Clearwater First-Time Buyer Programs

FHA Loans in
Clearwater, FL

3.5% down with a 580+ credit score. FHA loan limit in Pinellas County is $524,225.

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What Is an FHA Loan

Government-Backed, Low Down Payment Financing

FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration and allow qualified buyers to purchase with as little as 3.5% down and a 580 credit score. In Clearwater, FHA financing is a practical path for first-time homebuyers purchasing in established neighborhoods like East Clearwater, Countryside, or Dunedin — areas where home prices frequently fall within the Pinellas County FHA limit of $524,225.

FHA also allows gift funds for the down payment and is more forgiving of past credit events than conventional financing. Borrowers who experienced a bankruptcy or short sale may qualify again with proper seasoning.

Clearwater FHA Numbers

Pinellas County FHA Loan Limits

3.5%
Minimum down payment (580+ score)
$524,225
Single-family FHA limit
580+
Credit score for 3.5% down

The Pinellas County FHA limit for a duplex is $671,200, triplex $811,275, and four-unit $1,008,300. FHA multi-unit financing can work well for house hackers purchasing a small multi-family in Clearwater while living in one unit and renting the others.

Qualification Requirements

How to Qualify for an FHA Loan

Gift funds are allowed for down payment from family members. Learn about all Clearwater loan programs →

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Mortgage Calculator

Estimate your monthly FHA payment including principal, interest, taxes, and insurance.

Common Questions

FHA Loan FAQ — Clearwater

What is the FHA loan limit in Clearwater, FL? +
The 2025 FHA loan limit in Pinellas County is $524,225 for a single-family home, $671,200 for a duplex, $811,275 for a triplex, and $1,008,300 for a four-unit property.
What credit score do I need for a Clearwater FHA loan? +
A 580+ credit score qualifies for 3.5% down. Borrowers with scores between 500–579 can still qualify but must put 10% down. Most lenders apply overlays requiring 580–620 minimum.
Can I use an FHA loan to buy a condo in Clearwater? +
Yes, but only in FHA-approved condo projects. The HUD condo approval list is maintained at hud.gov. Many Clearwater Beach condo projects are not FHA-approved, which means buyers using FHA typically target single-family homes or FHA-approved condo communities further inland.
How much is FHA mortgage insurance in Clearwater? +
FHA requires an upfront mortgage insurance premium (UFMIP) of 1.75% of the loan amount (typically rolled into the loan) plus an annual MIP of 0.55% for most 30-year loans with less than 10% down. MIP remains for the life of the loan on loans with less than 10% down.

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Get Your Clearwater FHA Quote

No obligation. Nick reviews your scenario and comes back with real FHA program options. Any credit inquiry is disclosed before it occurs.

Apply now → Text Nick directly