key, so if you don't use a credit monitoring service, you should consider one. If you do find any errors, send a letter to the bureau that reported it and clarify with them why you think it is incorrect. Be sure to provide proof and any other documentation that will help your claim.
If you're already in the process of applying for an FHA loan, notify your lender of your dispute with your credit report as well because your credit score indicates your creditworthiness. It never makes sense to suffer at disadvantages that were the result of something you didn't do.
Helpful Advice - Credit Scores and Loans
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FHA Loan Articles and Mortgage News
August 15, 2019 - Do you really have to make a 20% down payment to get into a home loan? Not with an FHA mortgage. FHA loan program down payment minimums are 3.5% for borrowers with FICO scores at 580 or better. So why do people assume 20% down is required to buy a home?
August 11, 2019 - Some borrowers don’t fully understand the home loan process, which can lead to disastrous results if you don’t understand the lender’s approach to credit checks and other loan underwriting procedures.
August 5, 2019 - If you have monthly financial responsibilities that include paying alimony or child support, there are FHA loan rules your lender will use to determine how such payments affect your debt ratio. How do these factors affect an FHA home loan approval?
August 3, 2019 - What does it take to get approval for an FHA mortgage? Your lender will review many things associated with your mortgage loan application, but there are three main areas you should consider at least a year ahead of your home loan application.
July 30, 2019 - Buying a home for the first time? You will get plenty of advice-some you want, and some you don’t. What should you do once you have prepared in advance by working on your credit, pulling your credit reports, and saving up for the down payment and closing costs?
FHA.com Reviews
FHA.com is a one-stop resource for homebuyers who want to make the best decisions when it comes to their mortgage. With our detailed, mobile-friendly site, individuals can access information about different FHA products, the latest loan limits, and numerous other resources to make their homebuying experience easier. Take a look at some of the reviews from other FHA.com visitors!
