How to get approved for a Kentucky Mortgage Loan in 2024


To determine if you can get approved for a Kentucky mortgage, several factors need to be considered, including your credit score, income, employment history, debt-to-income ratio, and down payment. Here’s a general overview of what lenders typically look for:

  1. Credit Scores : Most Kentucky Mortgage  lenders prefer a credit score of 620 or higher for conventional loans. FHA loans may accept lower credit scores, starting around 500, but a higher score (typically 580 or above) can improve your chances and offer better terms.

    Here are the general credit score requirements for FHA, VA, USDA, and Fannie Mae mortgage loans in Kentucky:

    Loan Program Minimum Credit Score Requirement Additional Notes
    FHA Loan 500 to 580 A credit score of 500 to 579 requires a 10% down payment; a score of 580 or higher requires a 3.5% down payment.
    VA Loan No minimum score VA lenders are more flexible with credit scores, but most lenders prefer a score of 620 or higher.
    USDA Loan no minimum score USDA lenders  typically require a minimum credit score of 640 or higher.
    Fannie Mae Loan 620 or higher Fannie Mae loans generally require a credit score of 620 or higher.
  2. Income and Employment History: Lenders evaluate your income stability and 2 year employment history to ensure you have a reliable source of income to make mortgage payments. Consistent employment and sufficient income are crucial.

    Here’s a chart outlining the employment and work history requirements for Kentucky FHA, VA, USDA, and Fannie Mae mortgage loans:

    Loan Program Employment History Work History Guidelines
    Kentucky FHA Loan 2 years of consistent employment with steady income 2 years of stable employment, including gaps explained Employment can include salaried, self-employed, or contract positions. Gaps in employment may require explanations and documentation.
    Kentucky VA Loan Stable income with continuous employment Stable work history with no significant gaps VA loans focus on the stability of income rather than specific employment duration. Military service may fulfill employment requirements.
    Kentucky USDA Loan 2 years of stable employment with reliable income 2 years of continuous employment, including explanations for gaps USDA loans prioritize consistent income and employment history. Gaps may require explanations and additional documentation.
    Fannie Mae Loan 2 years of employment with steady income and job stability 2 years of stable employment, including explanations for gaps Fannie Mae loans emphasize a stable work history with a focus on income stability. Gaps in employment may need explanations and additional documentation.

    These guidelines provide an overview of the employment and work history requirements for FHA, VA, USDA, and Fannie Mae mortgage loans. Lenders may have specific criteria and may consider factors such as income stability, type of employment, gaps in employment, and documentation of income sources. Borrowers should consult with a mortgage professional or lender to understand the detailed employment and work history requirements for their loan application.

  3. Debt-to-Income (DTI) Ratio: This ratio compares your monthly debt payments to your gross monthly income. Lenders typically prefer a DTI ratio of 31% to 45% on front end ratio and up to 55% on the back-end ratio, although some may accept higher ratios with compensating factors.

    Here’s a chart comparing the debt ratio requirements forKentucky FHA, VA, USDA, and Fannie Mae mortgage loans:

    Loan Program Front-End DTI Ratio Back-End DTI Ratio Guidelines
    Kentucky FHA Loan Up to 45% Up to 56.99% Front-end DTI includes housing-related expenses (mortgage, taxes, insurance). Back-end DTI includes all monthly debts.
    Kentucky VA Loan 41% or higher  41% or higher  VA guidelines do not have specific DTI ratio limits but focus on residual income after accounting for housing and debt costs.
    Kentucky USDA Loan Up to 33% Up to 45% Front-end DTI includes housing expenses. Back-end DTI includes all monthly debts.
    Kentucky Fannie Mae Loan Up to 40% Up to 50% Front-end DTI includes housing expenses. Back-end DTI includes all monthly debts.
  4. Down Payment: The amount of your down payment can also impact your approval chances. A larger down payment can lower your loan-to-value ratio (LTV) and reduce the lender’s risk.

