Conventional Home Loans in Southern California
Flexible financing with as little as 3% down, mortgage insurance you can drop, and terms built around your goals.
- 30+ years of experience
- Same-day approvals available
- Purchase and refinance
What Is a Conventional Loan?
A conventional loan is a mortgage that isn’t backed by a government agency like the FHA or VA. It’s the most popular way to buy or refinance a home.
If you have steady income and fair to good credit, it often gives you the lowest overall cost and the most flexibility.
Why Choose a Conventional Loan?
More ways to save, more places to buy, and fewer strings attached.
Low Down Payment
Qualified buyers can put down as little as 3%, and gift funds can help.
PMI That Goes Away
Skip it with 20% down, or remove it once you reach 20% equity.
No Upfront MI Premium
No upfront mortgage insurance premium or funding fee at closing.
Almost Any Residential Property
Primary homes, vacation homes, condos, and 1 to 4 unit rentals.
Fixed or Adjustable
Lock a rate for 10 to 30 years, or start lower with an ARM.
Higher Loan Amounts
High-balance limits in Southern California, with jumbo options above that.
Do You Qualify?
Most borrowers with steady income and fair credit do. Here’s what lenders look for:
- Credit score of 620 or higher
- Down payment of 3% or more
- Two years of steady, documented income
- Debt-to-income ratio of about 45% or less
- An appraisal that supports the home’s value
Find Out What You Qualify For
Get a free pre-approval, often the same day. No obligation.
Prefer email? Send us a messageConventional Loan Questions
How much do I need to put down?
As little as 3% for eligible first-time buyers, 5% for most others. Put 20% down to avoid mortgage insurance. Second homes and investment properties need more.
What credit score do I need?
The minimum is usually 620. Higher scores get better rates and lower mortgage insurance costs.
When can I stop paying PMI?
You can ask to remove it once your loan balance reaches 80% of your home’s original value. It ends automatically at 78%.
How large a loan can I get?
Conventional loan limits are set each year by county, and they’re higher in much of Southern California. See our county loan limits. Above those limits, we offer jumbo loans.
Can I refinance with a conventional loan?
Yes. You can lower your rate, change your term, or take cash out of your home’s equity.
How long does it take to close?
We close Conventional loans in as little as 15 days.
Run the Numbers First
See your payment, your price range, and whether paying points makes sense.
Get Pre-Approved in 3 Simple Steps
Tell Us Your Goals
Apply online in minutes or give us a call.
We Compare Your Options
We review your finances and find the best loan for you.
Get Your Pre-Approval
Shop for homes and make offers with confidence.