What is HUD?
HUD is the federal agency for housing and urban development. It doesn't usually lend money to buyers directly, but its programs back the loans, counseling and housing help many Mississippi buyers use.
FHA loans
The Federal Housing Administration is part of HUD. FHA insures loans made by approved lenders, which lets them accept lower down payments and credit scores than many conventional loans. FHA loans carry mortgage insurance, and the home must meet FHA property standards.
Free HUD-approved housing counseling
HUD approves housing counseling agencies that help with budgeting, credit, down payment programs and the buying process, often for free. Find one near you through HUD's website or by calling HUD's counseling line. A counselor's certificate can also satisfy homebuyer education requirements for some programs.
HUD homes for sale
When an FHA-insured home is foreclosed, HUD may sell it, listed on HUDHomeStore.gov. Owner-occupant buyers often get the first chance to bid. You'll need a HUD-registered agent to submit the bid; ask Travis about any HUD home you find in the Pine Belt.
Good Neighbor Next Door
HUD's Good Neighbor Next Door program offers a discount on certain HUD homes in designated revitalization areas to law enforcement officers, teachers, firefighters and EMTs who agree to live in the home for a set period. Available homes are limited and change often.
How Travis helps buyers get ready
Travis DeLoach is a licensed Mississippi real estate agent with Luxury Southern Realty in Hattiesburg. He isn't a lender or credit counselor, but he works with local lenders who handle FHA, VA, USDA and Mississippi Home Corporation loans every week, and he'll connect you with one who fits your situation.
- A free first conversation about your goal, timeline and budget
- Introductions to Pine Belt lenders who know first-time buyer and down payment programs
- A home search kept inside the budget your lender approves
- Help asking sellers for closing cost help when the market allows it
Before you rely on any number
Program rules, income limits and credit minimums change. Confirm current details with a lender, the Mississippi Home Corporation (mshomecorp.com) or HUD (hud.gov) before you rely on them.
Frequently asked questions
Does HUD give money to buy a house?+
HUD generally doesn't give money directly to buyers. It insures FHA loans, funds counseling and supports state and local programs, which can include down payment help.
Is an FHA loan the same as a HUD loan?+
People often use the terms together. FHA is part of HUD, and FHA insures the loan your lender makes.
How do I buy a HUD home in Hattiesburg?+
Search HUDHomeStore.gov, then work with a HUD-registered agent to submit a bid during the bidding period. Get pre-approved first so your bid is ready.
Is HUD housing counseling really free?+
Many HUD-approved agencies offer free or low-cost counseling. Ask about any fees up front.
Who qualifies for Good Neighbor Next Door?+
Full-time law enforcement officers, pre-K through 12th grade teachers, firefighters and EMTs who meet the program's rules and agree to live in the home for the required time.
Talk it through with Travis
No pressure. Tell Travis your goal and he'll connect you with a local lender who fits your situation.
Related guides
This guide is general information, not lending, credit or tax advice. Travis is not a lender; loan approval and program eligibility are decided by lenders and program administrators. Travis DeLoach is a licensed real estate agent in Mississippi (MS License # S62442) with Luxury Southern Realty.