FHA Loan Limits for West Virginia Homebuyers
For first-time homebuyers in West Virginia, the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loan program can be an attractive option due to its low down payment requirement of just 3.5% of the purchase price. FHA loans are designed to help individuals and families achieve homeownership with a smaller upfront financial commitment. Understanding FHA loan limits in the state of West Virginia is important as each county can vary and can significantly impact your homebuying options.
The good news is that most of the counties in West Virginia have a similar cost of living, and therefore have a similar loan limit no matter where you decide to live in the state.
A helpful table is below to show West Virginia loan limits by county.
| County | FHA Limit Single | Conventional Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Barbour | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Berkeley | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Boone | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Braxton | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Brooke | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Cabell | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Calhoun | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Clay | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Doddridge | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Fayette | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Gilmer | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Grant | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Greenbrier | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Hampshire | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Hancock | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Hardy | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Harrison | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Jackson | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Jefferson | $1,149,825 | $1,149,825 |
| Kanawha | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Lewis | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Lincoln | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Logan | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| McDowell | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Marion | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Marshall | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Mason | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Mercer | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Mineral | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Mingo | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Monongalia | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Monroe | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Morgan | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Nicholas | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Ohio | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Pendleton | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Pleasants | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Pocahontas | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Preston | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Putnam | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Raleigh | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Randolph | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Ritchie | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Roane | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Summers | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Taylor | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Tucker | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Tyler | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Upshur | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Wayne | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Webster | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Wetzel | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Wirt | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Wood | $498,257 | $766,550 |
| Wyoming | $498,257 | $766,550 |
FHA Loan Limits Across the State of West Virginia
Most counties in West Virginia have the same FHA loan limits, which are typically lower compared to other states. However, there are notable exceptions. Jefferson County stands out with significantly higher FHA loan limits, making it a unique option for homebuyers looking to purchase more expensive properties with a lower down payment. In Jefferson County, first-time homebuyers can secure an FHA loan for properties priced just above $1 million, allowing a down payment of only 3.5%. This high loan limit provides more flexibility for those looking to buy a more expensive home as the cost of living is higher in Jefferson county.
Jefferson County: Located in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia, Jefferson County has become increasingly popular due to its proximity to Washington, D.C. The county offers a higher FHA loan limit, making it an attractive option for those looking to invest in higher-priced homes. Jefferson County is known for its excellent schools, including Jefferson High School, and its vibrant historical and cultural scene. The county features historic landmarks such as Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, where the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers converge. With its scenic beauty and growing job opportunities, Jefferson County provides a blend of rural charm and suburban convenience.
Kanawha County: As the most populous county in West Virginia, Kanawha County includes Charleston, the state capital. The FHA loan limits here are aligned with the general limits for most of the state. Kanawha County offers a range of housing options and is known for its educational institutions, such as the University of Charleston. The county is also home to various cultural attractions, including the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra and the State Capitol. Kanawha County provides a dynamic urban environment with ample job opportunities in government, education, and healthcare sectors.
Monongalia County: Home to Morgantown, the county seat and the location of West Virginia University, Monongalia County is a vibrant area with a diverse housing market. While FHA loan limits in Monongalia County are consistent with most of West Virginia, the area is known for its strong educational institutions and growing job market. West Virginia University contributes to the local economy, and the county offers a range of amenities, including parks, dining, and cultural events. Monongalia County is a great choice for those seeking a college-town atmosphere with access to educational and recreational opportunities.
Berkeley County: Located adjacent to Jefferson County, Berkeley County has FHA loan limits that are typical for the state. The county is known for its rapidly growing housing market and economic development. With the city of Martinsburg as its hub, Berkeley County offers a range of housing options and has seen significant growth in recent years. The county features good schools, such as Martinsburg High School, and is known for its historic downtown area. Berkeley County provides a mix of suburban and rural living with access to job opportunities and community amenities.
Wood County: Situated in the northwestern part of the state, Wood County includes the city of Parkersburg. The FHA loan limits here are aligned with most of West Virginia. Wood County is known for its historical sites and cultural attractions, including the Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park. The county offers a range of housing options and is home to good schools, such as Parkersburg High School. Wood County provides a blend of historical charm and modern conveniences, making it a desirable location for families and individuals.
