Jim Potts

Synergy One Lending

  • Home
  • Resources
    • First Time Buyer Tips
    • First Time Seller Tips
    • Closing Costs
    • Home Appraisal
    • Home Inspection
    • Loan Programs
    • Loan Process
    • Mortgage Glossary
  • Buyer & Seller Guides
    • Construction & Renovation Loan Learning Center
    • Home Buyer Handbook
    • Buying a Home
    • Comprando Una Casa
    • Selling Your House
    • Vendiendo Su Casa
  • Schedule Appointment
  • Apply
  • Reviews
    • My Reviews
    • Google Reviews
  • About Jim
  • Contact Us

FHA Down Payment Requirements: Homeownership Without A Big Savings Account

February 21, 2020 by Jim Potts

FHA Down Payment Requirements Homeownership Without A Big Savings AccountBuying a home for the first time can be a challenge. One of the tools created to help people buy a home for the first time comes in the form of FHA loans. There were loans that were supported by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). They can require a down payment that is as low as 3.5 percent. 

FHA loans are significantly different from traditional mortgage loans. Those who have purchased a house before have likely heard that the average down payment is closer to 20 percent of the value. This can make it hard for someone to buy a home, particularly if they already have a car loan and credit card debt.

The Role Of The Credit Score For FHA Loans

Anyone who is interested in a mortgage with a down payment of 3.5 percent will want to do everything they can to make sure they have a strong mortgage application. This starts by taking a look at the credit score. 

A credit score of 580 or higher will increase someone’s chances of successfully applying for a mortgage with a 3.5 percent down payment. Those who have a credit score between 500 and 579 will likely be asked to put 10 percent down in order to qualify for a loan through the FHA program.

For example, someone who is looking to buy a home that costs $250,000 may only need to put down $8,750. On the other hand, if someone’s credit score is under 580, they might be asked to put down $25,000. This can make a tremendous difference to someone who is trying to purchase a home.

The Other Requirements Of An FHA Loan

While a small down payment is attractive to many people, one catch is that homeowners may be asked to purchase private mortgage insurance, or PMI, under this program. This insurance policy is required because the lenders through the FHA program are taking on more risk by accepting a smaller down payment.

PMI is a cost that will need to be paid monthly, in addition to the mortgage payment. Those who are willing to put down a larger down payment might be able to get the PMI requirement waived.

If you are in the market for a new home or interested in refinancing your current property, be sure to consult with your trusted home mortgage professional.

Jim Potts

Filed Under: Mortgage Tagged With: Financing Options, Mortgage, PMI

Jim Potts

Jim Potts


Branch Manager
Call (760) 337-8100
NMLS# 227144
Synergy One Lending Logo

What's My Home Worth?

How can I help?


0 / 180

Connect With Me

Archives

Latest Articles

  • Navigating A Market With Higher Interest Rate
  • Understanding Mortgage Pre-Approvals and How to Avoid Being Declined for One
  • What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – March 20, 2023
  • Is A VA Loan The Best Option For Your Needs?

Our Location


5252 Balboa Avenue, 601a
San Diego, CA 92117

Copyright © 2021 | Synergy One Lending | NMLS# 227144 | Corp NMLS #1907235 | Licensed to Do Business in the State of CA | NMLS Consumer Access Portal | Privacy Policy | Disclosures


Equal Housing Lender

Copyright © 2023 · Powered by MySMARTblog