Government-Backed · Low Down Payment · First-Time Buyers

FHA Loans —
3.5% Down. 580 FICO.

FHA loans are one of the most accessible mortgage programs available. Low down payment, flexible credit requirements, and government-backed security — the top choice for first-time buyers in Fremont and the Bay Area.

Apply Now → Call 510-786-8739

Program Highlights

FHA Loan at a Glance

3.5%

Min Down Payment

With 580+ FICO

580

Min FICO Score

10% down if 500-579

96.5%

Max LTV

Purchase transactions

$1.25M

High Balance Limit

Bay Area 1-unit 2026

50%

Max DTI

With AUS approval ≥620

3/2/1

Temp Buydown

Purchase fixed rate

Program Details

FHA Loan Requirements

Credit Score

Minimum 580 FICO for 3.5% down. 500–579 FICO requires 10% down. No DTI limit with AUS approval for FICO ≥ 620.

Down Payment

3.5% minimum. 100% gift funds allowed. Down payment assistance programs accepted. No seasoning requirement on gift funds.

2026 Loan Limits

1 unit: $832,750 / $1,249,125 high balance
2 unit: $1,066,250 / $1,599,375
3 unit: $1,288,800 / $1,966,200
4 unit: $1,601,750 / $2,402,625

Property Types

SFR, 2–4 units, FHA-approved condos, PUDs, manufactured homes. Primary residence only.

Special Programs

FHA Streamline Refi up to 125% LTV · Temporary buydown (3/2/1, 2/1, 1/1) · Manufactured homes · Credit event seasoning 24 months with 70% LTV cash-out

Who Qualifies

FHA Is Perfect For

First-time home buyers with limited savings

Borrowers with credit scores as low as 580

Buyers who want to use 100% gift funds for down payment

Those with a previous bankruptcy (2yr seasoning)

Those with a previous foreclosure (3yr seasoning)

Self-employed borrowers with documented income

Multi-family investors buying 2-4 unit primary residence

Buyers using down payment assistance programs

Common Questions

FHA Loan FAQs

What is the difference between FHA and conventional loans?

FHA loans are government-backed and allow lower credit scores and down payments. Conventional loans are not government-backed but have no upfront MIP. FHA requires mortgage insurance for the life of the loan (if less than 10% down), while conventional MI drops off at 20% equity.

Can I use an FHA loan in the Bay Area with high home prices?

Yes — 2026 high balance FHA limits reach $1,249,125 for a 1-unit property in the Bay Area. This covers most purchases in Fremont, Oakland, San Jose, and surrounding areas.

Does FHA require mortgage insurance?

Yes — FHA requires an upfront MIP (1.75% of the loan, financed into the loan) plus an annual MIP (0.55%–1.05% depending on LTV and term). For loans with 10%+ down, MIP drops off after 11 years.

Can I use an FHA loan to buy a multi-unit property?

Yes — FHA allows financing of 2, 3, and 4-unit properties as long as you occupy one unit as your primary residence. This is a great house-hacking strategy.

What is an FHA Streamline Refinance?

If you already have an FHA loan, the Streamline Refi lets you refinance with minimal documentation and no appraisal required in most cases. It must result in a lower rate or payment to qualify.

Are FHA loans available in California for self-employed borrowers?

Yes — FHA accepts self-employed income documented with 2 years of tax returns and a YTD P&L. The key is showing consistent or growing income over the 2-year period.

Ready to Apply for an FHA Loan?

No surprises, no jargon — just honest guidance and the lowest rate we can find across 50+ lenders. Serving Fremont, Bay Area, and all of California.

Apply Securely Now → Call 510-786-8739

CA DRE #01480904 · NMLS #300923 · Equal Housing Lender · Fremont, CA · Rates and terms subject to change without notice

FHA Loans —3.5% Down. 580 FICO.