Question 1

What is the current conforming loan limit in Union City?

Accepted Answer

The 2026 conforming limit is $1,249,125. This ceiling applies to conventional, FHA, and VA loans. Loans above this amount are considered jumbo and follow different underwriting rules.

Question 2

Is Alameda County a high-cost area for FHA loans?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Alameda County is designated as an FHA high-cost area. This means FHA loan limits match the conforming ceiling at $1,249,125 rather than the standard FHA cap.

Question 3

Is Alameda County a high-cost area for VA loans?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Alameda County qualifies as a VA high-cost area. VA borrowers can access loans up to $1,249,125 without a down payment in this county.

Question 4

How much do I need to put down to buy in Union City?

Accepted Answer

Down payment requirements vary by loan type. Conventional loans typically require 5% to 20% down. FHA allows 3.5% down with a 580+ credit score. VA loans offer zero down for eligible veterans.

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

Conventional loans generally require 620+ FICO. FHA loans accept 580+ FICO with 3.5% down. VA loans have no strict credit floor but most lenders prefer 620+.

Question 6

Do I need PMI if I put down less than 20%?

Accepted Answer

Yes. On conventional loans, PMI is required when down payment is below 20%. PMI cancels automatically at 78% LTV or can be requested at 80% LTV.

Question 7

What is the median household income in Alameda County?

Accepted Answer

Alameda County's median household income is $126,240. This figure matters for USDA loan eligibility, which caps at 115% of area median income.

Question 8

Can I use a VA loan with zero down in Union City?

Accepted Answer

Yes. VA loans allow zero down for eligible veterans, active duty, and surviving spouses with a Certificate of Eligibility. A funding fee replaces PMI.

Question 9

What does the VA funding fee cost?

Accepted Answer

The VA funding fee is 2.15% of the loan amount on first-time use with zero down. Subsequent VA loans cost 3.3%. Veterans with a 10% or higher disability rating are exempt.

Question 10

How does SB 79 affect housing in Union City?

Accepted Answer

California's new transit-oriented housing law takes effect July 1, requiring cities to allow denser housing near transit. This could increase housing supply and affect local zoning over time.

Question 11

Are FHA loans capped at the same limit as conventional loans here?

Accepted Answer

Yes. In Alameda County, FHA loans max out at $1,249,125, the same as conventional loans. The high-cost area designation raises the FHA ceiling to match conforming limits.

Question 12

What happens if I want to borrow above $1,249,125?

Accepted Answer

Loans above $1,249,125 are jumbo loans. Jumbo loans typically require 700+ FICO, 20% down, and 6-12 months of reserves. Rates usually run 0.125% to 0.5% above conforming.

Question 13

Can I get an FHA loan with 10% down in Union City?

Accepted Answer

Yes. FHA loans accept 10% down with 580+ FICO. With 10% down, mortgage insurance cancels after 11 years instead of lasting the life of the loan.

Question 14

How long does it take to close a mortgage in Union City?

Accepted Answer

Most conventional loans close in 30 to 45 days. FHA and VA loans may take 45 to 60 days due to additional appraisal and underwriting steps.

Question 15

What is USDA financing and am I eligible in Union City?

Accepted Answer

USDA loans offer zero down in eligible rural areas with income limits set per household size. Union City is in an urban area, so USDA eligibility is limited or unavailable here.

Union City mortgage questions answered