Mortgage Loan Programs in Metro Detroit
Anthony Messina
John Adams Mortgage
FHA
It's easy to see why many homebuyers — especially first-time buyers in Metro Detroit and Macomb County — choose FHA loans. Because FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration, they offer more flexible qualification guidelines than many other loan options available to Michigan homebuyers.
FHA loans are especially helpful for buyers who may have less-than-perfect credit, limited savings for a down payment, or are newer to the home-buying process. With lower minimum down payment requirements and more forgiving credit standards, FHA loans can make homeownership possible sooner than many people expect — and pair particularly well with Michigan's MSHDA down payment assistance program for qualifying buyers.
If you're a first-time buyer in Metro Detroit just getting started, or you want a more flexible path to buying a home in Southeast Michigan, an FHA loan may be a great place to begin. Get pre-approved today →
Conventional
Conventional loans are one of the most popular mortgage options for Metro Detroit and Oakland County homebuyers — and for good reason. These loans aren't backed by the government (like FHA, VA, or USDA loans), but instead follow guidelines set by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac.
Because of that, Conventional loans often come with lower interest rates, better terms, and fewer fees compared to other loan types. They're a great fit for buyers across Macomb County, Oakland County, and Southeast Michigan who have strong credit, steady income, and manageable monthly debts.
Most Conventional loans require a down payment of at least 5%, and borrowers typically need good to excellent credit to qualify. Programs like HomeReady and Home Possible offer low down payment options for qualifying Michigan buyers. If you're financially prepared and looking for a flexible, cost-effective mortgage option in Metro Detroit, a Conventional loan may be an excellent choice. Get pre-approved today →
MSHDA — Michigan Down Payment Assistance
For many Metro Detroit homebuyers, the biggest obstacle to homeownership isn't qualifying for a mortgage — it's the down payment. That's exactly what Michigan's MSHDA program is designed to solve.
As one of Michigan's top MSHDA lenders, I help first-time homebuyers across Macomb County, Oakland County, Wayne County, and all of Southeast Michigan use the MI Home Loan program every week. MSHDA provides up to $10,000 in down payment assistance structured as a second mortgage with zero monthly payments — you only repay it when you sell, refinance, or pay off your home.
To qualify, most buyers need a minimum 640 credit score, meet income limits for their county, and be purchasing a primary residence. First-time homebuyer status is required in most cases, though exceptions exist for targeted zip codes and qualifying veterans.
If you are buying your first home in Metro Detroit and you haven't spoken with a licensed MSHDA lender yet, that conversation needs to happen before anything else. Learn everything about MSHDA loans in Michigan →
VA
VA loans are a powerful home-financing option available to eligible U.S. service members, veterans, and surviving spouses — and I am proud to serve Michigan veterans and active-duty military members purchasing homes across Metro Detroit, Macomb County, and Oakland County.
Backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, VA loans are designed to make homeownership more affordable for those who have served our country. One of the biggest advantages is the ability to buy a home in Michigan with no down payment, along with competitive interest rates and no monthly mortgage insurance. VA loans also offer flexible qualification guidelines, making them one of the most valuable mortgage programs available to Michigan buyers.
If you've served, a VA loan can be one of the best benefits you've earned — and one of the strongest paths to homeownership in Metro Detroit.
Get pre-approved today →
Frequently Asked Questions — Mortgage Loan Programs
What loan program is best for first-time buyers in Michigan?
For many first-time homebuyers in Metro Detroit, MSHDA combined with an FHA loan offers the lowest barrier to entry — up to $10,000 in down payment assistance with no monthly payment on the assistance itself. The right program depends on your credit score, income, and purchase price. Contact Anthony Messina at John Adams Mortgage (NMLS #2699956) to find out exactly which program fits your situation.
Does Anthony Messina offer MSHDA loans?
Yes. Anthony Messina at John Adams Mortgage Company (NMLS #2699956) is one of Michigan's top-producing MSHDA lenders, helping buyers across Macomb County, Oakland County, Wayne County, and Metro Detroit use the program every week. Learn more about MSHDA loans in Michigan →
What is the minimum down payment to buy a home in Metro Detroit?
It depends on the loan program. FHA loans require as little as 3.5% down. Conventional loans start as low as 3%. VA loans require zero down payment for eligible veterans. With MSHDA down payment assistance, qualifying buyers can receive up to $10,000 toward their down payment and closing costs — potentially covering a large portion of the requirement. Contact Anthony Messina to find out exactly what you need based on your specific situation.
Can I qualify for a mortgage with a 640 credit score in Michigan?
Yes. FHA loans allow credit scores as low as 580 (or 500 with compensating factors such as a larger downpayment). The MSHDA program allows credit scores as low as 640. Anthony Messina at John Adams Mortgage will review your full credit profile and tell you exactly where you stand and what your options are — with no pressure and no obligation.
What mortgage programs does John Adams Mortgage offer in Metro Detroit?
John Adams Mortgage Company offers a full suite of loan programs to Metro Detroit homebuyers including FHA, VA, Conventional, USDA, Jumbo, and Non-QM loans. Anthony Messina will match you with the right program based on your credit score, income, down payment, and homeownership goals.
What is the difference between FHA and Conventional loans?
FHA loans are backed by the Federal Housing Administration and offer more flexible credit and down payment requirements — making them ideal for first-time buyers or those with less-than-perfect credit. Conventional loans follow Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac guidelines, typically offer lower long-term costs for buyers with strong credit, and do not require upfront mortgage insurance. Anthony Messina will walk you through both options and show you the real numbers side by side.
Can I use a VA loan to buy a home in Michigan?
Yes. VA loans are available to eligible U.S. veterans, active-duty service members, and surviving spouses purchasing a primary residence anywhere in Michigan, including Metro Detroit, Macomb County, and Oakland County. VA loans offer zero down payment, no monthly mortgage insurance, and competitive interest rates. Contact Anthony Messina at John Adams Mortgage to verify your eligibility and get pre-approved.
What areas of Michigan qualify for a USDA loan?
USDA loans are available in eligible rural and suburban areas of Michigan outside of major metropolitan centers. Many communities surrounding Metro Detroit qualify. Contact Anthony Messina at John Adams Mortgage (NMLS #2699956) at (586) 899-7281 to check whether your target area and income level qualify for a USDA loan.
How do I know which loan program is right for me?
The best loan program depends on your credit score, income, savings, military status, and the location and price of the home you want to buy. Anthony Messina at John Adams Mortgage will review all of these factors with you, explain your options clearly, and recommend the program that gives you the strongest position as a buyer in the Metro Detroit market.
How do I get pre-approved for a mortgage in Metro Detroit?
Contact Anthony Messina directly at (586) 899-7281, email amessina@johnadamsmortgage.com, or visit anthonymessinamortgage.com to start your pre-approval online. Anthony will review your situation quickly and give you honest, accurate answers about what you qualify for and which programs are available to you.
USDA
USDA loans are a great option for buyers looking to purchase a home in eligible rural or suburban areas of Michigan. These loans are insured by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and are designed to make homeownership more accessible outside of major metropolitan areas — and many communities throughout Southeast Michigan and surrounding counties qualify.
One of the biggest benefits of a USDA loan is the ability to buy a home with little to no down payment, making it especially appealing for qualified Michigan buyers with steady income who may not have significant savings. If the property location qualifies and you meet the income guidelines, a USDA loan can offer affordable payments and flexible terms.
If you're buying in an eligible area of Michigan outside a large city, a USDA loan could be a powerful path to homeownership. Contact Anthony Messina at John Adams Mortgage (NMLS #2699956) to find out if your target area qualifies. Get pre-approved today →