Harrison County: Harrison County, with its county seat in Clarksburg, features FHA loan limits that are typical for the state. The county is known for its historical significance and cultural attractions, including the Veterans Memorial Park and the Clarksburg Historic District. Harrison County offers a range of housing options and is home to good schools, such as Robert C. Byrd High School. The county provides a mix of suburban and rural living with access to community amenities and historical landmarks.
Upshur County: Located in the central part of the state, Upshur County offers FHA loan limits consistent with most of West Virginia. The county is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, including the nearby Audra State Park. Upshur County features good schools, such as Buckhannon-Upshur High School, and provides a peaceful rural lifestyle with access to nature and community events.
Raleigh County: With Beckley as its county seat, Raleigh County offers FHA loan limits that align with the general limits for West Virginia. The county is known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, including the New River Gorge National Park. Raleigh County features good schools and a range of housing options, making it a popular choice for those seeking a blend of urban and rural living. The county also hosts various cultural events and festivals, contributing to its vibrant community atmosphere.
Logan County: Located in the southern part of the state, Logan County has FHA loan limits consistent with most of West Virginia. The county is known for its coal mining history and outdoor recreational opportunities, including the Hatfield-McCoy Trails. Logan County features good schools and a strong sense of community, offering a rural lifestyle with access to natural beauty and historical sites.
Monroe County: Monroe County, situated in the southeastern part of the state, offers FHA loan limits that align with the general limits for West Virginia. The county is known for its scenic landscapes and outdoor activities, including hiking and fishing. Monroe County features good schools and provides a peaceful rural lifestyle with access to nature and community events.
Greenbrier County: Home to the famous Greenbrier Resort, Greenbrier County features FHA loan limits consistent with most of West Virginia. The county is known for its historic landmarks and outdoor recreational opportunities, including the Greenbrier River and the Monongahela National Forest. Greenbrier County offers good schools, such as Greenbrier East High School, and provides a blend of rural charm and resort amenities.
Fayette County: Located in the southern part of the state, Fayette County offers FHA loan limits that are typical for West Virginia. The county is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the New River Gorge, a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Fayette County features good schools and a range of housing options, making it a desirable location for those seeking access to nature and recreational activities.
Pendleton County: Pendleton County, situated in the eastern part of the state, offers FHA loan limits consistent with most of West Virginia. The county is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking and fishing. Pendleton County features good schools and provides a peaceful rural lifestyle with access to nature and community events.
Clay County: Located in the central part of the state, Clay County offers FHA loan limits that align with the general limits for West Virginia. The county is known for its rural charm and outdoor recreational opportunities, including the nearby Elk River. Clay County features good schools and a strong sense of community, offering a tranquil lifestyle with access to natural beauty.
Braxton County: Braxton County, situated in the central part of the state, offers FHA loan limits consistent with most of West Virginia. The county is known for its scenic landscapes and outdoor activities, including hiking and fishing. Braxton County features good schools and provides a peaceful rural lifestyle with access to nature and community events.
Barbour County: Barbour County, located in the central part of the state, offers FHA loan limits that align with the general limits for West Virginia. The county is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, including the Tygart Lake State Park. Barbour County features good schools and provides a tranquil rural lifestyle with access to natural beauty and community events.
Taylor County: Taylor County, situated in the northern part of the state, offers FHA loan limits consistent with most of West Virginia. The county is known for its scenic landscapes and outdoor activities, including hiking and fishing. Taylor County features good schools and provides a peaceful rural lifestyle with access to nature and community events.
When considering purchasing a home in West Virginia with an FHA loan, it’s essential to explore the unique features of each county and how they align with your personal needs and preferences. Whether you’re drawn to the historical charm of Jefferson County, the urban convenience of Kanawha County, or the scenic beauty of Fayette County, West Virginia offers diverse options for first-time homebuyers.
Understanding FHA loan limits and the local housing market can help you make informed decisions and find a home that suits your lifestyle and budget. With a range of housing options and a variety of amenities, West Virginia provides a welcoming environment for new homeowners.
Make sure to check out the various loan limits by state to see what other states can offer for your upcoming home purchase.