First Time Home Buyer: Conforming at a glance

The following was a general overview of the Conforming loan programs such as those offered by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac and a guide to figure out if this is the loan program for you.

Availability: Available in all areas.

Type of Homes they finance: Single Family Properties and Multi-Family Properties will qualify. Site Condos are viewed the same as Attached Condominium Properties and are acceptable if they are approved condominium projects. You can search approved projects here: ******. Manufactured properties, Modular, Stick-Built, or BOCA-code properties are acceptable in some circumstances but not likely to be accepted. Working Farms, unique properties, and dome-homes will not qualify.

Down Payment Required: 10% or greater in conjunction with Private Mortgage Insurance. 20% to meet conforming loan standards. In general, funds for down payment can be a gift from family.

Private Mortgage Insurance: Emphasis on the "Private" since it is obtained through a private asset insurance company such as MGIC, PMI, RMIC, or RADIAN. Generally 1% is billed monthly, though some discounts can apply. No PMI is required with 20% down.

Interest Rates: Vary greatly between lenders. Careful shopping will be required in obtaining the best interest rates. With a 20% down payment, rates are generally lower than FHA or RD financing.

Maximum Loan Amount: $417,000.

Income Limits: No income limits apply.

Credit Requirement: Varies from lender to lender. In general, a 720 FICO and 3 credit references at least 24 months old with no late payments is required, though a lower FICO is required with a down payment of 20% or greater. 36 months from Bankruptcy or Foreclosure with 3 credit references established after the discretion.

Reserves: Varies between lenders, but in general, 2 months or greater of mortgage payments are required. Can come from retirement savings, checking or savings account.

Repair Escrow: Acceptable with certain programs, but good luck finding a lender that accepts them.

General Overview: For borrowers with great credit history and available down payment sources. Interest Rates will blow away government financing if you have the means to qualify.