Remove Earnest money deposit Remove FHA loan Remove Pre-approval
article thumbnail

17 First-Time Homebuyer Mistakes to Consider and How to Avoid Them

Redfin

Not getting pre-approved for a home loan before starting your search A common mistake for first-time homebuyers is jumping into the search without first getting pre-approved for a mortgage. Options like FHA loans , VA loans , and USDA loans offer low down payments and more lenient credit guidelines.

article thumbnail

23 Common First-Time Homebuyer Questions: Your Questions Answered

Redfin

It’s important to note, however, that your credit score influences your interest rate and loan options. Here are the minimum credit scores needed to qualify for certain loans: Conventional loans: 620-660 Jumbo loans: 700 FHA loans: 500-580 VA loans: no requirement USDA loans: typically 620, but can be lower 8.

Insiders

Sign Up for our Newsletter

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

article thumbnail

The Best Mortgage Blogs From 2017 | Advice For Home Financing

Rochester Real Estate

For example, if you use a bank for your loan you may already have a pre-existing relationship with them and they sometimes offer very competitive interest rates. Have you tried calling a bank on a Saturday night to get a pre-approval letter? The waiting period will vary based on the type of loan and the lender.

article thumbnail

Are HUD Homes a Good Deal? How to Tell If the Properties Are a Fit

HomeLight

The mortgage insurance protects lenders in case the buyer defaults on the loan, allowing those lenders to serve more borrowers. Buyers with lower credit scores or lower down payments can sometimes get an FHA loan even if they can’t get approved for a conventional loan. The home is then sold at a discount by HUD.

article thumbnail

How to Buy a House in San Diego: 14 Steps to Close the Sale

HomeLight

Consider factors such as how long you plan to be in the area, if you have steady employment, and if you have enough money saved for not just the down payment, but for closing costs , maintenance, property taxes, and more. Loans are between 3%-3.5% Visit this link on the U.S.

article thumbnail

How to Buy a House in the Bay Area: 14 Steps to Close the Sale

HomeLight

Consider factors such as how long you plan to be in the area, if you have steady employment, and if you have enough money saved for not just the down payment, but for closing costs , maintenance, property taxes, and more. Loans are between 3%-3.5% Find the FHA loan limit for homes in the county you are looking to purchase here.

article thumbnail

How to Buy a House in 15 Steps: The Ultimate Guide

Redfin

Debt-to-income ratio (DTI) Another major factor that a lender will consider when approving your mortgage loan is your debt-to-income ratio (DTI). Jumbo loan: Also known as non-conforming loans, jumbo loans exceed the limits set by conforming loans. What’s an earnest money deposit?