GOVERNMENT-BACKED
The FHA loan - built for the buyer just getting started.
Insured by the Federal Housing Administration, the FHA loan opens the door for buyers with lower credit or smaller savings. It's one of the most common first-home paths for a reason.
3.5%
DOWN WITH 580+ CREDIT
580
COMMON MINIMUM SCORE
ALL 3
STATES SERVED
WHAT IT IS
A government-insured loan that lowers the bar to entry.
An FHA loan is insured by the Federal Housing Administration, a government agency. That insurance protects the lender, which means they can say yes to buyers who might not qualify for a conventional loan — with lower credit scores and smaller down payments.
You can buy with as little as 3.5% down with a credit score of 580 or higher, and FHA is often more forgiving of past credit bumps. The tradeoff is mortgage insurance: FHA loans carry an upfront premium plus a monthly one that, in most cases, stays for the life of the loan.
For many first-time buyers, it's the most realistic way into a home now — with the option to refinance into a conventional loan later once credit and equity grow.
IS IT RIGHT FOR YOU?
Where a FHA loan shines
& where to look twice.
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A Strong Fit If...
Your credit score is in the 580-660 range
You have limited savings for a down payment
You’ve had a few credit hiccups in the past
You’re a first-time buyer who wants a clear path in
-
Worth Weighing...
Mortgage insurance usually lasts the life of the loan
Upfront mortgage insurance premium is added at closing
Property must meet FHA condition standards
Loan limits are lower than conventional in some areas
THE NUMBERS
Typical requirements at a glance.
Guidelines, not guarantees — your exact picture depends on the full application. Here's the honest ballpark.
Minimum Down Payment
As low as 3.5% with a 580+ score; 10% if between 500-579.
Credit Score
580 is the common floor for the 3.5% down.
Debt-to-income
Often up to ~43-50% with compensating factors.
Mortgage Insurance
Upfront premium + monthly MIP, typically for the loan’s life.
Property Condition
Home must meet basic FHA safety and livability standards.
HOW IT GOES
FHA loan, start to keys.
PRE-APPROVAL
We confirm you meet FHA's credit and income guidelines and set your budget.
01
FIND AN FHA-ELIGIBLE HOME
You shop; the home must pass FHA's condition standards at appraisal.
02
UNDERWRITING & APPRAISAL
The lender verifies details and an FHA appraiser checks value and condition.
03
CLOSING
Sign, pay your down payment and upfront premium, and move in!
04
STRAIGHT ANSWERS
Common questions about FHA loans.
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580 typically qualifies you for the 3.5% down option. Scores between 500 and 579 may still qualify with 10% down. I'll tell you honestly where you stand.
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On most modern FHA loans, the monthly insurance stays for the life of the loan. The common strategy is to refinance into a conventional loan once you reach 20% equity — which I can help you time.
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Standard FHA loans require the home to meet condition standards. An FHA 203(k) renovation loan can finance repairs — ask me if that fits your plans.
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No. Anyone who meets the requirements can use an FHA loan, though it's especially popular with first-time buyers.
KEEP EXPLORING
Other Loan Types.
NO PRESSURE, NO OBLIGATION
Wondering if your credit is ready for an FHA loan?
Let’s find out together. I’ll show you exactly where you stand and what, if anything, to improve first.
CALL (360) 600-8250 - LICENSED IN WA - MT - SD - WY