What Is a Conventional Loan?

A conventional loan is a mortgage that is not backed by a government agency like FHA, VA, or USDA. These loans follow lending guidelines established by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

 

Conventional loans are commonly used for:

Primary residences
Second homes
Investment properties
New construction homes
Condos and townhomes

Low Down Payment Options
 

Many buyers are surprised to learn that conventional loans may allow down payments as low as 3% for eligible borrowers through programs like HomeReady® and Home Possible®.

This can help buyers purchase sooner while still benefiting from competitive conventional loan terms.

Conventional Loan Requirements
 

Requirements can vary depending on the lender and loan program, but conventional loans typically review:

Credit score
Employment history
Stable income
Debt-to-income ratio
Down payment amount
Cash reserves in some cases


Every borrower scenario is different, which is why reviewing your options with a mortgage professional is important.

Get Help Comparing Conventional Loan Options
 

Choosing the right mortgage is about more than just the rate. We help buyers understand:

Monthly payment options
Cash needed to close
Mortgage insurance differences
Credit impact
Approval strategies
Long-term affordability


Our goal is to help you make a confident and informed decision.

FAQ: Conventional Loans
 

To help you make informed decisions, we've compiled answers to some of the most commonly asked questions.

What credit score do you need for a conventional loan?
 

Credit requirements vary, but stronger credit scores may help borrowers qualify for better rates and lower mortgage insurance costs.

Can I buy a home with 3% down?
 

Do conventional loans require mortgage insurance?
 

Is a conventional loan better than FHA?
 

What are closing costs, and how much should I expect to pay?

Can conventional loans be used for investment properties?
 

GOOGLE REVIEWS

Amber Lee

Jose is wonderful to work with and someone who genuinely cares about the best interests for the buyer in all aspects. I have worked with him through multiple deals and his expertise has guided my buyers through all types of situations. He was able to provide guidance from beginning to close and made sure we understood every step along the journey. I highly recommend working with Jose.

Kei OhSo

José has been exceptional since the moment I met him. His passion for educating clients and providing clear, straightforward guidance truly stands out—something I value deeply. I highly recommend José for both lending and real estate services. He creates a comfortable and confident experience for anyone he works with.

Marinelia Rodriguez

(Translated by Google) Thank you so much, José, for your great support and for making the process of buying our house a success. (Original) Muchas gracias José por tu gran apoyo y por hacer que el proceso de comprar nuestra casa haya sido exitoso.
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