FHA loans · California

FHA loans in California, explained simply.

FHA-insured loans are designed to make homeownership more reachable, with lower down payment options and more flexible credit guidelines for qualified buyers. See if one may fit you.

  • Down payments as low as 3.5% for qualifying borrowers
  • More flexible credit guidelines than many loan types
  • Primary residences, including some 1–4 unit properties

Not a loan offer or commitment to lend. Available for California properties only. Programs, rates and terms vary and are subject to credit approval and underwriting. See licensing & disclosures.

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What brings you here?

Pick the closest match. You can change it anytime.

Your goal

How will you use the property?

This helps match you with the right program.

Property use

What’s the approximate home price or value?

A rough range is fine.

Price range

How much down payment or equity do you have?

Estimated percentage of the home’s value.

Down payment or equity

How would you describe your credit?

Your best guess. We are not checking your credit here.

Credit profile

When are you hoping to move forward?

No pressure. This helps us plan the conversation.

Timeline

Where should we send your options?

A licensed professional will follow up. We do not sell your personal information.

No credit pull. No obligation. Not a loan commitment.
Takes about a minute
At a glance

What an FHA loan may offer.

FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration and made by approved lenders. Guidelines can change, and every borrower and property is reviewed individually.

3.5% downMinimum down payment for borrowers who meet FHA credit score guidelines.
Flexible creditLower credit scores may be considered, sometimes with a larger down payment.
County limitsFHA loan limits vary by California county and are higher in high-cost areas.
Primary homeFHA loans are for homes you will live in, not investment properties.

Who it may fit

  • First-time and repeat buyers who want a lower down payment
  • Buyers rebuilding credit after a past setback
  • Buyers whose savings are going to closing costs and moving
  • Buyers purchasing a condo or home that meets FHA property standards

What to know first

  • FHA loans require mortgage insurance: an upfront premium (often financed) and an annual premium paid monthly.
  • The home must meet FHA appraisal and safety standards.
  • FHA loan limits cap how much you can borrow in each county, which matters in expensive California markets.
  • Conventional or other options may cost less for some borrowers. We compare them with you.
FHA FAQ

Common FHA questions.

What credit score do I need for an FHA loan?

FHA guidelines allow lower scores than many programs, and the minimum down payment depends on your score. Lenders can set their own stricter requirements, so a licensed professional can tell you what is realistic for your situation.

How much is the FHA down payment in California?

The FHA minimum is 3.5% of the purchase price for borrowers who meet the credit score guidelines. Your actual needs also depend on the home price, your finances and closing costs.

Can I use gift funds or assistance for the down payment?

FHA guidelines generally allow gift funds from acceptable donors, and some California assistance programs may be combined with FHA loans. Availability and rules vary and change often.

Does taking the quiz affect my credit?

No. The quiz and calculator do not involve a credit check, and you are not obligated to apply.

Explore other California loan options

VA loans →Conventional loans →First-time buyers →
Jagdish Singh, licensed California real estate broker
Meet your broker & loan officer

Jagdish Singh

Licensed California real estate broker · Mortgage Loan Originator

I’m a licensed real estate broker working in the California market. I started as a realtor in 2016, earned my broker’s license in 2019, and have helped hundreds of families buy homes with guidance grounded in local market knowledge.

I’m committed to personalized service for clients across the region, and I’m fluent in English, Hindi and Punjabi.

  • English
  • हिन्दी
  • ਪੰਜਾਬੀ

Landstar Realty Group · DRE Broker License #02110817Jagdish Singh · DRE Broker License #02002912Mortgage Loan Originator · NMLS ID #2734008 · with H.O.M.E. Lending, NMLS ID #1786164 H.O.M.E. Lending logoVerify on DRE · Verify on NMLS Consumer Access

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