Florida is a popular destination for people looking to buy their first home. With the strong economy, many are interested in getting an FHA loan.

Here, we will discuss what a FHA loan is, how to get one, and the FHA loan in Florida requirements.

What is a FHA Loan and how does it work?

According to the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), a FHA Loan is a popular type of government insured mortgage that can help credit-qualified borrowers achieve homeownership sooner and at lower upfront costs than with conventional mortgages. The FHA insures loans for properties that meet its criteria, which means it helps reduce lender risk and allows for more flexible lending requirements. FHA-approved condominiums are an excellent option for homebuyers looking for affordable housing options. FHA condo approval signifies that a condominium community meets certain financial and operational standards, making it eligible for FHA financing. This can be beneficial for homebuyers who may not have a large down payment or who are looking for a more affordable home in a desirable location.

FHA Loans are designed for homeownership rather than as investments, which means the FHA imposes affordability and credit guidelines that vary according to household income, other debt obligations and other factors. FHA loans typically feature lower minimum down payments – 3.5% of the purchase price- lower upfront lender fees and require no private mortgage insurance (PMI).

FHA loans are available nationwide, and in most U.S. counties. However, borrowers can only use FHA Loans to purchase single-family homes, townhouses and condominiums; they cannot be used on two to four unit properties.

Who is eligible for a FHA Loan?

FHA home loans are available to both first-time and repeat buyers, in most cases with a credit score of 580 and above. Lenders may finance the borrower’s debt, such as unpaid taxes or homeowner’s association dues, but only if the agency agrees it is reasonable for the buyer to assume responsibility for these costs. Borrowers must be able to make a minimum down payment of 3.5 percent of the purchase price.

How to apply for a FHA Loan in Florida

You can apply for an FHA loan in Florida at any time. It is best to apply when you find a home that you are interested in purchasing so your lender can determine if you qualify for an FHA Loan. Your real estate agent can help guide you through the process.

You can apply for an FHA loan either through a bank or mortgage lender, or directly through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

What are the basic mortgage lending guidelines in Florida?

Borrower’s eligibility is determined by meeting basic mortgage lending guidelines. Borrowers must earn enough income to cover their monthly debts, plus an additional 20 percent. Borrowers must have a minimum FICO score of 580 to qualify for an FHA Loan, and the lower the credit score, the higher down payment required.

The lender will also look at your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio – which is determined by dividing borrower’s total monthly debts by their monthly income – and is limited to a maximum of 43 percent.

The benefits of getting a FHA Loan in Florida

FHA loans offer many of the same benefits as conventional mortgages, such as lower down payments, more flexible credit requirements and competitive interest rates. FHA borrowers can include closing costs in their monthly mortgage payments or add them to the loan amount, unlike with some conventional loans where a lump sum of cash is needed at closing.

Many buyers use an FHA loan to purchase a home with as little as 3.5 percent down, and could be saving for months or years to meet the traditional 20 percent down payment.

FHA loan benefits include:

• Lower closing costs compared to conventional loans
• No pre-payment penalty fees if you decide to pay off your loan before the term is over
• No holding period for lower rates if your initial rate adjusts after three years
• Ability to make monthly payments that are based on your income
• Lower down payment (3.5%) compared to conventional mortgages (20%)

5. What are the down payment requirements for a FHA Loan in Florida?

The amount of money you need up front to secure an FHA loan in Florida depends on the purchase price of the home. Here is a list of minimum down payment requirements for various loan amounts:

$70,001 – $105,000 = 3.5% of the first $70,000 and 5% of anything over $70,000 (minimum: $3,500)

$105,001 – $145,000 = 3.5% of the first $100,000 and 5% of anything over $105,000 (minimum: $7,000)

$145,001 – $175,000 = 3.5% of the first $145,000 and 5% of anything over $145,000 (minimum: $10,500)

$175,001 – $205,000 = 3.5% of the first $175,000 and 5% of anything over $175,000 (minimum: $13,500)

$205,001 – $240,000 = 3.5% of the first $205,000 and 5% of anything over $205,000 (minimum: $17,000)

Is an FHA Loan right for me?

If you are a first-time homebuyer, your credit score is below 580, or your debt-to-income ratio exceeds 43 percent, an FHA loan may be right for you.

Visit OMV Financial for more information about FHA loans in Florida. You are more than free to shop around for various loans and this is an opportunity that you should take advantage of, like Space Coast Credit Union hero loans.

Thanks for reading!