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in La Puente, CA
Most La Puente buyers use conventional loans because they fit the city's median price range. Jumbo loans only matter when you're buying above the 2025 conforming limit of $806,500 for Los Angeles County.
The difference isn't just loan size. Jumbo loans require stronger credit, larger down payments, and more reserves—even if you could technically afford either loan.
Conventional loans work for most La Puente purchases. You can put down as little as 3% with good credit, though you'll pay PMI under 20% down.
These loans follow standard Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac guidelines. That means predictable approval criteria and competitive rates across our 200+ lenders.
Credit requirements start at 620, but you'll get better pricing at 740 or higher. Debt-to-income ratios max out around 50% with compensating factors.
Jumbo loans finance properties above conforming limits. In Los Angeles County, that's anything over $806,500—which includes some newer construction and larger homes in La Puente.
Lenders set their own jumbo guidelines since these loans aren't sold to Fannie or Freddie. Expect stricter requirements: typically 700+ credit, 10-20% down, and 6-12 months reserves.
Rates vary more on jumbos because each lender prices risk differently. Shopping across multiple jumbo lenders often saves thousands over the loan term.
The biggest split is loan limit. Under $806,500, you'll use conventional. Above that, you need jumbo—there's no overlap.
Credit standards differ significantly. Conventional loans approve at 620; most jumbo lenders want 700 minimum. Down payment flexibility also narrows on jumbos.
Rate differences fluctuate. Sometimes jumbo rates run lower for strong borrowers. Other times conventional wins. We check both daily since spreads change with market conditions.
Your purchase price decides this. Below $806,500, conventional wins on flexibility and easier approval. Above that limit, jumbo is your only option.
If you're close to the conforming limit, structure matters. Putting 20% down on an $850,000 home creates a $680,000 loan—that's conventional territory with better terms.
Strong financial profile? Jumbo loans reward it with competitive pricing. Credit under 700 or limited reserves? Stay conventional if possible, even if that means adjusting your price range.
$806,500 for Los Angeles County. Any loan above that amount requires jumbo financing, even if you qualify for conventional.
Some lenders allow it with strong credit and reserves. Most prefer 15-20% down for best pricing and easier approval.
Not always. Strong borrowers often get competitive jumbo rates. We compare both daily since spreads shift with market conditions.
Conventional approves at 620 minimum. Jumbo lenders typically want 700+, with best pricing at 740 or higher.
Typically 6-12 months of housing payments in savings. Exact requirements vary by lender, loan amount, and down payment size.
Often makes sense if you're just above the limit. A larger down payment can unlock conventional financing with easier approval terms.