    Here’s a down payment chart for Kentucky  FHA, VA, USDA, and Fannie Mae mortgage loans:

    Loan Program Minimum Down Payment Down Payment Source
    Kentucky FHA Loan 3.5% of purchase price Can be from personal savings or gift funds
    Kentucky VA Loan 0% (No down payment) N/A (VA loans offer 100% financing)
    Kentucky USDA Loan 0% (No down payment) N/A (USDA loans offer 100% financing)

    Kentucky Fannie Mae Loan

    3% to 5% of purchase price Can be from personal savings or gift funds

     

  5. Other Factors: Lenders may also consider your savings and assets, existing debts, credit history, and the type of mortgage you’re applying for (e.g., FHA, VA, USDA, conventional).

To get a more accurate assessment of your mortgage approval chances, it’s best to consult with a mortgage lender or broker. They can review your financial situation, credit history, and specific loan requirements to determine your eligibility and help you navigate the mortgage approval process.

Joel Lobb  Mortgage Loan Officer

American Mortgage Solutions, Inc.
10602 Timberwood Circle
Louisville, KY 40223
Company NMLS ID #1364

Text/call: 502-905-3708
fax: 502-327-9119
email:
 kentuckyloan@gmail.com

http://www.mylouisvillekentuckymortgage.com/

 

 

 

 
NMLS 57916  | Company NMLS #1364/MB73346135166/MBR1574

 

The view and opinions stated on this website belong solely to the authors, and are intended for informational purposes only. The posted information does not guarantee approvalnor does it comprise full underwriting guidelines. This does not represent being part of a government agency. The views expressed on this post are mine and do not necessarily reflect the view of my employer. Not all products or services mentioned on this site may fit all people.
NMLS ID# 57916, (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

 

Home Loan Programs for Kentucky First-Time Homebuyers


Are you a first-time homebuyer in Kentucky looking to navigate the world of home loans? Understanding the various types of home loan programs available to you can help you make informed decisions about financing your dream home. In this article, we’ll explore different home loan programs, including their credit score requirements, down payment requirements, bankruptcy considerations, debt-to-income ratio requirements, loan limits, and income limits.

Kentucky FHA Loans

Kentucky FHA Credit Score Requirements:

  • Minimum credit score typically ranges from 500 to 580, depending on the lender.

Kentucky FHA Down Payment Requirements:

  • A down payment as low as 3.5% of the purchase price is required. 10% down payment required for scores below 580

Kentucky FHA Bankruptcy Requirements:

  • Chapter 7 bankruptcy: Generally, two years must have passed since the discharge date.
  • Chapter 13 bankruptcy: Typically, one year of on-time payments and approval from the bankruptcy court are required.

Kentucky FHA Debt-to-Income Ratio Requirements:

  • Front-end ratio (housing expenses): Up to 31% of gross monthly income.
  • Back-end ratio (total monthly debt payments): Up to 43% of gross monthly income.
  • Up to 45% and 56% respectively for borrowers with higher credit scores, down payment and reserves along with good residual income

Kentucky FHA Loan Limits and Income Limits:

  • Loan limits vary by county and property type. Currently $498,257 in all Kentucky Counties
  • Income limits—-No income limits just loan limits.

Kentucky VA Loans

Kentucky VA Credit Score Requirements:

  • While there is no official minimum credit score requirement, most lenders prefer a score of 580 to 620 or higher.

Kentucky VA Down Payment Requirements:

  • No down payment is required for eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and certain spouses.

Kentucky VA Bankruptcy Requirements:

  • Chapter 7 bankruptcy: Generally, two years must have passed since the discharge date.
  • Chapter 13 bankruptcy: Typically, one year of on-time payments and approval from the bankruptcy court are required.

Kentucky VA Debt-to-Income Ratio Requirements:

  • Flexible debt-to-income ratio requirements, with consideration given to residual income.

Kentucky VA Loan Limits and Income Limits:

  • VA loan limits do not apply, but lenders may have their own limits.
  • No specific income limits, but income must be sufficient to cover monthly expenses.

Kentucky USDA Loans

Kentucky USDA Credit Score Requirements:

  • No minimum score, but credit score typically ranges from 580 and above, depending on the lender.

Kentucky USDA Down Payment Requirements:

  • No down payment is required for eligible properties in designated rural areas.

Kentucky USDA Bankruptcy Requirements:

  • Chapter 7 bankruptcy: Generally, three years must have passed since the discharge date.
  • Chapter 13 bankruptcy: Typically, one year of on-time payments and approval from the bankruptcy court are required.

