Texas is a beautiful, vast, and diverse region with a thriving housing market. From the vibrant and lively cities of Houston and Dallas to the wide-open spaces of West Texas, there is something for everyone in the famous Lone Star State. Furthermore, the Federal Housing Administration (or FHA) offers diverse home loans with more flexible qualification requirements for those who may not have a large down payment or a high credit score.
Many new residents seek an FHA loan Texas to settle down, raise a family, or retire because of its diverse economy and culture. It is home to major industries such as oil and gas, technology, and agriculture. Also, the state has an intriguing and rich history and is renowned for its unique traditions, including rodeos, Tex-Mex cuisine, and country music.
So, new residents can refer to the following points to determine if they qualify for a home loan and quickly apply for one to purchase their dream house.
Credit Score and Down Payment
A chief requirement for such programs in Texas is having a minimum credit score of 580, but some local lenders may require a higher credit score, typically around 620. Subsequently, if a borrower meets the credit score requirement, they may still be denied if they have a history of bankruptcy, foreclosure, or other adverse credit events.
Down payments in Texas home loans are relatively low compared to conventional programs, with a minimum requirement of 3.5% of the home’s purchase price. For example, for a $200,000 home, Texans must have a minimum down payment of $7,000. However, if their credit score is below 580, they may be required to pay 10% of the purchase price.
Income Requirements and Property Criteria
Texas borrowers must have a debt-to-income ratio (DTI) of no more than 43%. This means the total debt payments (including the mortgage) cannot exceed 43% of their monthly income. Lenders may also require potential homebuyers to have a minimum income, typically around $40,000 annually.
Also, the property being purchased with such programs must meet specific requirements in Texas. For instance, it must be the borrower’s primary residence and meet safety and livability standards. An FHA-approved appraiser must also appraise it to meet the agency’s minimum property standards.
Mortgage Insurance and Closing Costs
A unique feature of Texas FHA loans is that they require mortgage insurance, which protects the lender in case the borrower defaults. The mortgage insurance premium (MIP) for a program varies depending on the down payment size and the mortgage length. For most variants, the MIP is paid upfront and then every month.
Also, like any other mortgage, these loans in Texas come with closing costs and fees, which include appraisal fees, title insurance, and loan origination fees. Texans typically expect to pay between 2% and 5% of the house’s purchase price toward these expenses.
A Mortgage Originator Can Help
Working with a reliable loan originator who can guide you through the process and help you understand your options is imperative when considering an FHA loan in Texas. So, seek a professional with unmatched experience working with these state programs and a solid reputation in the industry.
You can also check legitimate online reviews and ask for referrals from friends and family in your area who might have purchased homes with these programs. Ultimately, a reliable expert can make the difference between a smooth, stress-free home-buying experience and a frustrating and confusing one in a fantastic state like Texas.
The content Team Writer is one of the writers from our team of content writers. The Business Goals blog is expanding day by day and we need more writers and brand ambassadors for promoting our media website. If you are interested contact your portfolio through the Write for Us page.
