Summary of different loan programs for Kentucky first-time homebuyers

Here’s a summary of different loan programs for Kentucky first-time homebuyers with a focus on various criteria to include credit score, down payment, debt to income ratio, work history, credit, bankruptcy, foreclosure and employment and closing time frame


Here’s a summary of different loan programs for Kentucky first-time homebuyers with a focus on various criteria to include credit score, down payment, debt to income ratio, work history, credit, bankruptcy, foreclosure and employment and closing time frame, appraisal and income documents

  1. FHA Loan:
    • Credit Score: Typically requires a minimum credit score of 580; borrowers with lower scores may still qualify but may need a larger down payment.
    • Down Payment: Minimum down payment of 3.5%.
    • Income Ratio: Front-end ratio (housing expenses to income) should not exceed 31%; back-end ratio (total debt to income) should not exceed 43%.
    • Work History: Generally requires at least two years of steady employment, though exceptions can be made.
    • Credit, Bankruptcy, and Foreclosure: More forgiving than conventional loans; may consider borrowers with past bankruptcy or foreclosure.
    • Employment and Work History: Stable employment and income are essential.
    • Time to Close: Typically around 30-45 days. Appraisal and property requirements follow FHA guidelines.
  2. VA Loan:
    • Credit Score: VA doesn’t set a minimum score; lenders may have their requirements, often around 620 or higher.
    • Down Payment: No down payment required for most borrowers.
    • Income Ratio: Flexible debt-to-income ratios, often up to 41% or higher in certain cases.
    • Work History: Stable employment history is preferred.
    • Credit, Bankruptcy, and Foreclosure: More lenient on past credit issues; may consider borrowers with past bankruptcy or foreclosure.
    • Employment and Work History: Consistent income from stable employment is crucial.
    • Time to Close: VA loans can take 45-60 days to close. Appraisal and property requirements must meet VA standards.
  3. USDA Loan:
    • Credit Score: Typically requires a minimum credit score of 640; exceptions may be possible with compensating factors.
    • Down Payment: No down payment required for eligible borrowers.
    • Income Ratio: Maximum debt-to-income ratio of 41%, though exceptions may be made with strong compensating factors.
    • Work History: Stable employment history is preferred, typically two years or more.
    • Credit, Bankruptcy, and Foreclosure: Consideration for borrowers with past credit issues, bankruptcy, or foreclosure.
    • Employment and Work History: Consistent income from stable employment is important.
    • Time to Close: USDA loans may take 30-60 days to close. Appraisal and property requirements must meet USDA guidelines.

Each loan program has specific eligibility criteria and requirements, so it’s essential for first-time homebuyers to consult with lenders or mortgage experts to determine the best fit based on their financial situation and goals.

Sure, here’s the additional information about appraisal requirements and income documentation needed for different loan programs:

  1. FHA Loan:
    • Appraisal Requirements: The property must meet FHA guidelines, including minimum property standards and safety requirements. An FHA-approved appraiser assesses the property’s value and condition.
    • Income Documentation: Generally requires recent pay stubs, W-2 forms, tax returns for the past two years, and proof of additional income sources (if applicable).
  2. VA Loan:
    • Appraisal Requirements: VA loans require a VA appraisal conducted by a VA-assigned appraiser. The appraisal assesses the property’s value and ensures it meets VA’s Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs).
    • Income Documentation: Typically includes pay stubs, W-2 forms, tax returns for the past two years, and proof of any additional income (e.g., bonuses, alimony, rental income).
  3. USDA Loan:
    • Appraisal Requirements: USDA loans require a USDA appraisal to determine the property’s value and ensure it meets USDA’s standards for safety and livability.
    • Income Documentation: Similar to FHA and VA loans, USDA loans require pay stubs, W-2 forms, tax returns for the past two years, and documentation of other income sources.

Hope your day is full of sunshine😊

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).

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).

