💵 How Much Down Payment Do You Need for an FHA Loan?
🏘️ Using an FHA Loan to Buy a Multi-Unit Property
Absolutely — here’s how to qualify, even with past challenges.
If you’ve been turned down for a mortgage because of your credit score, you’re not alone.
The good news? FHA loans were built for exactly this situation.
👉 With flexible credit requirements and a history of helping borrowers rebuild, FHA loans are one of the most forgiving loan programs available today.
Here’s what “bad credit” really means when it comes to FHA — and how to qualify even if your score isn’t perfect.
✅ FHA Credit Score Requirements (2025)
Credit Score | Down Payment Requirement |
---|---|
580 or higher | Only 3.5% down |
500–579 | 10% down required |
Below 500 | Ineligible — but rebuilding is possible |
💡 If you’re close to 580, we can help you with a fast-track credit improvement plan to get there.
🔁 Can You Refinance With Bad Credit?
Yes — FHA also allows cash-out refinances and streamline refis for current homeowners with:
- Lower credit scores
- High debt balances
- Past financial setbacks
Many of our clients use FHA cash-out to:
- Consolidate credit card or personal loan debt
- Lower their monthly payments
- Free up cash flow during tough economic times
📘 Even if your score is under 620, FHA may still approve you — depending on the overall strength of your application.
📉 What About Past Credit Issues?
✅ Late payments: As long as they’re not recent or habitual, you can still qualify
✅ Collections: Don’t always need to be paid off — especially medical
✅ Bankruptcy: OK 2 years after Chapter 7 discharge
✅ Foreclosure: OK 3 years after
✅ Thin credit history: Non-traditional credit can be used (rent, utilities, phone)
💡 We’ll help you document everything clearly — and explain it to underwriting with context if needed.
🧠 Tips to Strengthen Your FHA Application
✔️ Make on-time payments for 90+ days before applying
✔️ Pay down credit cards if possible
✔️ Avoid large purchases or new debt before closing
✔️ Show stable income and employment
✔️ Consider a larger down payment if your score is under 580
Even if your score isn’t high, strong income or low DTI can balance the file.
🏢 Why PRMI?
At PRMI, we help credit-challenged borrowers:
- Get approved with flexible FHA underwriting
- Qualify for cash-out refinance options to reduce high-interest debt
- Understand their full credit profile — and what to fix or ignore
- Build a clear path to homeownership or financial relief
You don’t need perfect credit.
You just need a lender who knows how to work with real-life financial stories.
👇 Want to See If You Qualify With Less-Than-Perfect Credit?
Let’s review your score, income, and goals — and show you how FHA financing can still move you forward.