Finding the right FHA lender is a big part of buying a home in the U.S. in 2025. The Federal Housing Administration still helps people who don’t have perfect credit or big savings. You can get an FHA loan with just 3.5% down. In 2024, more than 16% of all U.S. mortgages were FHA loans, and this number continues to grow. These loans are popular because the rules are flexible and the government stands behind them.
But not every lender is the same. Each company has its own interest rates, fees, and process. Some offer faster service or special help with your down payment.
An FHA loan is a mortgage backed by the government. The FHA makes it easier for people to buy a home, even if they don’t have much saved or have had credit problems. Because of this backing, banks are more willing to lend to people who might not qualify for a regular mortgage.
To get an FHA loan in 2025, you usually need a credit score of at least 580 if you can put down 3.5%. If your score is lower, between 500 and 579, you’ll need to put down 10%. Your monthly debts usually can’t be more than about 43% of your income, but some lenders can be flexible, especially if you have steady work or a bit more saved up.
FHA loans are only for homes where you plan to live. You can’t use them to buy a second home or a rental property. These loans also require mortgage insurance. You’ll pay a one-time fee up front, which is 1.75% of the loan, and then monthly insurance for the duration of the loan. The amount depends on how much you borrow and how much you put down.
In most parts of the U.S., the maximum FHA loan amount is around $472,000. In places where homes are expensive, the limit can go above $1.2 million. FHA loans are also forgiving if you’ve had financial setbacks. If you had a bankruptcy or foreclosure, you may still qualify after two or three years, as long as you’ve fixed your credit. You can use gift money for your down payment or add a co-borrower to help you qualify.
The lender you choose can make a big difference. Your interest rate will affect your monthly payment and the total cost of your home. Even a small change in the rate can cost or save you thousands over the years. FHA lenders charge fees to set up your loan, but these fees can’t be more than 1% of the loan amount. Sometimes lenders offer discounts or special deals.
The way you apply is important, too. Some lenders use online tools that let you send in documents and check rates on your phone or computer. Others still use paper forms and in-person visits. If you want a quick process, look for a lender with a good website and online application. If you prefer talking to someone, find a lender with offices nearby.
How fast your loan closes is another thing to think about. Many lenders can finish in about 30 days, which is good if you’re trying to buy a home quickly. Delays can cause problems with sellers or result in missing out on a house.
Check what types of FHA loans each lender offers. Most lenders do basic FHA loans, but not all handle renovation loans or special programs for manufactured homes. Some also help you find local down payment assistance. It’s a good idea to read reviews and see how honest and helpful the lender is with its customers.
Primary Residential Mortgage, Inc., also called PRMI, is a trusted lender that’s been helping people buy homes for more than 25 years. They have offices in 49 states and have worked with over 225,000 clients. At PRMI, you get both national experience and personal attention. At their Fort Myers office, for example, staff help you find the right loan for your budget.
PRMI offers FHA loans starting at 3.5% down with a credit score of 580. If you have a complicated situation, they can do manual reviews to help more people qualify. You can choose between fixed and adjustable rates, and loans can last from 10 to 30 years. PRMI always includes mortgage insurance, and the maximum loan amount depends on where you live. If you need help with the down payment, PRMI offers programs to make it easier.
If you want to buy a home that needs work, PRMI has the FHA 203(k) loan. This lets you borrow extra money to fix up your new home. You can use it to finance up to 110% of the home’s future value or get up to $35,000 for repairs. You still only need 3.5% down, but you need a credit score of at least 620 for this loan. This option is good if you want a home that needs some updates but don’t have the cash for repairs.
PRMI stands out because it focuses on the customer. They help you find the right loan, teach you about buying a home, and help you organize renovations. Whether you’re buying your first place or moving up, PRMI makes the process simple and clear.
Rocket Mortgage is one of the most popular online FHA lenders in the U.S. In 2025, it’s still a top choice because of its easy-to-use website and fast application process. Reviewers like NerdWallet give Rocket high scores for showing rates clearly and making preapproval quick.
Rocket Mortgage offers both fixed and adjustable FHA loans. You can see your rates online, fill out the application, and upload documents—all from your computer or phone. Many people get preapproved in just a day, and closing can happen in 30 days or less if you have your paperwork ready.
Rocket often has special offers. In the summer of 2025, they gave borrowers a 1% lower rate for the first year if they locked in their loan after July 1. They also gave some people up to $6,000 to help with closing costs. These deals can save you money at the start.
In March 2025, Rocket Mortgage bought Mr. Cooper, which made it even bigger and better able to help FHA buyers all over the country.
Rocket Mortgage is a smart choice for people who want things done fast and online. Its tech and special deals make it useful for many homebuyers.
Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation is known for its personal service and speedy closings. It offers all kinds of FHA loans, including regular purchase loans, easy refinances, and FHA 203(k) renovation loans.
You need a credit score of at least 580 for 3.5% down, or 500 for 10% down. If your situation is unique, Fairway can do a manual review, so you’re not left out just because you don’t fit the usual system.
What makes Fairway different is how it treats customers. They have offices all over the country, but also use the digital tools buyers want. Reviewers say Fairway is honest and good at closing loans on time, often in 30 to 45 days.
Even though Fairway isn’t the biggest lender, it has a great reputation for making the loan process smooth. It’s a great choice if you want help in person and lots of loan options.
New American Funding is a great lender if you want an FHA loan that also covers repairs or renovations. They’re well known for FHA 203(k) loans. This type of loan lets you buy a fixer-upper and borrow money to make repairs—all in one loan. You don’t need to get a second loan just for the repairs.
They also offer regular FHA loans and fast refinancing. New American Funding is open about its rates and fees, so it’s easy to compare your options. You can use their online tools to see what your payments will be or apply in person at a branch.
To get an FHA loan here, you need a 580 credit score for a 3.5% down payment. New American Funding also works with many state and local programs to help with down payments.
This lender is especially good for first-time buyers, people from minority groups, and anyone who needs money for repairs. They have bilingual staff and are big on educating customers.
Guild Mortgage is another top FHA lender in 2025, especially for people buying their first home. Guild offers all the usual FHA loans, including easy refinances. What sets Guild apart is how much it cares about teaching borrowers and helping with down payments.
The Guild accepts the standard FHA credit scores and helps people with complicated finances. They have offices in many states, so you can visit in person or do everything online. The staff know how to help you find local programs or grants for your down payment.
The guild gets good reviews for explaining everything clearly and paying attention to the details. It’s a solid choice if you’re new to buying a home and want support all the way through.
FHA loans are a good option if you’re buying your first home, if your credit score is between 580 and 660, or if you don’t have much money saved up. They’re also helpful if you’ve had a bankruptcy or foreclosure. FHA loans are easier to qualify for if your debts are high, since some lenders allow debt-to-income ratios up to 50%.
If you’re not sure you qualify, most FHA lenders have online tools to check your options. These tools won’t hurt your credit and can help you decide if an FHA loan is right for you.
FHA loans are still a reliable way for many people to buy a home. The five lenders here each have their strengths. PRMI is flexible and offers help with the down payment. Rocket Mortgage is fast and uses the latest technology. Fairway gives you personal help and lots of choices. New American Funding is great for renovation loans. Guild Mortgage is known for guiding new buyers.
There’s no one best lender for everyone. The right one depends on your credit, your finances, where you live, and what you want in a home. Start by looking at what each lender offers. Take your time to compare. A smart choice now can make homeownership easier and more affordable in the long run.