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Home loans for doctors and physicians

Quick answer

Doctors often use physician loans — private bank products that may allow low or no down payment without PMI and treat student debt more flexibly. They are not a government program, so terms vary by lender. Physicians can also use conventional or jumbo loans, and some state healthcare-worker programs apply.

By Purchase Mortgage Loan Editorial Team Checked against official sources per our editorial standardsLast updated

Which programs help doctors and physicians buy a home?

Physician (doctor) loans (private lender product)

Physician loans are private bank products, not a government program. Terms vary by lender, but they commonly allow low or no down payment without PMI and may count student loans differently or accept a signed employment contract. Compare offers from several lenders.

FHA loan

FHA loans are insured by HUD and allow 3.5% down with a 580+ credit score (10% down at 500–579). They're open to every profession and are often paired with state down payment assistance.

Official source: HUD Handbook 4000.1

Which states have programs for doctors and physicians?

StateProgramAssistance
FloridaFlorida Hometown Heroes Housing ProgramUp to 5% of the first mortgage amount (maximum $35,000, minimum $10,000), subject to funding
GeorgiaGeorgia Dream PEN (Protectors, Educators & Nurses)Lesser of 6% of the purchase price or $12,500

Tips for doctors and physicians applying for a mortgage

  • Residents and fellows can often qualify with a signed employment contract.
  • Compare physician loan rates against a conventional loan with PMI — PMI-free isn't always cheaper.
  • High-cost areas may push you into jumbo territory — check your county limit.

Next: check your state's down payment assistance, your county loan limits, and what you can afford on your salary.

Loan requirements

FHA requirementsVA requirementsConventional requirementsUSDA requirements

Frequently asked questions

Doctors often use physician loans — private bank products that may allow low or no down payment without PMI and treat student debt more flexibly. They are not a government program, so terms vary by lender. Physicians can also use conventional or jumbo loans, and some state healthcare-worker programs apply.

FHA loans are insured by HUD and allow 3.5% down with a 580+ credit score (10% down at 500–579). They're open to every profession and are often paired with state down payment assistance.

Yes — we've verified 2 state programs that include doctors and physicians, listed on this page with official links.

Sources

Data last updated October 23, 2026.

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Figures on this page are estimates for educational purposes only and are not a loan offer or commitment to lend. Rates, loan limits, fees and assistance programs change frequently and vary by lender, location and borrower profile. Confirm current terms with a licensed loan officer.