California FHA Loans

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What is a California FHA Loan?

California FHA loans make it easier for Golden State residents to achieve homeownership. These loans are managed and regulated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and are ideal for those without a 20% down payment. 

In addition, The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) insures the loan, helping California residents qualify for a better deal. 

An FHA loan program is easier to qualify for and doesn’t require as much capital up-front as conventional loans. Plus, some loans offer incentives, making purchasing a home even more affordable.

Are you considering purchasing a home in California using an FHA loan? 

Contact F5 Mortgage today for assistance.

What is a California FHA Loan?

California FHA Loan Benefits

Buying a home in the Golden State is an exciting journey. But it’s not all sunshine when it comes to financing one’s home. Here’s why FHA loans are a popular choice for California residents purchasing their first homes:

Favorable Interest Rates

FHA loans have lower interest rates, typically a few points lower than a conventional loan term.

Flexible Interest Rates

FHA loans offer lower interest rates and often more flexibility by offering both adjustable and fixed-rate loans.

Government Funding

The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) backs loans, making qualifying for them easier.

Diverse Property Types

FHA loans are available for a wide range of properties in California, including single-family, condominium, planned unit development, and multi-unit properties.

Flexible Credit Requirements

FHA loans are an excellent option for California buyers who may not have great credit. Credit scores as low as 500 may be eligible with a higher down payment or 580 with as low as a 3.5% down payment.

Assumable Mortgages

FHA loans can be assumable, meaning when you’re ready to sell your home, you may be able to sell it to a buyer who will assume your mortgage and fixed interest rate, making it even more attractive.

Lower Down Payments

FHA loans are an attractive benefit for those who don’t have a lot of savings. The program also allows gift funds to be applied to lower down payments.

Streamlined Refinancing

California FHA loans have a streamlined refinance option, which allows you to refinance your existing mortgage at a lower interest rate.

California-Specific DPA Programs

California buyers may qualify for state-specific down assistance programs, which lower the amount needed for closing costs.

Note: FHA loans are limited to a primary residence and cannot be used to finance vacation homes or investment properties.

Why Choose F5 Mortgage for a California FHA Loan?

F5 Mortgage is an independent mortgage provider, which means you have the power to choose the loan terms that best fit your situation. Whether you’re shopping for a single-family home in the Bay Area or a condo in Southern California, F5 Mortgage can connect you to the right mortgage.

Our team of brokers aims to make buying a house easier and more convenient and to make buying a home enjoyable for California residents. We utilize sophisticated technology to ensure you receive competitive interest rates and payment options. 

Plus, our helpful team prioritizes a no-pressure sales experience so you don’t feel rushed into making unwanted decisions. With a streamlined process, you can easily apply for your FHA home loan online, over the phone, or via chat.

California FHA Loan Requirements

We know how exciting it can be to buy a new home. However, California buyers must meet certain eligibility requirements. 

Here’s what you need to qualify for an FHA loan in California:

Down Payment Ability

You’ll need to provide a down payment ranging from 3.5% to 10% of the home’s purchase price. The exact percentage depends on your credit score, with a 580 or higher score allowing for a 3.5% down payment.

Credit Score Requirements

Ideally, your credit score should be 580 or higher. If your credit score falls between 500 and 579, some lenders might still approve your loan, but you’ll need to make a larger down payment.

Employment History

A minimum of two years of steady employment is required. You must provide documentation of your income through tax returns, pay stubs, or W-2s, whether you’re employed by a company or self-employed.

Mortgage Insurance

Paying the mortgage insurance premium (MIP) is mandatory. This includes an upfront MIP of 1.75% of the loan amount, in addition to monthly mortgage insurance payments that last for the duration of the loan.

Primary Residence Requirement

The loan must be used to purchase a primary residence. FHA loans are unavailable for rental properties, investment properties, vacation homes, or business properties.

Debt-to-Income (DTI) Ratio

Your debt-to-income ratio must be below 57%. This ratio represents the percentage of your gross monthly income for paying financial obligations, including student loans, credit card payments, and other federal debts.

Home Inspection Standards

The property must meet specific FHA appraisal guidelines to ensure it meets safety and livability standards.

How Do I Qualify for An FHA Loan in California?

Interested in buying a home in California? 

Start the qualification process with the following steps:

1. Check Your Credit Score

Most buyers in California will require at least a 580 FICO credit score to qualify for an FHA loan.

2. Manage Existing Debt

FHA lenders in California require a debt-to-income ratio of 43% or less. Pay off any existing balances to meet this requirement.

3. Save up for a Down Payment

Begin saving to cover closing costs, which can be as much as 10% of the loan.

