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Contra Costa County is investing in infrastructure across the region. The new East County Service Center in Brentwood signals continued growth and stability for buyers here.
On a $750,000 loan at 6.25%, your principal and interest payment is $4,618 per month. Contra Costa County's median household income of $125,727 supports this payment comfortably for qualified buyers.
6.25%
Interest Rate
$4,618
Monthly P&I
620 minimum
FICO Required
5% to 20%
Down Payment
$1,249,125
2026 Conforming Limit
Conventional Loans in Lafayette
Conventional loans require a minimum 620 FICO score. Down payments range from 5% to 20%. At 20% down, you skip PMI entirely and lock in the best available rate.
Contra Costa County's median household income of $125,727 supports purchases in the $750,000 range. Your debt-to-income ratio typically caps at 43% to 50%. Lenders verify income, assets, and employment history before approval.
Local decision guide
Use this guide to connect conventional loans eligibility, lender expectations, and local market factors before comparing payment options in Lafayette.
Contra Costa County is investing in infrastructure across the region. The new East County Service Center in Brentwood signals continued growth and stability for buyers here.
On a $750,000 loan at 6.25%, your principal and interest payment is $4,618 per month. Contra Costa County's median household income of $125,727 supports this payment comfortably for qualified buyers.
Conventional loans require a minimum 620 FICO score. Down payments range from 5% to 20%. At 20% down, you skip PMI entirely and lock in the best available rate.
California conventional lending is dominated by agency lenders—Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Brokers and retail banks compete on rate and service. Closing typically takes 30 to 45 days.
The 2026 conforming limit is $1,249,125 for conventional mortgages in Contra Costa County. Above that threshold, you'll need a jumbo loan. Most Lafayette purchases stay within conforming range.
Conventional 30-year fixed makes sense in Lafayette when you have 10% or more down and a 700+ FICO. The rate is competitive and PMI is predictable. You avoid the lifetime insurance cost of FHA.
At $750,000 with 20% down, conventional pencils well because you're at 80% LTV. The payment is stable and PMI-free. If you're closer to 5% down, run the FHA math first.
FHA loans run a lower rate than conventional but carry mortgage insurance for life if down payment is under 10%. At 20% down, conventional has no PMI. The choice hinges on your down payment.
Conventional at 80% LTV beats FHA on total cost over 30 years when you have the down payment. FHA shines if you're putting down 3.5% and want the lowest upfront payment. Neither is universally better.
Richmond parks are receiving multi-million dollar upgrades including new soccer fields and restrooms. State and federal grants fund this work. Public investment signals confidence in the region's future.
Lafayette sits in a stable community with good schools and reliable infrastructure. Broader Contra Costa County investment in services reinforces the area's appeal. That stability supports long-term resale value.
Conventional lending in California remains steady as agency lenders maintain consistent pricing. Broker competition keeps rates tight. Volume fluctuates with market conditions, but conventional stays the dominant loan type.
Lafayette buyers benefit from a mature, competitive lending market. Multiple lenders compete for conventional business. The 2026 conforming limit of $1,249,125 covers most local purchases without jumbo pricing.
Principal and interest run $4,618 per month on a $750,000 loan at 6.25% APR. At 80% LTV with 20% down, there's no PMI.
Yes — conventional loans start at 5% down. You'll pay PMI until you reach 80% LTV. With 20% down, PMI disappears entirely.
The minimum is 620 FICO, but 740+ gets the best rates. Most lenders prefer 680 or higher for smooth approval. Higher scores mean lower rates.
Conventional loans typically close in 30 to 45 days. The timeline depends on appraisal turnaround and document verification. Clear documentation speeds the process.
Yes. PMI cancels automatically when you reach 78% LTV through principal paydown. You can also request cancellation at 80% LTV.