The Housing Action Resource Trust
Loan Assistance Programs Canceled in 2008
Elimination of Non Profit Down Payment Assistance: On July 30, 2008, President Bush signed the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 which prohibits seller-funded DPA (Down Payment Assistance) for loans backed by the Federal Housing Administration. Prior to this bill, the seller could contribute up to 6% to the buyer to cover either a down payment or closing costs on an FHA loan. The changes took effect on Oct. 1, 2008. We provide this information for reference only. These grants are no longer available.
NEW: Down Payment Assistance Programs for 2018
The Housing Action Resource Trust or HART program is a non-profit housing organization offering help to home buyers who qualify for FHA "first mortgage" loans. A first mortgage does not mean "first-time home buyers only," but rather those who are getting the initial mortgage and not applying for a second mortgage or home equity loan.
Those who have pre-approval for an FHA loan or have an approved FHA loan qualify for HART. This program is aimed at those who have the right credit and employment to qualify for an FHA loan but lack the money for a down payment and/or closing costs. To use the Housing Action Resource Trust:
- Get an FHA-approved loan or pre-approval on an FHA loan.
- Find a house and make an offer.
- Tell your realtor you want to buy the home using the Housing Action Resource Trust program
- Contact your loan officer, who applies to the HART program on your behalf.
As with other down payment assistance programs, the seller must agree to participate in the HART program. Your loan officer will let you know when funds are scheduled to be transferred in your name for the down payment and/or closing costs.
If your seller has not signed up for the HART program but is willing to participate, ask your loan officer and/or realtor for details on how the seller may register with the House Action Resource Trust.
Down payment assistance programs generally require the seller to pay a fee to participate. This fee is considered a payment for services rendered and not a tax-deductible charitable contribution.
Since this program is no longer available, we recommend that you get pre-approved for a low down payment FHA home loan.
Discontinued Down Payment Grant Programs:
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FHA Loan Articles and Mortgage News
August 9, 2018 - FHA home loans feature a minimum required investment, also known as a down payment, of 3.5% of the adjusted value of the home. This down payment is required for new purchase FHA mortgages. The FHA home loan origination fee is another expense charged to the borrower.
August 6, 2018 - Why should borrowers consider an FHA mortgage over a conventional loan? There are many reasons why-some are situational, others may come down to how much the house hunter wants to budget for a down payment.
August 4, 2018 - The first thing to think about before you start getting ready to apply for an FHA mortgage to refinance and remodel is how old your current mortgage loan is. The longer you have been making payments, the more buying power you might have with a new loan.
August 3, 2018 - The home inspection on the property you buy with your FHA mortgage is something you the borrower must arrange and pay for. It covers the roof, the basement, crawl space, the mechanical systems of the home, foundation, and much more.
August 1, 2018 - Borrowers who want FHA condo loans, or who buy homes in neighborhoods that have homeowner associations may be required to sign agreements for maintenance of common areas, agreements not to radically alter the exterior aesthetics of the home, or other covenants.
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!