 

First-Time Homebuyers Kentucky Mortgage Offerings to consider

First-Time Homebuyers Kentucky Mortgage Offerings to consider


Here’s a comparison chart outlining different loan programs for first-time homebuyers in Kentucky in 2024:

Kentucky Mortgage Loan ProgramKentucky FHA LoanKentucky VA LoanKentucky USDA LoanKentucky Conventional Loan
Down Payment3.5% of the purchase priceTypically no down payment0% down payment3% – 20% down payment
Credit Score Requirement500-579: 10% down payment
580+: 3.5% down payment
No minimum credit score but typically 580 and above for lower credit score requirementsNo minimum credit score but 640 or higher and some lenders will go down to 580 with compensating factors such as lower debt to income ratio and reserves620 or higher
Mortgage InsuranceUpfront Mortgage Insurance Premium (UFMIP) and Annual Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP)FHA loan requires both an upfront premium of 1.75% of the loan amount and an annual premium of 0.15% to 0.75%.4 Payment of upfront premiums is at the loan issuance.Funding Fee varies from VA funding fees for home buying range from 1.4% to 3.6% of the loan amount, while fees for a VA refinance range from 0.5% (for an IRRRL refinance) to 3.6 percent (for a repeat VA borrower using a cash-out refinance)Guarantee Fee
1% upfront and .35 monthly fee for life of loan
Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) may be required-Based on credit score and down payment and debt to income ratio-Not for life of loan
Property EligibilityMust be primary residenceMust be primary residenceMust be in eligible rural areas and primary residenceNo specific property restrictions, primary residence, second home, rentals all okay
Income LimitsNo specific income limits, but debt-to-income ratio restrictions applyNo specific income limits for VA loans, but VA has residual income requirementsIncome must not exceed 115% of the area median income-They’re are income limits-be careful on this optionTypically no income limits
Interest RatesCompetitive interest ratesTypically lower interest ratesCompetitive interest ratesCompetitive interest rates
Loan LimitsYes and varies by location VA county loan limits applyNo loan limits Conforming loan limits apply
First-Time Homebuyers Kentucky Mortgage Offerings to consider

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).
 

Here are action steps you can take right now to buy a home in Kentucky in 2024

If you’re planning to buy a home in Kentucky in 2024, here are some essential steps to consider:

1. Focus on improving your credit score to qualify for a mortgage with a low interest rate.
2. Manage your debt-to-income ratio by repaying existing debt, increasing your income, or both.
3. Ensure timely payments on all accounts to maintain a good credit score.
4. Get pre-approved for a mortgage before searching for a home to know your affordability.
5. Keep credit card utilization below 30% and seek down payment assistance programs if needed.


Here are action steps you can take right now to buy a home in Kentucky in 2024

1. Focus on your credit score

FICO credit scores are among the most frequently used credit scores, and range from 350-800 (the higher, the better). A consumer with a credit score of 750 or higher is considered to have excellent credit, while a consumer with a credit score below 620 is considered to have poor credit.

To qualify for a mortgage and get a low mortgage rate, your credit score matters.

Each credit bureau collects information on your credit history and develops a credit score that lenders use to assess your riskiness as a borrower. If you find an error, you should report it to the credit bureau immediately so that it can be corrected.

2. Manage your debt-to-income ratio

Many lenders evaluate your debt-to-income ratio when making credit decisions, which could impact the interest rate you receive.

A debt-to-income ratio is your monthly debt payments as a percentage of your monthly income. Lenders focus on this ratio to determine whether you have enough excess cash to cover your living expenses plus your debt obligations.

Since a debt-to-income ratio has two components (debt and income), the best way to lower your debt-to-income ratio is to:

  • repay existing debt;
  • earn more income; or
  • do both

3. Pay attention to your payments

Simply put, lenders want to lend to financially responsible borrowers.

Your payment history is one of the largest components of your credit score. To ensure on-time payments, set up autopay for all your accounts so the funds are directly debited each month.

FICO scores are weighted more heavily by recent payments so your future matters more than your past.

