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10 Chenoa Fund Lenders in Florida - Ranked

As more individuals look to make the Sunshine State their home, understanding the maze of mortgage options becomes pivotal.

In this article, we shed light on ten notable Chenoa Fund Lenders operating in Florida. By providing a straightforward, fact-based overview, we aim to help potential homeowners make informed decisions about their mortgage options.




10 Florida Chenoa Fund Lenders - Reviewed

Let's delve into these lenders, ranked and reviewed for your convenience.


MakeFloridaYourHome - 4.8 Stars

  • Rates - 4.7/5
  • Local Market Knowledge - 5/5
  • Speed - 4.8/5
  • Ease of Use - 4.8/5

Located in Florida, MakeFloridaYourHome specializes in local lending for Florida residents, providing tailored services for the state's unique market conditions.

MakeFloridaYourHome's online application process makes applying and being accepted for the Chenoa fund simple and easy.


American Financing - 4.5 Stars

  • Rates - 4.7/5
  • Local Market Knowledge - 4.1/5
  • Speed - 3.1/5
  • Ease of Use - 4.1/5

American Financing offers a range of mortgage services with a presence in Florida, priding itself on its established network and vast range of financing options.


Veritas Funding - 4.2 Stars

  • Rates - 4.7/5
  • Local Market Knowledge - 4.2/5
  • Speed - 4.3/5
  • Ease of Use - 3.5/5

Operating in the Florida mortgage landscape, Veritas Funding is known for its transparent dealings and customized mortgage solutions.


Options Financial - 4.0 Stars

  • Rates - 4.5/5
  • Local Market Knowledge - 3.9/5
  • Speed - 3.6/5
  • Ease of Use - 3.8/5

Options Financial provides diverse mortgage solutions to its clientele, offering various packages based on individual needs.


Orion Lending - 3.6 Stars

  • Rates - 4.7/5
  • Local Market Knowledge - 3.5/5
  • Speed - 3.6/5
  • Ease of Use - 3.2/5

Orion Lending offers mortgage financing solutions in Florida, emphasizing a client-focused approach in their services.


City Lending - 3.4 Stars

  • Rates - 4.7/5
  • Local Market Knowledge - 3.1/5
  • Speed - 3.6/5
  • Ease of Use - 2.8/5

Catering primarily to urban dwellers, City Lending focuses on the nuances of urban property financing.


New American Funding - 3.3 Stars

  • Rates - 4.7/5
  • Local Market Knowledge - 1.9/5
  • Speed - 3.6/5
  • Ease of Use - 2.8/5

New American Funding, with its wide range of services, serves a vast clientele across Florida, offering a mix of traditional and innovative mortgage solutions.


LoanStream Wholesale - 3.1 Stars

  • Rates - 4.7/5
  • Local Market Knowledge - 2.5/5
  • Speed - 2.4/5
  • Ease of Use - 2.9/5

LoanStream Wholesale offers a variety of financing options, helping Florida residents navigate their mortgage needs.


Sunshine State Lenders - 2.9 Stars

  • Rates - 4.7/5
  • Local Market Knowledge - 2.2/5
  • Speed - 2.4/5
  • Ease of Use - 2.8/5

Sunshine State Lenders operates specifically in Florida, aiming to address the state-specific mortgage requirements.


Coastal Mortgage Solutions - 2.4 Stars

  • Rates - 4.7/5
  • Local Market Knowledge - 1.9/5
  • Speed - 1.6/5
  • Ease of Use - 2.8/5

Focusing on coastal areas, Coastal Mortgage Solutions assists clients with the unique challenges of waterfront property financing.


House models on banknotes with calculator on the table


Chenoa Fund Program Options

In Florida, the Chenoa Fund offers a range of programs tailored to the varied requirements of potential homeowners.

These programs determine the amount of down payment aid you'll receive and the conditions for repayment or potential forgiveness.


3.5% Repayment Option

  • Down Payment Assistance - Grants you 3.5% of the home's price for your down payment.

  • Repayment Terms - This 3.5% must be returned, but terms are generally amenable with low interest rates and a set repayment duration.

