FHA Requirements
Debt-to-Income Ratio Guidelines
In order to prevent homebuyers from getting into a home they cannot afford, FHA requirements and guidelines have been set in place requiring borrowers and/or their spouse to qualify according to set debt to income ratios. These ratios are used to calculate whether or not the potential borrower is in a financial position that would allow them to meet the demands that are often included in owning a home.
The two ratios are as follows:
1) Mortgage Payment Expense to Effective Income
Add up the total mortgage payment (principal and interest, escrow deposits for taxes, hazard insurance, mortgage insurance premium, homeowners' dues, etc.). Then, take that amount and divide it by the gross monthly income. The maximum ratio to qualify is 31%.
See the following example:
2) Total Fixed Payment to Effective Income
Add up the total mortgage payment (principal and interest, escrow deposits for taxes, hazard insurance, mortgage insurance premium, homeowners' dues, etc.) and all recurring monthly revolving and installment debt (car loans, personal loans, student loans, credit cards, etc.). Then, take that amount and divide it by the gross monthly income. The maximum ratio to qualify is 43%.
See the following example:
Please note that the above indicators do not exclusively determine whether or not a candidate will qualify for an FHA loan. Other factors will be considered, including credit history and job stability.
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FHA Loan Articles and Mortgage News
November 9, 2018 - While using your existing lender may be easier, you may not always get the most competitive rates or terms without shopping around. Any participating FHA lender offering the refinance loan you seek can help you; don’t feel limited to the financial institution that originated your first loan.
November 8, 2018 - There are important things to consider before you start discussing your needs with a participating FHA lender, and coming into this mortgage loan process fully prepared will definitely save you a great deal of time.
November 7, 2018 - The prospect of making a down payment on a mortgage loan can be daunting for some first-time home buyers. But there are ways to make your FHA home loan down payment more affordable. Start by working on your financial qualifications or looking for local down payment assistance programs.
November 4, 2018 - FHA One-Time Close construction loans are an important option to consider for those looking for a home in Texas. That market is an excellent place to consider building a home from the ground up with a One-Time Close (OTC) mortgage.
November 3, 2018 - There are five basic facts you need to know about the closing costs associated with your FHA home loan. Knowing these facts can help you better plan your home loan budget, save up money for the costs you don’t wish to finance, etc.
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!