In particular, make sure to:

  • Pay off the balance if you have a delinquent payment
  • Don’t skip any payments
  • Make all payments on time

4. Get pre-approved for a mortgage before you start shopping for a home loan.

Too many people find their home and then get a mortgage.

Switch it.

Get pre-approved with a lender first. Then, you’ll know how much home you can afford.

To get pre-approved, lenders will look at your income, assets, credit profile and employment, among other documents.

5. Keep credit utilization low on your credit cards

Lenders also evaluate your credit card utilization, or your monthly credit card spending as a percentage of your credit limit.

Ideally, your credit utilization should be less than 30%. If you can keep it less than 10%, even better.

For example, if you have a $10,000 credit limit on your credit card and spent $3,000 this month, your credit utilization is 30%.

Here are some ways to manage your credit card utilization:

  • set up automatic balance alerts to monitor credit utilization
  • ask your lender to raise your credit limit (this may involve a hard credit pull so check with your lender first)
  • pay off your balance multiple times a month to reduce your credit utilization

6. Look for down payment assistance in Kentucky

There are various types of down payment assistance, even if you have student loans.

Here are a few:

  • FHA loans – federal loan through the Federal Housing Authority
  • USDA loans – zero down mortgages for rural and suburban homeowners
  • VA loans – if military service
  • Kentucky Housing Down Payment Assistance of $10,000

There are federal, state and local assistance programs as well so be on the look out.



If you want a personalized answer for your unique situation call, text, or email me or visit my website below:

Joel Lobb
Mortgage Loan Officer

Individual NMLS ID #57916

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

Text/call: 502-905-3708

email: kentuckyloan@gmail.com

https://kentuckyloan.blogspot.com

KHC Loan Programs

KHC is increasing the down payment assistance program amount from $6,000 to $7,500. This is for both Regular Down Payment and for Affordable Down Payment assistance programs


KHC is increasing the down payment assistance program amount from $6,000 to $7,500. This is for both Regular Down Payment and for Affordable Down Payment assistance programs 2. The interest rate on the repayment of the down payment assistance will go from 5.5% to 3.75%. (Affordable Down Payment assistance will remain at 1%) Realtors: We are here to help you and your clients take advantage of these great opportunities. Buyers: We are here to answer questions you have regarding this program and qualification requirements. KHC is used for mostly applicants in Kentucky that don't have access to money for a down payment on their home. ​​​​KHC recognizes that down payments, closing costs, and prep​aids are stumbling blocks for many potential home buyers. Here are several loan programs to help. Regular DAP Purchase price up to $346,644 with Secondary Market. Assistance in the form of a loan up to $7,500 in $100 increments. Repayable over a 10-year term at 3.75 percent. Available to all KHC first-mortgage loan recipients. Affordable DAP Purchase price up to $346,644​ with Secondary Market. Assistance up to $7,500. Repayable over a 10-year term at 1.00 percent. Borrowers must meet Affordable D​AP income limits. ​More About Down Payment and Closing Costs No liquid asset review and no limit on borrower reserves. Specific credit underwriting standards may apply to down payment programs.​ ​MORE ABOUT DOWN PAYMENT AND CLOSING COSTS No liquid asset review and no limit on borrower reserves. Specific credit underwriting standards may apply to down payment programs Down Payment Assistance Programs! This is great news for buyers in Kentucky!
KHC is increasing the down payment assistance program amount from $6,000 to $7,500. This is for both Regular Down Payment and for Affordable Down Payment assistance programs 2. The interest rate on the repayment of the down payment assistance will go from 5.5% to 3.75%. (Affordable Down Payment assistance will remain at 1%) Realtors: We are here to help you and your clients take advantage of these great opportunities. Buyers: We are here to answer questions you have regarding this program and qualification requirements. KHC is used for mostly applicants in Kentucky that don’t have access to money for a down payment on their home. ​​​​KHC recognizes that down payments, closing costs, and prep​aids are stumbling blocks for many potential home buyers. Here are several loan programs to help. Regular DAP Purchase price up to $346,644 with Secondary Market. Assistance in the form of a loan up to $7,500 in $100 increments. Repayable over a 10-year term at 3.75 percent. Available to all KHC first-mortgage loan recipients. Affordable DAP Purchase price up to $346,644​ with Secondary Market. Assistance up to $7,500. Repayable over a 10-year term at 1.00 percent. Borrowers must meet Affordable D​AP income limits. ​More About Down Payment and Closing Costs No liquid asset review and no limit on borrower reserves. Specific credit underwriting standards may apply to down payment programs.​ ​MORE ABOUT DOWN PAYMENT AND CLOSING COSTS No liquid asset review and no limit on borrower reserves. Specific credit underwriting standards may apply to down payment programs Down Payment Assistance Programs! This is great news for buyers in Kentucky!

