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QUICK ANSWER — To qualify for an FHA loan: have a 580+ credit score (500+ with 10% down), maintain DTI under 43% (up to 57% with compensating factors), show 2 years of employment, and buy a primary residence that passes FHA appraisal. Valley West Mortgage pre-approves most FHA borrowers within 24 hours.
Reviewed by Vatche Saatdjian·Valley West Mortgage·NMLS #65506·790+ five-star reviews

How to Qualify for FHA

Credit score, income, debts, and property — here is exactly what FHA lenders look at and how to strengthen your application.

Check What You Qualify For → (702) 696-9900
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QUALIFICATION

What FHA Lenders Look At

1. Credit Score

580+ for 3.5% down. 500-579 for 10% down. Late payments in the last 12 months are weighted heavily. Collections and charge-offs are reviewed case-by-case.

2. Debt-to-Income Ratio

Standard max is 43%. Can go up to 57% with compensating factors like 3+ months cash reserves, minimal payment shock, or long employment history.

3. Employment & Income

2 years of steady employment. Self-employed borrowers need 2 years of tax returns. Gaps under 6 months are OK with explanation. Multiple income sources allowed.

4. Property Requirements

Must be your primary residence. FHA appraisal checks safety, soundness, and security. 1-4 unit properties eligible. Condos must be on the FHA-approved list.

QUICK CHECK

Do You Meet the Minimums?

Credit score 580+?
3.5% down saved or gifted?
Employed 2+ years?
DTI under 43%?
Buying primary residence?

If you checked all five — you likely qualify for FHA.

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Get your personalized FHA rate in 60 seconds. No SSN. No credit impact.

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FAQ

Questions? Answered.

FHA is one of the easiest government loans to qualify for. The minimum credit score is 580 (lower than conventional at 620), the down payment is just 3.5%, and DTI can go up to 57%. Valley West Mortgage approves most FHA applicants.

Yes in many cases. FHA does not require collections to be paid off unless they are large medical collections or the total exceeds certain thresholds. Your loan officer will review your specific situation.

Yes. FHA uses 1% of the outstanding student loan balance as the monthly payment if loans are in deferment or income-driven repayment. Active repayment uses the actual payment amount.

Yes. Self-employed borrowers need 2 years of tax returns showing stable or increasing income. A year-to-date profit and loss statement may also be required. Valley West works with many self-employed FHA borrowers.

Common disqualifiers: credit score below 500, DTI above 57%, active bankruptcy, foreclosure within 3 years, or purchasing a non-primary residence. Most issues can be resolved with time or the right approach.

Quick question?(702) 696-9900·Apply online →
EXPLORE

FHA Resources

→ FHA Requirements → FHA Rates Today → FHA Calculator → Credit Score Guide → Down Payment Guide → FHA vs Conventional → First-Time Buyer → Get Pre-Approved → Closing Costs → Pros & Cons

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See what you qualify for in 60 seconds. No SSN. No credit impact.

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FHA rates from 5.750%
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