FHA Loan Closing Costs Explained: MIP, Fees, and How to Save
โก Quick Answer
FHA loan closing costs include a mandatory upfront Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP) of 1.75% of the loan amount, plus standard closing fees. On a $300,000 loan, the upfront MIP alone is $5,250. Total FHA closing costs typically range from 3-6% of the purchase price.
๐ Key Takeaways
- FHA upfront MIP is 1.75% of the loan amount โ can be rolled into the loan
- Annual MIP ranges from 0.15% to 0.75% depending on loan terms
- Seller can contribute up to 6% of purchase price toward closing costs
- FHA Streamline Refinance can lower costs when refinancing later
- FHA requires a 3.5% minimum down payment (580+ credit score)
- FHA appraisal has stricter requirements than conventional appraisals
โ Frequently Asked Questions
- How much is the FHA upfront MIP?
The FHA upfront Mortgage Insurance Premium (UFMIP) is 1.75% of the loan amount. On a $300,000 loan, that's $5,250. You can pay it at closing or roll it into the loan balance. - Can I roll FHA closing costs into the loan?
The upfront MIP can be rolled into the loan. Other closing costs must be paid at closing, though you can use seller concessions (up to 6%) or lender credits to offset them. - How long do I pay FHA MIP?
If you put down less than 10%, you pay annual MIP for the entire loan term. If you put down 10% or more, MIP is removed after 11 years. The only way to remove MIP sooner is to refinance. - Are FHA closing costs higher than conventional?
FHA closing costs are typically higher due to the 1.75% upfront MIP. However, the lower down payment requirement (3.5% vs. 3-20%) and flexible credit requirements make FHA attractive despite the extra cost.