Attention Lenders:
This bulletin details changes to the temporary adjustments to the NJHMFA Single Family Lending Credit Standards that were announced in the Lender Bulletin 2020-6. NJHMFA is removing the credit score restriction and adjusting the reserves requirement.
Decrease Credit Score Requirement
(First-Time Homebuyer and Homeward Bound Only):
Borrowers will be required to have a minimum representative credit score of 620 or higher to use these NJHMFA Programs.
Reserves Requirement
(First-Time Homebuyer and Homeward Bound Only):
All borrowers are now required to have two (2) months of reserves of the monthly mortgage payment available as liquid assets prior to the Agency issuing an approval for the FTHB or Homeward Bound Loans with/without Down Payment Assistance. This replaces the prior requirement from Lender Bulletin 2020-6, which had mandated 3 full months of payment in reserves. All loans must continue to meet the underlying FHA/VA/USDA requirements, including any reserve requirements from the investor/insurer.
Please refer any questions or issues regarding the above to the NJHMFA Business Development Team at SFLenders@njhmfa.gov.