Affordable, Low Down Payment Options from a Trusted FHA Lender
Looking to buy your first home in Texas? Lone Star Financing specializes in FHA loans tailored for first-time home buyers. With low down payment options, flexible credit guidelines, and competitive interest rates, FHA loans help make homeownership more accessible for Texans statewide. Start your path to homeownership today with a trusted Texas FHA lender.
FHA Loan Qualifications:
- Stable employment/income
- Minimum FICO 620
- Must be primary residence
- 50% or lower debt to income ratio
- Minimum 3.5% down paymen
- Money to cover the upfront mortgage insurance premium (UPMIP)
Lone Star Financing specializes in FHA loans designed for first-time home buyers and structured around FHA requirements. With low down payment options, flexible credit requirements, and competitive interest rates, FHA loans help make homeownership more accessible for Texans across the state. Start your path to homeownership today with a trusted Texas FHA lender.
First Time Home Buyers
Minimum FICO Credit Score
600
Minimum Down Payment
3.5%
Maximum Loan To Value
96.5%*
Maximum Debt To Income
50%*
Mortgage Insurance
Yes
Years Since Bankcruptcy
2
Years Since Foreclosure
3
Years Since Short Sale
3
Special Qualification Requirements
NONE
Guidelines for FHA Loans
- 2026 FHA loan limits: $541,287
- More flexible credit qualifications
- Minimum down payment: 3.5%
- Higher debt-to-income ratios
- Gift funds OK for down payment
FHA - Things to Know
Learn the key things to know about FHA lending, including FHA requirements, down payment options, and credit flexibility. This short video helps first-time home buyers understand how FHA financing works and what to expect.

