Buying or Refinancing a Home With FHA mortgage loan

FHA Loans in Idaho - Low Down Payments, Flexible Credit, Local Experts

Buying your first home or upgrading in the Treasure Valley? Our Meridian, Idaho team makes FHA financing simple, fast, and personal.

Purchase a Home FHA Qualifier

FHA Loan Idaho: A Complete Homebuyer's Guide for 2026

🏡 What Is an FHA Loan?

Looking for FHA loans in Idaho? At 1st Choice Mortgage, we help first-time buyers and homeowners in Boise, Meridian, Nampa, and Caldwell secure flexible FHA financing with low down payments and personalized local service.

The FHA loan Idaho homebuyers rely on is one of the most accessible mortgage options in today's market. Backed by the Federal Housing Administration (HUD), these loans protect lenders against loss, allowing us to offer you lower rates and more flexible terms than conventional mortgages.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or someone with less-than-perfect credit, an FHA loan can make homeownership possible. In fast-growing areas like Boise and Nampa, this program helps Idahoans compete in a hot housing market while keeping monthly payments affordable.

Want a deep dive into the specific perks? Read our detailed guide on 9 FHA Loan Benefits in Idaho.


📍 Why Choose an FHA Loan in Idaho?

Idaho's real estate market - especially in the Treasure Valley - has seen consistent growth. With rising prices, many buyers are looking for affordable financing options. FHA loans are ideal for:

  • First-time homebuyers with limited savings.
  • Buyers with credit scores as low as 580 (or even 500-579 with 10% down).
  • People with just 3.5% available for a down payment.
  • Those recovering from past financial hardship (like bankruptcy just 2 years ago).

💰 2026 Limits for FHA Loan Idaho

FHA loan limits are adjusted annually and vary by county. As of 2026, here are the confirmed “Ceiling” limits for our area:

  • Ada County (Boise, Meridian): $586,500
  • Canyon County (Nampa, Caldwell): $586,500
  • Gem County (Emmett): $586,500
  • Twin Falls County: $472,030
  • Kootenai County (Coeur d'Alene): $586,500

🚀 2026 MARKET OUTLOOK: New limits for 2026 have been released. In a rising market, these limits typically increase, giving you even more purchasing power. If you are shopping right now, call us at (208) 375-5626 to see if you qualify for the upcoming 2026 limit adjustments.

Pro Tip: You can purchase a multi-unit property (up to 4 units) using an FHA loan, and the loan limits increase significantly. Call us for the 4-plex breakdown!


✅ FHA Loan Requirements in Idaho

To qualify for an FHA home loan in Idaho, you'll need to meet these key criteria:

Requirement Details
Credit Score 580+ for 3.5% down, or 500 - 579 with 10% down
Down Payment Minimum 3.5% (can be a gift from family or Down Payment Assistance)
Employment Steady income and employment for the past 2 years
DTI Ratio Ideally below 54% (exceptions available)
Property Type Must be a primary residence (no rentals/vacation homes)

🏠 What Kinds of Homes Can You Buy?

You can use an FHA loan to purchase:

  • Single-family homes
  • Townhouses or condos (in FHA-approved complexes)
  • Manufactured homes (must be on a permanent foundation)
  • 2 - 4 unit properties (you must live in one unit)

Note: The home must meet FHA appraisal standards for safety and habitability. If you want a fixer-upper, ask us about the FHA 203(k) renovation loan.


💡 Pros and Cons of FHA Loans in Idaho

👍 Pros:

  • Low down payment (3.5%)
  • Easier credit score approval
  • Flexible underwriting for DTI
  • Lower interest rates compared to conventional
  • Compatible with Down Payment Assistance

👎 Cons:

  • Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP) required for the life of the loan (unless you put 10% down)
  • Appraisal standards can be slightly stricter on safety issues (peeling paint, handrails)
  • Property must be owner-occupied

🛠️ What Is Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP)?

All FHA loans require mortgage insurance, which protects the lender. There are two parts:

  • Upfront MIP: 1.75% of loan amount (usually rolled into the loan so you don’t pay it out of pocket).
  • Monthly MIP: An ongoing premium added to your monthly mortgage payment.

💡 Note: Unlike Conventional PMI, FHA MIP does not automatically fall off. You typically refinance into a conventional loan later to remove it once you have 20% equity.


📑 Can You Use Down Payment Assistance?

Yes! Idaho buyers can combine an FHA loan with assistance programs to cover their 3.5% down payment. We work with:

Worried about cash to close? Read our Guide to Closing Costs here.


📞 Ready to Get Pre-Approved?

At 1st Choice Mortgage, we are Idaho's FHA experts. We've helped thousands of buyers in Boise, Nampa, Meridian, and across the Gem State secure low-down-payment financing.

We understand Idaho's housing market, FHA appraisals, and county-by-county loan limits - so you get a smoother path to homeownership.

👉 Click Here to Get Pre-Approved


About the Author

Jerry Robinson is the CEO of 1st Choice Mortgage Company (NMLS #380736) and a Senior Loan Officer (NMLS #4475). With over 20 years of experience, Jerry specializes in helping Idaho veterans and first-time buyers navigate FHA guidelines in Boise, Meridian, and Nampa.

FHA Loans in Idaho - Frequently Asked Questions

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

Most FHA loans in Idaho require only a 3.5% down payment if your credit score is 580 or higher. Buyers with lower scores (500-579) may still qualify with a 10% down payment.

What are the FHA loan limits in Idaho for 2026?

Limits vary by county. For 2026, Ada and Canyon Counties (Boise/Nampa) are both set at $586,500. Twin Falls is set at $472,030. Contact us for your specific county.

Can I use an FHA loan to buy a fixer-upper?

Yes! The FHA 203(k) program lets Idaho buyers finance both the purchase price and renovation costs into one single loan.

Where does 1st Choice Mortgage lend?

We proudly serve the entire state of Idaho, with a specific focus on the Treasure Valley (Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Caldwell) and Magic Valley.

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Proudly serving buyers in Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Caldwell, and all across Idaho with FHA loan expertise.