San Antonio blends historic charm with steady job growth, excellent schools, and diverse neighborhoods, from walkable downtown districts to family-friendly suburbs. Home values remain comparatively affordable among major Texas metros, making this a great market for first-time buyers. If you’re ready to plant roots in Bexar County, FHA home loans give you low down payments, flexible credit guidelines, and multiple programs that meet you where you are.
You can use FHA financing to buy, renovate, build, refinance, or tap equity later in life. Below are the most common FHA options available in San Antonio, each designed to meet a specific goal and budget.
The cornerstone of FHA financing, the 203(b) helps you buy a primary residence with as little as 3.5% down (with a 580+ credit score). FHA also allows higher debt-to-income ratios than many conventional loans and permits gift funds for your down payment and closing costs. It’s a practical way to become a homeowner in San Antonio without waiting years to save.
Found a home in a great SA neighborhood that needs work? The 203(k) loan combines the purchase and renovation of a property into a single mortgage.
If you prefer new construction, this loan finances both the construction and the permanent mortgage with a single approval and closing. You lock in your plan upfront, reduce duplicate fees, and move seamlessly from building to long-term financing, ideal if you’re securing a homesite on San Antonio’s growing edges.
For homes permanently affixed to an approved foundation, FHA offers financing with the same low down payment and flexible credit standards as a site-built home. It’s a smart way to keep monthly costs predictable while owning in or around San Antonio.
Already have an FHA loan? A Streamline refinance can lower your rate and payment with no appraisal and minimal documentation in most cases. It’s one of the quickest ways to improve cash flow, freeing up money for savings, repairs, or life’s other priorities.
If you’re an eligible Native American or Alaska Native borrower, Section 184 offers low down payments, reduced mortgage insurance, and flexible underwriting for purchases, construction, or refinancing.
If you’re 62+ and want to stay in your San Antonio home, a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage lets you convert equity to cash with no monthly mortgage payment required (you must keep paying taxes, insurance, and upkeep). Use it to supplement your retirement income, cover healthcare expenses, or fund home improvements.
580+ for 3.5% down payment (500–579 may qualify with 10% down payment).
Primary residence only; second homes and investment properties are not allowed.
Generally 43%; higher DTI is possible with compensating factors.
Two-year verifiable, stable work history.
Must meet FHA appraisal, safety, security, and livability standards.
Upfront (UFMIP) and monthly MIP apply
Set by county and updated annually for Bexar County.
Q: Can I use down payment assistance with an FHA loan?
A: Yes. Many buyers pair FHA with Texas programs that offer grants or deferred loans for down payment and closing costs.
Q: How soon after bankruptcy or foreclosure can I qualify?
A: Typically, 2 years after Chapter 7 discharge and 3 years after foreclosure, with re-established credit and no major delinquencies.
Q: Can I buy a duplex with FHA?
A: Yes, owner-occupied properties with 1–4 units are eligible. You must live in one unit as your primary residence.
Q: Do FHA loans have income limits?
A: No. There are no maximum income limits. You simply need a sufficient and stable income to afford the payment and meet underwriting requirements.
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FHA loans make it easier to buy, renovate, build, or refinance in one of Texas’s most livable cities. If you’re ready to compare options and see what you qualify for, connect with a knowledgeable FHA home loan specialist at (877) 280-4833 and take the next step toward your home in San Antonio.
We are committed to providing you with a seamless and transparent lending experience. Contact us today at (877) 280-4833 to get pre-approved and start your exciting journey to homeownership in Dallas.
