Florida FHA loan requirements 2026.
3.5% down payment. Credit scores from 580. FHA loans are the most accessible path to homeownership for first-time buyers and those rebuilding credit.
Everything you need to qualify in Florida.
FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration and offered through approved lenders. Florida is one of the highest-volume FHA states due to its mix of first-time buyers, retirees, and buyers with prior credit challenges.
Credit Score — 580+ for 3.5% Down
With a 580+ score, you qualify for the 3.5% minimum down payment. Scores 500–579 require 10% down. Below 500 is not eligible for FHA. We work with scores as low as 580 on standard programs.
Down Payment — 3.5% Minimum
3.5% of the purchase price. On a $350,000 home, that's $12,250 down. Gift funds from family are allowed in full — no requirement for borrower's own funds on primary residences.
Debt-to-Income Ratio — Up to 57%
FHA is more flexible than Conventional on DTI. With automated underwriting approval, DTI up to 56.99% is possible. Most approvals land in the 43–50% range.
Employment History — 2 Years
Two years of consistent employment or self-employment history. Recent job changes in the same field are acceptable. Gaps under 30 days are generally not an issue.
Primary Residence Only
FHA loans are for owner-occupied primary residences. 1–4 unit properties are eligible — a great strategy for house-hacking with 3.5% down on a duplex, triplex, or fourplex.
Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP)
FHA requires two forms of MIP: 1.75% upfront (typically financed) and 0.55% annual for most loans. On a $350K loan, annual MIP is ~$1,925/yr ($160/mo). Unlike PMI, FHA MIP stays for the loan's life if you put less than 10% down.
| Feature | FHA | Conventional |
|---|---|---|
| Min Down Payment | 3.5% (580+ score) | 3% (620+ score) |
| Min Credit Score | 580 (3.5% down) | 620 |
| Max DTI | 56.99% (AUS approval) | 50% (AUS approval) |
| Mortgage Insurance | MIP for life of loan | PMI cancels at 20% equity |
| Loan Limit (Palm Beach) | $524,225 | $806,500 |
| Gift Funds | Fully allowed | Allowed with conditions |
FHA + Down Payment Assistance
FHA loans are compatible with Florida’s Hometown Heroes and FL Assist programs. Eligible buyers can use DPA to cover the 3.5% down payment — effectively purchasing a home with little to no out-of-pocket funds. Ask our team about stacking options.
Equal Housing Lender. FHA loan limits are set annually by HUD and vary by county. Not a commitment to lend. All loans subject to credit approval. NMLS# 1859012. Licensed in Florida.
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Credit scores from 580. Down payment as low as 3.5%. Our mortgage team responds within 24 hours.
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