FHA Loans Nevada: Complete 2025 Guide to Requirements, Limits & Approval

Discover how FHA loans make homeownership possible in Nevada with just 3.5% down, flexible credit requirements, and loan limits up to $644,000 in Las Vegas and Reno. Get approved faster with Conventional Home Loans Services.

3.5%
Minimum Down Payment
580
Minimum Credit Score
$644,000
Max Loan Limit
43%
Max DTI Ratio
NMLS Licensed
Equal Housing Lender
24-Hour Approvals
JC

Jennifer Chen, NMLS #543987

FHA Loan Specialist

Senior Loan Officer | 14+ Years FHA Lending Experience

Jennifer specializes in FHA loans for Nevada first-time homebuyers and has originated over 1,900 FHA mortgages since 2011. She is an expert in FHA underwriting guidelines, manual underwriting for non-traditional credit, and Nevada down payment assistance programs that work with FHA financing.

NMLS Licensed AMP & CHP Certified Nevada Based Updated Jan 2026
MB

Michael Rodriguez, NMLS #387456

Senior FHA Loan Specialist

15+ years of Nevada mortgage expertise specializing in FHA loans. Former HUD underwriter turned Nevada homebuyer advocate, helping 2,000+ first-time buyers secure FHA financing.

Updated January 2, 2025 12 min read NMLS Licensed

What Is an FHA Loan in Nevada?

FHA loans are government-backed mortgages insured by the Federal Housing Administration, designed to make homeownership accessible to Nevada residents who may not qualify for conventional financing. These loans are particularly popular in Las Vegas, Henderson, Reno, and throughout Nevada because they require lower down payments and accept lower credit scores than traditional mortgages.

In 2025, FHA loans continue to be the top choice for first-time homebuyers in Nevada, accounting for nearly 30% of all home purchases in the state. Whether you're buying in Clark County, Washoe County, or rural Nevada communities, FHA financing offers a proven pathway to homeownership with flexible qualification standards.

Low Down Payment Options

Put down as little as 3.5% with a credit score of 580 or higher. For a $400,000 home in Las Vegas, that's just $14,000 down instead of the $80,000 required for conventional 20% down.

Flexible Credit Requirements

Qualify with credit scores as low as 580 (3.5% down) or 500-579 (10% down). Recent credit challenges like medical debt or past foreclosures are evaluated more leniently than conventional loans.

Seller Concessions Allowed

Sellers can contribute up to 6% toward your closing costs, significantly reducing out-of-pocket expenses. This can save Nevada buyers $6,000-$15,000 at closing.

Gift Funds Accepted

Your entire down payment can come from family gift funds with proper documentation. This makes FHA loans ideal for Nevada buyers receiving financial help from relatives.

Higher Debt-to-Income Ratios

Qualify with DTI ratios up to 43%, sometimes higher with compensating factors. This flexibility helps Nevada buyers with student loans or car payments get approved.

Assumable Mortgages

FHA loans are assumable, meaning future buyers can take over your mortgage—a valuable feature if rates increase. This makes your Nevada home more attractive to potential buyers.

Need More FHA Loan Details?

For comprehensive information about FHA loan requirements, guidelines, and eligibility criteria nationwide, visit our FHA loan resource center.

FHA Loan Requirements in Nevada (2025)

Understanding FHA loan requirements is the first step toward Nevada homeownership. Here's exactly what you need to qualify for an FHA loan in Las Vegas, Reno, Henderson, and throughout the state.

Credit Score Requirements

580+ Credit Score

Qualify for 3.5% down payment minimum

500-579 Credit Score

Requires 10% down payment minimum

Below 500

Generally not eligible; work on credit repair first

Nevada Tip: Most Las Vegas and Reno lenders prefer 600+ scores for best rates. Conventional Home Loans Services can help with scores as low as 580.

Down Payment Requirements

3.5% Minimum

For borrowers with 580+ credit score

10% Minimum

For borrowers with 500-579 credit score

Gift Funds Allowed

100% of down payment can be gifted from family

Nevada Example: $450,000 home in Henderson = $15,750 down payment at 3.5%.