Kentucky USDA Debt-to-Income Ratio Requirements:

  • Maximum total debt-to-income ratio is usually 45%.

Kentucky USDA Loan Limits and Income Limits:

  • Loan limits vary by county.
  • Income limits are based on area median income and household size.

Kentucky Conventional Loans

Kentucky Conventional Credit Score Requirements:

  • Minimum credit score typically ranges from 620 to 680, depending on the lender and loan type.

Kentucky Conventional Down Payment Requirements:

  • Down payment requirements can range from 3% to 20% or more, depending on the loan type and borrower qualifications.

Kentucky Conventional Bankruptcy Requirements:

  • Chapter 7 bankruptcy: Generally, four years must have passed since the discharge date.
  • Chapter 13 bankruptcy: Typically, two years of on-time payments and approval from the bankruptcy court are required.

Debt-to-Income Ratio Requirements:

  • Maximum total debt-to-income ratio is typically 43% to 50%, depending on the loan type and borrower qualifications.

Loan Limits and Income Limits:

  • Loan limits vary by property type and location.
  • No specific income limits, but income must be sufficient to qualify for the loan amount.

Conclusion

As a first-time homebuyer in Kentucky, you have several home loan programs to choose from, each with its own requirements and benefits. Whether you opt for an FHA loan, VA loan, USDA loan, or conventional loan, it’s essential to understand the credit score requirements, down payment requirements, bankruptcy considerations, debt-to-income ratio requirements, loan limits, and income limits associated with each program. Working with a knowledgeable lender can help you navigate the process and find the best loan program for your financial situation and homeownership goals.

Joel Lobb  Mortgage Loan Officer

American Mortgage Solutions, Inc.
10602 Timberwood Circle
Louisville, KY 40223
Company NMLS ID #1364

Text/call: 502-905-3708
fax: 502-327-9119
email:
 kentuckyloan@gmail.com

http://www.mylouisvillekentuckymortgage.com/

NMLS 57916  | Company NMLS #1364/MB73346135166/MBR1574The view and opinions stated on this website belong solely to the authors, and are intended for informational purposes only. The posted information does not guarantee approvalnor does it comprise full underwriting guidelines. This does not represent being part of a government agency. The views expressed on this post are mine and do not necessarily reflect the view of my employer. Not all products or services mentioned on this site may fit all people.
NMLS ID# 57916, (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

Comparison chart explaining the different credit score requirements for FHA, VA, USDA, and Fannie Mae loans in Kentucky

comparison chart explaining the different credit score requirements for FHA, VA, USDA, and Fannie Mae loans in Kentucky


Here’s a comparison chart explaining the different credit score requirements for FHA, VA, USDA, and Fannie Mae loans in Kentucky for a home loan:

Table

 
Loan Type FHA Loan VA Loan USDA Loan Fannie Mae Loan
Minimum Credit Score 500 (10% down) or 580 (3.5% down) no minimum score no minimum score 620
Down Payment 10% (with credit score 500-579) or 3.5% (with credit score 580+) No down payment required No down payment required Varies based on loan type- 3% minimum

Please note that these are general guidelines and the exact requirements can vary by lender and other factors. It’s always best to consult with a mortgage advisor for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

 
 

Joel Lobb  Mortgage Loan Officer

American Mortgage Solutions, Inc.
10602 Timberwood Circle
Louisville, KY 40223
Company NMLS ID #1364

Text/call: 502-905-3708
fax: 502-327-9119
email:
 kentuckyloan@gmail.com

http://www.mylouisvillekentuckymortgage.com/

 

 

 

 
NMLS 57916  | Company NMLS #1364/MB73346135166/MBR1574

 

The view and opinions stated on this website belong solely to the authors, and are intended for informational purposes only. The posted information does not guarantee approvalnor does it comprise full underwriting guidelines. This does not represent being part of a government agency. The views expressed on this post are mine and do not necessarily reflect the view of my employer. Not all products or services mentioned on this site may fit all people.
NMLS ID# 57916, (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

 

Kentucky Bad Credit Mortgage Lenders


How Credit Scores Affect your Kentucky Mortgage Loan Approval Chances


A lot of Kentucky homebuyers are hesitant about having their credit pulled because they think it will go down, whereas in most cases, scores are really the same with most Kentucky mortgage lenders. Below I will try to explain to you what mortgage lenders use for credit qualifying scores and why you may have a different credit score and why some lenders may require a higher score than other lenders.
Lastly, each lender must pull their own credit report and cannot use another lender’s credit report or the consumer’s credit report. I will explain the reasoning below. 
Does shopping around for a mortgage hurt my credit?

