{"id":107759,"date":"2026-04-27T09:45:37","date_gmt":"2026-04-27T16:45:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/?p=107759"},"modified":"2026-04-27T09:45:50","modified_gmt":"2026-04-27T16:45:50","slug":"what-is-an-fha-loan","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/what-is-an-fha-loan\/","title":{"rendered":"What Is an FHA Loan? See Requirements and How to Apply"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/rocketmortgage.com\/home-loans\/fha-loan\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FHA loan<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/types-of-mortgage-loans\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">type of mortgage<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) that\u2019s designed to make homeownership more accessible. Because lenders are protected if a borrower defaults, they can offer more flexible requirements &#8211; like lower credit scores and smaller down payments &#8211; compared to conventional loans.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FHA loan at a glance:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Minimum down payment: 3.5%<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Minimum credit score: ~580<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mortgage insurance: Required<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Best for: First-time buyers or borrowers with lower credit<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To understand whether it\u2019s the right option for you, it helps to take a closer look at how FHA loans work, who qualifies, and what to consider before applying.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What is an FHA loan?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An FHA loan is a government-insured mortgage that allows borrowers to qualify with lower credit scores and down payments than many conventional loans. While the FHA doesn\u2019t lend money directly, it provides <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/what-is-mortgage-insurance\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">mortgage insurance<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to approved lenders &#8211; meaning if a borrower defaults, the FHA reimburses part of the lender\u2019s loss.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Because of this protection, lenders can offer more flexible qualification requirements than conventional loans. In many cases, that includes:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Credit scores as low as 580 for a 3.5% down payment<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Down payments starting at just 3.5%<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Higher allowable debt-to-income (DTI) ratios<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is why FHA loans are commonly used by first-time homebuyers and those with less-than-perfect credit.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How does an FHA loan work?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In practice, an FHA loan works much like a traditional mortgage. You apply through an FHA-approved lender, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/mortgage-pre-approval\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">get pre-approved<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> based on your credit and income, and then use the loan to purchase a home. The key difference is that FHA loans require mortgage insurance premiums (MIP), which help protect the lender.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These costs include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An upfront fee (typically 1.75% of the loan amount)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A monthly premium added to your <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/mortgage-calculator\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">mortgage payment<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How long you pay mortgage insurance depends on your down payment. If you put less than 10% down, MIP typically lasts for the life of the loan. If you put 10% or more down, MIP is removed after 11 years.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Because FHA mortgage insurance generally isn\u2019t cancelable, borrowers typically need to refinance into a conventional loan to remove it, which can increase long-term costs.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most borrowers will also need to meet basic requirements, including steady income, using the home as a primary residence, and purchasing a property that meets FHA safety standards.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Are FHA loans only for first-time homebuyers?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No &#8211; FHA loans are not limited to first-time homebuyers. While they\u2019re often associated with first-time buyers because of their flexible requirements and low down payments, anyone who meets the eligibility criteria can apply.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What matters most is your financial profile, not whether you\u2019ve owned a home before.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You may qualify for an FHA loan if you:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Meet the credit score and income requirements<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Plan to use the home as your primary residence<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stay within FHA loan limits for your area<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">That said, FHA loans are especially popular with first-time buyers because they lower the barrier to entry. For many, the ability to buy a home with just 3.5% down and a lower credit score makes homeownership possible sooner.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are also scenarios where repeat buyers use FHA loans &#8211; for example, if they\u2019ve had a recent financial setback, are re-entering the housing market, or don\u2019t want to tie up a large amount of cash in a down payment. FHA loans are designed for accessibility, not just first-time buyers.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Can you get an FHA loan more than once?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes, you can get an FHA loan more than once &#8211; but not at the same time in most cases.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FHA loans are intended for primary residences, so you generally can\u2019t have <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/fha-loan-for-a-new-primary-residence\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">multiple FHA loans<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> active unless you meet specific exceptions. However, you can reuse an FHA loan in the future as long as you meet the requirements again.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Common scenarios where borrowers qualify for another FHA loan include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>You\u2019ve paid off or sold your previous FHA-financed home<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>You\u2019re relocating for work<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and need to buy a new primary residence<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Your family size has increased<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and you need a larger home<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>You co-signed an FHA loan<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> but are no longer financially responsible for it<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In most cases, you can only have one FHA loan at a time unless you meet a specific exception approved by your lender.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Types of FHA loans<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FHA loans aren\u2019t one-size-fits-all. While most people think of the standard <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/minimum-down-payment-for-house-first-time-buyer\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">low down payment <\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">mortgage, the FHA actually offers several loan types designed for different situations &#8211; whether you\u2019re buying, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rocketmortgage.com\/refinance\/get-started\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">refinancing<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, or renovating a home.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here are the main types of FHA loans and how they work:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>FHA Purchase Loan (Standard FHA Loan): <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is the most common option and what most people mean when they search <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201cwhat is an FHA loan.\u201d<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> It\u2019s used to buy a primary residence with flexible credit requirements and a low down payment (as little as 3.5%).<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>FHA Rate-and-Term Refinance: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This option allows you to refinance your existing mortgage to get a lower interest rate or change your loan term. It works similarly to a traditional refinance but follows FHA guidelines.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<p><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>FHA Streamline Refinance: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Designed for current FHA borrowers, this simplified refinance option requires less documentation and often skips a full appraisal. It\u2019s one of the fastest ways to lower your rate if you already have an FHA loan.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<p><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>FHA Cash-Out Refinance: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This allows you to refinance your home for more than you owe and take the difference in cash. Homeowners often use this option for things like home improvements, debt consolidation, or major expenses.