Loading
San Diego is one of California's most expensive housing markets. Most desirable neighborhoods push well past conforming loan limits.
A jumbo loan covers anything above the FHFA conforming limit. In San Diego County, that threshold gets hit fast.
700 (720+ preferred)
Min Credit Score
10–20%
Typical Down Payment
12 months post-close
Reserves Required
Fixed or ARM
Rate Type Options
2 years
Tax Returns Required
Jumbo lenders hold borrowers to a higher standard. Expect a minimum credit score of 700, often 720 or higher.
Debt-to-income ratio caps are tighter — most lenders want under 43%. You'll also need 12 months of reserves after closing.
Jumbo loans aren't government-backed. Every lender sets their own guidelines — and they vary significantly.
At SRK CAPITAL, we work with 200+ wholesale lenders. That matters a lot on jumbo deals, where rate spreads and overlays differ widely.
Self-employed borrowers run into trouble here. Jumbo lenders scrutinize every tax return, every write-off.
Down payment requirements vary by loan size. Most lenders want 20% down. Some go to 10% with strong credit and reserves.
Conforming loans carry lower rates and easier guidelines. If your purchase price is close to the limit, run both scenarios.
ARMs are popular on jumbo loans. A 7/1 or 10/1 ARM can save real money if you plan to sell or refinance within a decade.
La Jolla, Rancho Santa Fe, Del Mar — jumbo territory across the board. These aren't edge cases in San Diego.
Coastal properties add appraisal complexity. Lenders may require two appraisals on high-value San Diego homes.
Anything above the FHFA conforming limit requires a jumbo loan. San Diego's prices mean many buyers hit this limit quickly.
Some lenders allow it with a 720+ credit score and strong reserves. Expect closer scrutiny and a higher rate than 20% down.
Usually, yes — but the gap varies by lender. Rates vary by borrower profile and market conditions, so shopping matters here.
Most want 12 months of mortgage payments in liquid assets after closing. Some high-balance loans require even more.
For buyers who won't hold the loan long-term, a 7/1 or 10/1 ARM often saves meaningful money over a 30-year fixed.
Yes, but expect two years of tax returns and a deep income analysis. Write-offs that reduce taxable income can hurt qualification.
Jumbo Loans in San Diego