Debt-to-Income (DTI) Ratio

43% Maximum DTI

Standard guideline for most FHA borrowers

Up to 50% with Compensating Factors

Possible with high credit scores, cash reserves, or significant equity

Includes All Monthly Debts

Credit cards, car loans, student loans, child support, alimony

DTI Calculation: If you earn $6,000/month and have $2,400 in monthly debts (including your new mortgage), your DTI is 40%.

Employment & Income

2 Years Employment History

Consistent work history in same field required

Steady, Verifiable Income

W-2, 1099, self-employment, or benefits income

Self-Employed Allowed

2 years tax returns required for Nevada entrepreneurs and gig workers

Nevada Focus: Casino workers, hospitality employees, and self-employed individuals in Las Vegas commonly qualify.

Property Requirements for Nevada FHA Loans

✓ Eligible Properties:

  • Single-family homes
  • 2-4 unit properties (you must occupy one unit)
  • FHA-approved condos and townhomes
  • Manufactured homes (must meet HUD standards)
  • Must be primary residence

✗ Not Eligible:

  • Investment properties
  • Vacation homes or second homes
  • Properties with major safety issues
  • Fixer-uppers needing extensive repairs
  • Properties without working utilities

Important: All FHA properties in Nevada must pass an FHA appraisal inspection verifying safety, soundness, and security standards. Homes in Las Vegas, Reno, and Henderson neighborhoods typically meet these standards.

2025 FHA Loan Limits in Nevada by County

FHA loan limits vary by county in Nevada. These limits determine the maximum amount you can borrow using an FHA loan. Nevada's major metro areas (Las Vegas, Reno) have higher limits due to elevated home prices.

Nevada County Major Cities 1-Unit Limit 2-Unit Limit 3-Unit Limit 4-Unit Limit
Clark County Las Vegas, Henderson, North Las Vegas $644,000 $824,500 $996,500 $1,238,250
Washoe County Reno, Sparks $644,000 $824,500 $996,500 $1,238,250
Carson City Carson City $498,257 $638,000 $771,125 $958,125
Douglas County Minden, Gardnerville $498,257 $638,000 $771,125 $958,125
Lyon County Fernley, Yerington $498,257 $638,000 $771,125 $958,125
All Other Counties Elko, Mesquite, Pahrump, etc. $498,257 $638,000 $771,125 $958,125
$644,000
High-Cost Areas

Clark County (Las Vegas metro) and Washoe County (Reno-Sparks) qualify as high-cost areas due to elevated housing prices. This allows larger FHA loans.

$498,257
Standard Nevada Limit

Most Nevada counties use this baseline limit, sufficient for homes in rural areas and smaller cities like Pahrump, Elko, and Mesquite.

2-4 Units
Multi-Family Limits

Buying a duplex, triplex, or fourplex? FHA limits increase proportionally. You must live in one unit as your primary residence.

What Happens If Your Nevada Home Exceeds FHA Limits?

If you're buying a home in Las Vegas, Henderson, Reno, or Sparks that costs more than the FHA limit, you have several options:

  • Conventional Loan: No loan limits with 20% down (see our conventional loan guide)
  • Jumbo Loan: For high-value Nevada properties above conforming limits
  • Larger Down Payment: Increase down payment to bring loan amount under the limit

FHA vs VA vs Conventional Loans in Nevada

Choosing the right loan program can save Nevada homebuyers thousands of dollars. Here's how FHA loans compare to other popular mortgage options available through Conventional Home Loans Services.

Feature FHA Loan VA Loan Conventional Loan
Minimum Down Payment 3.5% 0% 3% (5-20% typical)
Minimum Credit Score 580 620 (most lenders) 620-640
Mortgage Insurance Required (1.75% upfront + 0.55% annual) None Required if <20% down (removable)
Max DTI Ratio 43-50% 41% 36-45%
Loan Limits (Clark/Washoe) $644,000 $766,550 $766,550
Eligibility Anyone Veterans, Active Military, Spouses Anyone
Property Requirements FHA appraisal required VA appraisal required Standard appraisal
Best For First-time buyers, lower credit scores Veterans, military families Strong credit, larger down payment

Choose FHA If You:

