Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

The 2026 conforming limit is $1,249,125. Loans at or below that amount follow conventional guidelines. Above that, you need a jumbo loan.

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

Yes — 20% down (80% LTV) skips PMI entirely. Below 20% down, PMI applies. PMI cancels automatically once you hit 78% LTV.

Question 3

What credit score do I need for a conventional loan in Ross?

Accepted Answer

Most lenders require 640+ FICO for conventional loans. Jumbo loans typically ask for 700+ FICO. Higher scores open better rates and lower down-payment options.

Question 4

Is Marin County an FHA high-cost area?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Marin is designated an FHA high-cost area. FHA loan limits match the conforming ceiling of $1,249,125.

Question 5

Is Marin County a VA high-cost area?

Accepted Answer

Yes. VA loan limits in Marin reach $1,249,125. This gives VA borrowers access to the full county ceiling.

Question 6

How much down payment do I need for an FHA loan?

Accepted Answer

FHA requires 3.5% down with a 580+ FICO score. Upfront mortgage insurance is 1.75% of the loan amount. Annual MIP runs for life if down payment is under 10%.

Question 7

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

Accepted Answer

Yes. VA loans require zero down for eligible veterans and surviving spouses with a Certificate of Eligibility. A funding fee replaces PMI (2.15% at zero down for first use).

Question 8

What does the new mountaintop open space mean for Ross property values?

Accepted Answer

The opening of Marin County's mountaintop to public hiking access increases neighborhood appeal. More outdoor recreation nearby typically supports long-term property values.

Question 9

How much does a jumbo loan cost compared to a conforming loan?

Accepted Answer

Jumbo rates typically run 0.125% to 0.5% higher than conforming rates. Jumbo loans also require 20% down minimum and 6-12 months of reserves.

Question 10

What income do I need to qualify in Marin County?

Accepted Answer

There's no hard income floor for conventional loans. Lenders use debt-to-income ratios instead (typically 43% max). Most buyers qualify if credit and down payment are solid.

Question 11

Can I carry two mortgages while buying in Ross?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you have equity and can qualify on both payments, carrying two mortgages is possible. Most lenders cap total debt-to-income at 43%.

Question 12

How long does it take to close on a home in Ross?

Accepted Answer

Conventional loans typically close in 30-45 days. FHA and VA loans may take 45-60 days due to appraisal steps. Jumbo loans often run 45-60 days as well.

Question 13

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

Accepted Answer

Both reach $1,249,125 in Marin. VA requires zero down; FHA requires 3.5% down. VA has no annual mortgage insurance; FHA's annual MIP runs for life if down payment is under 10%.

Question 14

Can I refinance my jumbo loan later?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Jumbo refinances are available, but rates may differ from conforming refi rates. You'll need to meet current jumbo qualification standards at that time.

Question 15

What does Bar Auklet's opening in Point Reyes Station mean for the area?

Accepted Answer

Bar Auklet and other new dining options in nearby Point Reyes Station reflect growing investment in Marin's communities. Local amenities and infrastructure improvements support buyer interest in the broader area.

Ross mortgage FAQ for Marin County buyers