  • Ideal For - Those expecting a consistent financial trajectory and who are at ease with repaying the assistance gradually.

3.5% Forgivable Option

  • Down Payment Assistance - Gives the same 3.5% for your down payment as the repayable variant.

  • Forgiveness Terms - Meeting certain criteria, like residing in the home for a specific duration, could result in all or part of this loan being forgiven.

  • Ideal For - Homebuyers unsure about their financial future or planning to reside in their new home long-term.

5% Repayment Option

  • Down Payment Assistance - Provides a generous 5% to accommodate your down payment.

  • Repayment Terms - This bigger sum is also repayable, but under agreeable conditions and low interest rates.

  • Ideal For - Those eyeing properties that demand a larger down payment and who trust their repayment capability.

5% Forgivable Option

  • Down Payment Assistance - Comparable to the 5% repayment program but with potential forgiveness perks.

  • Forgiveness Terms - Fulfilling specified conditions over a predetermined duration could absolve you from repaying part or all of this loan.

  • Ideal For - Buyers considering more upscale homes and desiring the option of perhaps not repaying the entire down payment aid.

By familiarizing yourself with these program nuances and partnering with MakeFloridaYourHome, you can pinpoint the Chenoa Fund program that aligns seamlessly with your financial circumstances in Florida.


What is the minimum credit score for Chenoa Fund?

When considering Chenoa Fund™ as an option for home financing assistance, understanding their credit score requirements is crucial. The Chenoa Fund has various programs, and each comes with its distinct credit score criteria.

For several of their products, borrowers are required to have at least a credit score of 600. However, it's worth noting that some other Chenoa Fund products have slightly higher thresholds. Specifically, there are programs which necessitate a minimum credit score of 620 or even 640.

It's always recommended to review the specific details of each Chenoa Fund program or consult with a lending professional to ensure you meet the requirements.

Knowing your credit score and the requisite criteria can streamline your application process and improve your chances for approval.

Remember, while the credit score is a significant factor, other financial elements might also play a role in the final decision. Ensure you're well-prepared and informed before diving into the application process.


What is the maximum debt to income ratio for Chenoa?

The Debt-to-Income (DTI) ratio is a critical financial metric for many lending institutions, including the Chenoa Fund.

It provides a snapshot of a borrower's ability to manage monthly payment obligations in relation to their gross monthly income.

For Chenoa Fund:

  • The maximum DTI is 45%. This means that no more than 45% of a borrower's gross monthly income should be used to repay debts.

  • However, there are scenarios where a borrower, especially those with a current housing payment that surpasses payment shock or DTI standards, might need to consult alternative qualification prerequisites.

  • It's crucial to note that under no circumstances should the DTI exceed 50%.

  • Additionally, Homebuyer Education (HBE) is required. This ensures that potential homeowners are equipped with the knowledge to manage their mortgages and understand the intricacies of homeownership.

Applicants should always be aware of these thresholds and ensure they fall within the stipulated guidelines. If close to or above these limits, it's wise to seek expert advice to understand your best options.


Can Chenoa be used for closing costs?

Yes, Chenoa Fund provides flexibility in how assistance funds can be applied, especially with specific products.

For instance, the DPA Edge Soft Second product (FHA) both offer a 5% assistance option. This assistance can be strategically allocated based on the borrower's needs. Specifically, it may be applied towards:

  • The borrower's minimum required investment, which is essentially the down payment.

  • Closing costs associated with the transaction.

  • Prepaid items that may be part of the home purchase process.

Moreover, borrowers can choose to distribute this assistance across any combination of these three areas. It's a boon for potential homeowners, allowing them to manage upfront costs effectively.

However, always consult with a mortgage professional to understand the best way to utilize this assistance based on individual financial situations.


Are Chenoa loans forgiven?

Chenoa Fund loans can indeed be forgiven, but the terms of forgiveness are contingent on the down payment amount and the borrower's adherence to specific conditions:

  • 3.5% Forgivable - The loan is forgiven after the borrower makes 36 consecutive, on-time payments on their FHA first mortgage.

  • 5% Forgivable - The loan is forgiven after 120 consecutive, on-time payments are made on the FHA first mortgage.

