A home of your own, with credit that’s still growing.

Yes. FHA loans are not only for first-time buyers, though you can usually have one at a time, for the home you live in.

FHA sets minimums, and each lender adds its own guidelines, so the answer depends on your full picture. Your score also affects how much you’ll need to put down. A conversation with your loan officer tells you where you stand.

Yes. Every FHA loan has an upfront premium, which is usually added to the loan, and an annual premium paid monthly. How long the annual premium lasts depends on your down payment.

Yes. Gifts from relatives, an employer or an approved assistance program can count toward your down payment and closing costs. The giver signs a gift letter, and the lender documents where the money came from.

FHA loan amounts are capped by county, and the home must meet FHA’s property standards, which the appraisal checks.

Often, yes, after a waiting period that depends on the event and your circumstances. Your loan officer can tell you where you stand and what to do in the meantime.

It depends on your credit, your savings and how long you plan to keep the loan. FHA is more flexible with credit, while conventional mortgage insurance can come off once you have enough equity. Compare both, with the full terms of each.

Answering a few questions doesn’t check your credit. A credit check comes later, only with your permission, and your loan officer can explain how it may affect your score.

Your loan officer tells you why and what to work on, such as paying down a balance or letting a credit event age, so you leave with a plan.

Closing costs such as lender fees, an appraisal and title charges, plus FHA’s upfront and annual mortgage insurance. Your Loan Estimate lists every cost before you commit.