Taking the steps towards homeownership is a journey that most people dream about. While the idea of having to save 20% for a down payment can seem daunting for couples on a budget, it is also a common misconception that in order to buy a home you must put 20 percent down. There are some amazing programs that offer no down payments as well as ones with a small down payment that you may qualify for. Read on for information on mortgage programs for those couples who are unable to put 20% down but still want the ability to purchase their dream home. You may find that you don’t have to budget as much as you thought to realize your dreams!
Below are four different types of mortgage programs for those who are unable to make a down payment of 20% but are still looking to achieve homeownership...
FHA
The Federal Housing Administration loans offer lower down payments and flexible underwriting standards so that second chance buyers can be approved without any issue. They are also the best option for first-time buyers who are still trying to build their credit. With an FHA loan, you can make a downpayment as low as 3.5% on your first home with a credit score as low as 580. This type of loan allows you to buy a home now instead of later due to the benefit of a lower down payment. Similar to a conventional loan, you can’t use FHA loans for cash-out refinances.
USDA
The U.S. Department of Agriculture loan allows you to get low mortgage interest rates without a downpayment and is helpful to homeowners in rural areas. The loan was designed to help low-income families have more access to homeownership. This type of loan has no down payment requirements but it does require borrowers to meet credit and income parameters in order to qualify. Mortgage rates for the USDA loan are often the lowest of all government-supported programs, however, it is important to note that there is a nonrefundable upfront fee to the borrower with a USDA loan. The amount in 2021 is 1% and it is added to the total loan amount.
Conventional
This program can be used by both first-time buyers and repeat buyers, it can also be used by those looking to refinance. This type of loan isn’t backed by a government agency. It is a good loan choice for those with good credit as they also offer higher loan limits than most government-supported loans. It is possible to use this type of loan on a second home or an investment property. Conventional loans can also be more flexible in down payment, term length options, and loan structure. While a 30-year fixed rate is common with a conventional loan you can find other terms as well as adjustable-rate mortgages. Through this program, it is possible to have the down payment come entirely through gifts, so relatives can help you with your down payment.
VA
Through the Department of Veterans Affairs veterans of the U.S. Armed Services are able to have access to programs unavailable to the average consumer. VA loans provide 100% financing and underwriting standards are sensitive to the specific needs of a military family. With conventional financing, military families can be challenged to prove income, whereas the VA loan allows for standards to be flexible and for approvals to be simple. VA mortgage rates are also typically lower than conventional mortgages and will require no mortgage insurance regardless of your downpayment.