Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

The 2026 conforming limit is $832,750. Loans above that are jumbo and typically require 20% down and stronger credit.

Question 2

Is San Bernardino County an FHA high-cost area?

Accepted Answer

Yes. San Bernardino is designated an FHA high-cost area. FHA loans max out at $690,000 in 2026.

Question 3

How much down payment do I need to avoid PMI on a conventional loan?

Accepted Answer

Yes — 20% down eliminates PMI on a conventional loan. With less than 20% down, PMI applies until you reach 78% LTV.

Question 4

What's the minimum credit score for an FHA loan?

Accepted Answer

FHA requires a minimum 580 FICO score for the 3.5% down program. Stronger credit of 620+ opens better rates and terms.

Question 5

Do VA loans require a down payment in Rancho Cucamonga?

Accepted Answer

No. VA loans allow zero down for eligible veterans and active duty with a Certificate of Eligibility. You pay a funding fee instead of PMI.

Question 6

What does the VA funding fee cover?

Accepted Answer

The VA funding fee replaces PMI and protects the VA lender. At zero down, it's 2.15% of the loan amount. Veterans with 10%+ disability rating are exempt.

Question 7

How does FHA mortgage insurance work?

Accepted Answer

FHA requires upfront MIP of 1.75% rolled into the loan. Annual MIP runs for life if down payment is under 10%. With 10%+ down, it cancels after 11 years.

Question 8

Can I get a jumbo loan in Rancho Cucamonga?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Jumbo loans above $832,750 require 20% down, 700+ FICO, and six months of reserves. Rates typically run 0.125% to 0.5% above conforming.

Question 9

What income do I need to qualify for a mortgage in San Bernardino County?

Accepted Answer

There's no fixed income floor, but lenders use debt-to-income ratios of 43% max. San Bernardino's median household income is $82,184. Your qualifying income depends on debts and loan type.

Question 10

Does Ontario International Airport's expansion affect Rancho Cucamonga home values?

Accepted Answer

Ontario International Airport's ONT BOLD expansion may influence regional infrastructure over time. Proximity to the airport can affect some neighborhoods more than others.

Question 11

How long does it take to close a mortgage in Rancho Cucamonga?

Accepted Answer

Most conventional loans close in 30 to 45 days from application to funding. FHA and VA loans may take 40 to 50 days due to additional underwriting.

Question 12

What's the difference between a conforming and jumbo loan?

Accepted Answer

Conforming loans follow Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac rules and max out at $832,750 in 2026. Jumbo loans exceed that, require stronger credit, larger down payments, and higher rates.

Question 13

Can I refinance my FHA loan to remove mortgage insurance?

Accepted Answer

FHA loans with less than 10% down carry mortgage insurance for life. You can refinance to a conventional loan once you have 20% equity.

Question 14

What's the VA Streamline refinance?

Accepted Answer

VA Streamline (IRRRL) lets VA borrowers refinance with minimal documentation and no appraisal. The new rate must be lower and you must have a VA loan already.

Rancho Cucamonga mortgage questions answered