FHA Loans —
A Real Path to Ownership at Every Credit Stage
580+ credit with 3.5% down. 500–579 with 10% down. Manual underwrites available. Complex files welcome.
Two Paths. One Program.
With a 580 or higher credit score you can purchase a home with just 3.5% down. On a $200,000 home that's $7,000 down — not $40,000. The most common path for first-time buyers and those rebuilding credit.
Even with a score between 500 and 579 you may still qualify for FHA with 10% down. This path is less common but it's real — and for buyers working toward homeownership it's a legitimate option most lenders don't discuss.
When AUS Says Refer — I Do the Work.
I got my start in lending as a processor, underwriter, and funder at Tower Loan. I know what an underwriter looks for because I was one. When I submit an FHA manual underwrite it's not a gamble — it's a strategically documented file built to tell your complete story.
FHA manual underwrites allow for higher DTI ratios with compensating factors — significant cash reserves, a history of on-time rent payments, or minimal payment shock. Most loan officers don't know how to document these. I do.
FHA manual underwrite DTI tiers. Front-end/back-end ratios. Ask me which applies to your situation.
Been Told No? Let Me Look at the File.
I closed my own mortgage on commission income with just over one year in my role. Commission income qualifies — with the right documentation.
Past bankruptcy, collections, or charge-offs don't automatically disqualify you. FHA has clear waiting periods and I know how to work within them.
My own FHA 203K closed at 51% DTI. With the right compensating factors and documentation — high DTI files can and do close.
Frequently Asked Questions
What credit score do I need for an FHA loan?
Does FHA have mortgage insurance?
Can I use FHA after bankruptcy?
What is an FHA Streamline Refinance?
Should I call a lender or realtor first?
Serving Louisiana, Mississippi, Florida, Texas & 5 More States
Based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana — serving Denham Springs, Livingston, Gonzales, Walker, Zachary, New Orleans, Shreveport, Lafayette, and Lake Charles. Mississippi: Jackson, Gulfport, Biloxi, Hattiesburg, Mendenhall, Vicksburg. Florida: Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, Naples, Boynton Beach, and statewide. Texas: Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Austin, and statewide.
