A Loan You Can Feel Good About
I have been in this business long enough to know that when you are buying a home, you do not just want a loan. You want to feel confident that you made the right choice. That you got a fair deal. That someone actually looked out for you.
That is what I think about every time I help someone get into a conventional loan. A conventional mortgage is the most widely used home loan in the country for a reason. When it is the right fit, it offers some of the lowest rates available, flexible terms, and no government red tape.
The key is making sure it actually is the right fit for you. That is where I come in. I will look at your full picture, compare your options honestly, and tell you straight whether a conventional loan makes sense — or whether something else would serve you better.
Because my job is not to close a deal. My job is to change your financial life.
What Exactly Is a Conventional Loan?
A conventional loan is a mortgage that is not backed or insured by a government agency like the FHA, VA, or USDA. Instead, it follows guidelines set by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac — the two government-sponsored enterprises that purchase most conventional mortgages from lenders.
Because these loans meet standardized guidelines, lenders can sell them on the secondary market, which keeps money flowing and rates competitive. That is why conventional loans often offer better pricing than government-backed options for qualified borrowers.
Conforming Conventional Loans
These loans fall within the loan limits set by the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), which change annually. In high-cost areas like Los Angeles County, the 2026 conforming limit is $1,249,125 for a single-family home. Conforming loans offer the most competitive rates because lenders know they can easily sell them to Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac.
Non-Conforming (Jumbo) Loans
When a loan exceeds the conforming limit, it becomes a jumbo loan. Still conventional in structure, but held by the lender rather than sold — which means slightly stricter qualification requirements. If you are purchasing a higher-value property in Southern California, I can find jumbo options that still offer excellent terms.
Conforming Loan Limits — Southern California
Here is a quick reference for the counties I serve most. These limits are updated annually by the FHFA.
| County | Single-Family | 2-Unit | 3-Unit | 4-Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles County | $1,249,125 | $1,599,375 | $1,933,200 | $2,402,625 |
| Orange County | $1,249,125 | $1,599,375 | $1,933,200 | $2,402,625 |
| San Diego County | $1,104,000 | $1,413,350 | $1,708,400 | $2,123,100 |
| Riverside County | $832,750 | $1,066,250 | $1,288,800 | $1,601,750 |
| San Bernardino County | $832,750 | $1,066,250 | $1,288,800 | $1,601,750 |
| Ventura County | $1,035,000 | $1,325,000 | $1,601,600 | $1,990,450 |
Loan limits are updated annually by the FHFA. Contact Rudy for the most current figures before making an offer.
Is a Conventional Loan Right for You?
A conventional loan is the strongest option for buyers who meet the core qualifications. Here is an honest look at who benefits most — and when something else might be a better fit.
✅ Strong Candidate If...
⚠️ May Not Be the Best Fit If...
Not sure which loan is right for you? That is exactly what the free consultation is for. Rudy reviews your full situation and gives you a straight answer.
Down Payment Options — From 3% to 20%
One of the biggest myths out there is that you need 20% down to get a conventional loan. That has not been true for years.
HomeReady & Home Possible
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac programs for qualified buyers. 620+ credit, income limits apply, homebuyer education required.
Standard Conventional
The most common entry point. Full range of conventional products, no income restrictions, PMI required until 80% LTV.
Lower PMI & Stronger Offers
Often lower PMI costs and more competitive offers in multiple-bid situations. Smart choice in the South Bay market.
Eliminate PMI Entirely
No Private Mortgage Insurance. Typically saves $100–$300 per month and qualifies you for the most competitive rates.
Down payment assistance programs exist even for conventional loans. Ask Rudy what is available in your area — the answer often surprises people.
Understanding Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)
If you put less than 20% down on a conventional loan, you will pay PMI. PMI typically costs between 0.5% and 1.5% of your loan amount per year, added to your monthly payment.
The good news: unlike FHA mortgage insurance, conventional PMI automatically cancels when your loan balance reaches 80% of the original appraised value. You can also request cancellation when you hit 80% LTV — you do not have to wait for the automatic trigger.
Ways to Reduce or Eliminate PMI
How the Process Works with Rudy
From first call to closing day — here is exactly what happens and when.