Calculating FHA Downpayment

Be CarefulI’ve been in this business for a while… my daughter would tell you I’m old as dirt… and for as long as I’ve been in this, we’ve had a complicated way of calculating FHA Downpayment.

FHA always used acquisition cost.  How much were you putting into the total aquisition of the property… closing costs and downpayment combined.

With the new rule changes of January 1… we use a STRAIGHT UP number.  The base loan will be a 96.5% of the sales price or appraised value – whichever is LESS.  If you are working with a loan officer is is unfamiliar with FHA – you could find yourself at the closing table wishing you’d done a little more research. I just saw a deal where the loan officer quoted the wrong downpayment amount by $1200.

Do your research!  Work with someone who KNOWS the guidelines!  Call Steve Thorne 919-649-5058.  We offer FHA loans, and we can do the FHA Affordable Program too, which offers expanded guidelines for folks who have not been in the “Credit” Market for very long.  Perfect for those just getting out of college!  Did you know you can purchase a home using FHA as the mortgage with your parents?  Give us a call!

More Downpayment Needed for FHA

downpayment got higherThe New Housing Bill that Congress just passed in an effort to “save” Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (F/F) has some other features that homebuyers need to be aware of.

SAVE UP! For more than 10 years there have been agencies that helped with downpayment.  The downpayment was “gifted” through the agency – and it’s a bit complicated – but it meant that a homebuyer seeking FHA financing could get a 100% loan.  Well, that’s been eliminated with the New Housing Bill.

ALSO – and this is the important part – the downpayment requirements for FHA financing just went to 3.5% effective October 1, 2008.  There’s some question about how FHA is going to calculate that 3.5% – and as those details are available we’ll pass them on – but for the time being, assume that you will need 3.5%.

The seller can still pay your closing costs, and you are allowed to get a gift from a family member!  Now is a GREAT time to buy!  SO SAVE UP!

If you are interested in purchasing a home in Cary, or buying a home in Raleigh, please contact Steve and Eleanor Thorne with Corporate Investors Mortgage Group, a Mortgage Banker in Cary, NC  919-649-5058

FHA Raises Loan Limits

fha loans caryFHA just made buying a home in Cary (and the rest of the RTP) easier!

Let’s face it – not that many people have 10 to 30% to put down on a new home… FHA only requires 3.5% and they allow THAT to be a GIFT!

BEST OF ALL… FHA announced this week that they are increasing their allowable loan limits across the country!  FHA limit for Wake County is $295,000.  To find out about loan limits for surrounding areas check out:  FHA loan limits for Wake County, Durham County, Johnston County, Franklin County, Harnett County and Orange County.

FHA loans allow for gifts for downpayments, easier credit scoring requirements – and they will work with people who have part time jobs.

If you are in the market for a FHA mortgage in the Research Triangle, trust Steve and Eleanor Thorne at Corporate Investors Mortgage Group.  We have over 20 years of experience helping first time homebuyers make the best move!  Call us to get prequalified!  919-649-5058