FHA Home Loan

Think you can’t get approved for a mortgage? If you don’t have a lot of money for a down payment, your credit isn’t perfect, and your debt-to-income ratio is a little high, don’t despair. You can still get a mortgage and start participating in the joys of home ownership.

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What is the Federal Housing Administration (FHA)?

The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) is part of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). FHA loans were designed to make home ownership more accessible for the average American. This is accomplished by providing FHA mortgage insurance on loans made by FHA-approved lenders.

Since FHA loans are insured by the federal government, if a property owner defaults on an FHA loan, the FHA pays a claim to the lender for the unpaid principal balance. This allows mortgage lenders to offer more mortgages to homebuyers who may not be in the best risk bracket.

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TermConforming 30 year fixed
Rate5.875%
APR6.078%

98004 | $800,000 | Credit Score 800+ | 25 Down

TermConforming 15 year fixed
Rate4.875%
APR5.269%

98004 | $800,000 | Credit Score 800+ | 25 Down

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Who Qualifies For FHA Loans?

FHA loans can be accessed by almost anyone. First-time home buyers or buyers with low credit scores can find a path to homeownership through an FHA loan. FHA loan requirements may vary by lenders according to their internal risk assessment process.

FHA loans are available for many home buyers who can’t qualify for a conventional mortgage due to a less than perfect FICO score.

You may be able to qualify for a low as 3.5% down payment or 10% down payment with an FHA loan if you have a minimum credit score above a certain threshold. You can still qualify for some types of FHA loans with a low credit score, but you will have to put down more money up front.

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What Are FHA Loan Limits?

The FHA only insures loans up to a certain amount, which is the maximum FHA lending limit. FHA loan limits are recalculated and updated every year. They are heavily influenced by limits set by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac for “conforming” or conventional loans.

FHA limits vary based on county, and there is both a floor and a ceiling for different types of homes. For 2025, the minimum FHA loan amount was set at $524,225 for single-family home loans, and the maximum amount was set at $1,209,750 for FHA loans on single-family homes.

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What is FHA Mortgage Insurance?

FHA mortgage insurance — known as Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP) — is a required cost for home buyers using an FHA loan to buy a home. It’s designed to protect lenders in case the borrower defaults on the loan.

This type of insurance can be broken down as follows:

  • Upfront MIP: 1.75% of the loan amount (can be rolled into the loan).
  • Annual MIP: Varies based on loan amount, loan-to-value ratio, and loan term.
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Applying For FHA Loans in WA, OR, CO, CA or ID

Now is a great time for looking into a FHA mortgage. You can use our free Instant Rate Quote tool and Rate Tracker to find out how much you could be saving every month or over the life of your loan.

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Pros and Cons of FHA Loans

FHA loans come with their own unique set of perks and challenges:

Pros:

  • Low down payment
  • Easier credit qualification
  • Can use gift funds for down payment/closing costs
  • Assumable loans

Cons:

  • Upfront and annual mortgage insurance premium (MIP)
  • Property must meet FHA standards
  • Loan limits may not cover high-cost areas

FAQs

What’s the minimum credit score required for an FHA loan?

Typically, a score of 580 qualifies for a 3.5% down payment.

How much is the minimum down payment?

A down payment as low as 3.5% of the purchase price is possible if your credit score is 580 or higher.

Are FHA loans only for first-time homebuyers?

No, they’re available to repeat buyers too, as long as the home will be your primary residence.

What types of properties qualify?

Qualifying property types include single-family homes, multi-unit properties (up to 4 units), condos, and manufactured homes if they meet FHA standards.

What is FHA mortgage insurance?

It’s a type of insurance that protects lenders in case of borrower default.

What are FHA loan limits?

Loan limits vary by county and are based on local housing prices.

Can I refinance an FHA loan?

Yes, FHA offers streamline refinancing, rate-and-term, and cash-out options.

States we lend in

Our loan officers are ready and waiting to help you apply for your home loan.

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Working With Sammamish Mortgage

At Sammamish Mortgage, we always put the client first, making sure you get the most effective loan for your budget.

We offer some of the most competitive rates in the nation, and it’s our goal to give you a hassle-free home loan experience. We’re proud to say we close most of our loans quickly and on time. We offer a wide variety of home loans, including FHA loans, so you can start looking for a home as soon as possible.

Need Financing?

For more information on your FHA loan options, feel free to contact us today. We currently lend in all of Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Colorado and California and have been providing mortgage programs to borrowers since 1992. Our friendly team of experienced mortgage professionals will advise you on which FHA home loan program meets your needs.

Are you ready to apply for your home loan and lock in a low interest rate? If so, Sammamish Mortgage can help you get started. Get in touch with us today!

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