Owner's Equity Handbook

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FHA cash-out refinance rules, in the order lenders check them

How an FHA cash-out refinance works

Handbook note

An FHA cash-out refinance replaces your current mortgage with a new, larger FHA loan and pays you the difference after payoffs and costs. You apply with an FHA-approved lender, the home is appraised, the loan is underwritten with full credit and income review, and you close. On a primary home, funds are released after the right-to-cancel period.

Last reviewed against the primary sources listed below.

Steps

  1. Choose an FHA-approved lender.
  2. Apply and receive a Loan Estimate.
  3. Appraisal.
  4. Underwriting.
  5. Closing and funding.

Owner questions

What is an FHA cash-out refinance?

A refinance into a new FHA loan that is larger than what you owe, with the difference paid to you.

Do I need to have an FHA loan already?

No. You can refinance from any loan type into FHA cash-out if you qualify.

HUD and consumer sources

Next: the appraisal