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in La Habra, CA
Both FHA and VA loans are government-backed. Both offer competitive rates and easier qualification than conventional loans.
The difference is eligibility. VA loans are only for veterans, active-duty service members, and surviving spouses. FHA loans are open to almost anyone.
FHA loans require as little as 3.5% down with a 580 credit score. Drop to 500 and you need 10% down — but approval is still possible.
Every FHA loan carries mortgage insurance. You pay it upfront and monthly for the life of the loan in most cases.
VA loans require zero down payment. No mortgage insurance either — that saves eligible borrowers hundreds per month.
There is a VA funding fee, paid upfront or rolled into the loan. Disabled veterans are typically exempt from this fee.
The biggest gap is down payment. VA buyers in La Habra can buy with nothing down. FHA buyers need at least 3.5%.
FHA charges mortgage insurance forever on most loans. VA charges a one-time funding fee — then nothing. Over 30 years, that gap adds up fast.
If you served and qualify, VA wins almost every time. The savings on insurance alone make it the stronger loan for most eligible buyers.
FHA makes sense if you don't have military service, need flexible credit terms, or are buying with a lower down payment and can't go conventional.
Yes, VA loans are available anywhere in California. La Habra falls within Orange County's conforming loan limits.
VA loans typically carry lower rates than FHA. Rates vary by borrower profile and market conditions.
In most cases, no — not on the same property. But eligibility rules are complex. Ask us about your specific situation.
The VA sets no official minimum, but most lenders require at least 580-620. We work with lenders across the range.
Neither is harder across the board. VA has an eligibility requirement — military service. FHA has mortgage insurance costs to consider.