FHA vs conventional loans Boise Idaho

FHA vs conventional loans Boise Idaho

1st Choice Mortgage Company, LLC
1st Choice Mortgage Company, LLC
Published on April 29, 2025
Illustration of Idaho homebuyers deciding between FHA or conventional loans with 1st Choice Mortgage logo

FHA vs conventional loans Boise Idaho

💬 FHA vs. Conventional Loans - Idaho Style

Deciding between an FHA or conventional loan? If you’re buying a home in Boise, Meridian, or Nampa, understanding the FHA vs conventional loans Boise Idaho landscape is key. Each option has pros, cons, and ideal use cases - especially in today's changing market.

When it comes to buying a home in Boise, Meridian, or Nampa, choosing between an FHA loan and a conventional loan can feel like picking between huckleberry pie and ice cream - you want both, but one fits your situation better.

This blog will walk you through the differences, benefits, and who each loan type is best for - so you can make a confident move toward homeownership in Idaho.


🔍 FHA Loans: What You Need to Know

FHA loans are government-backed loans designed to help first-time and lower-income buyers enter the housing market.

Perks of an FHA Loan:

  • Lower down payments (as low as 3.5%)

  • Down Payment Assistance available through Idaho Housing for FICO >580.
  • More flexible credit score requirements:

    • 3.5% down payment with a FICO of 580 or higher.
    • 10% down payment with a FICO score of 500 to 579.
  • Potentially lower closing costs (especially with Idaho Housing help)

Consider an FHA loan if:
You’re a first-time buyer in Meridian, Boise, Nampa, Caldwell, and have limited savings, or need more wiggle room with credit.


🏦 Conventional Loans: The Private Option

Conventional loans are not backed by the government, but they offer more flexibility for well-qualified borrowers.

Why go conventional?

  • Can avoid mortgage insurance with 20% down

  • Often better long-term rates and terms

  • Higher loan limits for bigger homes (especially around Boise)

  • Down Payment assistance available through Idaho Housing here as well!

Choose conventional if:
You've got solid credit, a healthy down payment, or you're buying a second home or investment property in Nampa or Eagle.


🥊 FHA vs. Conventional Loan - Quick Comparison Table

 

Feature FHA Loan Conventional Loan
Down Payment 3.5% (minimum) 3% - 20%
Credit Score 580+ 620+
Mortgage Insurance Required for life of loan Can be waived at 20% down
Loan Limits (Ada Co.) $524,225 (202)5 Up to $806,500 (2025 conforming)
Ideal For First-time buyers, limited credit Strong credit, flexible buyers

Down Payment Assistance available for both.


💡 Which Loan Wins in Idaho?

There's no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on your goals, your budget, and your timeline.

Need help running the numbers? That's where we come in.

1st Choice Mortgage Company, LLC
1st Choice Mortgage Company, LLC
Click to Call or Text:
(208) 375-5626

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