Nav

Advantages of Using FHA Construction Loan in Building a House

By Bernadette Salapare | Apr 06, 2024 05:37 AM EDT

The process of constructing a house requires careful financial planning and allocation, as it covers everything from the costs of materials and labor to the fees for permits and design and any unanticipated complications that may arise.

On the other hand, some individuals do not have an adequate budget and therefore make use of loans such as FHA construction loans that are available. Learn more about the advantages of utilizing this type of loan when constructing or renovating your house.

(Photo : Pexels/ RDNE Stock project)

FHA Construction Loan

The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) construction loan allows you to purchase a piece of land, construct a home from the ground up, finance a permanent mortgage on the newly constructed home, or even buy and restore a fixer-upper, all with just one loan. Rather than seeking three separate loans for the purchase of land, the construction of a home, and the mortgage, which would then necessitate separate paperwork and closing costs, an FHA construction loan streamlines matters by merging all of the underwriting processes into a single process.

Whether building a new home or renovating an existing one, you can use a specialty financing option, such as an FHA construction loan. As mentioned, borrowers with less-than-excellent credit may find this loan to be an attractive alternative because it permits building fees to be tacked on to the total amount of the loan. It has a minimum down payment of 10%, which may enable one to qualify for an FHA construction loan despite having a credit score as low as 500.

It functions in a manner analogous to a traditional construction loan by providing short-term financing for various building costs, including the architect's fee and the certificate of occupancy. Most of the time, once the house is constructed, the borrowers convert these loans into long-term mortgages. On the other hand, in contrast to traditional construction loans, FHA construction loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration. With a minimum down payment of 3.5%, you could qualify for the loan despite having a credit score as low as 580.

Also Read: Transport Minister Initiates Road Upgrades in Queenstown to Enhance Economic Growth and Safety

Requirements for Getting FHA Construction Loan

Development-to-permanent loans, commonly referred to as one-time close loans, and 203(k) rehabilitation loans are the two varieties of FHA construction loans. Each is intended to facilitate homeownership, particularly for individuals purchasing their first home.

The FHA offers construction-to-permanent loans to buyers interested in building a new home. The loan is initially used to finance the construction of the house. Once the house is finished being built, it transforms into a permanent loan that the buyer pays back every month, much like a conventional mortgage would. Regarding both loans, the FHA demands a single closing.

Moreover, acquiring an existing residence is the target market for the 203(k) rehabilitation loan. With this loan, a buyer can incorporate up to $35,000 into their mortgage payment to fund any repairs, improvements, or other modifications necessary for the property. Those properties that are considered to be fixer-uppers may benefit from these solutions.

Related Article: 6 Types of Construction Loans You Can Use for Building Your House

Latest Stories