Help for our military and more
If you’re looking for a more affordable path to homeownership and navigating some of the traditional buyer’s hurdles — like down payment requirements — we have options to help you find the mortgage loan you need.
An FHA loan is a mortgage loan insured by the Federal Housing Administration. A VA loan is designed for military members, veterans and surviving spouses, and is guaranteed by the Veterans Affairs Department. These loans provide buyers, including first-time homebuyers, with additional lending options.
Is there anything I should know before considering an FHA or VA mortgage loan?
- Because lending and down payment requirements are more flexible for FHA loans, you will be required to purchase private mortgage insurance (PMI) when you finalize your loan and pay premiums as part of your monthly payments.
- VA loans have a funding fee that you can roll into the total loan costs or pay separately. Disabled veterans are eligible for exemption from this funding fee.
- With FHA and VA loans, you have options regarding how you pay your closing costs. For example, the seller can cover up to 6 percent of the total purchase price in closing costs, or the buyer can receive all or a portion of your closing costs as a gift.
Which mortgage loan fits my needs — an FHA or a VA loan?
Life stage
FHA loan
• First-time homebuyer • Seeking a loan option with a lower down payment • Seeking to use gift funds as a down payment • Concerned about debt-to-income ratioVA loan
• Service member, veteran, surviving spouse • Would like to secure a loan without a down payment requirement • Concerned about debt-to-income ratioLow down payments
FHA loan
Available down payment option as low as 3.5 percent of the purchase priceVA loan
Up to 100 percent financing with no down payment for qualified veterans, active-duty personnel, reservists and eligible family membersLow closing costs
FHA loan
No loan origination fee option means more money in your pocket (slightly higher rates will apply)VA loan
No loan origination fee option means more money in your pocket (slightly higher rates will apply)What do I need to apply for an FHA or VA loans?
- The amount you would like to borrow and monthly payments you are comfortable paying
- The number of years you want to finance your loan (term length)
- Your current employment and income information
- Your phone number and email
- Information for joint borrowers you plan to include on the mortgage loan (including date of birth, address, income and employment, Social Security number and contact information)
- A Certificate of Eligibility from the VA if applying for a VA loan. You can access this by logging in to the VA portal or asking your loan officer for assistance.
FAQs
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What is the difference between a conventional mortgage and an FHA mortgage?
While there may be different down payment requirements, the major difference between a conventional and a Federal Housing Administration (FHA) mortgage loan is that the FHA loan follows federal guidelines that a financial institution must follow. Click here to read more about the mortgage products that RBFCU offers.
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What is an FHA mortgage?
Administrated by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), a U.S. government agency, an FHA mortgage is designed to provide low down-payment financing. It is a great option to consider if you are trying to finance a home with as little cash down as possible. FHA loans provide homebuying opportunities for individuals with higher debt-to-income ratios.
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Can I refinance an FHA loan to a conventional loan?
Yes, our mortgage lending specialists can help you determine whether a move to a conventional loan might be advantageous to you.
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What is a VA mortgage?
Administrated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), a VA loan allows qualified service members, veterans and surviving spouses the opportunity to purchase a home with special financing options.
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How do I obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) to apply for a VA loan?
Fill out VA Form 26-1880 (you can get the form here or from a RB Mortgage representative), contact the VA or one of our representatives can get the form for you.
Still have mortgage questions?
Loans subject to credit approval. Rates and terms subject to change without notice. Mortgage loans are available only on property in Texas. Origination fee program not available for short term loans, FHA or VA loans. RBFCU NMLS# 583215. FHA/VA loans offered through RB Mortgage LLC (NMLS# 862516). RB Mortgage LLC is primarily owned by RBFCU Services LLC. RBFCU Services LLC is affiliated with Randolph-Brooks Federal Credit Union.
