90 Day Flip Rule- What is the 'end' date?

[Jonathan C.]

Hey all- sadly, even after 100 flips I'm still not totally clear on the dates on the FHA flip guidelines. I'm certain that the 'start' date for FHA flip is the date the property was purchased (not Deed recording date as some people mistakenly believe), but what is the 'end' date.

Specifically, can I go under contract to sell the property to FHA buyer day 60, and close day 90, or can I not go under contract until day 91?

Most lenders I've dealt with have told me I can't go under contract until day 91, but I want to confirm if this is right. I've searched all over BP and online but don't seem to see a clear answer.

Gracias

[J Scott]

Used to be (back before the rule was originally waived in 2010 or so) that you could go under contract prior to 90 days and close on day 91.  These days, every lender I've spoken with says that the contract must be dated day 91 or later.

If I recall, the actually FHA guideline is a bit ambiguous, but every lender appears to be enforcing it uniformly these days...