The FHA and Mobile Home Requirements

The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) provides loan insurance for mobile homes. However, since mobile homes are considered personal property, there are specific requirements that borrowers must meet to qualify for an FHA-insured loan. In this blog post, we will discuss the FHA requirements for mobile homes.

Permanent Foundation

The mobile home must have a “permanent foundation” to qualify for an FHA loan.

The foundation must meet certain requirements, such as being constructed of durable materials and be properly anchored to the ground.

One of the most important requirements for an FHA mobile home loan is the foundation. The foundation must meet certain criteria, including being permanently affixed to a solid foundation and meeting specific HUD guidelines.

HUD Data Plate

The mobile home must have a HUD data plate that certifies its compliance with federal standards.

The data plate must be affixed to the home and be legible. Each section of the mobile home will have its own HUD plate, section A section B for instance.

Structural Requirements

To qualify for an FHA loan, the mobile home must meet specific structural requirements. It is imperative that the home is constructed on a permanent chassis, have adequate drainage, and comply with local and national building codes.

Failure to meet these requirements may result in the loan being denied.

For example, there must be at least two exit doors, and the roof must be constructed of durable materials.

Age of the Home

To be eligible for an FHA-insured loan, the mobile home must have been constructed after June 15, 1976. This is an important requirement that needs to be followed by all applicants.

Please ensure that you have met this condition before applying for the loan.

Homes built before that date do not meet federal standards and are not eligible for FHA assistance, although there may be other avenues available

Appraisal Requirements

Before you can get an FHA loan for a mobile home, the property must undergo an appraisal. The appraisal must be performed by an FHA-approved appraiser and must comply with the FHA’s guidelines. The appraiser will assess the property’s value based on its condition, location, and features.

Inspection Requirements

The mobile home must also undergo an inspection to ensure that it meets the FHA’s minimum property standards. The inspection must be performed by an FHA-approved inspector, and it will cover things like the home’s structural integrity, plumbing, electrical systems, and heating and cooling systems.

Conclusion

If you are interested in purchasing a mobile home and obtaining an FHA-insured loan, it is important to be aware of the specific requirements. By ensuring that your mobile home meets all of the necessary criteria, you can increase your chances of obtaining financing and achieving your homeownership goals.