Conventional Loan: Everything You Need to Know

A conventional loan is a popular mortgage option that offers flexibility and accessibility to a wide range of borrowers. Unlike government-backed loans, conventional loans are not insured or guaranteed by the government.

Whether you’re a first-time home buyer or considering refinancing, understanding the ins and outs of conventional loans can be helpful. It helps you make informed decisions about your home ownership journey.

What is a Conventional Loan?

A conventional loan is a mortgage loan that is not insured or guaranteed by a government agency. It is offered and backed by private lenders and is subject to their guidelines, including conventional loan down payment requirements, credit score criteria, and interest rates.

Conventional Loan Requirements

Conventional loan requirements typically include the following:

• Credit Score: A higher credit score often leads to more favorable terms. Lenders generally prefer a credit score of 620 or higher, although some may accept scores as low as 580. However,
• Income and Employment: Borrowers need to demonstrate a stable income source and employment history. Lenders assess the borrower’s ability to repay the loan by examining pay stubs and tax returns.
• Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI): The DTI ratio compares the borrower’s monthly debt payments to their gross monthly income. Typically, lenders prefer a DTI ratio of 43% or lower, although some may accept higher ratios with compensating factors.
• Down Payment: Conventional loans generally require a down payment of at least 3% to 20% of the home’s purchase price. The specific down payment amount depends on various factors, including the borrower’s creditworthiness, loan program, and lender requirements.
• Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI): You need PMI if the down payment is less than 20% of the home’s purchase price. It protects the lender in case the borrower defaults on the loan.
• Property Appraisal: Lenders require a professional appraisal to determine the market value of the property. The appraisal helps ensure that the loan amount does not exceed the property’s worth.

It’s important to note that specific requirements may vary among lenders, and additional criteria may apply depending on the borrower’s circumstances and the loan program chosen.

Conventional Mortgage Vs Other Loans

A conventional mortgage differs from other loan types, such as government-backed loans (FHA, VA, USDA), in several ways:

Conventional Loans Vs. VA Loans

Conventional loans and VA loans are two distinct types of mortgages that differ in terms of eligibility, down payment requirements, mortgage insurance, and credit criteria.

• Eligibility: Conventional loan is available to a wide range of borrowers, whereas VA Loan is exclusively available to eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and surviving spouses.
• Down Payment: Conventional loans required a down payment of at least 3% to 20% of the home’s purchase price. VA Loans offer the benefit of no down payment requirement for eligible borrowers.
• Loan Limits: Conventional Loans adhere to conforming loan limits set by loan agencies, which vary by location. There is no strict loan limit in VA loans but have a guaranteed limit that determines the maximum amount the VA can guarantee.
• Credit Requirements: Conventional loans have stricter credit score requirements, typically around 620 or higher. Contrary, VA loans offer more flexible credit requirements, with no strict minimum credit score set by the VA.

Conventional Loans Vs. FHA Loans

It’s important for borrowers to assess their eligibility, down payment capabilities, credit history, and specific loan need to determine which loan is the better option for their circumstances.

• Eligibility: Conventional loan is available to a wide range of borrowers, whereas FHA loans are open to eligible borrowers, including civilians and first-time homebuyers.
• Down Payment: Conventional loans require a down payment of at least 3% to 20% of the home’s purchase price, depending on the lender and borrower’s qualifications. FHA offers more lenient down payment requirements, with a minimum down payment of 3.5% of the home’s purchase price.
• Loan Limits: Conventional Loans adhere to conforming loan limits set by loan agencies, which vary by location. FHA loans have specific loan limits set by the Federal Housing Administration, which vary by county.
• Credit Requirements: Conventional loans have stricter credit score requirements, typically around 620 or higher. FHA loans offer more lenient credit requirements, allowing borrowers with lower credit scores to qualify (typically around 580 or higher).

Conventional Loans Vs. USDA Loans

• Eligibility: Lenders make conventional loans available to a wide range of borrowers, while USDA loans are designed specifically for low-to-moderate-income borrowers in rural and suburban areas.
• Down Payment: Conventional loans require a down payment of at least 3% to 20% of the home’s purchase price, depending on the lender and borrower’s qualifications. Eligible borrowers receive 100% financing from USDA, which means no down payment is required.
• Loan Purpose: Borrowers can use conventional loans for various property types, including primary residences, second homes, and investment properties. USDA loans, on the other hand, are intended exclusively for primary residences.
• Credit Requirements: Conventional Loans adhere to conforming loan limits set by loan agencies, which vary by location. USDA Loans have more flexible credit requirements, allowing borrowers with lower credit scores to qualify.

What are Rates For a Conventional Mortgage?

The rates for a conventional mortgage can vary depending on various factors, including market conditions, the borrower’s creditworthiness, loan term, loan amount, down payment, and lender-specific factors.

The Bottom Line

Lenders do not insure or guarantee a conventional loan, distinguishing it as a type of mortgage not backed by the government. It typically requires a higher credit score and a larger down payment compared to government-backed loans. Conventional loans offer flexibility and options for borrowers, but they also come with stricter requirements and potential costs such as private mortgage insurance.

It’s important for borrowers to evaluate their financial situation and compare different loan options to determine which type of mortgage best suits their needs. Consulting with lenders and mortgage professionals can provide valuable guidance in making informed decisions about conventional loans.

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