4. Maintain Steady Employment

FHA loan requirements in California also require two years of steady, related employment. If you change careers, you must be in your current position for at least six months.

5. Obtain a Pre-Qualification

Contact F5 Mortgage to begin an application for your FHA loan today.

6. Begin Shopping for Homes

FHA limits the type and price of homes you can purchase, depending on the county in which you want to purchase.

7. Complete Appraisal

This type of financing requires a property appraisal to determine its value.

8. Complete Inspection

The program mandates a property inspection to ensure your purchase is protected.

9. Provide proof of insurance

Submit proof of insurance to your lender before closing on your new home.

How to Apply for an FHA Loan in California?

1. Contact F5 Mortgage

When you’re ready to apply for an FHA loan to purchase your home, contact F5 Mortgage. We’re ready to answer all your questions about FHA loans in California.

2. Provide Necessary Documents

An FHA mortgage requires ID, proof of income, pay stubs, tax returns or W-2s, and a social security card.

3. Submit Pre-Qualification to Your Realtor

Once you receive a pre-qualification, you can begin shopping for your dream home in California.

4. Notify Your Mortgage Lender When You Have an Accepted Offer

 Notify your FHA-approved lender once you have an accepted offer to begin the loan processing.

5. Complete Homebuyer Education Course

The program also requires buyers to complete the homebuyer education and counseling class.

California FHA Loan Limits

FHA loan limits refer to the maximum loan amount you can obtain through the FHA program. In California, the loan limit depends on the county in which you purchase. The loan limit also changes annually. As of 2024, many California counties have an FHA loan limit of $1,149,825.

Here are some of the loan limits in some of the most popular California counties for 2024:

  • Alameda County: $1,149,825
  • Alpine County: $503, 700
  • Contra Costa County: $1,149,825
  • El Dorado County: $763,600
  • Fresno County: $498,257
  • Kern County: $498,257
  • Los Angeles County: $1,149,825
  • Marin County: $1,149,825
  • Monterey County: $920,000
  • Orange County: $1,149,825
  • Placer County: $763,600
  • San Benito County: $1,149,825
  • San Diego County: $1,006,250
  • San Francisco County: $1,149,825
  • Santa Barbara County: $838,500
  • Ventura County: $954,500

If the county in which you want to purchase isn’t listed here, contact F5 to discuss the maximum loan available through an FHA loan.

California FHA Loan Limits

FHA Streamline Refinance in California

Refinancing your existing mortgage can lower your monthly mortgage payment. Additionally, qualifying for a lower interest rate can result in paying less over the life of the loan on your California property, offering both long-term savings and reduced monthly expenses. 

The FHA Streamline Finance program offers the following benefits:

  • The process requires less documentation, making it simpler and faster to complete.
  • Income and credit checks may not be necessary, streamlining the qualification process.
  • No employment check is required, which can benefit those with changing job situations.
  • The program eliminates the need for a property appraisal, saving time and costs.

Qualifying for a Streamline refinance loan is typically easier than qualifying for a traditional FHA loan. To qualify, you must already have an FHA loan and have gotten it no earlier than 200 days prior.

Your new interest rate must be lower than your previous rate, and you must be current with your monthly mortgage payments. Some California homeowners can take advantage of the Streamline Refinance Program to convert their adjustable-rate mortgage into a fixed-rate mortgage, ensuring stable and predictable monthly payments.

Alternative FHA loans may also be available for other purchase situations, such as buying a home that needs repairs or increasing the value of your home through renovations.

California FHA Loan FAQs

Who qualifies as a first-time home buyer in California?

An FHA mortgage is available to first-time home buyers in California, which means the buyer has not owned or occupied a home within the last three years. The buyer’s spouse must also not have owned property within the last three years.

What are the income requirements for an FHA loan in California?

California has no minimum or maximum income requirements for an FHA loan. However, income may affect the loan amount you qualify for.

How does a California FHA loan work?

California FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration, making them a great alternative to conventional lending. Borrowers can expect more competitive interest rates, low down payments, and an easier qualification process.

What credit score do you need for an FHA loan in California?

Most FHA lenders in California require credit scores of at least 580. However, some lenders may allow as low as 500 with a higher down payment.

What is the maximum FHA loan in California?

As of 2024, the maximum FHA loan available in California is $1,149,825. Loan limits vary by county.

What is the difference between CalHFA and FHA?

CalFHA is a loan option available to California residents with similar requirements as the traditional FHA program. CalFHA may have more state-specific assistance programs but may also have a higher fixed interest rate than standard FHA loans.

How does a credit check affect my FHA loan application?

A credit score influences your FHA loan application by determining the down payment amount and the interest rate you’ll be offered. A higher credit score typically allows for a lower down payment and a more favorable interest rate.

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