David Howes
Sr. Loan Officer
NMLS #1438746

Chris Lederer
Production Manager
NMLS #2004549

Jen Papaelias
Sr. Loan Officer
NMLS #2692859

Ryan Wood
Sr. Loan Officer
NMLS #1757471

Brett Dempsey
Branch Manager
NMLS #2014728
GOOD Based on 48 reviews Posted on M. C.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We could not be happier with our experience working with Lone Star – Texas Mortgage Lender, Brett Dempsey, and his team. As first-time homebuyers, we were nervous about the process, but Brett and his staff guided us every step of the way with patience, friendliness, and clear communication. They moved swiftly to secure everything we needed, kept us updated at each stage, and made the entire process smooth and stress-free. The rates they secured for us were excellent, the service was absolutely top-notch, and the team’s professionalism gave us complete confidence from start to finish. On top of that, Brett and his team were genuinely friendly and approachable, which made the experience all the more enjoyable. We are grateful for their dedication and couldn’t recommend them more highly. If you’re looking for a lender that combines expertise, efficiency, and personal service, Brett Dempsey and his team at Lone Star are the perfect choice. -The Carter FamilyPosted on Kevin MartinTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I've worked with Chris Lederer for well over a decade. He's always made the loan process seamless and goes the extra mile for his clients. His approach, service, and dedication to his clients makes you feel like you've known him your entire life. He's been able to coach myself and other people I know through the loan process and also help them with credit advice or referrals to fix credit for people that don't instantly qualify. I highly recommend working with Chris; you won't be sorry.Posted on Mandy DicktenTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I don’t ever writes reviews, but working with James honestly made the homebuying process way easier than I expected. He explained everything clearly, stayed on top of every detail, and somehow kept things calm even when the stress hit. I never felt lost or in the dark — and that’s saying a lot. What stood out most was how real he is. No fluff, no pressure, just straight-up support from start to finish. If you’re looking for someone who actually listens and doesn’t treat you like a number, James is the one to go to. Highly recommend him to anyone serious about buying a home — especially if you want someone in your corner who actually cares.Posted on Gary LarsenTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. James has been amazing to work withPosted on Joshua HaydenTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. James I great I've been working with him for awhile yes on our side we had some downers but he was quick to act and told us to get with his credit repair lady and OMG it was fast and she is damn good got my wife's credit up and im glad to say today is the day that we are getting our numbers so we can get our new house bought. Thank you James your a rock starPosted on Josie SolisTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I don’t usually leave reviews, but I had to this time. Long story short—Brett Dempsey was AWESOME. As a first-time homebuyer, I had a lot of questions and uncertainty, but Brett was incredibly professional, kind, and helpful throughout the entire process. His communication was excellent—always prompt, clear, and patient, which made a huge difference for me. After a terrible experience with another lender at New American Funding, Brett turned everything around. He not only got us into our home, but also saved us a lot of money. He and his team truly exceeded our expectations. We’re so thankful!Posted on TommyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Shawn D. and the team at Lone Star Financing are the best mortgage professionals you could ask for. Shawn was able to help us get a mortgage when no other lenders could, due to our unique circumstances. He is responsive, knowledgeable, and has the highest integrity. He didn't just help us get a house he re united my family. Thank you for all your hard work Shawn.
About FHA Loans in Texas
What are the Benefits of FHA Loans?
So what is a Texas FHA loan? A Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loan is a government-backed mortgage designed to help individuals with lower credit scores and limited down payment funds purchase a home.
- Lower Down Payment: A big advantage to first time home buyers is that a FHA down payment can be as low as 3.5% of the home’s purchase price.
- Flexible Credit Requirements: While conventional loans usually require a higher credit score, at Lone Star Financing we can go down to 600 credit on FHA loans.
- Competitive Interest Rates: FHA mortgages in Texas come with competitive interest rates, which can reduce your monthly mortgage payment compared to other home loan options.
- Assumable Loans: Texas FHA loans, are one of the few loan types that are “assumable” meaning that you when you sell your home, the buyer may be able to take over your existing loan under its original terms. This can be a favorable selling point for prospective buyers in Texas.
- High Loan Limits: 2026 FHA loan limits in Texas are now $541,287 for most counties but this loan limit varies from county to county.
What are the Texas 2026 FHA Loan Requirements?
FHA loans are a perfect option for first time home buyers, due to lower down payments and easier credit guidelines. The FHA program is designed primarily to assist borrowers who do not meet the requirements for conventional loans. Learn more about FHA loan requirements at Lone Star Financing.
- Credit Score: While Texas FHA loans are more lenient than conventional loans, a higher credit score can still improve your chances of approval and result in better loan terms.
- Down Payment: A minimum down payment of 3.5% of the purchase price or appraised value is required for those with credit scores of 580 or higher. If your credit score is between 500 and 579, a down payment of at least 10% is necessary.
- Debt-to-Income Ratio: FHA guidelines suggest that your total debt-to-income (DTI) ratio should be no more than 43%. This includes all monthly debts, such as your mortgage payment, credit card bills, and other loans.
- Property Requirements: The property must be a primary residence and meet certain standards set by the FHA to ensure it is safe and habitable. An FHA-approved appraiser will assess the property.
- Mortgage Insurance: Texas FHA loans require both an upfront mortgage insurance premium (UFMIP) and monthly mortgage insurance premiums (MIP). This insurance protects the lender in case of default and is a key feature of FHA loans.
Texas FHA Refinance
- Streamline Option (Rate and Term)
- No Appraisal / No Income * Full Doc Loans
- Rate and Term / CashOut
- Closing Costs can be rolled into loan
- Terms: Up to 30 Years
- Purchase financing: up to 96.5% LTV
- Refinance financing: up to 97% LT
Texas FHA mortgage refinancing offers homeowners an opportunity to lower their mortgage rates and adjust their loan terms, potentially leading to reduced monthly payments and significant long-term savings. This type of refinancing, backed by the Federal Housing Administration, is especially beneficial for those with existing FHA loans or for first-time refinancers. It provides access to favorable terms with less stringent credit requirements compared to conventional loans. Additionally, refinancing in Texas can help consolidate debt or access home equity, making it a versatile option for improving financial stability and managing housing costs.
WHAT ARE TEXAS FHA QUALIFICATIONS?
For single-family homes, the 2026 FHA loan limit in Texas is $541,287 but it varies by county.
To qualify for an FHA loan, you’ll need to meet the following requirements.
- Stable employment/income
- The home will be your primary residence
- No foreclosures (last 3 years)
- 50% or lower DTI ratio
- Minimum 3.5% down payment
- Money to cover the upfront mortgage insurance premium (UPMIP), which could be anywhere from 2 – 6% of the purchase price.
Things to know about Texas FHA Loans
- Pre-Qualification: Start by getting pre-qualified for your FHA loan in Texas. This involves providing basic financial information to a lender to determine how much you might be eligible to borrow.
- Documentation: Gather necessary documentation, including proof of income, credit history, and employment verification. This information helps the lender assess your financial stability.
- Application Process: Complete the FHA loan application with Lone Star Financing to get started online. We will review your financial documents, credit report, and property details to determine your eligibility.
- Home Inspection and Appraisal: Schedule a home inspection and appraisal. The FHA requires an appraisal in Texas to ensure the property’s value supports the loan amount and meets safety standards.
- Loan Approval: Once your loan is approved, you’ll proceed to closing. During closing, you’ll review and sign final loan documents, and the mortgage will be funded.
Call or Apply Online and see why Lone Star Financing is the Best FHA lender in Texas!