Good news for Boston home-buyers. FHA loan limits were increased for the third consecutive year, making it even easier for first time home buyers and buyers with less than stellar credit to be able to purchase a home in Boston.
As of January 1, 2019, the FHA loan limit for a single family in Suffolk County is now $688,850, a significant increase from the 2018 limit at $603,750. Under the newly raised limits, Boston and Suffolk County FHA loan applicants could receive up to $1,324,750 in financing for a 4 unit building. Of course, you must occupy one of those units. The table below shows the growth in loan limits over the past 4 years in Suffolk County, MA.
| 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Living Unit | $523,250 | $598,000 | $603,750 | $688,850 |
| 2 Living Unit | $669,850 | $765,550 | $772,900 | $881,850 |
| 3 Living Unit | $809,700 | $925,350 | $934,250 | $1,065,950 |
| 4 Living Unit | $1,006,250 | $1,150,000 | $1,161,050 | $1,324,750 |
This increase in FHA loan limits has been consistent across the US, but more significant in some of the nations fastest growing real estate markets like Boston. In Suffolk County, limits are up about 30% in total from 2016, which is a testament to the growth and overall strength of the area’s real estate market. FHA loan limits were relatively stagnant from 2010 until 2016 following the housing market collapse.
What does this mean for Boston Buyers?
It means that first time home buyers and purchasers with less than perfect credit have significantly more options when it comes to buying. In the face of soaring real estate prices, it’s good that a wider array of buyers will still have the option of purchasing a home.
It’s particularly useful for buyers that have a large cash flow, but less than perfect credit. With these limits, a buyer who is earning good money can now afford a place that will match their lifestyle, even if their credit isn’t perfect.
What does it mean for Boston Sellers?
As if those selling real estate in Boston need anymore help! It’s already a sellers market, and it has been for years. This just gives sellers even more reason to hold strong on their price and trust that the market will present them with qualified buyers.
It will be very interesting to see what happens with the market over the next few years. Most say that it’s stable and it will continue it’s trend for growth, and we agree that’s the case. However, FHA qualified applicants, it would be smart to look into buying this year before these limits start to come back down again.
Demetrios Salpoglou
Published January 29, 2019
Demetrios has pulled together the largest apartment leasing team in the Greater Boston Area and is responsible for procuring more apartment rentals than anyone in New England – with over 130k people finding their housing through his services. Demetrios is an avid real estate developer, peak performance trainer, educator, guest lecturer and motivational speaker.
