What is the debt to income ratio for 203k loans?

Animated adding machine
One of the approval requirements of the 203k loan is meeting the debt to income ratio. The Federal Housing Administration calls for an applicants monthly income and monthly debt obligation to be in balance.

The debt ratio is a simple calculation. The monthly debt obligations are divided by the monthly income. For example, if the monthly debt is $1,000 and the monthly income is $5,000, the debt ratio would be 20%.

The FHA uses the applicant's credit score to determine the maximum debt ratio. Applicants with a credit score of 500 to 579 are permitted to have a debt ratio of 43% by the FHA ($5,000 X 43% = $2,150 monthly debt).

An applicant with a credit score above 580 can possibly have a debt ratio as high as 50%!

Now for the bad news, just because the FHA permits low credit scores and high debt to income doesn't mean that there is an approval waiting for the credit challenged borrower. The FHA establishes general guidelines for the borrower and lenders, however, it's the lender that provides the mortgage money, not the FHA. The FHA only "insures" the loan. This means that if the borrower defaults on the loan, the FHA will reimburse the lender a percentage of the loss. Therefore, lenders are permitted to exceed the maximum debt to income ratios established by the FHA.

The debt ratio is known as the "back end ratio".

FHA Monthly Payment Ratio


In addition to the monthly debt to income calculation, the borrower must be below the monthly payment ratio limit. Lenders call this measurement the front end ratio.

The monthly payment includes the principal and interest payment, 1/12 real estate taxes and homeowners insurance, monthly FHA mortgage insurance and any other required payment (i.e. flood insurance).

Read more: http://www.anytimeestimate.com/FHA/debt-to-income-ratio.htm

Can I qualify for an fha 203k loan?

Balancing scale with yes and no
The 203K loan parallels the approval guidelines of the FHA 203K purchase/refinance mortgage. The difference between the 203K and 203B programs is the additional money for renovation/improvement. If you meet the following guidelines, you may possibly qualify for an FHA 203(k) mortgage loan.

FHA AGE REQUIREMENT

You might be surprised to know that the FHA does not have a minimum age requirement; however, the borrower must be old enough to meet the age requirement that a mortgage note can be legally enforced in the state, or other jurisdiction, where the home is located. There is no maximum age requirement.

 

SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER REQUIREMENT

All applicants are required to have a valid social security number.

FHA LOAN CITIZENSHIP REQUIREMENT

In addition to US citizens, lawful permanent resident aliens, and non-permanent resident aliens are eligible for a 203K loan. Permanent resident aliens are required to provide evidence of their permanent residency, and state their residency status on the mortgage application. Non-permanent resident aliens must state that the home will be the principal residence, have a valid social security number, and are eligible to work in the United States, confirmed by the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) issued by the USCIS. Non-U.S. citizens without lawful residency in the U.S. are not eligible for FHA mortgages.

Credit score for an FHA loan

The FHA is very generous with the minimum credit score for an FHA home loan. The FHA will permit a credit score as low as 580 with the minimum down payment. A score of 500 - 579 may be acceptable with a 10% down payment.

FHA LOAN EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS

The FHA requires lenders to verify the applicant's most recent two years of employment and income. W-2's are typically used to verify employment; however, lenders may also use verification forms that are completed by the applicant's employer(s).

The Mortgagee must obtain one of the following to verify current employment:
• the most recent pay stubs covering a minimum of 30 consecutive Days (if paid weekly or bi-weekly, pay stubs must cover a minimum of 28 consecutive Days) that show the Borrower’s year-to-date earnings, and a written Verification of Employment (VOE) covering two years; or

• direct verification by a third party verification covering two years, subject to the following requirements:
- the Borrower has authorized the Mortgagee to verify income and employment; and
- the date of the data contained in the completed verification conforms with FHA requirements in Maximum Age of Mortgage Documents
- evidence supporting enrollment in school or the military during the most recent two full years

Maximum Age of Mortgage Documents.

Re-verification of employment must be completed within 10 Days prior to the date of the Note (settlement). Verbal or electronic re-verification of employment is acceptable. Electronic re-verification employment

FHA delinquent federal debt

Borrower(s) are ineligible for an FHA-insured mortgage until the borrower/applicant resolves the delinquent federal debt with the creditor agency.

If the creditor agency confirms that the debt is valid and in delinquent status as defined by the Debt Collection Improvement Act, then the Borrower is ineligible for an FHA - insured Mortgage until the Borrower resolves the debt with the creditor agency
SOURCE: Handbook 4000.1 - page 155

DEBT TO INCOME

The monthly (gross) income and monthly credit obligations must be within acceptable percentages. The monthly mortgagee payment can range from 31% of the monthly income to 40%.

