How to Qualify for an FHA or USDA Home Loan
How to Qualify for an FHA or USDA Home Loan
Is an FHA or USDA Home Loan Right for You?
Choosing the right home loan can be overwhelming. But, if you qualify for a Federal Housing Administration (FHA) or United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) loan, it may be your best option. Let's take a look at how to qualify for these loans and if they're really the best choice!
Firstly, the qualifications for an FHA loan are relatively lenient. Generally speaking, you must have a minimum credit score of 580 with a 3.5% down payment. However, even if your score is lower than that - as low as 500 - you may still qualify with a 10% down payment. Additionally, closing costs tend to be lower with an FHA loan compared to other types of mortgages.
Furthermore, qualifying for a USDA loan requires a bit more work on your part but can be worth it in the end. To start off with, applicants must have an income that does not exceed 115% of the median income in their area and have no other access to affordable housing credit. Also, applicants are required to show proof of employment as well as meet certain debt-to-income requirements and attend homeownership counseling prior to closing on the loan. Luckily though, USDA loans offer 100% financing so there's no need to worry about coming up with a hefty down payment!
In conclusion, while both types of loans come with their own set of requirements and benefits - such as those outlined above - deciding which one is right for you largely boils down to your individual financial situation and goals. So do some research and weigh out all your options! That way you can make sure you get the best possible home loan that works for YOU!