FHA
The first-time buyer's friend
FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration, which lets lenders say yes to buyers the conventional market would turn away — thinner credit, smaller savings, higher debt-to-income. If homeownership feels a year or two away, an FHA conversation is often what turns it into this year.
This tends to fit you if…
- You're a first-time buyer, or it's been a while since you owned
- Your credit is rebuilding — FHA is more forgiving than the conventional market
- You're working with a modest down payment (gift funds from family are allowed)
- Your debt-to-income ratio is higher than conventional loans like to see
Good to know
- FHA mortgage insurance typically stays for the life of the loan — the common play is to refinance into conventional once your equity and credit grow.
- The property has to pass an FHA appraisal, which checks safety and livability, not cosmetics.
- FHA loan limits vary by county; Miami-Dade and Broward limits are healthy enough for real homes, not just condos.
How it works with me
- 01
Honest pre-check
We review credit and income first — if FHA is the fit, you'll know; if conventional beats it, I'll tell you that too.
- 02
Budget with all costs in
FHA carries mortgage insurance; I show your true monthly payment with everything included, no surprises.
- 03
Offer-ready letter
You get a pre-approval letter that lets you compete — FHA offers close every day in this market.
Quick answers
Is FHA only for first-time buyers?
No — anyone can use FHA for a primary residence. It's popular with first-timers because the entry requirements are gentler, but it's not restricted to them.
My credit took a hit a few years ago. Am I out?
Not necessarily. FHA is specifically designed to be forgiving of past events — and there are defined waiting periods after bankruptcy or foreclosure that may already be behind you. Let's look before you assume.
Next step
Not sure this is the one? That's my job, not yours.
Fifteen minutes on the phone and I'll tell you which program actually fits your file — and what it takes to qualify.
The next step
15 minutes with Ingrid beats a week of googling.
No obligation, no pressure. Tell her where you are — she'll tell you exactly what's possible and what happens next.