Loading
Loading
in Sausalito, CA
Sausalito sits in one of California's most expensive zip codes. Both FHA and VA loans offer low entry costs — but they serve very different borrowers.
FHA is open to almost anyone. VA is exclusive to veterans and service members. If you qualify for VA, that changes the math entirely.
FHA loans need as little as 3.5% down with a 580 credit score. Drop below 580 and you'll need 10% down — but approval is still possible.
Every FHA loan carries mortgage insurance. You pay an upfront premium plus a monthly charge. That cost sticks around for the life of most FHA loans.
VA loans are the strongest loan program available — for those who qualify. Zero down, no monthly mortgage insurance, and typically lower rates than FHA.
Eligibility requires military service. Veterans, active-duty members, and surviving spouses can apply. A Certificate of Eligibility confirms your status.
Local decision guide
Use this comparison to weigh FHA Loans and VA Loans through local payment fit, eligibility, documentation, and timing before choosing a path in Sausalito.
Sausalito sits in one of California's most expensive zip codes. Both FHA and VA loans offer low entry costs — but they serve very different borrowers.
FHA is open to almost anyone. VA is exclusive to veterans and service members. If you qualify for VA, that changes the math entirely.
FHA loans need as little as 3.5% down with a 580 credit score. Drop below 580 and you'll need 10% down — but approval is still possible.
The biggest split is mortgage insurance. VA has none monthly. FHA borrowers pay it every month — sometimes for 30 years. In Sausalito's price range, that difference adds up fast.
VA rates typically run lower than FHA rates. Rates vary by borrower profile and market conditions. But that gap, even small, matters on a high-balance loan in Marin County.
If you served, use your VA benefit. Full stop. The monthly savings on insurance alone justify it in a high-cost market like Sausalito.
If you're a civilian buyer with solid income but limited savings, FHA gets you in with 3.5% down. It costs more monthly — but it works when VA doesn't apply.
Yes. VA loans have no down payment requirement for eligible borrowers. High-cost county limits in Marin may apply — confirm your entitlement first.
Yes. FHA loan limits are set by county and tend to be higher in high-cost areas like Marin. Confirm current limits with your broker before shopping.
VA usually does. No monthly mortgage insurance is a major savings driver. Rates vary by borrower profile and market conditions.
FHA requires 580 for 3.5% down; VA has no official minimum but most lenders want 620+. Your full profile matters beyond just the score.
You can refinance out of FHA into VA if you gain eligibility. Many veterans do this to drop mortgage insurance and lower their rate.
Rarely. The funding fee is a one-time cost, often rolled into the loan. FHA mortgage insurance is paid monthly for years — usually the bigger burden.