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Compare your loan options, side by side.

Picking between two loans? I lay out how they actually differ in Texas, in plain English, so you can see which one fits before we talk.

By Case Laviolette, MLO · NMLS #2025459

FHA vs Conventional

The government-insured loan built for flexible credit, or the conventional loan you can drop mortgage insurance on later. The difference that usually decides it for a Texas buyer.
FHA vs Conventional →

VA vs Conventional

For Texas veterans and service members weighing the VA benefit against conventional financing. Entitlement, the funding fee versus PMI, and when each one fits. Subject to VA eligibility and entitlement.
VA vs Conventional →

Bank Statement vs DSCR

Two alternative-documentation loans. One reads your bank deposits, the other reads the property's rent. How to tell which path fits a self-employed buyer or an investor.
Bank Statement vs DSCR →

Cash-Out Refinance vs Home Equity

Tap your Texas equity by replacing your first mortgage or adding a second lien behind it. How Texas 50(a)(6) rules shape the choice, and when each one makes sense.
Cash-out vs Home Equity →

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Common comparison questions

What is the main difference between an FHA and a conventional loan in Texas?

FHA loans are government-insured and built for flexible credit and a lower down payment, but the mortgage insurance generally stays for the life of the loan. Conventional loans usually want stronger credit, and you can request to drop private mortgage insurance once you reach enough equity. Which one wins depends on your credit and how long you plan to keep the loan.

VA or conventional, which is better for a Texas veteran?

For a veteran with full entitlement, a VA loan needs no down payment and no monthly mortgage insurance, though it carries a one-time funding fee unless you are exempt. Conventional can still win when you have significant equity or want to avoid the funding fee. It comes down to your entitlement and your cash position. Subject to VA eligibility and entitlement.

Bank statement loan or DSCR loan, which one fits me?

A bank statement loan qualifies a self-employed borrower on deposits instead of tax returns, so it fits when your returns understate your income. A DSCR loan qualifies an investment property on its rent rather than your personal income, so it fits rental purchases. The right one depends on whether you are buying to live in or to rent out.

Cash-out refinance or home equity loan in Texas?

A cash-out refinance replaces your first mortgage with a larger one and gives you the difference, while a home equity loan adds a second lien behind your existing mortgage. Texas Section 50(a)(6) rules shape both. A cash-out can make sense when current first-mortgage terms still work for you, and a second lien can make sense when you want to keep a low first-mortgage balance untouched.