FHA Forward Mortgage Limits
Forward limits = standard FHA (purchase and refinance).
When people say “FHA loan limits,” they are almost always referring to HUD’s forward mortgage limits. HUD uses the term “forward” to separate these loans from reverse mortgages (HECM).
What the limit represents
The forward limit is the maximum mortgage amount FHA will insure for a given county and property type (often discussed as “one-unit” for a single-family home). Limits differ by county and can be higher in high-cost areas.
Where to use it on this site
- Use the main hub to search and browse: FHA loan limits by county.
- Use your state hub to find a county page quickly.
Not a down payment calculator
A county FHA limit is not the same as “how much house you can afford.” It is a cap on insurable loan size. Affordability depends on income, debts, rate, taxes, insurance, and required cash to close.