Loan Comparison

Compare FHA, VA, and Conventional Loans in Nevada

Find the right mortgage program for your situation. Compare down payments, credit requirements, and monthly costs side-by-side.

Reviewed by CEO Vatche Saatdjian — 30+ years — Nevada mortgage expert

4.9/5 client rating | 3 loan programs compared | NMLS #65506
Interactive Comparison

Explore Loan Programs

Switch between programs to see requirements, benefits, and ideal use cases at a glance.

FHA Loans

Most popular first-time buyer option with flexible credit

Key Benefits

  • 3.5% down minimum (with 580+ credit)
  • Lower credit score requirements than conventional
  • Gift funds allowed for down payment
  • Higher DTI ratios accepted (up to 50%)

Best For

  • First-time homebuyers
  • Buyers with credit scores 580-680
  • Limited down payment savings
  • Self-employed with 2+ years history
Learn More About FHA

VA Loans

Exclusive benefit for eligible veterans and service members

Key Benefits

  • 0% down payment required
  • No monthly PMI or mortgage insurance
  • Flexible credit standards for veterans
  • Lower interest rates than conventional

Best For

  • Active duty military members
  • Veterans with full eligibility
  • No down payment available
  • Long-term homeownership plans
Learn More About VA

Conventional Loans

Flexible option for strong credit profiles and larger down payments

Key Benefits

  • No upfront insurance premium
  • PMI removable at 20% equity
  • Higher loan limits than FHA
  • Investment property eligible

Best For

  • Credit score 680+
  • 5-20% down payment available
  • Low DTI (under 43%)
  • 2nd home or investment property buyers
Learn More About Conventional

Quick Answer

  • FHA: Best for 3.5% down, 580+ credit score, first-time buyers
  • VA: Best for 0% down, eligible veterans/active duty, no PMI
  • Conventional: Best for 620+ credit, 5-20% down, lowest long-term cost
  • Your best fit depends on: down payment, credit score, military status, and monthly budget

Side-by-Side Comparison

See how FHA, VA, and Conventional loans stack up across key requirements and costs.

Feature FHA Loan VA Loan Conventional
Down Payment 3.5% minimum 0% (if eligible) 5-20% typical
Credit Score 580+ for 3.5% down 620+ typical 620+ minimum
Mortgage Insurance Required (MIP)
1.75% upfront + annual
None Funding fee instead Required if <20% down
Can be removed later
Property Type Primary residence Primary residence Primary, 2nd home, investment
Eligibility All buyers Veterans/active duty only All buyers
2026 Nevada Loan Limits $524,225 (Clark County) $806,500 (full entitlement) $806,500 (conforming)

*Loan limits, rates, and requirements subject to change. Down payment and credit score requirements may vary by lender. Contact us for current program details.

Which Loan is Right for You?

Use these decision guides to find your best fit based on your unique situation.

FHA is Best If You:

  • Have 3.5% down available
  • Credit score is 580-679
  • First-time buyer or haven't owned in 3+ years
  • Want flexible qualification
  • Primary residence in Nevada
Learn More About FHA

VA is Best If You:

  • Active duty, veteran, or eligible spouse
  • Want 0% down payment
  • No mortgage insurance (saves $150-300/mo)
  • Have COE or can obtain one
  • Primary residence in Nevada
Learn More About VA

Conventional is Best If You:

  • Credit score is 680+
  • Have 10-20% down available
  • Want to remove PMI after 20% equity
  • Buying 2nd home or investment property
  • Want lowest long-term cost
Learn More About Conventional
Quick Decision Tool

Still Not Sure?

Answer a few quick questions and we'll recommend the best loan program for your situation.

Are you a veteran or active duty? Answer 3 questions
What's your credit score range?
How much can you put down?
Get Personalized Recommendation

Takes 2-3 minutes • No credit impact • Free consultation

Common Questions

Get answers to the most frequently asked questions about choosing between loan programs.

Have more questions about which loan is right for you?

Talk to a Nevada Mortgage Specialist

Ready to Compare Your Options?

Get pre-qualified and see exactly what you qualify for across FHA, VA, and Conventional programs.

NMLS #65506 • Licensed in Nevada • Equal Housing Lender