Question 1

What is the conforming loan limit in Los Angeles County for 2026?

Accepted Answer

The 2026 conforming limit is $1,249,125. Loans above this amount are considered jumbo and carry different terms and rates.

Question 2

Is Hidden Hills an FHA high-cost area?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Hidden Hills qualifies as an FHA high-cost area, which affects the maximum FHA loan amount available in 2026.

Question 3

Is Hidden Hills a VA high-cost area?

Accepted Answer

Yes. VA loans in Hidden Hills are subject to the high-cost area designation, which impacts the maximum VA loan amount.

Question 4

What credit score do I need to qualify for a conventional loan?

Accepted Answer

Most lenders require a minimum FICO score of 620 for conventional loans. Scores of 740 and above typically qualify for better rates and terms.

Question 5

How much down payment do I need to avoid PMI on a conventional loan?

Accepted Answer

You need 20% down to skip PMI entirely. With less than 20% down, PMI applies until you reach 78% LTV through appreciation or payments.

Question 6

What is the minimum down payment for an FHA loan?

Accepted Answer

FHA requires a minimum 3.5% down payment with a FICO score of 580 or higher. The upfront mortgage insurance premium is 1.75% of the loan amount.

Question 7

Do VA loans require a down payment?

Accepted Answer

No. VA loans offer zero-down financing for eligible veterans, active duty service members, and surviving spouses with a Certificate of Eligibility.

Question 8

How long does the VA funding fee last?

Accepted Answer

The VA funding fee is a one-time cost paid at closing. It does not recur and is typically rolled into the loan amount.

Question 9

What does the VA funding fee cost?

Accepted Answer

The funding fee is 2.15% of the loan amount for first-time VA users at zero down. Subsequent uses cost 3.3%. A 10% or higher VA disability rating exempts you from the fee.

Question 10

How does LAUSD's fiscal situation affect Hidden Hills home values?

Accepted Answer

LAUSD's budget pressures and county oversight may influence buyer decisions about school quality. This could affect demand in areas with strong private school alternatives.

Question 11

What income do I need to qualify for a jumbo loan in Hidden Hills?

Accepted Answer

Jumbo lenders typically require documented income of at least 25% of the loan amount. Strong reserves and low debt ratios strengthen your application.

Question 12

Can I refinance an FHA loan to conventional once I have 20% equity?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Once your LTV reaches 80% through payments or appreciation, you can refinance to conventional and eliminate mortgage insurance.

Question 13

What is the difference between FHA MIP and conventional PMI?

Accepted Answer

FHA MIP runs for the life of the loan if you put down less than 10%. Conventional PMI cancels at 78% LTV. Both protect the lender if you default.

Question 14

Do I need to sell my current home to buy in Hidden Hills?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. If you have sufficient income and reserves, lenders may allow you to carry both mortgages during the transition period.

Question 15

What role does the county median income play in my qualification?

Accepted Answer

Lenders use income ratios to determine how much you can borrow. The county median of $87,760 provides context for what typical buyers in this area earn.

Hidden Hills mortgage questions answered