Several first time home buyer programs exist to help future homeowners obtain home loan financing. Not all programs are available to everyone and each has unique eligibility requirements. In order to determine which home buying programs are available, buyers can conduct research online or consult with a mortgage adviser.
The most common first time home buyer programs include: HUD homes, FHA loans, VA loans, Fannie Mae financing, and Making Home Affordable; a U.S. government program for mortgage refinancing and loan modification.
First time home buyers can also benefit from the Worker, Homeownership and Business Assistance Act, which provides an $8000 tax credit for properties purchased by April 30, 2010. The Recovery Act also extends up to $6500 tax credit to borrowers who have lived in their house for at least five years and want to purchase a higher priced home.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers a variety of first time home buyer programs. HUD programs vary by state, but most home buying programs involve purchasing HUD homes at significantly reduced prices.
Individuals who work in teaching and public service professions such as law enforcement, firefighters and emergency responders, might qualify for HUDs ‘Good Neighbor Next Door’ program. Good neighbor home purchase incentives include buying houses at up to 50-percent off realty listing prices.
FHA loans are backed by the Federal Housing Administration and provide financing opportunities for first time home buyers with less than perfect credit. Applicants who have filed bankruptcy or possess inconsistent employment sometimes find it easier to obtain FHA financing.
One major benefit of FHA loans is the low down payment requirement of 3-1/2 percent. Down payment money can come from outside sources such as a gift or loan from family or friends. FHA financing is the only home loan program which allows down payment assistance from an outside source.
VA loans are available to veterans and active duty service personnel. The Department of Veterans Affairs offers no money down financing and guarantees up to 25-percent of home loans; making it easier for veterans to obtain a home loan. First time home buyer incentives and mortgage assistance can be found at va.gov.
Fannie Mae presents first time home buying programs and mortgage refinance options. One of the more popular is the Home Path® program which offers an assortment of homes for sale. Fannie Mae homes are foreclosure and deed in lieu properties sold at reduced prices through approved realtors.
Fannie Mae home buying incentives include flexible mortgage terms, no appraisal fees, low down payment requirement, and home loan financing for individuals with bad credit. First time home buyer and mortgage refinance information can be located at FannieMae.com.
Author and real estate investor, Simon Volkov, offers a comprehensive real estate article library to help home buyers make informed decisions. Topics range from first time home buyer programs to developing real estate investment portfolios. Buyers, sellers, and real estate investors are encouraged to visit www.SimonVolkov.com to learn more about Simon and the services he offers. Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/mortgage-articles/first-time-home-buyer-programs-and-mortgage-refinancing-options-1744643.html
