How many years does it take to get a FHA loan?

Asked by: Percy Wilderman  |  Last update: August 14, 2025
Score: 4.6/5 (43 votes)

You can apply for an FHA loan two years after discharging a Chapter 7 bankruptcy and at least a year after a Chapter 13 bankruptcy. With a foreclosure, you'll need to wait a minimum of three years, although the FHA will make some exceptions.

How long does an FHA loan take to get approved?

After you apply for an FHA loan, the approval process can vary in duration but typically takes between 30 and 45 days, depending on the completeness of your documentation and the lender's backlog.

What disqualifies you from an FHA loan?

You may be denied for an FHA loan if you have declared bankruptcy but you have not had the bankruptcy discharged. You may be denied if you are delinquent on federal taxes or otherwise owe money to the federal government but without an approved payment plan.

Are FHA loans hard to qualify for?

In general, it's easier to qualify for an FHA loan than for a conventional loan, which is a mortgage that isn't insured or guaranteed by the federal government. Here are some key differences between FHA and conventional loans: Credit score and history: FHA loans allow for lower credit scores than conventional loans.

Can I get an FHA loan without 2 years employment?

``To be eligible for a mortgage, FHA does not require a minimum length of time that a borrower must have held a position of employment. These must also be documented. Lender standards may apply here, so if you have concerns it's best to discuss them directly with the lender.

The BIG PROBLEMS with FHA Loans

23 related questions found

What is the minimum income for a FHA loan?

The answer to this question is "no." There are no minimum income requirements for FHA loans.

Can I buy a house with only 1 year of work history?

You might qualify with compensating factors.

Lenders may approve your mortgage without a two-year employment history if you have strong compensating factors, such as a large down payment, excellent credit score, low debt-to-income ratio, significant savings or assets.

What is the downside of an FHA loan?

FHA Loan: Cons

Here are some FHA home loan disadvantages: An extra cost – an upfront mortgage insurance premium (MIP) of 2.25% of the loan's value. The MIP must either be paid in cash when you get the loan or rolled into the life of the loan. Home price qualifying maximums are set by FHA.

What disqualifies you as a first-time home buyer?

Credit score requirements

Most first-time home buyer programs require a minimum credit score, often around 620, to qualify for conventional loans. However, some programs, like FHA loans, are more lenient, allowing scores as low as 580 or even lower with higher down payments.

How much do I need to make to buy a 300k house in FHA?

In summary, here's what we found: You need to make at least $54,000 per year to afford a $200,000 house. You need to make at least $81,000 per year to afford a $300,000 house. You need to make at least $109,000 per year to afford a $400,000 house.

Why would you be denied an FHA loan?

Despite the lenient FHA loan requirements, it is possible to be denied. The three primary factors that can disqualify you from getting an FHA loan are a high debt-to-income ratio, poor credit, or lack of funds to cover the required down payment, monthly mortgage payments or closing costs.

What is a FHA waiting period?

Definition And Duration. The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) foreclosure waiting period is a three-year duration that begins after the completion of a foreclosure action. During this time, potential homeowners must satisfy eligibility requirements in order to qualify for an FHA loan.

What qualifies a house to be FHA approved?

Homes must meet the following appraisal requirements, or be repaired to meet requirements, to be approved for an FHA loan: Must have an undamaged exterior, foundation and roof. Must have safe and reasonable property access. Must not contain loose wiring and exposed electrical systems.

Can an FHA loan close in 30 days?

The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) mortgage journey, from the final offer to the closing day, typically takes 30 to 45 days. Some sources report up to 44 days is common at press time, though your experience may vary.

What credit score do I need to buy a house with no money down?

You'll usually need a credit score of at least 640 for the zero-down USDA loan program. VA loans with no money down usually require a minimum credit score of 580 to 620. Low-down-payment mortgages, including conforming loans and FHA loans, also require FICO scores of 580 to 620.

How much can I make to qualify for first-time home buyer?

There isn't a minimum income to qualify as a first-time homebuyer, but you do need to earn enough to meet the lender's standards around your ability to repay and DTI ratio. In general, lenders don't want you to spend more than 43 percent of your income on a mortgage and any other debt payments, like student loans.

Can I buy a house with a 580 credit score?

The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) insures FHA loans, which allows mortgage lenders to accept a credit score as low as 580 with a 3.5 percent down payment, or 500 with a 10 percent down payment.

Why do sellers avoid FHA?

Some reasons a seller might refuse an FHA loan include misconceptions about longer closing times, stricter property requirements, or the belief that FHA borrowers are riskier.

What is the minimum down payment for an FHA loan?

For instance, the minimum required down payment for an FHA loan is only 3.5% of the purchase price.

Why are FHA closing costs so high?

Since your home must meet FHA property minimums, the appraisal process may include more requirements than a conventional home loan. The appraisal is required to be performed by an FHA approved appraiser and may have additional inspections which could result in a higher appraisal cost.

How much house can I afford with a 60k salary?

With a $60,000 annual salary, you could potentially afford a house priced between $180,000 and $250,000, depending on your financial situation, credit score, and current market conditions. However, this range can vary significantly based on several factors we'll discuss.

Can I get a mortgage with 50% down and no job?

You can get a mortgage with no job but a large deposit if it makes financial sense for you. If you have a good credit history, lenders may be willing to look past your unemployment if you have cash reserves that will help you pay for the loan.

Do I need 2 years of w2 to buy a house?

Most traditional lenders require two years of consistent work history whether you are self-employed, or a w2 wage earner. This work history requirement is found in all Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loans and is driven by the federal government.