Buyers often avoid or face challenges with FHA loans due to high, permanent mortgage insurance premiums (MIP), strict property inspection standards that can derail sales, and a perception of being less competitive than conventional offers. These loans require both upfront and monthly fees, often making them more expensive over time, while rigid appraisal requirements can necessitate costly repairs.
Because of the strict appraisal requirements and potential for longer closing times, an FHA loan may make your offer less competitive to sellers compared to buyers with conventional loans. This typically occurs in competitive real estate markets where sellers are reviewing multiple offers at once.
FHA Loan: Cons
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. Interest rates are higher than with conventional loans (based on relaxed borrower eligibility requirements)
Cracks in the foundation, signs of water damage, or evidence of settling can raise red flags. These issues often require a structural engineer's inspection, which can add time and cost.
Some sellers still look at FHA loans negatively, viewing them as loans of last resort for borrowers with weak credit. They worry that FHA deals are less likely to close because of this.
FHA loans are designed to help make homeownership more affordable for Americans with moderate incomes or lower credit scores. But like any mortgage, FHA loans require the borrower (or seller) to pay closing costs, even though they're backed by the U.S. Federal Housing Administration (FHA).
The FHA 85% rule refers to a past guideline for cash-out refinances limiting the loan to 85% Loan-to-Value (LTV) and a specific rule for identity-of-interest transactions (like buying from family) where borrowers couldn't finance more than 85% of the home's value unless exceptions applied, such as renting from the family member for at least six months prior. While the general cash-out LTV is now 80%, the 85% rule still applies to certain related-party sales, requiring a 15% down payment unless an exception is met, notes FHA.com.
The answer is yes. While there is nothing inherently wrong with FHA home loans, a seller has the right to refuse your offer if they don't like your financing, and this includes an FHA loan. You may be wondering why some sellers don't like FHA loans and how home buyers can step around this hurdle.
Seller Assumes Responsibility for Repairs
This is commonly the most direct resolution to an appraisal issue. The seller consents to undertake and pay for all repairs specified by the FHA appraiser before the closing date. The seller should use qualified contractors to carry out the necessary work.
Key takeaways. FHA loan closing costs typically total 2 percent to 6 percent of a home's purchase price and are charged in addition to the down payment. FHA closing costs include an upfront mortgage insurance premium (MIP), lender and third-party fees and prepaid expenses.
Quick insights. A home seller has legal rights to refuse an offer with an FHA loan, so long as the seller complies with the Fair Housing Act. When a seller has multiple offers to choose from, there are a few reasons they may decide against an offer with an FHA loan attached.
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. However, FHA loans have evolved over time, and many of these concerns are no longer valid.
FHA loans are designed for homebuyers with lower credit scores and smaller down payments, requiring monthly mortgage insurance. Conventional loans have a higher credit score requirement and may allow you to avoid mortgage insurance with a larger down payment.
For a $400,000 home, expect closing costs to generally fall between $8,000 to $24,000 (2% to 6% of the home price), though it can vary by location and lender, with some estimates placing typical costs around $8,000 to $12,000 (2% to 3%) for fees, plus prepaid items like taxes and insurance, leading to a total cash needed closer to $12,000-$15,000. Key costs include loan origination, appraisal, title, property taxes, and insurance, with higher percentages often seen on lower-priced homes due to fixed-cost fees.
FHA closing costs include mortgage insurance, lender charges and appraisal fees. Closing costs for FHA loans are generally between 2% and 6% of the loan amount. Negotiating seller concessions and using lender credits can help reduce your closing costs.
For a $400,000 house, your down payment can range from $0 to $80,000, depending on the loan type and your financial situation, with 3.5% ($14,000) for FHA loans, 3% ($12,000) for conventional loans for some first-timers, or 20% ($80,000) to avoid Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) on conventional loans, while VA and USDA loans can offer 0% down for eligible buyers.