If Jason wants to use a gift from his parents as a down payment on an FHA loan, what is a condition that must be met?

To utilize a gift as a down payment on an FHA loan, it is essential that the gift comes from an approved source. FHA guidelines stipulate that gifts can be applied toward the down payment or closing costs of a home, but they must be provided by acceptable parties. These acceptable sources typically include family members, relatives, or, in some cases, close friends. The donor must provide a gift letter that clearly states that the funds are a gift and not a loan, indicating there is no expectation of repayment.

This necessity ensures that the funds have no strings attached and helps lenders assess the borrower’s ability to sustain mortgage payments. By verifying the source of the gift, lenders can mitigate risk, as gifts from less reputable sources might indicate underlying financial instability or obligations that could affect the borrower's creditworthiness and their ability to pay back the loan.