What are the eligibility requirements for a mortgage?

In California, the eligibility requirements for a mortgage are set by the state and federal governments and include several factors. Firstly, potential borrowers must meet set income and credit requirements. Generally, lenders prefer that borrowers have a credit score of at least 600, however, this requirement can vary based on the lender and type of loan. Lenders also review a borrower’s income to determine how much they are able to borrow. To qualify for a mortgage loan, borrowers must not exceed the maximum debt-to-income ratio set by the lender, which is usually around 45%. Secondly, potential borrowers must have a certain amount of money saved for a down payment. The amount of money needed for a down payment will vary based on the type of loan being sought, however, most lenders require at least 3.5% of the loan amount to be paid upfront. Additionally, lenders will typically require those seeking a mortgage loan to have at least two months of mortgage payments saved in a liquid asset before they can qualify. Finally, the amount of the loan must be within the maximum loan limit set by the state and federal governments. In California, the maximum loan limit is $510,400 for standard mortgage loans, although it can be higher for specific types of loans, such as those backed by certain government programs. Overall, the eligibility requirements for a mortgage in California can be difficult to meet but are necessary for ensuring that borrowers can afford the loan they are applying for.

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