Tag: Credit score

how to get a free credit score for a mortgage loan approval?


To get a free mortgage FICO score (FICO Score 2, 4, or 5), which are the models most commonly used by mortgage lenders, you will need to use the next resources below:

  1. MyFICO: MyFICO provides the exact FICO Score versions (2, 4, and 5) used for mortgages. Although it’s not free, they sometimes offer free trials or one-time purchases. It’s worth checking their promotions.
  2. Contact a Mortgage lender that will give you the free fico mortgage credit scores for free. Some lenders will give them to you with a credit application, and some will make you pay for them. If you end up doing the loan with the lender, you will pay for them at the closing. This payment will be on the settlement statement. You will not have to pay out of pocket upfront. The costs of credit reports and credit scores have tripled in the last 2 years. Some lenders now require you to pay for them.
  3. As a mortgage broker, we will give you FICO mortgage credit scores versions 2, 4, 5 for free. We will collect them at closing if you end up doing a loan with us. If you are denied or your loan application is withdrawn, the fee is not collected.

Credit scores used for a Kentucky mortgage loan approval for Experian, Equifax and transunion

A mortgage broker or lender, like Joel Lobb in Kentucky, may run your mortgage-specific FICO scores during prequalification. This service is often provided at no cost.

Would you like me to guide you on how to access any of these?


1 –  Email – kentuckyloan@gmail.com 

2.   Call/Text – 502-905-3708

Joel Lobb
Mortgage Loan Officer – Expert on Kentucky Mortgage Loans


www.mylouisvillekentuckymortgage.com
 Address: 911 Barret Ave., Louisville, KY 40204

Evo Mortgage
Company NMLS# 1738461
Personal NMLS# 57916

For assistance with Kentucky mortgage loans, reach out via email, call, or text Joel Lobb directly.

How to Qualify for a Kentucky USDA Loan in 2025


USDA loan in Kentucky in 2025

If you’re looking to buy a home in Kentucky, consider a USDA loan. It may be the perfect mortgage program if you want to live in a rural area. The USDA Rural Development Loan offers 100% financing with no down payment, making it an excellent option for low-to-moderate-income homebuyers. Here’s everything you need to know to qualify for a USDA loan in Kentucky in 2025.

Key Features of a Kentucky USDA Loan


Upfront Guarantee Fee:

A 1% upfront guarantee fee can be financed into the loan.
Annual fee: 0.35% of the average scheduled unpaid principal balance, paid monthly for the life of the loan.


Debt-to-Income (DTI) Ratio:

Standard ratio: 29/41% without compensating factors.
Ratio waivers may be approved if underwriting identifies strong compensating factors.


Credit Requirements:

Minimum credit score: 620 preferred but No minimum credit score requirement
Non-traditional credit is not eligible.
At least one applicant must have a 12-month credit history. This history should show no bankruptcies, foreclosures, tax liens, judgments, collections, or charge-offs in the last 36 months.


Income Restrictions:

Kentucky USDA Income limits apply based on family size, state, and county. see household income limits here click on link
All adult household income must be included to calculate total household income.


Employment Verification:

Wage Earners: Verbal or written verification of employment (VOE) is required. Pay stubs are needed. Provide 2 years of W-2s. 2 years of IRS tax transcripts are required.
Self-Employed: Verify 2 years of active business. Provide 2 years of personal and business tax returns. Include a year-to-date profit and loss (P&L) statement. Supply 2 years of IRS transcripts.


Eligible vs. Ineligible Properties


Eligible Properties:

Must be located in a designated rural area.
Includes single-family primary residences, modular homes, and detached or attached planned unit developments (PUDs).
Thermal standards must meet or exceed the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC).


Ineligible Properties:

Cooperatives.
Income-producing properties.
Manufactured or mobile homes.
Non-rural designated properties.
Non-owner-occupied homes.


How to Determine Eligibility


You need to confirm if a property is located in a designated rural area. Visit the USDA Property Eligibility Map by clicking this link 👇

Kentucky USDA Rural Housing Map for 2025 for Eligible Property Locations️

To check income limits for your county, use the

➡️ USDA Income Eligibility Tool.


Why Choose a Kentucky USDA Loan?