KHC Loan Programs.

  • KHC is increasing the down payment assistance program amount from $6,000 to $7,500. This is for both Regular Down Payment and for Affordable Down Payment assistance programs

    1. The interest rate on the repayment of the down payment assistance will go from 5.5% to 3.75%. (Affordable Down Payment assistance will remain at 1%)

    Realtors: We are here to help you and your clients take advantage of these great opportunities.

    Buyers: We are here to answer questions you have regarding this program and qualification requirements.

    KHC is used for mostly applicants in Kentucky that don’t have access to money for a down payment on their home. 

    ​​​​KHC recognizes that down payments, closing costs, and prep​aids are stumbling blocks for many potential home buyers. Here are several loan programs to help.

    Regular DAP

    • Purchase price up to $346,644 with Secondary Market.
    • Assistance in the form of a loan up to $7,500 in $100 increments.
    • Repayable over a 10-year term at 3.75 percent.
    • Available to all KHC first-mortgage loan recipients.

    Affordable DAP

    • Purchase price up to $346,644​ with Secondary Market.
    • Assistance up to $7,500.
    • Repayable over a 10-year term at 1.00 percent.
    • Borrowers must meet Affordable D​AP income limits.

    ​More About Down Payment and Closing Costs

    • No liquid asset review and no limit on borrower reserves.
    • Specific credit underwriting standards may apply to down payment programs.​

    ​MORE ABOUT DOWN PAYMENT AND CLOSING COSTS

    • No liquid asset review and no limit on borrower reserves.
    • Specific credit underwriting standards may apply to down payment programs

Here are several loan options for borrowers who don’t have a large down payment.

FHA loan. FHA loans typically require a 3.5 percent down payment, but that can go up to 10 percent if you have a poor FICO Score (500-579). You’ll have to pay upfront and annual mortgage insurance, regardless of how much you put down. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has a searchable database where you can find FHA-approved lenders in your area.

VA loan. If you’re eligible for a VA loan, you’re in luck. VA loans don’t require any down payment from the borrower, they don’t charge mortgage insurance AND they have no minimum credit score requirement. But (there’s always a but!) VA loan holders will have to pay a funding fee, which can range from 1.25 to 2.4 percent of your loan amount.

HomeReady. Fannie Mae’s HomeReady mortgage program requires a minimum 3 percent down payment and comes with mortgage insurance. But you can get rid of the mortgage insurance obligation once your loan-to-value ratio falls below 78 percent. You don’t need stellar credit either — they accept borrowers with a FICO Score of 620 or greater. Because they’re backed by Fannie Mae, HomeReady loans also allow borrowers to use other sources of funding for their down payment, like a gift from family or friends.

USDA loan. If you’re set on living in a rural area, you may be eligible for a USDA mortgage loan. Generally, they classify any area with fewer than 10,000 to 20,000 residents as rural, but to be safe check out their property eligibility map. No down payment is required, and there’s no ongoing mortgage insurance fee, but you do have to pay a 2 percent upfront fee. Typical credit score requirements are 620 to 640 minimum. Borrowers also can’t have prior foreclosures, bankruptcies or major delinquencies in the past several years.