Get Your Custom Rate
See how much you can save with a conventional loan.
Why Choose Conventional?
Low Down Payment
Qualified borrowers can access down payments as low as 3%, keeping more cash in your pocket for renovations.
No Forever PMI
Unlike FHA loans, you can eliminate Private Mortgage Insurance once you reach your equity goals.
2026 Loan Limits
Conforming limits up to $832,750 (Baseline) and up to $1,249,125 (High-Balance) in California.
Investment Flexibility
The premier choice for financing second homes, vacation properties, and multi-unit investments.
Eligibility Overview
Standard guidelines for approval. (But keep reading below for the good news!)
Credit Profile
Flexible credit score requirements are available, though a score of 740+ will typically unlock the market's lowest interest rates.
Down Payment
Qualified borrowers can put as little as 3% down for primary residences.
Debt-to-Income (DTI)
Generally capped at 50%. However, strong compensating factors like significant cash reserves can allow for exceptions.
2026 Loan Limits (1-Unit)
Baseline: $832,750 | High-Balance: Up to $1,249,125 | Jumbo: Over $1,249,125.
Employment History
Typically 2 years of steady employment history. Recent graduates may be able to use school transcripts to qualify immediately.
Private Mortgage Insurance
PMI is required below 20% down. Borrowers may request removal at 20% equity, and automatic cancellation typically occurs at 22% equity based on original value.
Guidelines Are Just the Starting Point
Don't disqualify yourself based on a checklist. Lending standards are fluid, and new incentives—like down payment assistance programs or underwriting exceptions—are introduced frequently.
At Pacific Blue Mortgage, we specialize in finding the "yes" where others see a "no." If you fall slightly outside these numbers—whether it's a unique credit situation or non-traditional income—we can often structure a file to fit the latest guidelines.
Stop Renting, Start Owning
Lock in a stable, fixed-rate conventional loan today.
Fast-Track Your Approval
