Question 1

What is the 2026 conforming loan limit in San Bernardino County?

Accepted Answer

The 2026 conforming limit is $832,750. Loans above this amount require jumbo financing. Jumbo rates typically run higher and demand stronger credit and reserves.

Question 2

Is Loma Linda in an FHA high-cost area?

Accepted Answer

Yes. San Bernardino County is designated an FHA high-cost area. The 2026 FHA limit here is $690,000, higher than the standard national FHA cap.

Question 3

Can I get a VA loan with zero down in Loma Linda?

Accepted Answer

Yes. VA loans allow zero down for eligible veterans, active duty, and surviving spouses with a Certificate of Eligibility. The 2026 VA limit is $832,750.

Question 4

What credit score do I need to buy in Loma Linda?

Accepted Answer

Conventional loans typically require 620+ FICO. FHA accepts 580+ FICO with 3.5% down. VA has no official minimum but most lenders want 620+.

Question 5

How much down payment do I need to avoid PMI?

Accepted Answer

Yes, 20% down eliminates PMI on conventional loans. Below 20%, PMI applies until you reach 78% LTV. At 80% LTV or higher, PMI cancels automatically.

Question 6

What is FHA mortgage insurance and how long does it last?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 7

Do I need to sell my current home before buying in Loma Linda?

Accepted Answer

No. Many buyers carry two mortgages temporarily. Lenders will count your current payment as debt when qualifying you for the new loan.

Question 8

How does the Ontario Airport expansion affect Loma Linda property values?

Accepted Answer

Ontario International Airport's ONT BOLD expansion may increase regional infrastructure and job access. This could support long-term property appreciation in nearby Loma Linda.

Question 9

What does the San Bernardino County median income tell me about affordability?

Accepted Answer

The county median household income is $82,184. This figure helps determine USDA loan eligibility and income-based programs. Your actual qualifying income depends on your household size and debt.

Question 10

Can I use USDA financing to buy in Loma Linda?

Accepted Answer

USDA loans are available in eligible rural areas of San Bernardino County. Income limits are set per household size and subject to USDA's published cap for this county. Property must be in a USDA-eligible zone.

Question 11

What is a jumbo loan and when do I need one?

Accepted Answer

A jumbo loan exceeds the 2026 conforming limit of $832,750. Jumbo rates run 0.125% to 0.5% higher. Most jumbo loans require 700+ FICO, 20% down, and 6-12 months reserves.

Question 12

How long does it take to close a mortgage in Loma Linda?

Accepted Answer

Most conventional loans close in 30-45 days. FHA and VA loans may take 40-50 days due to additional appraisal and inspection steps. Exact timing depends on your lender and documentation speed.

Question 13

What closing costs should I expect?

Accepted Answer

Closing costs typically run 2% to 5% of the loan amount. This includes appraisal, title, escrow, and lender fees. Your loan estimate will itemize all costs within three days of application.

Question 14

Can I lock my interest rate before closing?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Most lenders offer rate locks from 15 to 60 days. Longer locks may carry a higher rate. Your lock period starts when you apply or when you request it.

Loma Linda mortgage questions answered