Pennsylvania FHA Loans 2026
From Philadelphia rowhomes to Pittsburgh neighborhoods, FHA loans help Pennsylvania buyers achieve homeownership with just 3.5% down. Combined with PHFA assistance programs, you could move in with minimal out-of-pocket costs.
Pennsylvania Transfer Tax: What FHA Buyers Should Know
Pennsylvania's 2% transfer tax (4.28% in Philadelphia) impacts your closing costs. Good news: FHA allows sellers to pay up to 6% of your closing costs, often covering the transfer tax entirely. We negotiate seller concessions on most PA FHA deals.
2026 Pennsylvania FHA Loan Limits by County
Most Pennsylvania counties have standard FHA limits. Pike County (Poconos/NYC commuter area) has elevated limits.
| County / Metro Area | 2026 FHA Limit | Classification |
|---|---|---|
Pike (NYC Metro) | $929,200 | High-Cost |
Philadelphia | $524,225 | Standard |
Allegheny (Pittsburgh) | $524,225 | Standard |
Montgomery | $524,225 | Standard |
Bucks | $524,225 | Standard |
Delaware | $524,225 | Standard |
Chester | $524,225 | Standard |
Lancaster | $524,225 | Standard |
PHFA Down Payment Assistance Programs
Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency offers some of the best DPA programs in the nation—and they work with FHA loans.
Keystone Advantage Assistance
Up to 4% of purchase price or $6,000 (whichever is less) as a 0% interest, 10-year forgivable loan.
- Forgiven after 10 years if you stay
- No monthly payments required
- Works with FHA, VA, RD loans
K-FIT (Keystone Forgivable in Ten Years)
Up to 5% of purchase price as a forgivable loan. Completely forgiven after 10 years of ownership.
- Higher assistance than Keystone Advantage
- Income limits up to 150% AMI
HOMEstead Down Payment & Closing Cost
Up to $10,000 for first-time buyers. Federal HOME funds with income restrictions.
Calculate Your Pennsylvania FHA Payment
Factor in PA property taxes and mortgage insurance to see your true monthly payment.
Reviewed by Emmett Clark
NMLS #233747 • 20+ Years Experience • Pennsylvania FHA Specialist
"Pennsylvania's transfer tax surprises many first-time buyers, but with FHA's 6% seller concession allowance, we typically negotiate to have sellers cover it. Combined with PHFA's K-FIT program, I've closed Pennsylvania FHA deals where buyers brought less than $2,000 to closing."
Pennsylvania FHA Loan FAQs
What is the FHA loan limit in Pennsylvania for 2026?
Pennsylvania FHA loan limits for 2026 range from $524,225 in standard counties to $929,200 in Pike County (near NYC metro). Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and most PA counties have the standard limit.
What is Pennsylvania's transfer tax and who pays it?
Pennsylvania has a 2% real estate transfer tax (1% state + 1% local). By custom, buyers and sellers split it 50/50. Philadelphia adds an additional 3.28%, totaling 4.28%. FHA allows sellers to pay up to 6% of buyer closing costs.
Can I combine FHA with PHFA down payment assistance?
Yes! Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA) offers several FHA-compatible programs including Keystone Advantage (up to 4% or $6,000), K-FIT (5% forgivable over 10 years), and HOMEstead for first-time buyers.
What credit score do I need for an FHA loan in Pennsylvania?
FHA requires minimum 580 credit for 3.5% down, or 500-579 for 10% down. Most Pennsylvania lenders prefer 620+ for smoother approvals and better rates.
Are Pennsylvania property taxes included in my FHA payment?
Yes, FHA requires escrow accounts for taxes and insurance. Pennsylvania property taxes average 1.5% but vary significantly by school district—Philadelphia is around 1.4% while some suburban districts exceed 2%.
Explore Other Pennsylvania Loan Options
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