USDA, FHA, VA Government loans, such as FHA loans and VA loans, are very similar to conventional loans in that they buy the land and the home together. Government loans usually require a much smaller down payment than commercial loans, and with the VA loan, the down payment may even be $0. The downside of a government loan is there are more requirements and restrictions than commercial loans, plus the interest rate will often be a little higher than a conventional loan. If you put down less than 20% on the home, you will also likely have to pay for private mortgage insurance (PMI). Finally, be prepared for the approval process to take a few extra weeks with a government loan.