Desolately Need Help; My income doesn’t count towards FHA loan

[David Lund]

Hello all,

My girlfriend and I are trying to get a $250,000 FHA loan for a duplex to house hack. We didn't think it would be any issues at all because combined we make enough for that loan amount. After going through the process for pre approval today with a Mortgage banker for home loans they said since my income is a national fellowship stipend it cannot be counted AND my secondary source of income that I've had for 4 months also CANNOT be counted. This made only my girlfriend's income be eligible leaving us pre approved for $200,000, which is very disappointing and discouraging since there are very little duplexes in our area especially ones we'd want to live in for $200,00. This was a dream of ours for so long and any help or insight would be appreciated.

We both have over 750 credit score and 0 debt.

Thank you!