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Loan programs

FHA loan

Definition

An FHA loan is a mortgage insured by the Federal Housing Administration, part of HUD. It allows down payments from 3.5% and more flexible credit standards than many conventional loans, in exchange for mortgage insurance premiums. Loan amounts are capped by county limits — in 2026 between $541,288 and $1,249,125 for one unit.

FHA loan, explained

FHA loans are popular with first-time buyers and borrowers rebuilding credit.

Because of MIP, an FHA payment can exceed a conventional payment for borrowers with strong credit; comparing both is worth it.

Source: HUD — FHA mortgage insurance premiums

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The FHA Loan Calculator shows how this works with real numbers. FHA mortgage payment including upfront and annual mortgage insurance premiums (MIP).

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Related terms

FAQ

FHA loan: quick questions

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Q.01What is fha loan?
An FHA loan is a mortgage insured by the Federal Housing Administration, part of HUD. It allows down payments from 3.5% and more flexible credit standards than many conventional loans, in exchange for mortgage insurance premiums. Loan amounts are capped by county limits — in 2026 between $541,288 and $1,249,125 for one unit.
Q.02What is the minimum down payment on an FHA loan?
3.5% for borrowers who meet the credit-score threshold; lower scores require more.
Q.03Is FHA only for first-time buyers?
No, but it must be for a primary residence.

Explain it with their numbers

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