For those looking for a short-term injection of cash, for those 55 and over looking for extra income and who are planning on living in their homes for many years and are less concerned about leaving a legacy, it could be an avenue worth exploring. Other options include a line of credit or downsizing.
2017 FHA Guidelines. 1  Bankruptcy â You may apply for a FHA insured loan after your bankruptcy has been discharged for TWO (2) years with a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy. 2  Foreclosure â You may apply for a FHA insured loan THREE (3) years after the sale/deed transfer date. Short Sale / Deed in Lieu â You may apply for a FHA insured loan THREE (3) years after the sale/deed transfer date. FHA treats short sale, deed in lieu and foreclosure as the same waiting periods.
In addition to the more lenient criteria, you can qualify with a down payment as low as 3.5 percent. If you lost your primary home to foreclosure, you can purchase a home again in three years or less with a FHA loan. There are certain requirements regarding the waiting period after a foreclosure. Wait three years before applying for a FHA loan.