Not sure which loan is right for you?
These free guides break down VA, FHA, and conventional loans in plain language — credit score requirements, down payments, mortgage insurance, loan limits, and who each program is best for. Read the one that matches your situation, then reach out when you’re ready to talk numbers.
Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make. The loan you choose shapes your monthly payment, your upfront investment, and thousands of dollars over the life of the mortgage. These guides are here to make sure you understand your options before you apply clearly, honestly, and without the jargon.
Pick the guide that fits your situation. Each one covers everything from eligibility and down payments to mortgage insurance, loan limits, and common myths that trip buyers up.
VA Loan Guide
Best for: Active-duty service members, veterans, National Guard and Reserve members, and eligible surviving spouses.
The VA loan is one of the most powerful mortgage programs available $0 down payment, no private mortgage insurance, and interest rates that typically run lower than conventional. This guide covers eligibility, the funding fee, loan limits, the VA Escape Clause, common myths, and everything else you need to make the most of a benefit you’ve earned.
FHA Loan Guide
Best for: Buyers with lower credit scores, limited savings, or those rebuilding after a financial setback.
FHA loans are government-backed and far more accessible than most people realize credit scores as low as 580, just 3.5% down, and the ability to use gift funds for the entire down payment. This guide explains mortgage insurance premiums (MIP) in detail, the critical 10% threshold, loan limits for 2026, and the honest pros and cons you won’t find in most lender marketing materials.
Conventional Loan Guide
Best for: Buyers with strong credit (620+), anyone buying a second home or investment property, and anyone who wants mortgage insurance that goes away.
Conventional loans are the most common mortgage in America and not just for buyers with 20% down. You can go as low as 3% through special programs. This guide covers the 3% down options (HomeReady, Home Possible, Conventional 97), how PMI works and exactly how to remove it, 2026 loan limits, and why borrowers with 700+ credit scores often save more with conventional than FHA.
Quick Comparison: VA vs. FHA vs. Conventional
If you want a fast snapshot before diving into the full guides, here’s how the three programs stack up on the most important variables:
| Feature | VA Loan | FHA Loan | Conventional Loan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who Qualifies | Military/veterans only | Any qualified borrower | Any qualified borrower |
| Minimum Down Payment | 0% | 3.5% (580+ credit) | 3% (special programs) / 5% standard |
| Minimum Credit Score | No VA minimum (lenders: 620) | 500 (580 for 3.5% down) | 620 |
| Mortgage Insurance | None (ever) | Upfront 1.75% + monthly MIP | PMI until 80% LTV — then removable |
| 2026 Loan Limit | No cap (full entitlement) | $524,225 – $1,209,750 | $832,750 – $1,249,125 |
| Property Types | Primary residence only | Primary residence only | Primary, second home, investment |
| Best For | Eligible military wanting $0 down, no PMI | Lower credit, limited savings | Strong credit, property flexibility, PMI removal |
Not sure which column describes you? That’s what I’m here for.
Still Have Questions?
Every situation is different. If you’ve read through a guide and still aren’t sure which loan fits your numbers, reach out. I’ll run the comparison for you — no pressure, no obligation.
Book a Free Buyer Consultation
Tim Stacey | Stacey Solutions
707-290-2899 |
Tim@staceysolutions.net