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<p><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>FHA 203(k) Rehabilitation Loan: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This loan combines the cost of buying a home and renovating it into one mortgage. It\u2019s useful if you\u2019re <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/buying-a-fixer-upper\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">purchasing a fixer-upper<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or need funds for repairs and upgrades.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<p><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>FHA Energy Efficient Mortgage (EEM): <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This program helps borrowers finance energy-efficient upgrades\u2014like new insulation, windows, or solar systems &#8211; by rolling the cost into the mortgage.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Each type of FHA loan is built around the same core idea &#8211; making home financing more accessible &#8211; but the right option depends on your goal, whether that\u2019s buying, refinancing, or improving a home.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FHA loan requirements<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FHA loans are known for flexible qualification standards, but you\u2019ll still need to meet a few key requirements to be approved.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most borrowers qualify with a credit score of 580 or higher to access the minimum 3.5% down payment. If your score falls between 500 and 579, you may still be eligible, but you\u2019ll typically need to put down at least 10%.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lenders will also evaluate your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio, which compares your monthly debts to your income. In many cases, this should be around 43% or lower, although some lenders may allow higher ratios depending on your overall financial profile.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In addition to credit and income, FHA loans require:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A steady employment and income history<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A valid Social Security number and legal residency<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The intent to use the home as your primary residence<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A property that meets FHA appraisal and safety standards<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Loan limits also apply and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/entp.hud.gov\/idapp\/html\/hicostlook.cfm\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">vary by location<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which can affect how much you\u2019re able to borrow.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Overall, FHA loan requirements are designed to be more accessible than conventional loans &#8211; making them a popular option for buyers who may not qualify through traditional financing.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pros and cons of FHA loans<\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><b>Pros<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Low down payment:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Only 3.5% down with qualifying credit.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Flexible credit requirements:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Ideal for buyers with limited credit history or lower scores.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Assumable loans:<\/b> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/are-fha-loans-assumable\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FHA loans are assumable<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> by a qualified buyer with lender and FHA approval, which can be a selling point if rates rise.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Streamlined refinancing options:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Easier and faster for existing FHA borrowers.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>Cons<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Mortgage insurance costs:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Both upfront and annual premiums are required.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Property restrictions:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Homes must meet FHA appraisal and condition standards.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Loan limits:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> May not cover higher-priced homes in expensive markets.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Primary residence only:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> You can\u2019t use FHA loans for second homes or investment properties.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FHA loan vs. conventional loan<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When comparing an FHA loan vs. a conventional loan, the main difference comes down to qualification flexibility vs. long-term cost.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FHA loans are generally easier to qualify for. They allow lower credit scores, smaller down payments, and higher debt-to-income ratios. This makes them a strong option if you\u2019re trying to buy a home sooner but don\u2019t meet stricter lending standards.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Conventional loans, on the other hand, typically require higher credit scores (usually 620+) and stronger financials &#8211; but they can be more cost-effective over time.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here\u2019s how they differ in practice:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Down payment:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> FHA loans start at 3.5%, while conventional loans can range from 3% to 20%+<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Credit requirements:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> FHA loans are more flexible; conventional loans are stricter<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Mortgage insurance:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> FHA loans require ongoing mortgage insurance, while conventional loans only require <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/what-is-pmi-insurance\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">private mortgage insurance<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (PMI) if you put less than 20% down &#8211; and it can be removed once you reach enough equity<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Loan limits:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> FHA loans have stricter limits, which may cap your buying power in some areas<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In short: FHA loans are easier to qualify for, while conventional loans are often cheaper over the life of the loan.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re considering an FHA loan, comparing it side by side with conventional options can help you understand your true monthly cost and long-term savings.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to apply for an FHA loan<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Applying for an FHA loan follows a similar process to other mortgages, but it\u2019s important to work with a lender that\u2019s approved by the FHA.<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Check your credit score:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Ensure it meets FHA minimums.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Save for a down payment:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> At least 3.5% of the purchase price.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Get pre-approved:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Apply with an FHA-approved lender to understand your budget.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Find an FHA-eligible home:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> The property must pass <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/fha-loan-inspection-requirements\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FHA appraisal standards<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Submit your application:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Provide documentation like income verification, tax returns, and employment history.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Use Redfin\u2019s<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/mortgage-calculator\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">mortgage calculator<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to estimate how much you can afford and see how your payments could vary with an FHA loan.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Loan terms and qualification standards can vary by lender, so it\u2019s best to compare offers and confirm all details with an FHA-approved lender or mortgage professional.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>FHA loans let you buy a home with just 3.5% down. Learn what an FHA loan is, how it works, requirements, costs, and how to apply.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":562,"featured_media":104511,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"default","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[34277],"tags":[34642],"coauthors":[34346],"class_list":["post-107759","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-finance","tag-mortgage"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v24.7 (Yoast SEO v27.9) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>FHA Loans: Who Qualifies and How to Apply - Redfin<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"FHA loans let you buy a home with just 3.5% down. 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