In essence, consistent and punctual payments on the FHA first mortgage are pivotal for loan forgiveness. Borrowers should be vigilant about making these payments on schedule to benefit from the forgiveness feature.

If considering a Chenoa loan, it's prudent to fully understand these terms and ensure a commitment to the payment requirements.


Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for and Being Accepted into the Chenoa Fund

Let's dive deep into a thorough breakdown of how you can seamlessly apply for and enhance your odds of acceptance into this program:


Research and Understand the Program

  • Eligibility Criteria - Delve into the specifics of each product under the Chenoa Fund umbrella. Gain clarity on the nuances of qualifications such as minimum credit score requirements, acceptable debt-to-income ratios, and property type constraints.

  • Loan Forgiveness Conditions - Recognize how Chenoa's loan forgiveness operates. Different down payment figures carry varied timelines and conditions for forgiveness. Knowing these can help you strategize your financial planning.

Check Your Personal Financial Health

  • Credit Report - Prior to any application, secure a comprehensive credit report from all three major credit bureaus. Review each line meticulously to confirm your standing aligns with Chenoa's criteria.

  • Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI) - Compute your DTI by juxtaposing your monthly debt outflows against your monthly pre-tax income. Ensure this ratio complies with Chenoa's guidelines.

  • Address Discrepancies - Any errors or inconsistencies in your credit report can jeopardize your application. Engage with credit bureaus to rectify any anomalies, which can also potentially uplift your credit score.

Gather Necessary Documentation

  • Income Proof - Assemble multiple forms of income verification. This includes your most recent pay stubs, two years of tax returns, and any supplemental income statements.

  • Debt Documentation - Organize a comprehensive list of your existing liabilities. Obtain recent statements for credit cards, student loans, personal loans, and any other financial commitments.

  • Asset Documentation - Draw together detailed data on your assets. This spans across bank statements, 401(k)s, IRAs, stocks, bonds, and other tangible assets.

Attend a Homebuyer Education (HBE) Course

  • Find a Course - Research and identify a reputable HBE course. Some may prefer digital platforms for convenience, while others might value face-to-face interactions.

  • Absorb & Engage - As you progress through the course, actively participate and extract as much knowledge as possible. This isn't just a formality; it's essential groundwork for your homeownership journey.

  • Completion Certificate - Upon culminating the course, you'll be awarded a certificate. Treat this document with utmost importance, as Chenoa Fund mandates its submission during the application process.

Approach a Chenoa Fund Approved Lender

  • Find a Lender - A pivotal step is identifying a lender adept in Chenoa Fund processes. Research, seek reviews, and ensure your chosen lender has a credible track record with the Chenoa Fund.

  • Initial Application & Dialogue - With your lender, embark on the preliminary application phase. This stage might involve in-depth discussions where the lender scrutinizes your documents, offers insights, or suggests any rectifications.

Submit and Wait

  • Full Application Submission - Post the preparatory stages, when you and your lender feel confident, initiate the full application process. Ensure all data is accurate, and every document is attached.

  • Review Process - Following your submission, the lender and Chenoa Fund representatives collaborate to inspect your application. This period might witness back-and-forths, with potential requests for supplementary details or clarifications.

  • Approval & Celebration - If your application resonates with the Chenoa Fund's parameters, an approval will be your reward. Upon this joyous occasion, familiarize yourself with subsequent procedures, but also take a moment to relish your achievement.

Bottom Line

For those in Florida looking to leverage the benefits of the Chenoa Fund, the choice of lender can significantly impact the application and approval process.

MakeFloridaYourHome emerges as an optimal choice for Florida residents due to its local market expertise, a proven track record with the Chenoa Fund, and a commitment to providing dedicated and informed support to every applicant.

In essence, for a seamless and informed Chenoa Fund application experience in Florida, MakeFloridaYourHome is the go-to lender.

With over 50 years of mortgage industry experience, we are here to help you achieve the American dream of owning a home. We strive to provide the best education before, during, and after you buy a home. Our advice is based on experience with Phil Ganz and Team closing over One billion dollars and helping countless families.

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