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Peter Irungu · Mortgage Loan Originator · MLO NMLS #2751063NEXA Lending · Company NMLS #1660690
NEXA Lending
3.5% down, credit scores from 580

FHA Loans

FHA loans are government-insured mortgages designed to make homeownership accessible for buyers with smaller down payments and more flexible credit profiles. They are a popular choice for first-time homebuyers across Washington State.

What Are FHA Loans?

FHA loans are government-insured mortgages designed to make homeownership accessible for buyers with smaller down payments and more flexible credit profiles. They are a popular choice for first-time homebuyers across Washington State.

Peter Irungu (Mortgage Loan Originator, NMLS #2751063) helps homebuyers across Pierce & King County understand whether FHA is the right fit and guides you through every step — from pre-qualification to closing.

Key Benefits

Low Down Payment

Put as little as 3.5% down on a primary residence.

Flexible Credit

Qualify with credit scores from 580 and up.

Gift Funds Allowed

Family members can gift your down payment.

Assumable

An FHA loan can be assumed by a future qualified buyer.

Who Qualifies?

Eligibility requirements vary by program and lender. Here's a general overview:

  • Minimum credit score of 580 for 3.5% down
  • Property must be your primary residence
  • Steady employment and verifiable income
  • Debt-to-income ratio generally under 43%
  • Property must meet FHA appraisal standards

How It Works

1

Apply

Share your goals in a quick, no-obligation pre-qualification.

2

Get Approved

Peter shops multiple lenders to find competitive rate options for you.

3

Close

Sign final documents and get your keys.

Rates & Terms

Rates shown are sample scenarios for illustrative purposes only. Actual rate and APR will vary based on credit profile, loan amount, property type, and market conditions. Contact Peter Irungu for a personalized quote.

FHA Loans

3.5% down, credit scores from 580

6.125%Interest Rate
6.890%APR*

*Sample scenario for illustration only — not an advertised or live rate. Based on a loan amount of $384,750 with a 3.5% down payment ($398,750 purchase price) on a primary single-family residence. 360 monthly payments of $2,331 (Principal & Interest). Monthly payment does not include taxes, property insurance, or HOA fees; actual payment obligation will be higher. Rate and APR subject to credit approval and market fluctuation; actual terms vary based on credit profile, loan amount, property type, and current market conditions. Last reviewed 2026-10-07.

NEXA Lending, LLC is a private mortgage lender/broker and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or acting on behalf of HUD, FHA, VA, USDA, or any government agency.

Get Your Personalized Quote

Sample rates are just a starting point. Your actual rate depends on your unique profile. Peter will review your situation and find competitive options from our network of lenders.

Start My Pre-Qualification

NEXA Lending, LLC is a private mortgage lender/broker and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or acting on behalf of HUD, FHA, VA, USDA, or any government agency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum down payment for an FHA loan in Washington State?

FHA loans generally allow eligible borrowers with credit scores of 580 or higher to make a down payment of 3.5%. On a $450,000 home, that equals $15,750 before closing costs. FHA loans are government-insured mortgages originated through approved private lenders; NEXA Lending is a private mortgage company not affiliated with any government agency.

Can I qualify for an FHA loan in Puyallup with a 580 credit score?

A 580 credit score may satisfy the FHA minimum for financing with 3.5% down, although lenders can impose stricter requirements. Applicants must also meet income, debt, employment, property, and underwriting standards. NEXA Lending is a private mortgage company and is not affiliated with FHA, HUD, or another government agency.

Can I get an FHA mortgage in Washington with a credit score below 580?

FHA guidelines may permit eligible borrowers with scores between 500 and 579 to finance a home with at least 10% down, but many lenders apply higher minimums. A score below 580 can therefore significantly narrow available options. NEXA Lending is a private mortgage company, not a government agency or government affiliate.

Do I have to be a first-time homebuyer to use an FHA loan in Washington?

No. FHA loans are available to eligible first-time and repeat homebuyers, provided they meet applicable program requirements. FHA financing is generally intended for a qualifying primary residence rather than a vacation home or conventional investment purchase. NEXA Lending is a private mortgage company not affiliated with FHA or HUD.

What was the FHA loan limit in Pierce County, Washington, in 2025?

The 2025 FHA one-unit loan limit for the Seattle–Tacoma–Bellevue lending area, including Pierce County and King County, was $1,037,300. This was higher than the national FHA floor of $524,225 for a one-unit property. These figures apply to 2025; NEXA Lending is a private mortgage company not affiliated with FHA, HUD, or any government agency.

How much FHA mortgage insurance will I pay on a home in Washington?

Many standard FHA purchase loans require an upfront mortgage insurance premium of 1.75% of the base loan amount and an annual premium that varies by loan characteristics. For many 30-year loans with a balance of $726,200 or less and a down payment below 5%, the annual premium is 0.55%, subject to current FHA rules. NEXA Lending is a private mortgage company, not affiliated with FHA or HUD.

Can I use an FHA loan to buy a duplex in Tacoma or Puyallup?

FHA financing may be available for properties containing two to four residential units when the borrower occupies one unit as a principal residence. The property must meet FHA requirements, and qualifying rental income may be considered under applicable underwriting rules. NEXA Lending is a private mortgage company not affiliated with FHA or another government agency.

Can FHA closing costs be covered by seller credits or down payment assistance in Washington?

FHA transactions may permit seller contributions toward eligible closing costs, subject to FHA limits and program rules. Qualified borrowers may also use compatible down payment assistance programs, including eligible Washington State Housing Finance Commission options. NEXA Lending is a private mortgage company not affiliated with FHA, HUD, or any government agency.

Talk to Peter About FHA

Have questions about fha loans? Share a few details and Peter will reach out within one business day.

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Ready to Explore Your FHA Options?

Start with a no-obligation conversation. No credit pull required to get started.

Get Pre-Qualified