FHA and VA Buyers

Buying with an FHA or VA loan in Chicago and Illinois

FHA and VA loans make homeownership possible with little or nothing down, and both can be used for 1 to 4 unit homes you live in. I help FHA and VA buyers write offers sellers take seriously and avoid properties that won't pass the appraisal.

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  • Daniel EllingtonLicensed Illinois Real Estate Broker
  • Infiniti PropertiesBrokerage since 1991, Homewood office
  • IL License #475211812Chicagoland and throughout Illinois

Who this is for

FHA buyers

Buyers with 3.5% down and credit scores starting around 580.

Veterans and service members

Eligible VA buyers with 0% down and no monthly mortgage insurance.

Multi-unit buyers

FHA and VA buyers who want to house hack a 2 to 4 unit building.

How it works

  1. Get pre-approved Confirm eligibility, your budget, and your Certificate of Eligibility for VA.
  2. Target the right homes Focus on homes likely to meet FHA or VA property standards.
  3. Write a strong offer Pair a solid pre-approval with terms that reassure the seller.
  4. Appraisal and close Handle any required repairs and close on time.

What I do for you

  • Screening homes for issues that commonly fail FHA and VA appraisals
  • Offer strategy that addresses seller concerns about government loans
  • FHA self-sufficiency test for 3 and 4 unit buildings
  • Introductions to experienced FHA and VA lenders
  • Coordination of required repairs before closing

Appraisal standards matter

FHA and VA appraisers check that a home is safe, sound, and secure, and can require repairs such as peeling paint, missing handrails, or broken windows before closing. Homes that need major work are often better suited to an FHA 203(k) renovation loan.

Some sellers worry about these requirements. A strong pre-approval and an agent who knows how to handle appraisal repairs help your offer compete.

Common questions

How much do I need down for an FHA loan?

3.5% with a credit score of 580 or higher. FHA loans include mortgage insurance, which typically lasts the life of the loan if you put less than 10% down.

Do VA loans really require no down payment?

Yes, for eligible borrowers within their entitlement. VA loans also have no monthly mortgage insurance, though most borrowers pay a one-time funding fee unless they're exempt, for example because of a service-connected disability.

Can I buy a 2-flat with an FHA or VA loan?

Yes. Both allow 1 to 4 unit properties if you live in one unit. FHA 3 and 4 unit purchases must also pass the self-sufficiency test.

Will sellers accept an FHA or VA offer?

Many do. A strong pre-approval, a realistic price, and clear terms go a long way. I explain the process to listing agents up front so sellers feel confident.

What if the appraisal requires repairs?

The seller may make them, you may negotiate a solution, or in some cases the lender may allow repairs to be escrowed. Your contract and loan program determine the options.

This page is general information, not legal, tax, or lending advice. Consult a real estate attorney, CPA, or lender about your situation.

Other buyer guides

First-time buyers

Learn more

Condo buyers

Learn more

Relocating to Chicago

Learn more

New construction

Learn more

Foreclosures and as-is

Learn more

House hacking

Learn more

All buyer services

Overview

Buying with FHA or VA?

Call or text Daniel directly, or send a message. Most inquiries get a same-day response.

708-625-8788
Infiniti Properties, 2401 183rd St, Homewood, IL 60430
Brokerage 708-206-3000  |  IL License #475211812

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What Our Clients Say About Us

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Daniel Ellington: Chicago’s Best Real Estate Broker
4.8 (19)
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Adam Bevan
Adam Bevan
11 months ago

Dan was an excellent representative for us and I wouldn't hesitate to work with him again

Lorenzo Douglas
Lorenzo Douglas
8 months ago

Daniel has been amazing for me as an out of state investors. Very response, pretty decent comps. He's gone above and beyond for me.

Jared Rowntree
Jared Rowntree
7 months ago

Daniel was absolutely phenomenal during our house hunt and closing. Any time an issue came up, Daniel took it in stride and helped everybody involved to have a smooth process. He is wildly friendly and knowledgeable, and was invaluable to us as First Time Homebuyers; he kept us informed and up to date the second anything changed. I wouldn’t hesitate to hire Daniel again for my next house, and the next ones after that.

Michael Van Kley
Michael Van Kley
4 months ago

Daniel was great. I would use him again.

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