The monthly mortgage payment (including real estate taxes, homeowners insurance, monthly mortgage insurance, etc) combined with the monthly credit obligations can range from 43% to 50%.
Read more about FHA debt to income ratios at - http://www.anytimeestimate.com/FHA/debt-to-income-ratio.htm

What can be included in a 203k loan?

Rotating question mark
Total cost of rehabilitation, plus

Building and other permits
Consultant fees
Contingency reserves
Discount points
Inspection fees
Mortgage payments for up to 6 months (only permissible for Standard 203(k)
Supplemental origination fee
Title update costs

 

203K Maximum Loan Amount

Maximum loan amount is the lesser of:

Purchase price  + rehabilitation costs,
or
“As-is” value plus rehabilitation costs, or

110%  of the “after improved” value x the loan to value (LTV) factor or less the allowable down payment for a HUD REO property. Not to exceed the maximum loan limit for the area.

RESOURCE: https://www.hud.gov/sites/documents/WB_FHA203K_09-24-14_REV.PDF

What is a 203k contingency reserve?

Rotating question mark
Standard 203(k) contingency reserve

The Standard 203(k) mortgage requires a contingency reserve. The contingency reserve refers to funds that are set aside to cover unforeseen project costs (i.e. termites and/or damage).

The minimum and maximum Contingency Reserve is established as a percentage of the Financeable Repair and Improvement Costs.

For Structures with an actual age of 30 years or more:
•    Required: Minimum = 10%; Maximum = 20%
•    Required when utilities are not operable as referenced in the Work Write-Up: Minimum 15%; Maximum = 20%

For Structures with an actual age of less than 30 years:
•    Required when evidence of termite damage: Minimum = 10%; Maximum = 20%
•    Discretionary: No Minimum %; Maximum = 20% 

 

Limited 203(k) contingency reserve

A contingency reserve is not mandated for a Limited 203(k) transaction; however, at the lender's discretion, a contingency reserve account may be established and financed.  The contingency reserve account may not exceed 20% of the Financeable Repair and Improvement Costs.

The maximum rehab expense for a 203k limited loan is $35,000. If the repair costs exceed $35,000, the Standard 203(k) loan is required.

Can I use a 203k loan to build a garage?

The FHA 203k loan can be used to loan to build a garage, provided it meets the underwriting guidelines.

What is the difference between the FHA 203k and FHA Streamline

Nice suburban house rehabed with a 203k loan
FHA 203k streamline loan, now called limited, is designed for the the purchase (or refinance) of a one to four unit home along with a finance package to renovate, upgrade a home with as little complications as possible. The FHA 203k streamline loan is as the name implies . . . a “streamline” rehabilitation loan. The minimum home improvement cost is $5,000, up to a maximum of $35,000 that can be financed in the 203k mortgage.

Home buyer(s) are not required to employ certified consultants, registered engineers or architects. The appraiser will make a list of repairs and/or improvements. A time schedule will be determined for the completion of the work.

Upon completion of the  repairs and/or improvements, the final inspection will be performed by the appraiser.

Structural repairs are not allowed under a Streamlined K, although, making insignificant repairs may be permitted.

The FHA 203k loan (full/standard) is used for structural improvements, major renovation. There is a minimum $5,000 requirement for the eligible improvements on the existing structure on the property.

Can a first time home buyer get a 203k loan?

Extended index finger pointing to the post
First time home buyers are eligible for 203k loans. The prospective home buyer(s) just have to meet the standard FHA eligibility guidelines. There are no "extra" qualifications.

Can investors use the FHA 203k loan program?

Emoticon with thumbs down
Unfortunately, the 203K is reserved for owner occupants; however, HUD/FHA has announced that they may expand the program to investors. Check back

Can you refinance a fha 203k loan?

Extended finger poiinting to the post
Yes, provided you meet the customary refinance requirements (i.e. sufficient income to support the refinance payment, credit score requirement, etc.)

Does the 203k loan have a higher interest rate?

Extended finger pointing to the post
It is common for lenders to charge a slightly higher interest rate for a 203k loan. The reason is due to investor requirements (companies that buy the loan) and the additional work required to process the loan.

Are fha 203k loans a good idea?

