An FHA loan is a mortgage insured by the Federal Housing Administration. Instead of lending money directly, the FHA backs approved lenders, giving them the confidence to offer more flexible qualification terms.
It’s built for real life—helping everyday buyers and first-time homeowners who want a manageable down payment without needing flawless credit.
With options as low as 3.5% down, it removes traditional financial barriers and makes owning a home straightforward and achievable.
Read the full guideThree simple steps that make homeownership accessible.
Launched in 1934 during the Great Depression, the FHA was created to rebuild the housing market and bring homeownership within reach for everyday working families.
The FHA doesn't lend money directly. Instead, it insures mortgages from approved lenders, lowering their financial risk so they can offer accessible 3.5% down payments.
Senior Loan Officer | NMLS #1110647
Welcome — I'm glad you're here. As a Senior Loan Officer, my goal with this resource is simple: help you actually understand how FHA loans work, in plain language, before you ever have to make a decision.
Whether you're just starting to explore homeownership, curious about how FHA loans compare to other options, or trying to figure out if you'd even qualify — this site exists to answer your questions first, with no pressure and no pitch.
FHA, credit, income, down payments — explained the way they should be: simply.
This is a place to learn first. When — and if — you're ready to talk, we're here.
Start wherever your question begins.
Understand what MIP is, why it's required, and how it works.
Learn moreSee what credit scores FHA lenders typically look for.
Learn moreA side-by-side look at how the two programs compare.
Learn moreHere's a simplified example of how FHA mortgage insurance (MIP) is calculated on a typical home purchase — for illustration only.
A neutral, factual comparison — not a recommendation.
| FEATURE |
FHA LOAN
Popular
|
CONVENTIONAL LOAN |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Down Payment | 3.5% | 3%–20% |
| Minimum Credit Score | ~500 | ~620 |
| Mortgage Insurance | Required (MIP) | Required if under 20% down (PMI) |
| Loan Limits | Set annually by county | Set annually by FHFA |
Try our free tool to explore your options. No commitment, just information.
Clear answers to your most pressing mortgage concerns.
FHA loans allow more flexible credit requirements than many conventional options.
Read moreFHA loans aren't limited to first-time buyers — anyone who qualifies can apply.
Read moreHere's a plain-language walkthrough of what documentation is typically needed.
Read moreQuick answers to common FHA loan questions.
