Can You Use an FHA or VA Loan to Buy a Home in Puerto Rico?
Yes. Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, so FHA, VA and conventional mortgages work here the same way they do in Florida or New York.
But FHA and VA loans come with one rule most buyers miss. That rule decides which loan fits your plan.
The short answer
Your U.S. credit history counts. Your W-2 counts. The same federal programs apply.
Most people assume buying in Puerto Rico works like buying abroad. It doesn't. It works like buying in another state — with a few local differences in how the closing happens.
The rule that changes everything: you have to live there
FHA and VA loans are for primary residences only. If you're buying the home you'll move into, both are on the table.
If you're buying a place for Christmas visits, a future retirement, or to rent out, they're not. That's not a Puerto Rico rule. It's the same rule in all 50 states.
VA borrowers certify that they intend to live in the home, generally within 60 days of closing. Some exceptions exist — for example, veterans retiring within the next 12 months. A VA lender can tell you if yours qualifies.
Which loan fits your plan?
Your plan | Ask your lender about |
Moving to Puerto Rico full-time | FHA, VA (if eligible), or conventional |
Retiring here within a year | VA may work — ask about retirement exceptions |
A family home you'll visit | Conventional second-home loan |
A rental property | Conventional investment loan |
A 2–4 unit building where you'll live in one unit | FHA or VA may work |
Loan limits depend on the municipio
FHA limits in Puerto Rico change by municipio and reset every year. San Juan's limit is not Aguadilla's.
Don't trust a number from a blog — including this one. Check HUD's FHA Mortgage Limits tool for the exact municipio you're looking in.
What's actually different from buying in Florida
Not every U.S. lender closes loans in Puerto Rico. Ask before you apply, not after you're under contract.
The closing itself runs through a notario — in Puerto Rico, an attorney — instead of a title company. [We explain how that works here.] (link interno a la pieza #2)
Three questions to ask a lender before you apply
Do you close loans in Puerto Rico? Ask how many they closed last year. "We can" and "we do" are different answers.
Is this a primary residence or second-home loan for my plan? Your answer to "will I live there?" decides the program.
What's the limit in the municipio I'm looking at? Get the number before you fall in love with a house.
Get our list of lenders who close in Puerto Rico. [Form: name + email]
This article is for general information only and is not an offer of financing. Loan programs, limits and eligibility vary; speak with a licensed lender about your situation.
Coldwell Banker Puerto Rico | Lic. E-497