Emoticon with questions
The FHA 203k loans combines the purchase and home improvements in one 15 or 30 year term. Many home buyers find it difficult to obtain a home improvement loan after closing because new home buyers usually have little equity in their new home. Also, home improvement loans are expensive. The interest rates on home equity loans are usually higher than traditional home loans and have a shorter loan term, A shorter loan term results in a higher monthly loan payment.

If you are refinancing your home to a lower interest rate, doesn't it make sense to add a little extra cash to finally take care of one thing or another that you never were able to afford?

There are two 203(k) programs. The limited 203(k) allows the buyer/homeowner to borrow up to $35,000 with little aggravation (assuming the borrower is qualified).  The Standard 203(k) variation is a full blown rehabilitation.



What is the minimum 203(k) down payment?

Nice suburban homeIf you're purchasing (or refinancing an existing mortgage) the minimum down payment (or equity) requirement with the 203k home loan is only 3.5% (i.e. $100,000 X 3.5% = $3,500).

Home buyers are allowed to obtain a monetary gift from eligible donors to cover the down payment. In fact, the down payment and closing costs and pre-paid expenses can be paid by an eligible donor(s).

There are numerous down payment and/or closing cost assistance grants available to qualified home buyers. All of the Federal Home Loan Banks provide assistance to eligible home buyers.

REFERENCE:

http://www.anytimeestimate.com/FHA/pa-fha.htm

Federal grants for first time home buyers

What improvements are NOT eligible under the Limited 203(k)?

Home buyer reviewing plans with the contractorThe Limited 203(k) Rehabilitation Mortgage Insurance Program mortgage proceeds may not be used to finance major rehabilitation or major remodeling. FHA considers a repair to be “major” when any of the following are applicable:

• the repair or improvements are expected to require more than six months to complete;
• the rehabilitation activities require more than two payments per specialized contractor;
• the required repairs arising from the appraisal:
rtgage proceeds may not be used to finance major rehabilitation or major remodeling. FHA considers a repair to be “major” when any of the following are applicable:
- necessitate a Consultant to develop a specification of repairs/Work Write-Up; or
- require plans or architectural exhibits; or
• the repair prevents the borrower from occupying the property for more than 15 days during the rehabilitation period.

Additionally, the Limited 203(k) mortgage proceeds may not be used to finance the following specific repairs:
• converting a one-family structure to a two-, three- or four-family structure;
• constructing a windstorm shelter;
• decreasing an existing multi-unit structure to a one- to four-family structure;
• landscaping and site improvements;
• reconstructing a structure that has been or will be demolished;
• repairing, reconstructing or elevating an existing foundation;
• purchasing an existing structure on another site and moving it onto a new foundation;
• making structural alterations such as the repair of structural damage and new construction, including room additions;
• making additions or alterations to support commercial use or to equip or refurbish space for commercial use; and/or
• making recreational or luxury improvements, such as:
- new swimming pools;
- an exterior hot tub, spa, whirlpool bath, or sauna;
- bath houses;
- barbecue pits, outdoor fireplaces or hearths;
- tennis courts;
- satellite dishes;
- tree surgery (except when eliminating an endangerment to existing improvements);
- photo murals; or
- gazebos.

REFERENCE: https://www.hud.gov/FHAFAQ

203k loans questions and answers

Q. Can the 203(k) mortgage amount be increased to cover the additional expenses?

A. No. This emphasizes the importance of carefully selecting a contractor who will accurately estimate the cost of the improvements and satisfactorily complete the rehabilitation at or below the estimate.

Q. Can the contingency reserve be included in the loan?

A. The contingency reserve can be included in the FHA 203(k) mortgage. According to the 203(k) underwriting guidelines (rules):
A Contingency Reserve is always required for a Standard 203(k) transaction.  The minimum and maximum Contingency Reserve is established as a percentage of the Financeable Repair and Improvement Costs.
However . . .
A Contingency Reserve is not mandated for a Limited 203(k) transaction; however, at the mortgagee’s discretion, a Contingency Reserve account may be established and financed.  The Contingency Reserve account may not exceed 20% of the Financeable Repair and Improvement Costs. 

https://web.archive.org/web/20180812132502/http://203kconsultant.biz/FAQ/FAQ's.asp

http://www.rehab203kloan.com/fha-203k-loan-question-and-answer.php

https://www.hud.gov/sites/documents/WB_FHA203K_09-24-14_REV.PDF

Is the Homeowner/Contractor Agreement needed for Section 203(k)?

According to HUD/FHA, the lender must obtain a written agreement between the borrower and the general contractor, or if there is no general contractor, for each contractor.

