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in Rohnert Park, CA
Rohnert Park buyers have two strong government-backed options. FHA and VA loans both offer low entry costs — but they work very differently.
VA is the stronger loan for eligible borrowers. FHA fills the gap for anyone who doesn't qualify for VA benefits.
FHA loans require just 3.5% down with a 580 credit score. Drop below 580 and you'll need 10% down.
Every FHA loan carries mortgage insurance — upfront and monthly. That cost doesn't go away automatically like PMI on a conventional loan.
VA loans are for veterans, active-duty service members, and surviving spouses. Zero down payment. No monthly mortgage insurance.
There's a VA funding fee due at closing. Most borrowers roll it into the loan. Some veterans with service-connected disabilities are exempt.
The biggest difference is mortgage insurance. VA has none monthly. FHA charges it every month, often for the full loan term.
VA also has no down payment requirement. FHA needs at least 3.5%. On a Sonoma County purchase, that gap adds up fast.
If you have VA eligibility, use it. The monthly savings from skipping mortgage insurance are real and recurring.
FHA makes sense when VA isn't an option. First-time buyers, lower credit scores, or non-military borrowers — FHA is built for you.
Yes. VA loans require zero down payment. You'll still pay closing costs unless the seller agrees to cover them.
On most FHA loans originated after 2013, mortgage insurance stays for the life of the loan. Refinancing to conventional is the exit.
VA loans typically carry lower rates than FHA. Rates vary by borrower profile and market conditions.
VA has no official minimum, but most lenders require 580–620. A stronger score gets you better pricing.
No — you pick one loan per purchase. VA is almost always the better choice if you're eligible.
VA limits are waived for eligible borrowers with full entitlement. FHA limits apply and vary by county each year.