No Down Payment: 100% financing makes USDA loans affordable for first-time buyers.
Low Monthly Costs: With reduced mortgage insurance premiums and competitive interest rates, USDA loans help keep payments manageable.
Accessible Requirements: Even with moderate credit, you can qualify for a USDA loan if other requirements are met.

For personalized guidance and assistance with USDA loans in Kentucky, contact a mortgage professional today. Start your journey to owning your dream home.

Joel Lobb (NMLS#57916) Senior Loan Officer American Mortgage Solutions, Inc. 10602 Timberwood Circle Suite 3 Louisville, KY 40223 Company ID #1364 | MB73346 Text/call 502-905-3708 kentuckyloan@gmail.com

Joel Lobb (NMLS#57916)
Senior  Loan Officer

Text/call 502-905-3708
kentuckyloan@gmail.com

Call TOLL FREE to speak
with a USDA Loan Specialist
502-905-3708

How to buy a house in Kentucky with Zero Down Payment Mortgage Loan


How to buy a house in Kentucky with Zero Down Payment Mortgage Loan
How to buy a house in Kentucky with Zero Down Payment Mortgage Loan
byu/AblePost7537 inMortgageQuestionsKY

First-Time Home Buyer Loans in Kentucky

FHA Loans 

Kentucky FHA loans are one of the most popular options for first-time buyers due to their flexible requirements in regards to lower credit scores, previous bankrupticeo or foreclosures or high debt to income ratios:

  • Credit score needed: As low as 580 for 3.5% down; scores between 500-579 require a 10% down payment.
  • Down payment: 3.5% of the home’s purchase price. 10% down payment needed for scores between 500-579
  • Mortgage insurance: Required on all loans regardless of down payment or equity position. Can make the loan more expensive when compared to Conventional Loans 
  • Work history: 2 years of consistent employment or income.
  • Bankruptcy: You can qualify for an FHA loan 2 years after a Chapter 7 bankruptcy discharge, or 1 year after a Chapter 13 discharge, with court approval.
  • Debt to Income Ratios: Can be higher than Conventional loans. The max backed end ratio on AUS approval is 56.99% and 45% on the front end ratio. 

Kentucky VA Loans

If you’re a Kentucky veteran, active-duty service member of the Army, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard, or qualifying spouse, VA loans offer a powerful path to homeownership:

  • Credit score needed: VA does not have a minimum score but most lenders typically like to see a 620 credit score or higher. I have closed some VA loans under 620 so it can be done but typically much better rates and fees on higher scores.  
  • Down payment: None required. Can put money down to lower the upfront mortgage insurance.
  • Mortgage insurance: No mortgage insurance, though there’s a one-time funding fee and it varies depending on usage and down payment and either a refinance or purchase. 
  • Work history: You must show stable income and employment, but the VA loan program is flexible with unique employment situations. If you are getting out of the military and getting a new job typically must be in line with your MOS. 
  • Bankruptcy: VA loans allow approval 2 years after Chapter 7 or 1 year after Chapter 13 bankruptcy.

Kentucky USDA loans

Designed for Kentucky Home Buyers in rural areas outside major metro areas of Kentucky , USDA loans offer another no-down-payment option:

  • Credit score needed: Typically 640 or higher. but can go down lower to 620 on a manual underwriter sometimes with lenders. Will need compensating factors such as a positive rental history for last 12 months, low debt to income ratio  (under 29% and 41% resopeivitley) and 1-2 months reserves and no payment shocik on the loan.
  • Down payment: None required.
  • Mortgage insurance: USDA loans have an upfront fee of 1% of the loan amount and an annual fee of 0.35%. Life of loan and does not vary based on down payment or term. USDA only does 30 year rate term loans. 
  • Work history: A stable income is required, with proof of 2 years’ work history.
  • Bankruptcy: USDA loans require a 3-year waiting period after a bankruptcy or foreclosure.

