Loading
in Fairfield, CA
Fairfield sits in Solano County, where home prices can push buyers past conforming loan limits. That one threshold changes everything about your financing options.
Conventional loans stay within FHFA limits and get sold to Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. Jumbo loans exceed those limits and stay on private lenders' books — with stricter requirements to match.
Conventional loans are the workhorse of California mortgage financing. They work for most W-2 borrowers with solid credit and a stable income history.
You can put as little as 3% down with strong credit. Drop PMI (private mortgage insurance) once you hit 20% equity — unlike FHA, you're not stuck paying it forever.
Jumbo loans cover purchase prices that exceed the conforming limit. In Solano County, that's the line where conventional financing stops and portfolio lending begins.
Lenders hold jumbo loans themselves. That means they set their own rules — and those rules are tougher. Expect higher credit score floors, more reserves, and more documentation.
The biggest split is underwriting flexibility. Conventional loans follow Fannie/Freddie guidelines — predictable and widely available. Jumbo guidelines vary by lender, and we shop across 200+ wholesale sources to find the best fit.
HousingWire flagged that the 30-year fixed hit 6.57% recently, with ARM demand picking up. Jumbo borrowers in particular are looking hard at ARMs to offset higher balances. Rates vary by borrower profile and market conditions.
If your purchase price stays under the conforming limit, conventional is almost always the right call. Lower rates, easier qualification, and more lender options.
If you need to borrow above that limit to buy in Fairfield, jumbo is your path. You'll need strong credit, documented assets, and reserves. We'll find the lender with the most competitive structure for your profile.
The FHFA sets conforming limits annually. Any loan above that threshold in Solano County requires jumbo financing.
Usually, yes — but not always. We shop jumbo across dozens of portfolio lenders to find competitive pricing. Rates vary by borrower profile and market conditions.
Most jumbo lenders want 720 or higher. Some go to 700 with strong reserves and a larger down payment.
Some lenders allow 10% down on jumbo, but 20% is far more common. Expect stricter scrutiny at lower down payments.
Most want 6 to 12 months of mortgage payments in liquid assets after closing. Some high-balance loans require more.
Yes. Conventional allows as little as 3% down. You'll pay PMI until you reach 20% equity, then it falls off.