Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

The 2026 conforming limit is $832,750. VA loans also cap at that amount. FHA tops out at $690,000 in this high-cost area.

Question 2

Is San Bernardino County an FHA high-cost area?

Accepted Answer

Yes. San Bernardino County is designated FHA high-cost. This affects MIP rates and loan-to-value requirements for FHA borrowers in Colton.

Question 3

What down payment do most Colton buyers put down?

Accepted Answer

Conventional buyers typically put 5% to 20% down. FHA requires 3.5% minimum with a 580+ FICO score. VA buyers can go zero down if eligible.

Question 4

How much do I need to earn to qualify for a mortgage in Colton?

Accepted Answer

There's no hard income floor, but lenders typically want your housing payment under 28% of gross income. San Bernardino County's median is $82,184 annually.

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

Yes. At 20% down (80% LTV), PMI drops off entirely. Below 20% down, PMI applies until you hit 78% LTV or request cancellation at 80%.

Question 6

What credit score do I need to buy in Colton?

Accepted Answer

Conventional loans typically require 620+. FHA goes as low as 580+. VA has no strict floor, but most lenders want 620+ for competitive rates.

Question 7

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

Accepted Answer

Most purchases close in 30 to 45 days. Jumbo loans may take longer. Cash offers close faster, typically in 14 to 21 days.

Question 8

What's the difference between FHA and conventional for Colton buyers?

Accepted Answer

FHA requires 3.5% down and allows lower credit scores. Conventional needs 5% to 20% down. FHA carries mortgage insurance for the life of the loan if down payment is under 10%.

Question 9

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

Accepted Answer

Yes. VA-eligible borrowers can finance up to the $832,750 limit with zero down. A funding fee applies (2.15% at zero down for first-time use).

Question 10

What happens if I want to refinance later?

Accepted Answer

Refinancing is available once you've owned for six months. VA borrowers can use a VA Streamline refinance to skip the appraisal. Conventional refinances depend on equity and rates.

Question 11

How does Ontario International Airport's expansion affect Colton home values?

Accepted Answer

ONT BOLD expansion improves regional infrastructure and job access. This typically supports long-term property values in nearby areas like Colton.

Question 12

Are there jumbo loans available for homes above $832,750 in Colton?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Jumbo loans are available above the conforming limit. They typically require 20% down, 700+ FICO, and six months of liquid reserves.

Question 13

What's the difference between FHA and VA loans for Colton buyers?

Accepted Answer

VA requires military eligibility and offers zero down. FHA requires 3.5% down and is open to all borrowers. VA has no mortgage insurance; FHA carries MIP for life if down is under 10%.

Question 14

Can I use USDA financing to buy in Colton?

Accepted Answer

USDA loans are available in eligible rural areas near Colton. They require zero down and are income-limited. Check USDA's published cap for this county, scaled by household size.

Colton home loan questions answered