Skip to content
Dan The TruongHOME FINANCING GUIDANCE
All loan options

Government-backed

FHA loans: a flexible path to homeownership.

FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration. They are popular with first-time buyers and borrowers who are still building credit because of their lower down payment and more flexible credit guidelines.

Talk with Dan about fha loans

May be a good fit if…

  • You have a smaller down payment saved.
  • Your credit history is still being built or repaired.
  • You plan to live in the home as your primary residence.

What to know about fha loans

3.5% minimum down payment

Borrowers with a credit score of 580 or higher may put down as little as 3.5%. Scores from 500–579 generally require 10% down.

Mortgage insurance

FHA loans include an upfront mortgage insurance premium and an annual premium paid monthly. How long it lasts depends on your down payment.

County loan limits

FHA sets maximum loan amounts by county each year, and limits are higher in high-cost areas such as much of Southern California.

Questions worth asking

  • How does FHA mortgage insurance compare with conventional PMI for me?
  • What is the FHA loan limit in the county where I am buying?
  • Could I refinance out of FHA later?

Frequently asked questions

What credit score do I need for an FHA loan?

FHA guidelines allow 3.5% down with a credit score of 580 or higher, and 10% down for scores between 500 and 579. Individual lenders may set higher minimums.

Can I use an FHA loan for an investment property?

No. FHA loans are for primary residences. A 2–4 unit property can qualify if you live in one of the units.

Can gift funds be used for the down payment?

Yes, FHA allows down payment gifts from eligible donors such as family members, with proper documentation.

Related reading

Your next step

Want to see how this applies to you?

Dan The Truong, NMLS ID 2115125. Information is for educational purposes only and is not a commitment to lend or an offer to extend credit. Eligibility, rates, and terms depend on credit, income, property, and underwriting, and may change without notice. Loans are offered only in states where Dan The Truong is licensed — see NMLS Consumer Access.