Question 1

What is the conforming loan limit in Alameda County for 2026?

Accepted Answer

The 2026 conforming limit for Alameda County is $1,249,125. Loans above that amount are jumbo loans and carry different terms.

Question 2

Is Piedmont an FHA high-cost area?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Piedmont is an FHA high-cost area, which means the FHA loan limit matches the conforming limit at $1,249,125 for 2026.

Question 3

Is Piedmont a VA high-cost area?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Piedmont qualifies as a VA high-cost area, so the VA loan limit is also $1,249,125 in 2026.

Question 4

How much do I need to put down on a conventional loan?

Accepted Answer

Conventional loans typically require 3% to 5% down for first-time buyers. With 20% down or more, you avoid PMI entirely. Less than 20% down means PMI applies until you hit 78% LTV.

Question 5

What credit score do I need to qualify for a mortgage in Piedmont?

Accepted Answer

Most conventional lenders require a minimum FICO of 620. FHA loans accept 580+ FICO with 3.5% down. VA loans have no official FICO floor but typically expect 620+.

Question 6

Do I need to be a first-time buyer to use FHA in Piedmont?

Accepted Answer

No. FHA loans are available to any borrower who meets the credit and down-payment requirements, regardless of prior home ownership.

Question 7

How does the new transit-oriented housing law affect buying in Piedmont?

Accepted Answer

SB 79 requires cities to allow denser housing near transit starting July 1. This may increase development and rental options in Alameda County over time.

Question 8

Can I get a VA loan with zero down in Piedmont?

Accepted Answer

Yes. VA loans allow zero-down financing for eligible veterans, active duty, and surviving spouses with a Certificate of Eligibility.

Question 9

What is the VA funding fee and can it be waived?

Accepted Answer

The VA funding fee is 2.15% at zero down on a first-time use. It can be waived only if you have a VA disability rating of 10% or higher.

Question 10

How much does FHA mortgage insurance cost?

Accepted Answer

FHA upfront mortgage insurance is 1.75% of the loan amount. Annual MIP runs for the life of the loan if you put down less than 10%.

Question 11

What does Alameda County's median household income tell me about affordability?

Accepted Answer

Alameda County's median household income is $126,240. This benchmark helps lenders assess whether your income qualifies you for loans in the local market.

Question 12

Are there new restaurants or amenities opening in the Piedmont area?

Accepted Answer

Berkeley recently added five new dining options including ramen, dumplings, and Thai food. These reflect the region's active food scene and neighborhood appeal.

Question 13

What happens if my loan amount exceeds the conforming limit?

Accepted Answer

Loans above $1,249,125 are jumbo loans. Jumbo rates typically run 0.125% to 0.5% above conforming and usually require 20% down and 6-12 months reserves.

Question 14

Can I refinance an FHA loan to remove mortgage insurance?

Accepted Answer

FHA mortgage insurance cannot be removed through refinancing. If you want to drop MIP, you must refinance into a conventional loan once you have enough equity.

Question 15

How long does it take to close a mortgage in California?

Accepted Answer

Most mortgages close in 30 to 45 days. Jumbo loans and cash-out refinances may take longer depending on the lender and complexity.

Piedmont home loan questions answered