FHA Loans

FHA loans are government-insured mortgages designed to help buyers who may have smaller down payments, limited savings or credit challenges. They’re widely used by first-time buyers in Central Florida.

Quick Snapshot (Plain English)

  • Minimum down payment is often around 3.5% for many qualifying buyers.
  • More flexible credit guidelines than many conventional loans.
  • Allows gifts from family or approved sources for down payment and closing costs.
  • Can be used for many single-family homes, some condos and certain 2–4 unit properties.

Exact rules change over time and can vary by lender. We’ll always check current guidelines before you rely on anything.

Pros of FHA Loans

  • Helps buyers who are rebuilding credit or who have shorter credit histories.
  • Lower down payment requirements compared to many conventional options.
  • More forgiving about past credit issues, with defined waiting periods.
  • Often easier to pair with Down Payment Assistance programs.

Things to Watch

  • You’ll have mortgage insurance (MIP) built into the payment.
  • MIP can last longer than PMI on many conventional loans.
  • Property must meet FHA appraisal and condition standards.
  • Loan limits apply and vary by county and year.

Is FHA a Good Fit for You?

FHA may be worth exploring if:

  • Your credit score is still in the “fair” range or recovering from past issues.
  • You have steady income but limited cash for down payment and closing costs.
  • You want to use Down Payment Assistance or gifted funds.

Use the calculators first to see where you stand. Then share your numbers on the Get Your Plan page and I’ll build a written set of options around FHA vs other choices.