Kentucky Housing Corporation (KHC) Loans

KHC offers several programs to help first-time homebuyers:

  • Down payment assistance: Up to 10,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance for qualifying buyers. 10k is based on a second mortgage over 10 years at 3.75% rate. Not a true grant. Has to be paid back. 
  • Credit score needed: Minimum 620 for most programs.
  • Income limits: KHC programs are income-based, so you’ll need to meet certain household income limits.
  • Work history: Two years of consistent employment are typically required.
  • Debt Ratio: 50% max debt ratio on backend and front end. 
  • Rates and Terms: Since it is the State Housing Agency, every borrower gets the same set of rates and terms no matter which lender you use. 

Checklist of Documents Needed for a Kentucky First-Time Home Buyer Loan

  • Government-issued ID (driver’s license, passport)
  • Social Security number
  • Pay stubs for the last 30 days
  • W-2 forms for the last 2 years
  • Federal tax returns for the last 2 years
  • Bank statements for the last 2-3 months
  • Proof of any additional income (child support, alimony)
  • Employment verification
  • List of all debts and assets
  • Bankruptcy discharge papers (if applicable)
  • Gift letter (if using gift funds for your down payment)

Highly Rated Best Mortgage Company in Kentucky

Finding the right lender is crucial when purchasing your first home. One of the top-rated mortgage companies in Kentucky is Joel Lobb. Joel specializes in helping first-time homebuyers navigate FHA, VA, USDA, and KHC loan programs. With over 20 years of experience and a dedication to personal service, Joel has helped over 1,300 families secure their dream homes. His reputation for offering same-day approvals and free pre-qualifications makes him a trusted name in the industry.

For more information, contact Joel Lobb:

Final Thoughts

Purchasing a home for the first time in Kentucky can be an exciting journey. With a variety of loan options available—like FHA, VA, USDA, and KHC loans—you can find a mortgage that fits your needs, even if you have a bad credit score or are dealing with bankruptcy. Be sure to compare interest rates, understand mortgage insurance requirements, and follow a clear checklist of documents to make the home-buying process as smooth as possible.

—

Joel Lobb  Mortgage Loan Officer Expert on Kentucky Mortgage Loans 

1 –  Email – kentuckyloan@gmail.com 2.   Call/Text – 502-905-3708

https://www.mylouisvillekentuckymortgage.com/

Credit Scores and Kentucky Mortgage Loans Answer to your questions


Credit Scores and Kentucky Mortgage Loans. Answer to your questions.

Credit Fico Score for a Kentucky Mortgage FHA VA KHC

 


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http://www.emailmeform.com/builder/form/0bfJs9b6bK8TGoc6mQk9hIu
 
Question:
What is the current minimum credit scores needed to qualify for a mortgage Loan in Kentucky?
Answer:
The minimum credit score needed to qualify for a Kentucky mortgage depends on the type of loan program you are looking to obtain, this could be the reason that you have received conflicting answers. The most common types of mortgage are Conventional, FHA, USDA, VA, and KHC mortgage loans in Kentucky. I’ll explain each briefly below and the minimum credit score needed to qualify for each loan program. Keep in mind these are continuously changing and can vary by lender do to credit overlays.
 
Kentucky Conventional or Fannie Mae  
Conventional loans make up the majority of mortgages in the US. They are also known as conforming loans, because they conform to specific guidelines set by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
  • Minimum Credit Score is 620
  • You can use a conventional loan to buy a primary residence, second home, or rental property
  • Conventional loans are available in fixed rates, adjustable rates (ARMs), and offer many loan terms usually from 10 to 30 years
  • Down payments as low as 3% and 5% depending on Home Ready or straight conventional loan.
  • No monthly mortgage insurance with a down payment of at least 20%
  • Max Debt to Income Ratio of 50%
 
