Common myths about FHA loans

If you’re uncertain if you can meet the standards necessary to secure a conventional mortgage loan, a Federal Housing Administration loan might be the right choice for you. It’s a mortgage product backed by the government, which helps borrowers who present higher risks to lenders, whether due to credit score, down payment amount or other factors.

Here are some common misconceptions about FHA loans.

The credit-score requirement is hard to meet

Like conventional mortgage loans, FHA loans don’t have a magic credit score that you must hit; each borrower’s situation results in different criteria. That being said, you’re unlikely to qualify for an FHA loan if your credit score is below 500, which isn’t an unreasonable standard. And the lower your credit score, the more you’ll likely be required to put down up front.

You need a 10 percent down payment

Most borrowers can qualify for FHA loans that require a 3.5 percent down payment, although certain people may be able to find a 3 percent option. If you can’t come up with the down payment on your own, you can accept gifts from family members or funds from down payment-assistance programs.

The Federal Housing Administration lends you money

These loans are insured by Federal Housing Administration — the FHA does not lend money. You’ll need to work with an FHA-approved lender to guide you through the process.

You can’t pay for repairs

The FHA offers a 203k loan that allows you to borrow the funds for renovation costs as part of your mortgage — one loan, one closing. The amount you borrow is the sum of the home’s price and the estimated price of the repairs. You can use a 203k loan whether you want to take a place down to the studs or just update the bathrooms.

FHA loans are a great option for many borrowers, but you won’t know if one is right for you until you sit down with your lender.