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
June 8, 2018 - Is an FHA manufactured home loan right for you? That is a question well worth asking, especially for those concerned that such loans may not be available in certain housing markets. Supply and demand plays an important role in how some lenders approach certain types of FHA loan transactions.
June 6, 2018 - How many FHA loan options to build or buy are out there for those who need a new home? The number and type of options may surprise you. FHA home loans can be used to buy condo units, mobile/manufactured homes, existing construction properties and also new construction.
June 5, 2018 - Regarding luxury items and features in a home, the first and most basic issue is the existence of the pool, barbecue pit, or other similar upgrades. FHA loan rules do not forbid the purchase of a home with these features, but they must meet FHA standards where applicable.
June 2, 2018 - Closing cost guidelines come into play regarding what expenses are considered part of the borrower’s required cash to close. Closing costs can include a lender’s origination fees, pre-paid items such as per diem interest, and discount points where applicable.
May 30, 2018 - What are the FHA loan rules for 203(h) mortgages for disaster victims? HUD 4000.1, the FHA Loan Handbook, has the basic rules and requirements for these loans which are made available to those recovering in federally-declared disaster areas.
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!
