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FHA Loan Insurance Guide

Complete insurance guide for FHA home loans in South Carolina and Georgia. FHA loans are popular with first-time buyers for their low down payment (3.5%) and flexible credit requirements. Total Quality Insurance helps FHA borrowers meet lender insurance requirements while comparing 30+ carriers for the best rates.

FHA Loan Insurance Requirements

FHA loans have two types of insurance requirements: homeowners insurance (protects you) and mortgage insurance premium (protects the lender). Here's what you need:

Homeowners Insurance (Required)

  • Dwelling coverage = loan amount or replacement cost
  • Lender listed as mortgagee
  • Effective before closing date
  • Flood insurance if in FEMA flood zone
  • Wind/hail coverage (coastal SC)

Avg cost: $100-$200/month in SC/GA

FHA Mortgage Insurance (MIP)

  • Upfront MIP: 1.75% of loan amount (financed)
  • Annual MIP: 0.45%-1.05% of loan balance
  • Required for loan term (if <10% down)
  • Drops after 11 years (if 10%+ down)
  • Cannot be removed early (refinance to conventional)

Avg cost: $100-$300/month

FHA Loan Insurance — Step by Step

1

Get FHA Pre-Approval

Work with an FHA-approved lender. Minimum credit score: 580 for 3.5% down, 500 for 10% down.

2

Find Your Home

FHA requires the home to meet minimum property standards (safety, security, soundness) via an FHA appraisal.

3

Get Insurance Quotes From Us

Call 706-434-8184. We compare 30+ carriers to find coverage that meets FHA requirements at the best rate.

4

We Handle Lender Coordination

We send declarations directly to your lender with correct mortgagee clause and coverage amounts.

5

Close on Your First Home

With insurance in place, you're ready to close. Congratulations on your new home!

FHA Loan Insurance FAQ

First-Time Buyer? We Make It Easy

Compare FHA-compliant insurance from 30+ carriers. Free, no-obligation quote.