As you all know, Coronavirus has ravaged through many industries in our economy. Unfortunately mine was no exception, and have been laid off since March with no end in sight. I live in Southern California, and was working to get pre approved in my area with the standard requirements for a typical FHA loan. You know, the 2 year job history, tried to bump up my income since houses in LA are mad expensive and tried to tuck away as much money as I could in order to cover downpayment and closing costs. I do not have enough to cover a 20 percent downpayment for a median listed house here in Los Angeles, but let's say I made the move to a more affordable market? I know the lending requirements are more than likely the same, but will a 20% downpayment help me get pre approved in the Houston market? Obviously, I would need to find another job in a different industry, and need to make a decent amount, my gf lives with me and has been working as a dental assistant for the past 2 years. I am hoping that with her job history and with both our wages combined (assuming I land another job) , we can get pre approved. Our rental lease is up this December, and are honestly considering making this drastic change. Any advice is greatly appreciated. I honestly thought that by the end of this year I would be able to provide a home for my two kids and my gf. I know the US economy looks grim for the moment, but I'm hoping that I can still turn things around and make something happen in the near future. Thanks for reading through my post!