I’ve been helping San Diego buyers get into FHA loans for nearly 20 years — the high conforming limits in San Diego County make FHA more useful here than in most of the country, and the military community adds a layer of nuance that most out-of-state lenders miss. I’m Michael DiVita — DRE #01818285 | NMLS #323700, DiVita Home Finance, Tiburon, CA. Call me at (800) 239-1103 if you want to run your specific numbers before you start shopping.
San Diego FHA Loan Limit 2026
San Diego County’s 2026 FHA loan limit is $1,006,250 — significantly above the national baseline, reflecting the county’s high home prices. Buyers can access FHA financing with just 3.5% down on homes priced up to approximately $1.04M. That covers a large share of San Diego’s resale market, including established neighborhoods throughout the county.
FHA Loan Benefits in San Diego
- 3.5% down payment at 580+ credit score — on an $800,000 home, that’s just $28,000 down
- More flexible debt-to-income ratios than conventional loans — important in high-cost San Diego
- Gift funds accepted — family contributions toward down payment fully allowed
- Seller concessions up to 6% — sellers can contribute toward your closing costs
- No income limits — FHA is open to all income levels
FHA for San Diego’s Military Community
San Diego’s large military population has a strong VA loan option, but not every military-connected buyer qualifies for VA — surviving family members, civilian employees, and some Guard/Reserve members may not have VA eligibility. For these buyers, FHA provides a comparable low-down-payment option with flexible guidelines.
San Diego Neighborhoods and FHA
FHA loans work throughout San Diego County — from Chula Vista and National City in the south to Escondido and San Marcos in the north, and from El Cajon and Santee in the east to Mission Valley, North Park, and Ocean Beach in the urban core. We originate FHA loans across all San Diego County communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use FHA to buy in a San Diego HOA community or condo?
For detached single-family homes, yes — without restriction. For condos and townhomes, the entire condo project must be FHA-approved or qualify under FHA’s single-unit approval process. Many San Diego condo buildings are not on HUD’s approved list. We check approval status for any specific development before you make an offer — this prevents financing surprises after you’re in contract.
What credit score do I need for an FHA loan in San Diego?
FHA guidelines allow 580+ credit for 3.5% down, and 500–579 with 10% down. However, most lenders have internal overlays requiring 620–640 minimum, so your actual qualifying credit score may be higher than FHA’s floor. DiVita Home Finance works with multiple FHA wholesale lenders and can match you to the one with the right guidelines for your credit profile — including lenders who go down to 580 without overlays on San Diego FHA loans.
How does FHA compare to VA for San Diego military buyers?
For eligible veterans, VA loans are typically superior — zero down payment, no mortgage insurance at all, and competitive rates. FHA requires 3.5% down plus an upfront MIP (1.75%) and lifetime annual MIP. However, VA eligibility isn’t universal in San Diego’s military community. Civilian DoD employees, surviving spouses, and some National Guard/Reserve members may not qualify for VA, making FHA the best low-down-payment option. We run both scenarios side-by-side when there’s any question about VA eligibility.
Related Reading
Talk to Michael Directly
DiVita Home Finance | Tiburon, CA | Licensed since 2007. DRE #01818285 | NMLS #323700.
💬 Text: (310) 849-9124
