Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

The 2026 conforming limit for Ontario is $832,750. Loans above that amount are jumbo loans. Jumbo loans typically require 20% down and a 700+ credit score.

Question 2

Is Ontario in an FHA high-cost area?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Ontario is designated an FHA high-cost area for 2026. The FHA limit here is $690,000. This affects MIP rates and down-payment requirements.

Question 3

What credit score do I need to buy a home in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

Conventional loans typically require 620 or higher. FHA loans accept 580+ FICO. VA loans have no official minimum, but most lenders want 620+.

Question 4

How much down payment do I need on an FHA loan in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

FHA requires 3.5% down with a 580+ credit score. On a $690,000 purchase, that's $24,150 down. Upfront mortgage insurance is 1.75% of the loan amount.

Question 5

Does Ontario's airport expansion affect home values?

Accepted Answer

Ontario International Airport's ONT BOLD expansion is reshaping regional infrastructure. This could influence long-term property values and buyer demand in surrounding areas.

Question 6

What's the median household income in San Bernardino County?

Accepted Answer

The median household income is $82,184. This matters for USDA loan eligibility and debt-to-income calculations. Most lenders cap debt-to-income at 43% to 50%.

Question 7

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

Accepted Answer

Yes. VA loans offer zero-down financing for eligible veterans, active duty, and surviving spouses with a Certificate of Eligibility. No PMI applies; a funding fee replaces it.

Question 8

What's the VA funding fee in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

The VA funding fee is 2.15% at zero down for first-time use. Subsequent VA loans cost 3.3%. Veterans with a 10%+ disability rating are exempt from the funding fee.

Question 9

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

Accepted Answer

Yes. 20% down (80% LTV) eliminates PMI on conventional loans. Below 20% down, PMI applies. PMI cancels automatically at 78% LTV and can be requested at 80%.

Question 10

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

Accepted Answer

VA loans offer zero down and no PMI; FHA requires 3.5% down and charges MIP for life if down payment is under 10%. VA is available only to eligible veterans; FHA is open to all borrowers.

Question 11

How long does closing typically take in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

Most conventional closings take 30 to 45 days. FHA and VA loans may take 45 to 60 days due to additional appraisal and underwriting steps.

Question 12

What local dining and community options are growing in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

Six new coffeehouses recently opened across the Inland Empire. Regional breweries like Claremont Craft Ales and Hangar 24 are gaining recognition. Monthly car shows and farm-fresh dining are active in nearby Upland.

Question 13

Is USDA financing available in Ontario?

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. Zero-down financing applies in qualifying zones.

Question 14

What's the jumbo loan cutoff in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

Any loan above $832,750 is a jumbo loan. Jumbo loans typically require 20% down, 700+ credit, and six months of liquid reserves. Rates usually run 0.125% to 0.5% above conforming.

Ontario home loan questions answered