  • Have a credit score between 580-680
  • Can only afford 3.5-5% down payment
  • Are a first-time homebuyer in Nevada
  • Have higher debt-to-income ratio
  • Want to use gift funds for entire down payment

Choose VA If You:

  • Are a veteran, active military, or eligible spouse
  • Want zero down payment option
  • Want to avoid mortgage insurance
  • Are near Nellis AFB or other Nevada bases
  • Have military-related benefits
Learn about VA loans

Choose Conventional If You:

  • Have credit score 700+
  • Can put down 20% or more
  • Want to avoid FHA appraisal requirements
  • Are buying a high-value Nevada property
  • Want to remove PMI later
Learn about conventional loans

Nevada-Specific Loan Program Insights

Las Vegas Metro: FHA loans are extremely popular due to affordable home prices ($400,000-$500,000 median) and transient workforce. Many hospitality and gaming workers prefer FHA due to flexible credit requirements.

Reno-Sparks: Strong tech economy means higher incomes, making conventional loans competitive. However, FHA remains popular for first-time buyers purchasing in growing neighborhoods like Spanish Springs and Cold Springs.

Nellis AFB Area: VA loans dominate in communities near military bases. VA offers better terms than FHA for qualified veterans buying in North Las Vegas, Henderson, and Sunrise Manor.

Rural Nevada: FHA and USDA loans (for eligible rural areas) provide best options for buyers in Pahrump, Mesquite, Elko, and Fallon where home prices remain below $350,000.

FHA Mortgage Insurance Explained (Nevada 2025)

FHA mortgage insurance protects lenders if you default on your loan. While this adds to your monthly costs, it's what enables FHA's low down payment and flexible credit requirements. Here's exactly what you'll pay in Nevada.

Upfront Mortgage Insurance Premium (UFMIP)

1.75%

What it is: A one-time fee charged at closing, calculated as 1.75% of your base loan amount.

How it's paid: Typically rolled into your loan amount (financed), so you don't pay out-of-pocket at closing.

Nevada Example:

$400,000 loan amount × 1.75% = $7,000 UFMIP

This is added to your loan, making your new loan balance $407,000.

Annual Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP)

0.55%

What it is: An ongoing annual fee calculated as 0.55% of your loan balance, paid monthly.

How it's paid: Divided by 12 and added to your monthly mortgage payment for the life of the loan.

Nevada Example:

$407,000 loan balance × 0.55% = $2,238.50 per year

$2,238.50 ÷ 12 = $187/month MIP

How Long Do You Pay MIP?

Loan Term Down Payment MIP Duration
15-Year Loan Less than 10% 11 Years
15-Year Loan 10% or more No MIP required
30-Year Loan Less than 10% Life of loan
30-Year Loan 10% or more 11 Years

Total MIP Cost for Nevada FHA Borrowers

Scenario: $450,000 Home in Henderson (3.5% Down)

Purchase Price: $450,000
Down Payment (3.5%): $15,750
Base Loan Amount: $434,250
Upfront MIP (1.75%): +$7,599
Total Loan Amount: $441,849
Annual MIP (0.55%): $2,430/year
Monthly MIP: $203/month

30-Year Total MIP Costs

Upfront MIP: $7,599
Lifetime Monthly MIP: $72,900
Total MIP Paid: $80,499

*Over 30 years. Most homeowners refinance or sell before this, reducing actual costs paid.

Can You Remove FHA Mortgage Insurance?

Unlike conventional PMI, FHA mortgage insurance cannot be removed on 30-year loans with less than 10% down. However, Nevada homeowners have two strategies:

Refinance to Conventional

Once you reach 20% equity in your Las Vegas or Reno home, refinance to a conventional loan with no PMI. This typically happens after 5-7 years of appreciation and principal paydown.

Put Down 10% Initially

If you can afford 10% down ($45,000 on a $450,000 home), your annual MIP drops off after 11 years automatically—saving tens of thousands.

Frequently Asked Questions About FHA Loans in Nevada

Get answers to the most common questions from Nevada homebuyers about FHA loan qualifications, costs, and processes.

Still Have Questions About Nevada FHA Loans?

Our Nevada mortgage experts are ready to answer your specific questions and guide you through the FHA loan process.