Which of these loans typically requires the lowest down payment?

FHA loans are designed to promote home ownership among individuals who may have lower credit scores or limited financial resources. One of the key features of FHA loans is the requirement for a relatively low down payment, which can be as low as 3.5% of the purchase price. This makes them particularly accessible for first-time homebuyers or those who may not have substantial savings.

In contrast, while conventional loans may offer options with low down payments, they often require a higher credit score and can necessitate a larger down payment depending on the lender's criteria. VA loans generally do not require a down payment for eligible veterans and service members, making them a great option, but they are limited to certain borrowers. USDA loans also offer 0% down payment options in rural areas for qualifying applicants, but these come with specific eligibility requirements related to income and property location.

Thus, while several options provide lower down payments, FHA loans provide a balanced approach that is widely available to first-time buyers and those with less financial flexibility.