3-5% Down Conventional

Navigating the world of mortgages can be daunting, especially when it comes to understanding specialized terms like 'Conventional Mortgage.' This detailed guide aims to break down what a conventional mortgage is, and its various requirements, including down payment, private mortgage insurance (PMI), credit score, debt-to-income ratio, and loan size. Plus, we'll answer frequently asked questions like eligibility for down payment assistance, loan limits, and more.

What is a Conventional Mortgage?

A conventional mortgage is a home loan not guaranteed or insured by any government agency, including the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), or the USDA Rural Housing Service. Conventional loans are often referred to as conforming loans because they align with the guidelines set by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. These government-sponsored enterprises play a crucial role in the mortgage landscape by purchasing loans from lenders and selling them to investors. This cycle enables lenders to free up their capital, facilitating a steady flow of funds to help more qualified buyers achieve their homeownership dreams. These loans usually come with more stringent qualification requirements.

Conventional Requirements: 

Down Payment: The minimum down payment for a conventional mortgage typically ranges between 5% and 20% of the home's purchase price. However, there is a 3% down conventional loan with particular income and location requirements.  A down payment of less than 20% often requires PMI.

Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI): If your down payment is less than 20%, you will likely be required to carry PMI, which protects the lender if you default on the loan.

Credit Score

Credit score plays a significant role in qualifying for a conventional mortgage. The minimum credit score requirement is generally around 620; however, you'll need a much higher score to get the best interest rates.

Debt to Income Ratio

Lenders use the debt-to-income ratio (DTI) to assess your ability to repay the loan. The acceptable DTI ratio varies by lender but shouldn't exceed 43%.

Loan Size

The loan size, often called the loan limit for a conventional mortgage, can vary depending on the lender and your qualifications. However, conventional loans conform to the limits set by the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), which is $726,200 for 2022 in most areas.

Can Conventional Loans be Used with Down Payment Assistance?

Yes, conventional loans can often be used with down payment assistance programs. These programs, usually offered by state or local governments, can help you cover the initial down payment and sometimes even closing costs.

How Many Conventional Loans Can I Have?

Conventional mortgages make it possible to have up to 10 loans under your name, provided you meet the financial criteria for each. This opens the door for those interested in investing in real estate, allowing for portfolio expansion. If you wish to venture beyond conventional financing, alternative financing methods are available to accommodate your investment goals.

Past Financial Difficulties: Foreclosure, Short Sale, Bankruptcy

If you've had a foreclosure, short sale, or bankruptcy in the past, it doesn't necessarily disqualify you from getting a conventional mortgage. However, you'll typically have to wait a specified period, often seven years for a foreclosure and four years for bankruptcy, before you can qualify again.

A conventional mortgage offers many advantages for the right borrower but also has stringent requirements concerning down payment, PMI, credit score, DTI, and loan size. Understanding these can be your first step toward securing a home loan that fits your financial landscape.