How much down payment does FHA require?
3.5% of the purchase price for borrowers with 580+ FICO. 10% for 500–579 FICO.
What this actually means.
On a $400,000 purchase, 3.5% is $14,000 — before closing costs and prepaids. The minimum required investment must come from the borrower's own funds or eligible gift sources, not from the seller.
What this looks like on a real file.
Where this can move.
Gift source and donor eligibility, seller credit limits, down payment assistance program rules, and source-of-funds documentation can change the answer.
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Educational only. FHA guidelines, lender overlays, rates, fees, and underwriting requirements can change. Final eligibility depends on full underwriting review. Mortgage Expert, Inc. is not affiliated with HUD, FHA, or any government agency.