Lower down payments, more paths to a yes.

FHA, VA, and USDA loans exist to open the door for buyers who might not fit a conventional loan's requirements — whether that's down payment, credit history, or property location.

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These three government-backed programs each solve a different problem. FHA loans offer flexible credit requirements and a low down payment, making them a common starting point for buyers building credit or savings. VA loans offer eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and some surviving spouses a path to zero-down financing with competitive terms. USDA loans support buyers purchasing in eligible rural and suburban areas, also with zero down payment.

None of these are one-size-fits-all, and eligibility rules differ meaningfully between them — property location, service history, and credit profile all play a role in which program actually fits.

Highlights

What makes this program work.

FHA

3.5% Down, Flexible Credit

One of the most accessible paths to homeownership, with more flexible credit requirements than conventional financing.

0% Down for Eligible Veterans

No down payment and no monthly mortgage insurance for qualifying veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible surviving spouses.

USDA

0% Down in Eligible Areas

Zero-down financing for buyers purchasing in USDA-eligible rural and suburban locations.

FHA Streamline

Simplified Refinancing

Existing FHA borrowers may qualify for a streamlined refinance with reduced documentation.

VA IRRRL

Interest Rate Reduction Refinance

A simplified refinance option for existing VA loan holders looking to lower their rate.

Credit Flexibility

More Paths to Qualify

All three programs generally allow for more credit flexibility than standard conventional financing.

Which Program Fits

Is this the right fit?

FHA: you want a low down payment and have less-than-perfect credit
VA: you're an eligible veteran, active-duty service member, or qualifying surviving spouse
USDA: you're purchasing in an eligible rural or suburban area and want zero down
Any of the three: you want government-backed flexibility over standard conventional requirements

Common Questions

What borrowers ask about this program.

Who qualifies for a VA loan?

Eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and certain surviving spouses, with a valid Certificate of Eligibility (COE). Tom can help you determine eligibility and pull your COE.

How do I know if a property qualifies for USDA financing?

USDA eligibility is based on the property's location, generally rural and eligible suburban areas as defined by USDA maps — not every property outside a city qualifies. Tom can check a specific address.

Does FHA require mortgage insurance?

Yes, FHA loans carry mortgage insurance premiums, both upfront and annual, which is a factor worth weighing against conventional options depending on your down payment and credit profile.

Can I use FHA or VA for a home I plan to rent out?

These programs are designed for primary residences. There are some exceptions and nuances (like VA loans on multi-unit properties where you occupy one unit), which are worth discussing directly.

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Tom will walk you through real numbers for your situation — no pressure, no obligation.

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