The contractor must agree in writing to complete the work for the amount of the Cost Estimate and within the allotted time frame. The Agreement must include a provision for binding arbitration when construction disputes cannot be resolved by lender intercession.

REFERENCE: https://www.hud.gov/FHAFAQ

FHA approved contractors for 203k

Finding 203k consultants is easy, just click this link [203k Consultants]  and you will be teleported to the HUD web site where you can search for a 203k Consultant by name or by state.

Can I use a 203k loan to install or repair a swimming pool?

Unfortunately, you are not permitted to use the 203k program for repair or installation of a pool. A pool is considered a luxury item.

FHA 203k and appliances

The FHA 203K program permits appliances to be financed in the loan.


What is the difference between a fha 203b and 203k loan?

Nice suburban houseThe FHA 203b is the traditional purchase (or refinance) loan program. The 203B loan requires structural integrity and the house must meet FHA appraisal guidelines. In short, the house is now livable.

The FHA 203k loan is designed for rehabilitation and/or correction of structural deficiencies. Additional money can be borrowed and included in the purchase mortgage. The 203K loan may also be used to refinance the current loan.

The 203b and 203k program may be used to refinance an existing mortgage.

FHA 203k mortgage lenders

203k lender speaking to borrowers
Looking for a list of FHA 203k approved lenders. If so, you can find approved 203k lenders on the Federal Housing Administration web site.

The site limits the results to 203k lenders who have done a 203k loan within the past 12 months. The list does not contain all FHA 203k approved lenders, but it’s a good starting point to find a 203k lender close to the subject home.

What is the minimum credit score for an FHA loan?

People holding up signs with different credit scoresAccording to the FHA underwriting manual, the minimum credit score for a 203b & 203k loans may be as low as 500. The down payment requirement for applicants with a credit score of 500 up to 579 (including co-borrowers) is 10%.

Applicants with a credit score above 580 must meet the minimum down payment of 3.5%.

Mortgage companies are required to obtain three credit scores when available. One credit score from each credit agency (i.e. Equifax, Experian, Transunion). The median (middle) score is used to determine the borrower’s credit score. When only two scores are available, the lower score of the two is chosen, when only one is available, that score is used to determine FHA eligibility.

For example:
Equifax - 620
Experian - 640
Transunion - 680

The credit score of 640 is used for eligibility because is in between 620 and 680.

Even thought the Federal Housing Administration is very liberal with regard to credit score requirements, this does not mean that the applicant will necessarily qualify for a FHA loan. FHA approved lenders provide the FHA mortgage money . . .  not the FHA. Many FHA lenders are adverse to offering FHA loans to applicants with a credit score below 620. Only a few lenders offer FHA loans to applicants with a credit score of 580 or lower.

Applicants without a credit score or credit history are permitted to obtain an FHA home loan. In fact, the FHA states in the FHA underwriting manual the following:

The lack of a credit history, or the borrower’s decision to not use credit, may not be used as the basis for rejecting the loan application. Reference - FHA manual

Lenders must use rent, utilities, auto and/or car payments, etc. to determine credit worthiness.

203k loan down payment

Nice suburban homeWhat is the 203k loan down payment requirement?

The minimum down payment on a 203k loan is 3.5%. The down payment is calculated as follows:

Purchase price $200,000 + $100,000,000 renovation costs = $300,000.

The minimum down payment is 3.5%.

$300,000 X 3.5% = $10,500

You might be surprised to know that the 203k down payment requirement can be paid for by gift funds provided by a family member, borrower’s employer or even a close friend!

What is a 203K home loan?

Confused emotriconIf you're like many home buyers, you have come across a number of homes that would be “perfect” . . . if only the kitchen, the bathroom, or basement were updated. Or perhaps, there was a structural issue; or something about the house that prevented the home from being financed. If only you could combine the purchase and renovation with just one loan. Well you can, and it’s called the FHA 203k home loan. This HUD insured mortgage combines the purchase financing and rehab cost together in one loan, with one monthly mortgage payment. There are two “FHA 203k loans”, the standard, sometimes called the full FHA 203k loan and the FHA 203k streamline loan. Let’s take a look at the standard 203k loan.

