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Buying a Condo with Below Average or Poor Credit

By Mike in Buying Tips with 0 Comments

For many people, buying a condo in Downtown San Diego with average or poor credit is outside the realm of possibility. With the mortgage meltdown of 2008, many banks tightened their lending guidelines to the point where borrowers needed near perfect credit scores to secure financing. However, there are effective methods borrowers can take to secure mortgages for the condo of their dreams.

Apply for an FHA Loan

The Federal Housing Administration caters to low-income borrowers and borrowers with poor credit. Many times the FHA approves applicants with credit scores as low as 580 with a minimum of 3.5 percent down. Traditional banks and mortgage lenders offering conventional loans backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac usually require scores of 620 or better.

Review Individual Credit Reports

Many potential mortgage applicants fail to review their individual credit reports before applying for financing. TransUnion, Experian, and Equifax are the three major credit reporting agencies in the United States. Although each agency charges a small fee to obtain actual scores, AnnualCreditReport.com offers one free credit report per year without the score. Individuals can see all of their active trade lines and past accounts. Mortgage applicants often find their scores are higher than expected.

Down Payment Assistance

Individuals with average or poor credit scores do qualify for financing if they can produce 20 percent or more down. However, that is much easier said than done. The good news is many states offer down payment assistance and first mortgage programs for many potential borrowers. For example, The California Finance Agency offers programs designed to help potential borrowers with poor credit scores and lower incomes.

A middle of the road or downright poor credit score is not a death warrant for those who wish to buy a condo or loft in Downtown San Diego. Many individuals do not realize that lenders do approve mortgages, although their automated underwriting systems decline the applications. If applicants can show strong incomes, hefty assets, strong cash reserves or low DTI ratios, they enjoy a real chance at approval.

Purchasing a property with poor credit can be challenging, but not impossible. The first step in securing the home of your dreams is finding the right real estate broker in Downtown San Diego to work with. Schedule an appointment with us today by calling (619) 649-0368 and let us show you how we can help you find the perfect condo or loft. ')}