With the overwhelming influx of new homeowners taking advantage of low interest rates, and existing owners increasing their spaces to accommodate homeschooling and remote work, we can’t seem to escape the media frenzies of the housing market. Luckily for those in the medical field, residents, fellows and attendings in the early years of this career can leverage a physician loan. A physician loan is a great option to consider when buying a house that offers an advantage in this competitive market.
What are Physician Loans?
Physician loans, often referred to as doctor loans, are special mortgage programs specifically designed for doctors. While most lenders require Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conventional loans with down payments under 20%, those in the medical field that qualify can finance up to 100% of this loan without incurring PMI costs. This is a significant savings, as PMI amounts are charged annually and can cost an average of 0.3 to 1.5%.
Physician loans typically exclude certain deferred student loan payments from a recipient’s debt-to-income ratio (DTI) and often accept post-residency contracts as a means of employer verification. With a more favorable treatment, physician loans can make it easier to purchase a home in the early years of a medical career or while in residency and fellowship.
Most mortgage companies only approve doctor loans on existing homes used as primary residences. In other terms, you cannot use a physician loan on new-home construction or investment properties.
Minimum Down Payment
Most physician applicants can borrow up to five times their income, albeit, some lenders may offer a higher amount depending on your financial profile. Below is a breakdown of typical offers:
- 100% maximum financing up to $750,000
- 95% maximum financing up to $1 million
- 90% maximum financing up to $1.5 million
Not All Loans Are Created Equally
Most lenders offer adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs), while some offer a fixed-rate mortgage based on the loan amount. As always, terms and conditions are subject to underwriting.
Closing Costs
Physician mortgages have the same average closing costs that a standard loan does. The average closing cost nationally is around $2,000, depending on the value of the primary residence.
The Pros and Cons of Physician Loans
Pros:
- Minimum down payments
- Favorable underwriting treatment
- Can obtain a mortgage while in residence or early in your career
Cons:
- Large monthly payments
- Only available for existing homes and primary residences
Main Takeaways
Physician loans help make it easier for doctors to purchase a house early in their career. By overlooking these recipients’ debt-to-income ratios, medical field professions can purchase a house and take the next step in their life goals. For more information on physician loans or other loan opportunities, please contact the Sikich Financial team.
