Question 1

What's the 2026 conforming loan limit in Madera County?

Accepted Answer

The 2026 conforming limit is $832,750. Loans above this amount are jumbo loans and carry different terms.

Question 2

What's the FHA loan limit in Chowchilla?

Accepted Answer

The 2026 FHA limit in Madera County is $541,287. Standard FHA rules apply here.

Question 3

Is Madera County an FHA high-cost area?

Accepted Answer

No. Madera County is not designated as an FHA high-cost area for 2026. Standard FHA rules apply.

Question 4

What's the VA loan limit in Chowchilla?

Accepted Answer

The 2026 VA loan limit is $832,750, matching the conforming limit. Standard VA rules apply here.

Question 5

Is Madera County a VA high-cost area?

Accepted Answer

No. Madera County is not a VA high-cost area. Standard VA funding fees apply.

Question 6

How much down payment do I need for a conventional loan?

Accepted Answer

Conventional loans require a minimum of 3% down. PMI applies below 20% down and cancels at 78% LTV.

Question 7

What's the minimum credit score for an FHA loan?

Accepted Answer

FHA requires a minimum FICO score of 580. Some lenders may require 600 or higher.

Question 8

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

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's the minimum down payment for an FHA loan?

Accepted Answer

FHA requires a minimum of 3.5% down with a 580+ FICO score. Upfront mortgage insurance is 1.75% of the loan amount.

Question 10

How long does FHA mortgage insurance last?

Accepted Answer

If you put down less than 10%, FHA mortgage insurance runs for the life of the loan. With 10%+ down, it cancels after 11 years.

Question 11

Do I need 20% down to avoid PMI on a conventional loan?

Accepted Answer

Yes. 20% down (80% LTV) eliminates PMI entirely on a conventional loan. Below that, PMI applies until 78% LTV.

Question 12

How does the high-speed rail project affect Chowchilla property values?

Accepted Answer

The Merced-to-Madera high-speed rail construction represents significant regional infrastructure investment. Improved transit access typically supports long-term property appreciation.

Question 13

What does the Valley Children's Hospital expansion mean for the local market?

Accepted Answer

The $73 million ambulatory pavilion expansion adds medical services capacity to Madera County. Healthcare infrastructure growth attracts residents and supports property values.

Question 14

What income do I need to qualify for a mortgage in Chowchilla?

Accepted Answer

Income requirements depend on the loan amount and your debt-to-income ratio. Madera County's median household income is $75,496.

Chowchilla mortgage questions answered