Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

The conforming limit for 2026 is $1,249,125. Loans above that amount are jumbo loans. FHA and VA loans cap at the same limit in Marin.

Question 2

Do I need 20% down to buy in Belvedere?

Accepted Answer

Yes — conventional loans accept 5% to 10% down. You'll pay PMI with less than 20% down. FHA allows 3.5% down with 580+ FICO.

Question 3

What credit score do I need to qualify?

Accepted Answer

Conventional loans typically require 620+ FICO. FHA accepts 580+ FICO. VA loans have no stated minimum but lenders usually want 620+.

Question 4

Is Marin County an FHA high-cost area?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Marin is designated a high-cost area for FHA. The FHA limit matches the conforming limit at $1,249,125. MIP runs for life if down payment is under 10%.

Question 5

Is Marin County a VA high-cost area?

Accepted Answer

Yes. VA loans in Marin are subject to high-cost area rules. The VA limit is $1,249,125. VA disability ratings of 10% or higher are exempt from the funding fee.

Question 6

What does the new mountaintop access mean for Belvedere property values?

Accepted Answer

The opening of private Marin County land to public hiking increases recreational appeal. Buyers value proximity to outdoor access. This supports long-term desirability in the area.

Question 7

Can I get a jumbo loan in Belvedere?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Jumbo loans are available for purchases above $1,249,125. Expect to put down 20% or more and have 700+ FICO. Rates typically run 0.125% to 0.5% above conforming.

Question 8

What's the difference between FHA and VA loans in Marin?

Accepted Answer

Both cap at $1,249,125 in Marin. FHA requires 3.5% down minimum; VA allows zero down. FHA charges MIP for life if down is under 10%. VA charges a funding fee instead.

Question 9

How much income do I need to qualify?

Accepted Answer

Debt-to-income limits typically cap at 43% to 50% depending on the lender. Marin's median household income is $142,785. Your qualifying income depends on your debts and loan amount.

Question 10

Can I use a VA Streamline refinance in Marin County?

Accepted Answer

Yes. VA Streamline (IRRRL) refinances are available to eligible veterans in Marin. The process is faster than a standard refinance and requires no new appraisal in most cases.

Question 11

What's the timeline for closing on a Belvedere home?

Accepted Answer

Conventional loans typically close in 30 to 45 days. FHA and VA can take 45 to 60 days due to appraisal and underwriting. Jumbo loans often take 45 to 60 days as well.

Question 12

Do I pay property taxes on top of my mortgage payment?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Property taxes are separate from your mortgage payment. Marin County property taxes are roughly 0.76% of assessed value annually. Taxes are escrowed into your monthly payment.

Question 13

What happens if I put down less than 20% on a conventional loan?

Accepted Answer

PMI applies when down payment is less than 20%. PMI cancels automatically at 78% LTV and can be requested at 80% LTV. Cost depends on loan amount and credit score.

Belvedere home loan questions answered