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in Hollister, CA
Two government-backed loans dominate Hollister's entry-level market. Both offer low barriers to entry — but they serve very different borrowers.
FHA is open to almost anyone. VA is exclusively for veterans, active-duty service members, and qualifying surviving spouses.
FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration. Lenders accept scores as low as 580 with 3.5% down.
The catch: you pay mortgage insurance for the life of the loan. That adds real cost over time.
VA loans are guaranteed by the Department of Veterans Affairs. No down payment. No monthly mortgage insurance.
You do pay a one-time funding fee upfront. Many disabled veterans are exempt from that fee entirely.
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 Hollister.
Two government-backed loans dominate Hollister's entry-level market. Both offer low barriers to entry — but they serve very different borrowers.
FHA is open to almost anyone. VA is exclusively for veterans, active-duty service members, and qualifying surviving spouses.
FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration. Lenders accept scores as low as 580 with 3.5% down.
The biggest gap is mortgage insurance. VA borrowers skip it entirely. FHA borrowers pay it every month, indefinitely.
VA rates typically run lower than FHA rates. Rates vary by borrower profile and market conditions, but that gap is consistent across most lenders we work with.
If you served, use your VA benefit. Hollister has a solid veteran community, and this loan saves thousands over time.
If you're a civilian buyer with limited savings and decent credit, FHA is your clearest path. It's not perfect, but it works.
Yes. Eligible veterans can buy in Hollister with zero down. No down payment requirement is one of VA's biggest advantages.
Yes, FHA charges monthly mortgage insurance regardless of your down payment. It stays for the life of the loan.
FHA accepts scores as low as 580. VA has no official minimum, but most lenders want at least 620.
Yes. Qualifying surviving spouses of veterans are eligible for VA loans. Contact us to confirm your eligibility status.
VA typically costs less over time. No monthly mortgage insurance means thousands saved across a 30-year loan.