FHA Loans in Bellingham, WA
As little as 3.5% down with flexible credit — built for first-time buyers.
Work directly with Jodie Barber, a mortgage broker with 30 years of experience serving Bellingham and all of Whatcom County.
Bellingham at a glance
North Sound college town (WWU) near the Canadian border; Whatcom FHA cap elevated to $664,700. Rural Whatcom County outside the city is strong USDA territory.
Serving Bellingham neighborhoods including Fairhaven, South Hill, Columbia, Barkley, Sunnyland.
Why a FHA loan in Bellingham?
First-time and repeat buyers who want a low down payment or have credit that's still on the way up.
- ✦3.5% down with a 580+ credit score
- ✦More flexible credit and debt-to-income guidelines
- ✦Gift funds allowed for the down payment
- ✦Assumable — a real advantage in a higher-rate market
WSHFC Home Advantage (DPA) — Up to 5% of the first-mortgage amount. Pair with a Home Advantage first mortgage; ~620 min FICO; homebuyer education required; not limited to first-time buyers; income limits up to $180,000 in King/Pierce/Snohomish (lower in other counties). A needs-based option offers up to $10,000 at 1% interest, deferred 30 years.
FHA Loans FAQ
- What credit score do I need for an FHA loan?
- Generally 580 for 3.5% down (500–579 may qualify with 10% down). FHA is designed to be more forgiving than conventional financing.
- What is FHA mortgage insurance (MIP)?
- FHA loans carry an upfront and an annual mortgage insurance premium. I'll show you the real monthly cost and when refinancing out of it makes sense.
“Homeownership is a partnership.” Let's talk about your FHA loan in Bellingham. No pressure — just straight answers from someone who's done this for 30 years.