Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

The 2026 conforming limit for San Bernardino County is $832,750. Loans above this amount are jumbo and typically require 20% down.

Question 2

Is San Bernardino County an FHA high-cost area?

Accepted Answer

Yes. San Bernardino is designated an FHA high-cost area. The 2026 FHA limit here is $690,000.

Question 3

What's the minimum down payment for an FHA loan?

Accepted Answer

FHA requires 3.5% down with a 580+ credit score. You'll also pay an upfront mortgage insurance premium of 1.75% of the loan amount.

Question 4

How long does FHA mortgage insurance last?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

Yes. At 20% down (80% LTV), PMI is not required on conventional loans. Below 20% down, PMI applies until you reach 78% LTV.

Question 6

What credit score do I need for a conventional loan?

Accepted Answer

Most lenders require 620 or higher for conventional loans. Stronger credit (740+) typically qualifies for better rates and terms.

Question 7

Can I use a VA loan as a surviving spouse?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Surviving spouses of eligible veterans can use VA loans with zero down if they have a Certificate of Eligibility. The funding fee applies unless the spouse has a 10%+ VA disability rating.

Question 8

What is the VA funding fee?

Accepted Answer

The VA funding fee is 2.15% of the loan amount on first-time use with zero down. Subsequent uses cost 3.3%. Veterans with 10%+ disability rating are exempt.

Question 9

Do some San Bernardino areas qualify for USDA loans?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Some areas of San Bernardino County may qualify for USDA loans if they meet rural eligibility requirements. Income limits are set per household size.

Question 10

How does Ontario Airport's expansion affect home values?

Accepted Answer

Ontario International Airport's ONT BOLD expansion may increase regional infrastructure investment. This could support long-term property appreciation in nearby areas.

Question 11

What does county median income tell me about affordability?

Accepted Answer

San Bernardino County's median household income is $82,184. This helps lenders assess whether your income qualifies for your target purchase price.

Question 12

Are there new dining and entertainment options in the area?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Six new coffeehouses recently opened across the Inland Empire. Local breweries like Claremont Craft Ales and Hangar 24 won regional recognition.

Question 13

What's the difference between conforming and jumbo loans?

Accepted Answer

Conforming loans are at or below $832,750 in 2026. Jumbo loans exceed that limit and typically require 20% down and 700+ credit.

Question 14

Can I refinance my VA loan without a new appraisal?

Accepted Answer

Yes. VA Streamline refinances allow eligible borrowers to refinance without a new appraisal. This saves time and money on the process.

Question 15

What income level do I need to qualify in San Bernardino?

Accepted Answer

Income requirements depend on loan amount, down payment, and debt-to-income ratio. Lenders typically want housing payment under 28% of gross monthly income.

San Bernardino mortgage questions answered