 

Standard FHA 203k

The standard FHA 203k rehab mortgage covers requires a repair budget in excess of $35,000. The minimum amount that can be borrowed is $5,000. This loan is designed for major renovation and improvements for example:
  • Structural alterations and reconstruction; including repair or replacement of the chimney
  • Additions to the structure, provided, the addition is attached to the existing dwelling. Detached garage(s) are also eligible
  • Installation of an additional bath(s)
  • Skylights
  • Attics and/or basements may be finished
  • Termite damage repair and the treatment against termites or other insect infestation
  • Conversion from a single family house into a multi family dwelling (i.e. two to four units) and vise versa
  • Exterior siding
  • Second story addition to the house
  • Covered and enclosed porch
  • Stair railings
  • Attached carport
  • Connection to public water and/or sewer system
  • New plumbing fixtures
  • Interior whirlpool bathtubs
  • Well and/or septic system installation
  • Landscape work (major) and site improvements
  • Patios and decks, and terraces that enhance the property value equivalent to the dollar amount spent on the improvements or required to preserve the property from erosion
  • Existing walks and driveway rehabilitation is acceptable, provided it affects the safety of the property
  • Improvements to aid in the accessibility for a disabled person, for example, redesigning kitchens and bathrooms for wheelchair accessibility, installing larger doorways, and exterior ramps

Streamline FHA 203k

Arrow pointing rightThe 203K streamline is designed for minor repairs. Up to $35,000 may be financed into the mortgage for improvements or upgrades to an existing home. There are no minimum repair costs. Think of the Streamline FHA 203k as the “light” version of the Standard 203k home loan. This loan is ideal for homes that are technically unsalable because of condition.

Eligible improvements of the 203K Streamline
  • Repair/Replacement of roofs, gutters and downspouts
  • Repair/Replacement/upgrade of existing heating and cooling systems
  • Repair/Replacement/upgrade of existing plumbing and electrical systems
  • Repair/Replacement of flooring
  • Minor renovation, such as kitchens & baths, which do not involve structural repairs
  • Painting, both exterior and interior
  • Weatherization, including storm windows, and doors, insulation, weather stripping etc.
  • Purchase and installation of appliances, including free standing ranges, refrigerators, washers/dryers, dishwashers and microwave ovens
  • Septic system and/or well repair or replacement
  • Accessibility improvements for persons with disabilities
  • Lead based paint stabilization or abatement of lead base paint hazards
  • Repair/replace/add exterior decks, patios, porches
  • Basement finishing and renovation which does not involve structural repairs
  • Basement waterproofing
  • Window and door replacements and exterior wall re-siding
Ineligible improvements of the 203K Streamline
  • Renovation involving structural changes, like moving a load bearing wall, or new construction like adding rooms
  • Landscaping
  • Luxury items like swimming pools, hot tubs, tennis courts, etc.
  • Work that will not start within 30 days of loan closing or will cause the borrower to be displaced from the home for more than 30 days or renovations that will take more than 6 months to complete.

Refinance

The 203k programs can be used to payoff the existing mortgage loan and combine rehab costs in one loan.

Additional Reading:



203(K) Consultant Fees

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) does not regulate consultant fees as they once did, however, many HUD approved 203k consultants will still adhere to the previously published fee schedule:
REPAIR AMOUNT CONSULTANT FEE
$5,000-7,500$400
$7,501-15,000$500
$15,001-30,000$600
$30,001-50,000$700
$50,001-75,000$800
$ 75,001 -100,000$900
$100,000 and up$1,000
Many 203k consultants may charge an initial/additional fee for a feasibility study. The feasibility study is the initial inspection of the property. The 203k contractor provides the prospective home buyer (homeowner) with a “rough estimate” of work that will be necessary to comply with HUD’s requirements.

The consultant fees may be included in the 203k loan if allowed by the lender and if the consultant will take payment at closing.

FHA 203k Eligible Properties

Nice suburban houseThe following properties are eligible for the 203k program:
  • Owner occupied properties at least one year old
  • Attached & detached single family homes
  • 2 - 4 unit properties
  • PUD's (i.e. Townhomes)
  • Mixed use residential property is possible. Lender and appraisal guidance is required to access whether the property meets FHA guidelines.
  • Manufactured Home - The manufactured home was built after June 15, 1976, and has been on a permanent foundation for over one year. The unit must have been delivered to the site when it was new, prior to being occupied.
  • Condominiums in FHA approved project. It should be noted that the maximum mortgage is not permitted to exceed 100% of the after improved value
  • Modular homes
  • HUD owned homes and they may qualify for a $100 down payment
The following properties are ineligible for the 203k program:

  • Properties less than one year old
  • Co-ops
  • Condotels
  • Manufactured homes
  • Log cabin homes

FHA 203k Credit Score Requirements

Happy emoticonThe FHA 203(k) program follows the same guidelines as the 203(b) purchase/refinance loan program. As such, the minimum credit score of 580 is eligible for the minimum down payment of 3.5%, currently. Below 580, the down payment/equity requirement is 10%.