KENTUCKY FHA MORTGAGE
 
An FHA loan is a mortgage issued by federally qualified lenders and insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). FHA loans are designed for low-to-moderate income borrowers who are unable to make a large down payment.
  • Minimum Credit Score is 500 with at least 10% down
  • Minimum Credit Score is 580 if you put less than 10% down
  • Upfront and Monthly Mortgage Insurance is required regardless of the Loan to Value
  • FHA Loans are only available for financing primary residences
  • Maximum Debt to Income Ratio of 50% (unless mitigating factors justify allowing a higher DTI) up to 57% in some instances with strong compensating factors.
KENTUCKY USDA RURAL HOUSING LOAN 
    • 100% Financing
    • Cities and towns located outside metro areas-see link (https://eligibility.sc.egov.usda.gov/eligibility/welcomeAction.do?pageAction=sfp
    • Do NOT have to be a First Time Home Buyer and no max loan limit just debt ratio requirements
    • No Down Payment
    • 30 year low fixed rate loans
    • No Prepayment Penalty
    • Great Low FIXED Interest Rates
    • Possible to Roll Closing Costs into Loan if Appraises Higher
    • No Cash Reserves Required
    • UNLIMITED Seller Contribution toward Closing Costs
    • 100% Gifted Closing Costs allowed
    • Primary Residents only (no rentals/investment properties)
    • Debt to income ratios no more than 45% with GUS approval and 29 and 41% with a manual underwrite.
    • Only Need a 580 Credit Score to Apply*** Most USDA loans need a 620 or score higher to get approved through their automated underwriting system called GUS. 640 usually required for an automated approval upfront.
    • No bankruptcies (Chapter 7) last 3 years and no foreclosure last 3 years. If Chapter 13 bankruptcy possible to go on after 1 year
     
  • KENTUCKY VA Mortgage
  • 100% Financing Available 
  • Must be eligible veteran with Certificate of Eligibility. We can help get this for veterans or active duty personnel.
  • No Down Payment Required
  • Seller Can Pay ALL Your Closing Costs
  • No Monthly Mortgage Insurance
  • Minimum 580 Credit Score to Apply–VA does not have a minimum credit score but lenders will create credit overlays to protect their interest.
  • Active Duty, Reserves, National Guard, & Retired Veterans Can Apply
  • No bankruptcies or foreclosures in last 2 years and a clear CAVIRS
  • Debt to income ratios vary, but usually 55% back-end ratio with a fico score over 620 will get it done on qualifying income and if it is a manual underwrite, 29% and 41% respectively
  • Can use your VA loan guaranty more than once, and in some cases, can have two existing va loans out at they sametime. Call or email for more info on this scenario.
  • Cost of VA loan appraisal in Kentucky now costs a  minimum $475 with a termite report needed on all purchase and refinance transactions unless a condo.
  • 2 year work history needed on VA loans unless you can show a legitimate excuse, ie. off work due to injury, schooling, education etc.
  • You cannot use your GI Bill for income qualifying for the mortgage payment.
KENTUCKY HOUSING DOWN PAYMENT ASSISTANCE 100 FINANCING 
 

How the Down Payment Assistance Program (DAP) Works

 Down payment assistance loans are available up to $10,000 and is paid back over a period of ten years at a current rate of 3.75%.

Regular DAP

  • Purchase price up to $481,176 with Secondary Market​ or Mortgage Revenue Bond (MRB) income limits.
  • Assistance in the form of a loan up to $10,000 in $100 increments.
  • Repayable over a 10-year term at 3.75 percent.
  • Available to all KHC first-mortgage loan recipients
 
If you have questions about qualifying as first time home buyer in Kentucky, please call, text, email or fill out free prequalification below for your next mortgage loan pre-approval.
 

. KHC Loan (Kentucky Housing Loan with Down Payment Assistance)

 

The  no money-down home  loan program offered by Kentucky Housing and other lenders in the state of Kentucky currently offers up to $10,000-or a 5% grant of the sales price offered by other national lenders that does not have to be repaid

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

—

Joel Lobb
Mortgage Loan Officer
 
Individual NMLS ID #57916
 
American Mortgage Solutions, Inc.
10602 Timberwood Circle 
Louisville, KY 40223
 
Company NMLS ID #1364
 
 

Text/call:      502-905-3708
email:          kentuckyloan@gmail.com

 
 

 

Fannie Mae According to the “Washington Post,” Fannie Mae raised its minimum credit score for conventional loans in 2009 from 580 to 620. Even if you have a 20-percent down payment, you…

Source: Credit Fico Score for a Kentucky Mortgage FHA VA KHC

Rural Housing Requirements For USDA Loans In Kentucky


Kentucky Rural  Housing Loans

 

Kentucky USDA loans are mortgages made by lenders and guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. They are available to moderate- and low-income borrowers to build, rehabilitate, improve or relocate a primary residence in eligible rural and suburban areas. The income limit is 115 percent of the median income in your area. You can check the income limits for your area here.

