Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

The 2026 conforming limit is $1,104,000. Loans at or below this follow conventional rules. Above it, jumbo loans apply.

Question 2

Is San Diego County an FHA high-cost area?

Accepted Answer

Yes. San Diego is an FHA high-cost area for 2026. This affects FHA loan limits and insurance calculations.

Question 3

Is San Diego County a VA high-cost area?

Accepted Answer

Yes. San Diego qualifies as a VA high-cost area. VA loan limits match the conforming ceiling of $1,104,000.

Question 4

What credit score do I need to buy in San Diego?

Accepted Answer

Conventional loans typically require 620 FICO minimum. FHA accepts 580 FICO with 3.5% down. VA loans have no hard floor.

Question 5

How much down payment do I need in San Diego?

Accepted Answer

Conventional loans range from 3% to 20% down. FHA requires 3.5% minimum with 580+ FICO. VA allows zero down for eligible veterans.

Question 6

What does the low-income housing boom mean for San Diego buyers?

Accepted Answer

More rental units ease pressure on overall housing supply. This affects both rental and purchase markets as construction continues.

Question 7

Do I need to be a first-time buyer to qualify for FHA in San Diego?

Accepted Answer

No. FHA loans are available to any borrower who meets credit and income requirements. First-time status doesn't affect eligibility.

Question 8

Can I get a VA loan with zero down in San Diego?

Accepted Answer

Yes. VA loans allow zero down for eligible veterans, active duty, and surviving spouses with a Certificate of Eligibility. No PMI applies.

Question 9

What's the difference between conforming and jumbo loans in San Diego?

Accepted Answer

Conforming loans max at $1,104,000 and follow standard underwriting. Jumbo loans exceed that and typically require 20% down and 700+ FICO.

Question 10

How does San Diego's median income affect my mortgage qualification?

Accepted Answer

San Diego County's median household income is $102,285. Lenders use this as a reference for income-based programs in eligible areas.

Question 11

Can I use FHA to buy above the conforming limit in San Diego?

Accepted Answer

No. FHA loans cap at $1,104,000 in San Diego County for 2026. Purchases above that require conventional jumbo loans.

Question 12

What happens if I put down less than 20% on a conventional loan?

Accepted Answer

PMI applies when down payment is below 20%. It cancels automatically once you reach 78% LTV through payments.

Question 13

Does the Galū Cafe expansion in City Heights affect the San Diego market?

Accepted Answer

New dining development signals neighborhood investment. Areas with growing amenities often see increased buyer interest over time.

Question 14

What's the VA funding fee and can it be waived?

Accepted Answer

The VA funding fee is 2.15% at zero down on first use. It's waived only for veterans with a 10% or higher VA disability rating.

Question 15

Can I refinance my FHA loan to remove mortgage insurance?

Accepted Answer

FHA mortgage insurance stays for the loan's life if down payment was under 10%. With 10%+ down, it cancels after 11 years.

San Diego mortgage questions answered