FHA Loan Requirements for 2026
580 Credit Score -and- 3.5% Down Payment
The FHA loan program lets you purchase a home with a low down payment and flexible guidelines. FHA refinance mortgages are a great option for those who want to lower their monthly mortgage payment or consolidate their bills.
See how we make the American dream a reality. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer moving to a new home, or want to refinance your existing conventional loan to an FHA mortgage, there's an FHA program suited to your needs. With no income limits or credit scoring, many people who can afford the monthly mortgage payments and have reasonable credit will qualify for an FHA mortgage.
FHA Loan Articles
May 20, 2026Discount points are basically prepaid interest. You can choose this option to pay cash in exchange for having the lender reduce your interest rate. Each point has a fixed cost equal to 1% of your total base loan amount. For example, if you secure a $400,000 FHA mortgage, a single point requires an exact cash payment of $4,000 at closing. Who is right for discount points? Not all borrowers should make the commitment.
May 19, 2026Lenders view income as a fixed amount of money. To approve your loan amount, an FHA lender must review and deduct any recurring non-housing obligations, such as auto loans, personal financing, and credit card minimums, from that fixed amount. How much you have left over after those calculations plays a big role in loan approval.
May 15, 2026When an FHA home loan application falls short of loan approval, knowing the FHA loan guidelines could makes the difference between a rejected loan and a successful application. If you are initially denied a loan through automatic underwriting, there may still be a pathway to an FHA mortgage through compensating factors, or getting a non-occupying co-borrower.
May 11, 2026Buying and owning your first home means planning and saving. Not only are there down payment and closing cost concerns, but as a first-time homeowner, it is important to anticipate the expenses of homeownership, including repairs, appliance replacement, lawn care, and more.
May 5, 2026If you want to buy a home with another borrower or even a co-signer,m there are some important nuances to know before you commit. Did you know signing an FHA mortgage obligates every participant to full financial liability for the debt? This is true, but only people listed on the property title hold ownership rights, something some first-time buyers do not realize at first. First-time homebuyers should know the differences between these borrowing roles to avoid unexpected liabilities and conflict.
