Question 1

What is an FHA loan?

Accepted Answer

An FHA loan is a mortgage insured by the Federal Housing Administration. This government backing allows lenders to offer more flexible qualification requirements, lower down payments, and competitive interest rates — making homeownership accessible to more buyers.

Question 2

What credit score do I need for an FHA loan in Texas?

Accepted Answer

You need a minimum credit score of 580 to qualify for an FHA loan with 3.5% down. If your score is between 500-579, you can still qualify with 10% down. Daisy can help you explore your options based on your specific credit situation.

Question 3

How much down payment do I need for an FHA loan?

Accepted Answer

The minimum down payment for an FHA loan is 3.5% of the purchase price with a 580+ credit score. On a $300,000 home, that is just $10,500. Plus, you can combine FHA with down payment assistance programs to reduce your out-of-pocket costs even further.

Question 4

What are FHA loan limits in Houston?

Accepted Answer

FHA loan limits vary by county and are updated annually. For 2026, the FHA loan limit in Harris County is $541,287 for a single-family home. Higher limits apply to multi-family properties: $693,050 for duplexes, $837,700 for triplexes, and $1,041,125 for fourplexes. Daisy can confirm the current limits for your target area.

Question 5

Can I buy a duplex or triplex with an FHA loan?

Accepted Answer

Yes — FHA loans can be used to purchase multi-unit properties including duplexes (2 units), triplexes (3 units), and fourplexes (4 units), as long as you live in one of the units as your primary residence. This is one of the most powerful FHA benefits for buyers who want to start building wealth through real estate. The rental income from the other units can also help offset your mortgage payment. Contact Daisy to learn how this strategy could work for you.

Question 6

Do FHA loans require mortgage insurance?

Accepted Answer

Yes, FHA loans require both an upfront mortgage insurance premium (UFMIP) of 1.75% of the loan amount (which can be rolled into your loan) and annual mortgage insurance premiums (MIP) for the life of the loan on most FHA loans.

Question 7

Can I use an FHA loan to buy a condo?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but the condo complex must be on the FHA-approved condo list. Not all condos qualify. Daisy can help you verify if a specific condo complex is FHA-approved before you make an offer.

Question 8

How long does it take to close an FHA loan?

Accepted Answer

FHA loans typically close in 30-45 days, similar to conventional loans. The FHA appraisal may add a few days if repairs are needed to meet FHA property standards. Working with an experienced loan officer helps keep things on track.

Question 9

Can I refinance into an FHA loan?

Accepted Answer

Yes, FHA offers both rate-and-term refinancing and FHA Streamline refinancing (for existing FHA borrowers). The Streamline option has reduced documentation requirements and can be faster. Contact Daisy to discuss your refinance options.

Feature	FHA Loan	Conventional Loan
Minimum Down Payment	3.5%	3-20%
Minimum Credit Score	580 (500 with 10% down)	620+
Mortgage Insurance	Required for life of loan	Removable at 80% LTV
Property Standards	Strict FHA requirements	More flexible
Best For	First-time buyers, lower credit	Strong credit, larger down payment

Property Type	2026 Limit
Single Family (1 Unit)	$541,287
Duplex (2 Units)	$693,050
Triplex (3 Units)	$837,700
Fourplex (4 Units)	$1,041,125

FHA Loans Houston TX — Low Down Payment, Flexible Credit Requirements

FHA Loan Benefits

3.5% Down Payment

Flexible Credit

Gift Funds Allowed

Government Backed

Combine with DPA

Shorter Waiting Periods

FHA Loan Requirements

Don't Meet Every Requirement?

FHA vs. Conventional Loan

The FHA Loan Process

Get Pre-Approved

Find Your Home

Make an Offer

FHA Appraisal

Close & Move In

2026 FHA Loan Limits — Houston Area (Harris County) — Effective January 1, 2026

FHA Loan FAQs

Ready to Explore Your FHA Option?