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
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.
October 21, 2025While some homebuyers using an FHA loan opt for the stability of a fixed-rate mortgage, the FHA also offers another option: the Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM). An ARM can provide upfront savings, but it comes with a different set of rules and risks centered on how its interest rate can change over time. We examine the key components of FHA ARMs, from how the rates are calculated to the crucial protections that keep payments in check.
October 20, 2025Even with the accessible terms of an FHA loan, saving for the down payment and closing costs can be a hurdle for many homebuyers. Down payment assistance programs offer a solution to this financial challenge.
October 14, 2025Property taxes are an important part of your monthly mortgage payment. FHA rules require lenders to use an escrow account for property taxes and homeowners insurance. Your total payment, known as PITI, includes Principal, Interest, Taxes, and Insurance. The lender calculates the tax portion by taking your annual tax bill, dividing it by twelve, and collecting that amount from you each month.
October 8, 2025A checklist is a tool for borrowers during a home loan closing, helping them stay on track with the numerous tasks and details required to complete the closing day meeting. If you have never purchased a home before, or it's been a long time since you attended a closing, having a checklist brings real peace of mind as well as protection from overlooking any key requirements for the process.