It should be noted that the lender is permitted to exceed the minimum FHA credit score.

Can an investor get an fha 203k loan?

Finger pointing to the answer
The FHA 203k loan is limited to owner occupants and nonprofit. Investors are not permitted

Is FHA mortgage insurance tax deductible?

Unfortunately, the upfront FHA mortgage insurance premium and monthly mortgage insurance cost is not tax deductible

Do FHA 203k loans require mortgage insurance?

Emoticon with thumbs down for FHA mortgage insuranceUnfortunately, yes. The FHA 203k loans require mortgage insurance. 

Borrowers pay both the up front mortgage insurance premium and the monthly mortgage insurance cost.

The upfront and monthly premiums are paid to the US Treasury on behalf of the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). The FHA uses the accumulated premiums to buy back defaulted FHA insured loans from FHA approved lenders. Because of the Federal backing, mortgagee lenders are more likely to extend loans to applicants who would not otherwise qualify for a mortgage. 

Currently, the "upfront" funding fee is 1.75% of the 203K mortgage (which includes the rehabilitation costs). In addition to the upfront program funding fee, the borrower pays a monthly mortgage insurance fee in with their mortgage payment.

The monthly cost depends on the down payment term and loan amount.


Monthly Mortgage Insurance (MIP) Calculation
Loan Term greater than 15 years (i.e 30 years)

Base Loan Amount LTV Effective Annual MIP

≤ $625,500 ≤ 95.00% 1/26/2015 0.80%

≤ $625,500 > 95.00% 1/26/2015 0.85%

> $625,500 ≤ 95.00% 1/26/2015 1.00%

> $625,500 > 95.00% 1/26/2015 1.05%
Loan term less than or equal to 15 Years with loan to value above 78%

Base Loan Amount LTV Effective Annual MIP

Any loan amount < 78.00% 6/3/2013 0.45%

≤ $625,500 78.01% - 90.00% 4/1/2013 0.45%

≤ $625,500 > 90.00% 4/1/2013 0.70%

> $625,500 78.01% - 90.00% 4/1/2013 0.70%

> $625,500 > 90.00% 4/1/2013 0.95%

Use the FHA funding fee and monthly mortgage calculator for an estimate

REFERENCE: http://www.anytimeestimate.com/FHA/much-fha-mortgage-insurance.htm

Is there a time period on the rehabilitation project?

Animated clock
Yes, the 203k Rehabilitation Loan Agreement addresses three provisions regarding the timeliness of the rehabilitation. The renovation must commence within 30 days of execution of the Agreement. The work should not cease prior to completion for longer than 30 consecutive days. The work must be completed by the time period established in the Agreement (the time period may not to exceed six months); the mortgage lender must not permit a time period greater than what is required to complete the work.

SOURCE: https://www.hud.gov/sites/documents/42404X12HSGH.PDF

Can a residence be modified to provide access for a disabled individual?

Rotating question mark
Absolutely. A home can be renovated to improve the kitchen area and bath to accommodate a wheelchair access with a 203k loan. Larger doorways and handicap ramps can also be included into the cost of rehabilitation.

What are the interest rates on a 203k loan?

Rotating question mark
203k rates are traditionally 1/2%  higher than a normal  FHA 203b loan. Interest rates are based off your credit score, loan amount and loan to value.

The reason for the rate increase is due largely because of the extra processing time of the mortgage.

Loan terms & amortization

The FHA permits the following repayment options:

Fixed Rate - 15/20/25/30/Year
                    
Adjustable Rate - 1Year, 3/1, 5/1, 7/1 (30 Year Amortization)

2/1 Buydown is also permitted

What is the difference between a fha 203b and 203k loan?

Rotating question markThe 203b loan program is the standard purchase and refinance program of the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). The 203b program does not include renovation money.

The FHA 203k loan program is used to improve/rehabilitate the property. There are two variations of the 203(k) loan program, the standard (original) 203(k) loan which is intended for substantial renovation, and the streamline 203(k) program which is limited to a maximum of $35,000 in repairs and/or rehabilitation.  Both 203(k) options include the renovation money with the purchase loan. The renovation money is included in the new mortgage with a refinance loan.

The approval guidelines are similar (i.e. debt to income, employment, etc).