Get reliable financing with great terms tailored to your goals. Whether you're buying your first home, upgrading, or investing, conventional loans offer the versatility and value you need.
No obligation. No credit check to get started.
California is the largest mortgage market in the country by dollar volume. Most coastal and Bay Area counties are designated high-balance, with conforming limits of $1,209,750 — meaningfully above the national floor. Median home prices in San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, and Marin counties remain above $1.5M.
California high-balance conforming pricing is meaningfully better than full jumbo for loan amounts between $806,500 and $1,209,750. We always quote both side-by-side for borrowers in the high-cost counties.
A conventional loan is a mortgage that is not insured or guaranteed by the federal government. Instead, it is offered by private lenders such as banks, credit unions, and mortgage companies.
Conventional loans are the most popular mortgage type in America. Most are conforming loans — meeting Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac guidelines on loan limits, credit scores, and DTI — and offer the most competitive rates available to qualified borrowers.
Unlike FHA, VA, or USDA loans, conventional mortgages are backed entirely by private lenders. This often means fewer restrictions on property type, faster processing, and more flexibility for qualified borrowers.
Conventional loans can be used for primary residences, second/vacation homes, and investment properties — making them the most versatile mortgage type available.
The most popular mortgage type in America for good reason.
Borrowers with strong credit profiles can secure some of the lowest interest rates available, saving thousands over the life of the loan.
Put 20% or more down and avoid PMI entirely. Even with less down, PMI can be removed once you reach 20% equity — unlike FHA's lifetime MIP.
Finance your primary residence, a vacation home, or an investment property. Widest range of eligible property types of any mortgage program.
Key thresholds for approval.
Minimum 620 typically required. Higher scores unlock better rates. 740+ qualifies for the best pricing.
First-time buyers may qualify for 3% down. Standard conventional requires 5%. 20% eliminates PMI.
Total monthly debts including the new mortgage typically should not exceed 45% of gross monthly income.
The 2026 conforming limit is $806,500 for most areas, with higher limits in designated high-cost counties.
From application to closing — straightforward and stress-free.
Share your financial details and get a clear picture of what you can afford in just minutes.
Complete your full loan application with our guidance. We'll collect income, asset, and employment documentation.
Our team reviews your file, orders the appraisal, and verifies all documentation.
Sign your final documents and receive the keys to your new home.
Answers to the most common questions about conventional loans in California.
Lending Arena offers the full mortgage product set across California. See what else might fit your situation.
Lending Arena, NMLS #1603937. Licensed by the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act and/or the California Finance Lenders Law. Equal Housing Lender. This is not a commitment to lend. Programs, rates, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. All loans are subject to credit and property approval. Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information requests can be submitted to privacy@lendingarena.com.