FHA Loan
Buy a home with just 3.5% down
An FHA loan is a government-backed mortgage designed to make homeownership accessible — with a low down payment, flexible credit guidelines, and competitive rates. It's one of the most popular paths for first-time buyers.
- As little as 3.5% down
- Credit scores from 580
- Gift funds allowed
- Competitive fixed rates
Why choose this loan
Benefits of a FHA Loan
Low 3.5% down payment
With a credit score of 580 or higher, you can buy with just 3.5% down — and the entire amount can come from an eligible gift.
Flexible credit requirements
FHA loans are more forgiving of past credit hiccups than many conventional programs, with scores accepted from 580 (or 500 with 10% down).
Higher debt-to-income flexibility
FHA guidelines often allow higher DTI ratios, helping more buyers qualify for the home they want.
Assumable loan
FHA loans are assumable, meaning a future buyer may be able to take over your low rate — a valuable selling point.
Eligibility
Do you qualify?
Typical guidelines for a FHA Loan. Final eligibility is determined during underwriting.
- Minimum credit score of 580 for 3.5% down (500–579 requires 10% down)
- Steady, verifiable income and employment history
- Property must be your primary residence
- Debt-to-income ratio within FHA guidelines
- Property must meet FHA appraisal standards
- 2026 FHA loan limit from $541,287 up to $1,249,125 in high-cost areas
Sample scenarios
Illustrative FHA Loan rates
30-Year Fixed FHA
6.25%
Illustrative APR 7.21%
15-Year Fixed FHA
5.50%
Illustrative APR 6.38%
Min. down payment
3.5%
With 580+ credit score
Rates shown are for illustrative purposes only, are not a quote or guarantee, and do not reflect a specific offer. Actual rates depend on credit score, loan amount, loan-to-value, occupancy, and other factors, and change daily. Contact us for a personalized rate quote.
How it works
Your path to approval
- 1
Get pre-approved
Share a few details and we'll verify your budget and issue a pre-approval — usually within 24 hours.
- 2
Find your home
Shop with confidence knowing exactly what you can afford. We'll coordinate with your agent.
- 3
Underwriting & appraisal
We order the FHA appraisal and finalize your file while keeping you updated every step.
- 4
Close & get the keys
Sign, fund, and move in. We're here for any questions long after closing.
FHA vs. Conventional at a glance
| FHA | Conventional | |
|---|---|---|
| Min. down payment | 3.5% | 3% |
| Min. credit score | 580 | 620 |
| Mortgage insurance | MIP (upfront + monthly) | PMI, cancellable at 80% LTV |
| Best for | Lower credit / lower down | Higher credit / 20% down |
Frequently asked questions
What credit score do I need for an FHA loan in 2026?
You'll need a minimum credit score of 580 to qualify for the 3.5% down payment. Borrowers with scores between 500 and 579 may still qualify with a 10% down payment.
What is the FHA loan limit for 2026?
For 2026, FHA loan limits for a single-family home range from a floor of $541,287 in standard areas up to a ceiling of $1,249,125 in high-cost areas.
Do FHA loans require mortgage insurance?
Yes. FHA loans require an upfront mortgage insurance premium (MIP) of 1.75% of the loan amount plus an annual MIP paid monthly, regardless of your down payment.
Can I use gift money for my FHA down payment?
Yes. The full 3.5% down payment can come from an eligible gift from a family member, employer, or approved down-payment-assistance program.
Ready to explore a FHA Loan?
Talk to a loan officer today — friendly, no-pressure guidance from real humans.