What Is the Lowest Down Payment Possible With an FHA Loan?
By, Sean Ellman, REALTOR®
If you’re looking to buy a home in Tampa Bay, Florida, one of the biggest hurdles is often the down payment. The good news? FHA loans offer one of the lowest down payment options available, making homeownership far more accessible for first-time buyers and repeat buyers alike.
In this post, I’ll break down the lowest down payment possible with an FHA loan, how it works, and why it’s such a popular choice for buyers across Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and the surrounding Tampa Bay area.
The Lowest FHA Down Payment: Just 3.5%
The minimum down payment for an FHA loan is 3.5% of the purchase price. This applies to buyers who meet the basic FHA credit and income requirements.
Example:
Purchase price: $300,000
Minimum FHA down payment (3.5%): $10,500
Compared to traditional conventional loans that often require 5%–20% down, this significantly lowers the barrier to entry for buying a home in today’s market.
Why FHA Loans Are So Popular in Tampa Bay
FHA loans are especially attractive in competitive real estate markets like Tampa Bay, where home prices have risen but many buyers still want flexible financing options.
Key benefits of FHA loans:
Low 3.5% down payment
More flexible credit score requirements
Higher debt-to-income allowances
Down payment funds can come from gifts
Ideal for first-time home buyers and buyers rebuilding credit
These features make FHA loans a common choice for buyers purchasing single-family homes, condos, and townhomes throughout the Tampa Bay region.
Credit Score Requirements for the Lowest Down Payment
To qualify for the minimum 3.5% down payment, buyers typically need:
A credit score of 580 or higher
Buyers with lower credit scores may still qualify for an FHA loan, but they may need a higher down payment. Every situation is different, which is why working with an experienced local REALTOR® matters.
Can Gift Funds Be Used for an FHA Down Payment?
Yes! One of the biggest advantages of FHA loans is that 100% of the down payment can come from gift funds.
Acceptable gift sources include:
Family members
Close relatives
Employers
Approved charitable organizations
This is especially helpful for first-time home buyers in Tampa Bay who have stable income but limited savings.
FHA Loans vs. Conventional Loans
While FHA loans offer a low down payment, they aren’t always the best fit for every buyer. Some buyers may qualify for low-down-payment conventional loans, but FHA loans remain a strong option when:
Credit scores are below conventional guidelines
Debt-to-income ratios are higher
Buyers want more flexible approval standards
Is an FHA Loan Right for You?
If your goal is to buy a home with the lowest down payment possible, an FHA loan may be the perfect solution. Whether you’re purchasing your first home or re-entering the market, understanding your financing options is key to success.
As a Tampa Bay REALTOR®, I help buyers navigate both the real estate market and the financing conversation so there are no surprises along the way.
Contact Me
If you’re thinking about buying a home in Tampa Bay, Florida, I’d be happy to help you explore your options and connect you with trusted local lenders.
Sean Ellman, REALTOR®
📱 Cell: 727-717-0440
📧 Email: SeanEllman@C21BE.com
🌐 Website: BuyTheSand.com
Let’s talk about how you can become a homeowner!