Have bad credit? Then here’s how you can still be approved for a home loan.
If you have bad credit, then getting approved for a home loan can be challenging. However, this does not mean it’s impossible. With FHA loans, borrowers can secure financing, even if their credit score is low. Here’s what you need to know about this bad credit home loan program.
What is an FHA Loan?
FHA loans were created by the Federal Housing Administration in 1934 as a way to increase homeownership across the U.S. FHA loans are government-backed, meaning that lenders can offer these types of loans without assuming risk. This means that lenders are safe to offer FHA loans to borrowers who would otherwise be considered too risky to approve.
FHA Loan Requirements
While traditional mortgage loans require borrowers to have a credit score of at least 640, FHA loans have much more lenient credit requirements. FHA loans are available to individuals with credit scores as low as 500. If your credit score is anywhere from 500-579, then you can secure a loan with a 10% down payment. Individuals with a credit score of 580 or above can secure an FHA loan with a 3.5% down payment.
Please note that you will have to prove compensating factors that make up for your low credit score. Common compensating factors include the following:
- Large down payment (10% down or more)
- Low debt-to-income ratio
- High income
- No outstanding debt
- Large amount of cash reserves
- Proof of significant amount of time with current employer
- Proof of ability to make comparable rent payments
This is what you need to know about FHA loans and how they are providing financing opportunities for individuals with bad credit. Are you looking to buy a home? If so, then it’s time to start shopping for homeowners insurance. For assistance with all your home coverage needs, contact the experts at The Schwab Agency in Colleyville, Texas, today.