The rules governing mortgages are continuously changing, and it is important for anyone who is considering a new Home purchase to be aware of them. This year, FHA mortgage limit changes in 2014 top the list of new rules, and an overview of the changes are listed below.

Overview

The Federal Housing Administration sets loan limits based upon county. Beginning January 1, 2014, the maximum amount of a loan decreased in 652 counties nationwide, while subsequently increasing in 89 others. There are no FHA mortgage limit changes in 2014 in the remaining 2,493 counties across the country, and loans insured by either Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac will also not be affected.

Nationwide, the maximum FHA loan amount is now $625,500, as compared with $729,750 that the agency allowed in 2013. The amount allowed will depend on the cost of living in a given area. Previously, the FHA allowed loans that were up to 125% of the local area median Home Price, but the decrease now means that lenders can grant only 115% of that amount instead.

Unequally Affected

The decrease is affecting some counties across the country harder than others. The National Association of Realtors® reports that 146 counties have experienced a 20% or greater reduction in loan amounts. U.S. Finance Post states that buyers in cities such as San Francisco, Los Angeles or New York City are more likely to see FHA rates remain higher than those who live in rural areas.