Move into your dream home with as little as 3.5% down. FHA loans offer flexible credit requirements and competitive rates, making homeownership accessible even if your credit isn't perfect.
No obligation. No credit check to get started.
California is the largest mortgage market in the country by dollar volume. Most coastal and Bay Area counties are designated high-balance, with conforming limits of $1,209,750 — meaningfully above the national floor. Median home prices in San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, and Marin counties remain above $1.5M.
California high-cost-area FHA limits go up to $1,209,750 in the top counties — the highest in the country. FHA can absolutely work in San Francisco, San Mateo, and Los Angeles, despite the high prices.
An FHA loan is a government-backed mortgage insured by the Federal Housing Administration, designed to make homeownership more accessible for everyday Americans.
FHA loans are one of the most popular mortgage options in America, especially for first-time homebuyers and those who may not qualify for conventional financing. Backed by the Federal Housing Administration, these loans allow lenders like Lending Arena to offer more favorable terms, including lower down payments and more flexible credit score requirements.
Unlike conventional loans that typically require higher credit scores and larger down payments, FHA loans are specifically designed to help buyers who are building or rebuilding their credit. Whether you're purchasing your first home or getting back on your feet after a financial setback, an FHA loan can be the bridge to homeownership.
Because the FHA insures the loan, lenders are protected against loss if a borrower defaults. This insurance allows lenders to offer lower interest rates and accept borrowers who might otherwise be turned away.
FHA loans provide some of the most borrower-friendly terms in the mortgage industry.
Put as little as 3.5% down on your new home. On a $300,000 home, that's just $10,500 instead of the typical 10-20% required by conventional lenders.
Qualify with a credit score as low as 580 for 3.5% down, or 500 with 10% down. FHA loans give more people the chance to become homeowners.
Because FHA loans are government-backed, lenders can offer competitive interest rates that are often lower than those available with conventional mortgages.
Check the key requirements to see if you qualify.
A credit score of 580 or higher qualifies you for the minimum 3.5% down payment. Scores between 500-579 may still qualify with a 10% down payment.
One of the lowest down payment options available. Your down payment can come from savings, gifts from family, or down payment assistance programs.
Your total monthly debt payments (including your new mortgage) should typically be 43% or less of your gross monthly income.
A steady employment history of at least 2 years is typically required. Self-employed borrowers may qualify with 2 years of tax returns.
Getting your FHA loan is straightforward. Here's what to expect.
Complete our simple application and our team will review your financials to determine your borrowing power.
Shop with confidence knowing exactly what you can afford. Your pre-approval letter shows sellers you mean business.
We process your loan, verify documentation, and order the FHA-required appraisal to ensure the home meets safety and value standards.
Sign your final documents, get the keys, and move into your new home.
Answers to the most common questions about fha loans in California.
Lending Arena offers the full mortgage product set across California. See what else might fit your situation.
Lending Arena, NMLS #1603937. Licensed by the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act and/or the California Finance Lenders Law. Equal Housing Lender. This is not a commitment to lend. Programs, rates, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. All loans are subject to credit and property approval. Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information requests can be submitted to privacy@lendingarena.com.