- available in AL, CA, CO, CT, FL, GA, IL, MA, MD, MI, MN, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, SC, TX, VA, WA
- Simple application
- Quick decisions
- Common sense underwriting
- Fast closing period
Buying a home is a big step that requires commitment and capital. However, coming up with the down payment can be difficult. Many of us don’t have tens of thousands of dollars available for a 20% down payment.
The good news is that there are government programs designed to help you get into a home with a smaller down payment. Government-backed programs from the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) and the Veterans Administration (VA) can allow you to accomplish your dream of homeownership without a huge down payment.
- Available in NJ, PA, MD, VA, WV, FL
- Partnered with the largest wholesaler in the country that is an Information Technology driven organization.
- Loan approvals in 7 days, Money is wired for closings first thing in the morning to avoid delays.
- Programs for every scenario.
- We save money using brokers and we pass that savings onto you.
- Lend in all 50 states
- Veteran lending specialist available to you, no matter where you are
- In-house processing and underwriting
- Express Loan Approval program, which allows you to be done with the whole process (minus the contract and appraisal), so you can focus on finding your home.
- Rate Protect (Lock & Shop) lock in your rate before you even find a home!
How VA Loans and FHA Mortgage Loans are Similar
First of all, the government doesn’t make these mortgage loans. The loans are made by participating banks, and the government backs them. These loans come with:
- Relaxed qualifying standards, so it’s easier to get these loans even without perfect credit.
- Flexibility for closing costs and concessions can be paid by the seller. Concessions are up to 3% for FHA and up to 4% for VA.
- You are required to occupy the home as a primary residence when you take advantage of these loan programs.
Additionally, you might find that you qualify for mortgage rates similar to market rates. It’s important, no matter how you proceed, to make sure that you shop around and compare mortgage rates so that you know you are getting the best deal.
There are some differences, however. As you compare VA and FHA mortgage loans, pay attention to these differences so that you know what you qualify for — and what will be best for you.
What to Expect from VA Loans
In general, VA loans can potentially offer a better deal than FHA mortgage loans. However, to take advantage of a VA loan, you have to meet the requirements of being a veteran or meet other criteria (such as being the spouse of a deceased veteran).
With a VA loan, you might not need to even put money down at all. Some lenders will give you a 0% down home loan through the VA program. On top of that, you don’t have to pay a monthly private mortgage insurance premium.
You do have to pay an upfront funding fee that amounts to between 0.5% and 3.3%. This can be a little more expensive than the upfront premium that comes with the FHA loan. However, the other advantages to a VA loan can make it a desirable option for many homebuyers that qualify.
FHA Home Mortgages
Because you don’t need military service to qualify, it can be easier to get the FHA loan in some cases. The minimum down payment you need is 3.5%. However, if your credit score is below 580, you need to make a down payment of at least 10%.
Even though this can be difficult in some cases, the reality is that many conventional lenders won’t even consider you for a mortgage if your credit score is below 620. The advantage to turning to a government-sponsored program is that your credit isn’t going to be as big an impediment.
The downside to FHA mortgage loans is that you have to pay monthly mortgage premiums. On top of that, there is an upfront funding fee of 1.75%. In some cases, you can get a lower funding payment, but you have to meet additional requirements.
Decide Which Mortgage is Right for You
Do your homework to make sure you choose the right mortgage for you. It’s vital to do your homework. Check your eligibility for different programs, and compare VA and FHA loans to the possibility of conventional mortgages. A good mortgage broker can help you compare available programs and figure out what you qualify for — and what will be the best deal for you.
Our advise is based on experience in the mortgage industry and we are dedicated to helping you achieve your goal of owning a home. We may receive compensation from partner banks when you view mortgage rates listed on our website.
