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Home loans for nurses

Quick answer

Nurses qualify for every standard mortgage, and some states add nurse-specific help. Georgia Dream PEN and South Carolina's Palmetto Heroes include nurses, and Florida's Hometown Heroes covers healthcare workers. Overtime and shift differentials usually count as income once you have a two-year history.

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

Which programs help nurses buy a home?

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 nurses?

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
South CarolinaSC Housing Palmetto Heroes (2026)$10,000 forgivable, subject to available funding

Tips for nurses applying for a mortgage

  • Overtime, shift differential and on-call pay generally need a 2-year history to count.
  • Travel nurses should keep contracts and tax returns showing continuous work.
  • Combine an FHA or conventional loan with any state program you qualify for.

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

Nurses qualify for every standard mortgage, and some states add nurse-specific help. Georgia Dream PEN and South Carolina's Palmetto Heroes include nurses, and Florida's Hometown Heroes covers healthcare workers. Overtime and shift differentials usually count as income once you have a two-year history.

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 3 state programs that include nurses, 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.