FHA Loan Fort Lauderdale FL | 3.5% Down Home Loans

Government-Backed, Low Down Payment

FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration, which lets lenders offer lower down payments and more flexible credit standards than conventional loans. For Fort Lauderdale buyers who haven't had time to save 20% or whose credit score is still building, FHA is often the fastest path to homeownership.

The tradeoff is mortgage insurance — FHA requires both an upfront and an annual premium for the life of the loan on most programs. For buyers with strong credit who can make a 20% down payment, conventional financing may be a better fit. Nick runs both scenarios to find the lower total cost.

Fort Lauderdale FHA Numbers

3.5%

Minimum down payment (580+ credit)

$667,000

2026 FHA loan limit — Broward County

580+

Minimum credit score

The 2026 FHA loan limit for a single-family home in Broward County is $667,000. Two-unit and larger multi-unit limits are higher. These limits reset each year based on HUD guidelines — Nick always confirms current limits before a rate lock.

How to Qualify

✓ Credit score 580+ with 3.5% down (500–579 requires 10% down)

✓ Loan amount at or below $667,000 (single-family, Broward County)

✓ Primary residence only — FHA does not finance investment properties

✓ Debt-to-income ratio typically 43–50% maximum

✓ 2 years of employment history (gaps require documentation)

✓ Property must meet FHA minimum condition standards

FHA Loan FAQ — Fort Lauderdale

What is the FHA loan limit in Broward County for 2026? +

The 2026 FHA loan limit for a single-family home in Broward County is $667,000. Two-unit and larger multi-unit limits are higher (confirmed before your rate lock). Properties above these limits require conventional or jumbo financing.

Can I use an FHA loan to buy a condo in Fort Lauderdale? +

Yes, but only for FHA-approved condo projects. Nick can check the HUD condo approval registry for any Fort Lauderdale property. Some popular condo communities are not FHA-approved, in which case conventional financing is the alternative.

Does FHA require mortgage insurance? +

Yes. FHA loans require an upfront mortgage insurance premium (1.75% of the loan amount, typically rolled into the loan) and an annual MIP (0.55–0.85% depending on term and LTV). MIP stays for the life of the loan if you put less than 10% down.

Can I use an FHA loan for a Fort Lauderdale fixer-upper? +

Yes, through the FHA 203(k) rehabilitation loan program. It wraps purchase price and renovation costs into a single mortgage. Available for primary residences; Nick can connect you with lenders that offer the program in Broward County.

FHA Loans in Fort Lauderdale, FL

Government-Backed, Low Down Payment

Fort Lauderdale FHA Numbers

How to Qualify

Estimate Your FHA Payment

FHA Loan FAQ — Fort Lauderdale

Get Your Fort Lauderdale FHA Quote