An FHA loan is a mortgage insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), which is part of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). These loans are designed to help lower-income and first-time homebuyers by offering lower down payments and more flexible credit requirements compared to conventional loans.
FHA 30-Year Fixed
Mortgage Loan
Low Down Payment, Fixed Rate for 30 Years
The FHA 30-year fixed mortgage loan, insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), is a well-known mortgage option. The upfront advantage of this loan is that the interest rate is fixed throughout the loan term, which is 30 years. This mortgage loan is aimed at lower-income and first-time homebuyers with flexible credit requirements and a low down payment of 3.5%.
Key Benefits
Lower Credit Requirements
Credit score eligibility conditions are lower than those of conventional loans.
Low Down Payment
Borrowers can benefit from a down payment as low as 3.5% of the property's value.
Integrated Closing Costs
The loan closing costs can be integrated into the loan, reducing upfront expenses.
Flexible Financial History
Borrowers with financial issues or bankruptcy history may still qualify for the FHA 30-year fixed mortgage loan.
FHA 30-Year Fixed Mortgage Information
FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration, which comes under the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This means that if the homeowner is unable to repay the loan, the lender is secured from losses. To better understand the eligibility criteria and program details, you can start by speaking to one of our seasoned experts.
How Does the FHA 30-Year Fixed Mortgage Work?
Based on the borrower's credit score, the home buyer is allowed to borrow a percentage of the property's value:
- Credit Score 580 or more: Can borrow 96.5% of the property's value with a 3.5% down payment
- Credit Score 500-579: Can borrow 90% of the home's value with a 10% down payment
FHA Loan Eligibility Conditions
- An FHA appraiser must approve the property.
- The FHA loan is available only for the primary residence.
- The borrower should move into the property within 60 days of closing the loan.
- The property has to meet the required minimum property standards during the inspection.
- The borrower must be a permanent resident of the U.S. or hold specific eligible statuses (U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident) to be eligible for an FHA loan as of May 25, 2025.
Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP)
MIP is a must for FHA loans. It's typically charged upfront, usually about 1.75% of the loan's value. An annual MIP is also charged, usually between 0.15% and 0.75% of the loan's value. MIP needs to be paid throughout the loan's life, with some exceptions.
FHA 30-Year Fixed Mortgage Requirements
Understanding the requirements for an FHA 30-Year Fixed Mortgage can help you determine if this loan is right for you.
Credit Score and DTI
Credit scores as low as 500 may qualify, but scores of 580 or higher get better terms. Debt-to-income ratio (DTI) is also considered, with some flexibility for higher credit scores.
Income Requirements
While there are no specific income limits, borrowers must establish a sound employment history. Documentation like tax returns, bank statements, pay stubs, and W-2s are required.
FHA Loan Limits
Loan limits vary by county. As of 2024, the limit in high-cost areas is $1,149,825, while in low-cost areas for 1-unit properties, it's $498,257.
Interest Rates
FHA interest rates are typically lower compared to conventional loans. Rates depend on factors like credit score, income, down payment amount, and DTI.
FHA 30-Year Fixed FAQs
Everything you need to know about FHA 30-Year Fixed Mortgage Loans
What is an FHA loan?
What are the credit score requirements for an FHA 30-Year Fixed Mortgage?
The minimum credit score requirements for an FHA 30-Year Fixed Mortgage are:
- 580 or higher: Eligible for a 3.5% down payment
- 500-579: Eligible for the loan with a 10% down payment
What is Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP) and how does it work with FHA loans?
Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP) is a type of insurance required on all FHA loans. It protects the lender if the borrower defaults on the loan. There are two types of MIP for FHA loans:
- Upfront MIP: Usually 1.75% of the loan amount, paid at closing or financed into the loan.
- Annual MIP: Ranges from 0.15% to 0.75% of the loan amount, paid monthly as part of your mortgage payment.
How do FHA loan limits work?
FHA loan limits vary by county and are adjusted annually. As of 2024:
- The limit for low-cost areas is $498,257 for a single-family home.
- The limit for high-cost areas is $1,149,825 for a single-family home.
Is an FHA 30-Year Fixed Mortgage right for me?
An FHA 30-Year Fixed Mortgage might be right for you if:
- You're a first-time homebuyer or have a lower credit score
- You can only afford a small down payment
- You want the stability of a fixed interest rate for 30 years
- You're buying a primary residence (FHA loans can't be used for investment properties)
Start your homeownership journey with an FHA 30-Year Fixed Mortgage Loan.
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