"I DO" to FHA Bridal Registry Gift Funds
FHA Bridal Registry Account Are you planning to get married and buy a
home, but wonder where your down payment funds will come from?
FHA has a Bridal Registry program where the money you receive as a wedding present can be used towards your down payment. Just like registering at a specialty or department store, the FHA Bridal Registry program allows you to register with a lender. Then your friends and family are able to make gift payments into an interest bearing account on your behalf.
It's a win win! Not only can your gifts earn interest, but they can be used as a down payment towards an FHA Loan.
Bridal Registry Guidelines:
Bridal Registry Accounts were originally introduced in 1996, but still remain a little known fact when it comes to down payment assistance.
The misunderstanding of how this program works might be the fact that it was originally only allowed by banks. Soon after, FHA modified the program and offered new flexible options and the opportunity for the Newlyweds to set up the account at any bank. Plus, newlyweds are now able to make deposits on their own from the gifts they receive.
Here's how it works in 3 simple steps:
* You will open a savings account at your bank prior to the wedding* Friends and family will be given the banking information where thegifts will be deposited* All of the gift funds can go towards the FHA required 3.5% downpayment* Anyone with an interest in the purchase cannot be party to the giftfunds (i.e. realtor)* There is no requirement that you be married prior to closing on yournew home.
Another huge advantage is that there are no gift letters or other
documentation required other than proof of your savings account named
"Bridal registry account." It's that simple!