 

It can be closed with zero down. USDA loans do have a monthly insurance requirement, but the upfront fee is significantly lower than on the VA loan and the mortgage premiums are lower than on the FHA loan.

The problem is that the number of buyers who qualify for a USDA loan is much smaller. Unlike on other loans where more income is better, a USDA loan has strict income maximums.

Fees for Kentucky USDA Loans

USDA loan borrowers pay an upfront fee of 1 percent of the loan amount, and this fee can be added to the loan balance. Borrowers also pay a mortgage insurance premium of 0.35 percent of the loan balance per year in 12 equal installments. This fee is based on the current balance and added to the monthly payment.

 

Down Payment Requirements for Kentucky USDA Loans

 

USDA loans are available with up to 100 percent financing (zero down).

 

Credit Score Required for Kentucky Rural Housing Loans

 

There is no minimum credit score for a USDA loan, but you are automatically ineligible if you are presently delinquent on a nontax federal debt.

Automated approval is available if you have two tradelines reported on your credit history and acredit score of 640 or higher.

If you do not have sufficient credit data, the underwriter can assess your creditworthiness other ways, such as by examining your history with rent payments. Applicants with a credit score lower than 640 will undergo additional underwriting steps.

 

Loan Limits for Kentucky USDA Loans

 

They are no loan limits for Kentucky USDA loans backed-up the guarantee loan program. The Direct USDA loan program does have loan limits.

Why Would a Seller Agree to a Seller Credit? Seller Benefits: ~ Seller credits help a home sell faster in buyer markets. Price Reductions are costlier to a seller than credits. ~ Innovative “Good Will” to support a new homeowner adjusting to homeownership. When the housing market turns into a buyer’s market, selling a home can be quite competitive. The seller is no longer expecting to receive 100% or more of their asking price and instead expects to take less than their asking price to sell their property. Therefore, they may offer a credit to attract more people to buy their home. After all, the seller is only concerned about selling their home at a reasonable price and selling it as quickly as possible. Seller credits and concessions are a very popular tactic to give the perception that buying their home is better. Seller credits work because many first-time buyers struggle to come up with the down payment and closing costs, and seller credits ease that burden. Buyer Benefits: ~ Allows the buyer to ease into homeownership by paying below fixed-rate payments. ~ Does not increase the loan amount. The loan amount amortizes as a standard fixed-rate loan. ~ Safe way to take advantage of a lower payment in a rising rate environment. A Seller Credit Can: = Offset closing costs = Permanentlv Reduce an interest rate = Temporarily Reduce an interest rate In all three scenarios, this helps your buyers. Each buyer has different needs, so it is up to you to help them In all three scenarios, this helps your buyers. Each buyer has different needs, so it is up to you to help them figure out how to best apply a seller credit.



 
Joel Lobb (NMLS#57916)
Senior Loan Officer

American Mortgage Solutions, Inc.
10602 Timberwood Circle Suite 3

Louisville, KY 40223
Company ID #1364 | MB73346


Text/call 502-905-3708
kentuckyloan@gmail.com


If you are an individual with disabilities who needs accommodation, or you are having difficulty using our website to apply for a loan, please contact us at 502-905-3708.
 
Disclaimer: No statement on this site is a commitment to make a loan. Loans are subject to borrower qualifications, including income, property evaluation, sufficient equity in the home to meet Loan-to-Value requirements, and final credit approval. Approvals are subject to underwriting guidelines, interest rates, and program guidelines and are subject to change without notice based on applicant’s eligibility and market conditions. Refinancing an existing loan may result in total finance charges being higher over the life of a loan. Reduction in payments may reflect a longer loan term. Terms of any loan may be subject to payment of points and fees by the applicant  Equal Opportunity Lender. NMLS#57916http://www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org/
 
— Some products and services may not be available in all states. Credit and collateral are subject to approval. Terms and conditions apply. This is not a commitment to lend. Programs, rates, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. The content in this marketing advertisement has not been approved, reviewed, sponsored or endorsed by any department or government agency. Rates are subject to change and are subject to borrower(s) qualification.