FHA Loans

FHA Home Loans in Southern California

Buy with as little as 3.5% down and flexible credit guidelines. A proven path to homeownership for first-time and repeat buyers.

  • 30+ years of experience
  • Same-day approvals available
  • First-time buyers welcome
First-time homebuyers holding the keys to their new Southern California townhome
The Basics

What Is an FHA Loan?

An FHA loan is a mortgage insured by the Federal Housing Administration. That backing lets lenders approve buyers with smaller down payments and less-than-perfect credit.

It’s a great fit if you’re buying your first home, rebuilding credit, or getting help with your down payment from family.

Minimum credit score580 (500 with 10% down)
Down paymentAs little as 3.5%
Mortgage insuranceUpfront and annual premium
Loan terms15 or 30 years, fixed or ARM
Property typesPrimary home, 1 to 4 units

Why Choose an FHA Loan?

Easier to qualify for, with less cash needed to get the keys.

Just 3.5% Down

One of the lowest down payments available without military service.

Gift Funds Welcome

Family members can cover your entire down payment.

Flexible Credit

Scores from 580 qualify, with shorter waits after past credit problems.

More Room for Debt

Higher debt-to-income limits for car, student loan, and card payments.

Assumable Loan

A future buyer can take over your rate when you sell.

Buy Up to 4 Units

Live in one unit and let rent from the others help pay the mortgage.

Eligibility

Do You Qualify?

FHA guidelines are built to say yes to more buyers. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Credit score of 580 or higher (500 with 10% down)
  • Down payment of 3.5%, which can be a gift
  • Two years of steady income
  • A home you’ll live in as your primary residence
  • A property that meets FHA safety and condition standards

Find Out What You Qualify For

Get a free pre-approval, often the same day. No obligation.

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FAQ

FHA Loan Questions

How much do I need to put down?

3.5% with a credit score of 580 or higher, or 10% with a score between 500 and 579. A gift from family can cover it.

How does FHA mortgage insurance work?

There’s an upfront premium of 1.75% of the loan, usually added to the loan amount, plus a yearly premium paid monthly. With less than 10% down, it lasts for the life of the loan. Many owners later refinance into a conventional loan to drop it.

Can I get an FHA loan after bankruptcy or foreclosure?

Often, yes. The usual wait is 2 years after a Chapter 7 bankruptcy and 3 years after a foreclosure, which is shorter than for conventional loans.

Is FHA only for first-time buyers?

No. Anyone buying a home to live in can use an FHA loan, including repeat buyers.

How large a loan can I get?

FHA sets loan limits by county, and they’re higher in much of Southern California. See our county loan limits.

Can I refinance an FHA loan?

Yes. An FHA Streamline Refinance can lower your rate with less paperwork and often no appraisal. Cash-out refinancing is also available.

Not Sure FHA Is the Right Fit?

We’ll compare FHA with conventional, VA, and other options and show you the true cost of each, including mortgage insurance.

Loan officer reviewing mortgage options with a couple
How It Works

Get Pre-Approved in 3 Simple Steps

1

Tell Us Your Goals

Apply online in minutes or give us a call.

2

We Compare Your Options

We review your finances and find the best loan for you.

3

Get Your Pre-Approval

Shop for homes and make offers with confidence.