An affordable path to your first front door.
FHA loans are government-insured mortgages designed to make homeownership more reachable — with down payments as low as 3.5% and more flexible credit guidelines for qualifying buyers. Your Savvy advisor walks you through every step.
Insured by the Federal Housing Administration
What is an FHA loan?
An FHA loan is a mortgage insured by the Federal Housing Administration and issued by FHA-approved private lenders. Because the FHA insurance protects the lender if a borrower defaults, FHA programs may allow lower down payments and more flexible credit score and debt-to-income requirements than typical conventional guidelines. That can make an FHA loan a good fit for first-time buyers, buyers still building credit, or anyone with limited down payment savings — though the right loan always depends on your individual scenario.
Insured by the Federal Housing Administration; issued by FHA-approved private lenders.
Down payments as low as 3.5% for qualifying borrowers with credit scores of 580 or above.
Credit scores of 500–579 may still qualify with a 10% down payment.
Upfront and annual mortgage insurance premiums (MIP) are required.
For primary residences that meet FHA minimum property standards.
Why buyers choose an FHA loan.
FHA loans are built to lower the barriers to homeownership. Benefits depend on your scenario — your advisor helps you weigh them against other programs.Lower upfront costs
A smaller down payment can get you into a home sooner, keeping more cash in your pocket for moving, repairs, and reserves.
Flexible credit evaluation
FHA guidelines may consider factors like rent payment history and employment stability alongside your credit score.
Room for repairs
FHA 203(k) rehabilitation options can let qualifying buyers finance certain repairs and upgrades into the loan.
Streamlined refinancing later
Existing FHA borrowers may qualify for a streamlined refinance with reduced documentation down the road.
Types of FHA loans.
One program family, several ways to use it. Availability varies by scenario — your advisor helps you find the right fit.
Standard FHA Purchase
The core program: buy a primary residence with a low down payment and flexible credit guidelines.
FHA 203(k) Rehabilitation
Finance the purchase and eligible repair or renovation costs together in a single loan.
FHA Streamline Refinance
A simplified refinance path for existing FHA borrowers, often with reduced documentation.
FHA Rate & Term Refinance
Refinance an existing loan into an FHA loan to change your rate or term.
Energy Efficient Mortgage (EEM)
Finance eligible energy-saving improvements as part of your FHA loan.
What it takes to qualify.
A clear, honest breakdown of typical FHA guidelines, and what Savvy reviews when you apply.
Credit score
Typically 580 or above for the 3.5% down payment option; scores of 500–579 may qualify with 10% down.
Down payment
As low as 3.5% for qualifying borrowers, depending on credit profile and program.
Debt-to-income (DTI)
Generally around 43% or lower, though FHA guidelines may allow more flexibility with strong compensating factors.
Income & employment
Stable, verifiable income — pay stubs, W-2s, and tax returns — with a consistent employment history.
Mortgage insurance (MIP)
An upfront premium plus an annual premium paid monthly. MIP generally cannot be canceled on newer FHA loans unless you refinance.
Property standards
The home must be your primary residence and meet FHA minimum property standards for safety and soundness.
How to apply for an FHA loan.
From first look to keys in hand — with your Savvy team at every step. Closing timelines vary by loan and transaction.Check your options
Share a few basics about your income, credit range, and goals. Soft credit pull only to start.
Get pre-approved
Upload your documents through our secure portal so we can verify your details and issue a pre-approval letter.
Shop & make offers
House-hunt with a clear budget. Your advisor helps you understand FHA appraisal and property requirements.
Underwriting
We review your full file and order the FHA appraisal, keeping you posted in your dashboard.
Lock & close
Lock your rate, sign digitally, and close with your team handling the details.
See if an FHA loan fits your plans.
No hard credit pull to check your options, and no pressure. Just clear numbers and a team that specializes in first-time buyers.
Frequently asked questions.
Everything you need to know about fha loans.
Important rate & fee disclosures
- FHA down payment options as low as 3.5% are available to qualifying borrowers with credit scores of 580 or above; scores of 500–579 may qualify with a 10% down payment. FHA loans require an upfront mortgage insurance premium and annual mortgage insurance premiums paid monthly, which increase your payment. FHA loans are for primary residences that meet FHA minimum property standards. Eligibility, rates, APRs, and terms vary by credit profile, loan-to-value, and program guidelines and are not guaranteed. Savvy Mortgage is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or acting on behalf of the Federal Housing Administration, HUD, or any government agency. Not a commitment to lend.