House-Hacking a Duplex With an FHA Loan

Published 2026-06-18

House-Hacking a Duplex With an FHA Loan is one of the most common questions FHA buyers ask. In short: FHA loans remain one of the most accessible paths to homeownership in 2026, with a 3.5% minimum down payment, credit scores accepted from 580 (and 500 with 10% down), and county loan limits ranging from $541,287 to $1,249,125.

The most important thing to remember is that FHA rates and rules change frequently. Tracking those changes is exactly what the free FHA Notification Program is for — we alert you when rates move, requirements change, or new programs launch, so you can act at the right time.

Key takeaways

• FHA allows 3.5% down with a 580+ credit score.
• Mortgage insurance (MIP) applies and is often for the life of the loan.
• County loan limits cap how much you can borrow.
• Comparing two or three lenders can save thousands.

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Join the free FHA Notification Program. We watch rates, requirements, and new programs so you do not have to.

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