No. Within a 45-day window, multiple credit checks from mortgage lenders are recorded on your credit report as a single inquiry. This is because other lenders realize that you are only going to buy one home. 

The impact on your credit is the same no matter how many lenders you consult, as long as the last credit check is within 45 days of the first credit check. Even if a lender needs to check your credit after the 45-day window is over, shopping around is usually still worth it. The effect of an additional inquiry is small, while shopping around for the best deal can save you a lot of money in the long run.

Why do some mortgage lenders require a certain credit score whereas other mortgage lenders may not?

One Word Mortgage Overlays.

Some Kentucky Mortgage lenders will institute a higher credit score than the minimum below to lessen their risk of having to buy the loan back from the government agencies if they get too many mortgage defaults. In order to protect their lending portfolio and hedging their risk, they will require say a 640 credit score or higher for a FHA loan, whereas the guidelines clearly state you can do a FHA loan with a minimum credit score of 580 To understand mortgage overlays, it helps to have a foundation of how the mortgage approval process works. Mortgage lenders always have underwriting guidelines—standards to determine the amount and terms you qualify for.

The credit score minimum guidelines for mortgage programs such as FHA, VA, or USDA are crucial factors to consider when applying for a home loan. Each program has its own set of requirements, with the FHA, for instance, having distinct guidelines that applicants must meet. These guidelines are typically based on the specific program’s criteria and are important for potential homebuyers to understand in order to assess their eligibility for the respective mortgage programs. Understanding these credit score minimum guidelines is essential for individuals seeking to navigate the process of securing a mortgage and purchasing a home.

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Credit Scores for Kentucky Mortgages

What score does the Mortgage Lender Use? Why may it be different than the one you are seeing?

The reason mortgage lenders use older FICO Scores is because they don’t have a choice. They are essentially forced to use them.

For a bank to sell a mortgage to Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, FHA VA, USDA, Etc, the loan has to meet certain guidelines. Some of these guidelines require borrowers to have a minimum credit score under specific FICO Score generations.

If you’re planning to apply for a mortgage, be aware that the credit score you see on your application might differ slightly from the one you’re used to.

It might even be different than what comes up when you monitor your credit, or even when you apply for a car loan.

Banks use a slightly different credit score model when evaluating mortgage applicants. Below, we go over what you need to know about credit scores you’re looking to buy a home.

The scoring model used in mortgage applications

While the FICO® 8 model is the most widely used scoring model for general lending decisions, banks use the following FICO scores when you apply for a mortgage:

FICO® Score 2 (Experian)
FICO® Score 5 (Equifax)
FICO® Score 4 (TransUnion)

As you can see, each of the three main credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion) use a slightly different version of the industry-specific FICO Score. That’s because FICO tweaks and tailors its scoring model to best predict the creditworthiness for different industries and bureaus. You’re still evaluated on the same core factors (payment history, credit use, credit mix and age of your accounts), but the categories are weighed a little bit differently.

The FICO 8 model is known for being more critical of high balances on revolving credit lines. Since revolving credit is less of a factor when it comes to mortgages, the FICO 2, 4 and 5 models, which put less emphasis on credit utilization, have proven to be reliable when evaluating good candidates for a mortgage.

Mortgage lenders pull all three reports, from all three bureaus, but they only use one when making their final decision.

“A bank will use all three bureaus,”— “It’s called a tri-merge.”

If all three of your scores are the same, then their choice is simple. But what if your scores are different?

And if you are applying for a mortgage with another person, such as your spouse or partner, each applicant’s FICO 2, 4 and 5 scores are pulled. The bank identifies the median score for both parties, then uses the lowest of the final two.

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Joel Lobb  Mortgage Loan Officer

American Mortgage Solutions, Inc.
10602 Timberwood Circle
Louisville, KY 40223
Company NMLS ID #1364

Text/call: 502-905-3708
fax: 502-327-9119
email:
 kentuckyloan@gmail.com

http://www.mylouisvillekentuckymortgage.com/