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FHA Loan Requirements Nevada — Full Details

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Credit score minimums, down payment options, DTI ratios, income documentation, and property standards — all explained in detail.

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580 Credit Score

Minimum credit requirements explained

43% DTI Limit

Debt-to-income ratio requirements

Property Standards

FHA appraisal and inspection rules

FHA Requirements FAQs

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FHA Loan Requirements in Nevada (2025)

FHA loans are one of the most accessible mortgage options for Nevada homebuyers. With low down payments starting at 3.5% and flexible credit requirements, FHA financing helps thousands of Las Vegas, Henderson, and Reno residents become homeowners every year.

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FHA Loan Requirements at a Glance

Credit Score
580+ (3.5% down)
Or 500-579 (10% down)
Down Payment
3.5% minimum
With 580+ credit score
Debt-to-Income (DTI)
Up to 50%
With compensating factors
Employment History
2 years
Steady work history required

Detailed FHA Loan Requirements

1. Credit Score Requirements

The FHA sets minimum credit score guidelines, but individual lenders may have overlays (additional requirements). Here's what you need to know:

  • 580+ credit score: Qualifies for 3.5% down payment
  • 500-579 credit score: Requires 10% down payment
  • Below 500: FHA financing not available

Nevada Tip: Most Nevada lenders require a minimum 580 credit score. If your score is below 580, work on improving it or explore down payment assistance programs that may help you qualify.

2. Down Payment Requirements

FHA loans are known for their low down payment requirements, making homeownership accessible to more Nevada residents.

3.5% Down

With 580+ credit score

Example:
$350,000 home = $12,250 down
$450,000 home = $15,750 down

10% Down

With 500-579 credit score

Example:
$350,000 home = $35,000 down
$450,000 home = $45,000 down

Down Payment Sources

  • Personal savings or checking accounts
  • Gift funds from family members (with proper documentation)
  • Down payment assistance programs (Nevada HOME, local grants)
  • 401(k) loans or retirement account withdrawals
  • Proceeds from the sale of assets

3. Debt-to-Income (DTI) Ratio

Your DTI ratio compares your monthly debt payments to your gross monthly income. FHA guidelines are more flexible than conventional loans.

Front-End Ratio

31%

Housing expenses divided by gross monthly income (PITI)

Back-End Ratio

43%

All monthly debts divided by gross monthly income

Higher DTI Possible: With strong credit scores (680+), significant cash reserves, or minimal credit usage, DTI ratios up to 50% may be acceptable with compensating factors.

Calculate your DTI ratio →

4. Employment & Income Requirements

FHA lenders need to verify that you have a stable income source to repay the loan.

  • 2-year work history: Steady employment in the same field or industry
  • Verifiable income: Pay stubs, W-2s, tax returns (1-2 years)
  • Self-employed borrowers: 2 years of tax returns, profit/loss statements, business license
  • Alternative income sources: Social Security, disability, alimony, child support (with documentation)

5. Property Requirements

FHA loans can only be used for primary residences that meet specific safety and livability standards.

Eligible Property Types

  • Single-family homes
  • 2-4 unit properties (owner-occupied)
  • FHA-approved condos
  • Manufactured homes (on permanent foundation)

FHA Appraisal Requirements

FHA appraisers check for health and safety issues:

  • Structural integrity (roof, foundation, walls)
  • Working utilities (water, heat, electric)
  • Chipping or peeling paint (1978+ homes)
  • Safety hazards or code violations

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