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
November 12, 2025Closing day is the final appointment in the home-buying process. It is the event where the property officially transfers from the seller to the buyer. At this meeting, the buyer signs all the final loan documents, pays their "cash to close" (which includes the down payment and other costs), and the lender funds are disbursed to the seller.
November 6, 2025 FHA mortgage insurance, also known as MIP, is a must-pay cost associated with FHA loans. It protects the lender, not the borrower, in case of default, and most borrowers will pay this for the duration of the loan (see below) unless they make a larger down payment. Why does the FHA require mortgage insurance? The FHA program features more forgiving credit requirements, lower down payments, and a government guarantee for a portion of the loan, making it more attractive for lenders to offer.
November 5, 2025Your FHA home loan balance is affected by several factors from the day the loan is issued until it is paid in full. Understanding these elements can help borrowers manage their mortgage and build equity. Do you understand the key factors that influence your FHA loan balance?
October 31, 2025As part of the FHA loan process, your lender will require a title search. This is a standard step that protects the lender and buyer from ownership issues. The process is essential for a secure transaction, and more importantly, it protects you from future surprises related to your ownership of that specific property.
October 22, 2025An owner-occupied home is what the FHA calls a "Principal Residence." This is the dwelling where the borrower maintains their permanent place of abode and lives for the majority of the calendar year. It is the address used for legal documents and tax returns. FHA loans are only for principal residences, not for investment properties or second homes. We examine some common topics on owner-occupancy and what you need to know before you sign on the dotted line.
