Question 1

What's the 2026 conforming loan limit in Solano County?

Accepted Answer

The conforming limit is $832,750. This is the maximum for conventional mortgages backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac.

Question 2

Is Solano County an FHA high-cost area?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The FHA limit here is $685,400, which is higher than the standard FHA cap.

Question 3

What's the VA loan limit in Solano County?

Accepted Answer

VA loans follow the conforming limit of $832,750 in 2026. Eligible veterans can borrow up to this amount with zero down.

Question 4

How much do I need to put down on a conventional loan?

Accepted Answer

Conventional loans require a minimum of 3% down. At 5% to 10% down, PMI applies. At 20% down or more, PMI drops off.

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

Yes — 20% down eliminates PMI entirely. Below that, mortgage insurance applies. PMI cancels automatically at 78% LTV.

Question 6

What's the FHA down payment minimum?

Accepted Answer

FHA requires 3.5% down with a 580 FICO score or higher. Upfront mortgage insurance is 1.75% of the loan amount.

Question 7

How long does FHA mortgage insurance last?

Accepted Answer

If you put down less than 10%, MIP stays for the life of the loan. With 10% or more down, it cancels after 11 years.

Question 8

Can I get a VA loan with zero down?

Accepted Answer

Yes. VA loans require zero down for eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and surviving spouses with a Certificate of Eligibility.

Question 9

What's the VA funding fee?

Accepted Answer

The funding fee is 2.15% at zero down for first-time VA users. Subsequent VA loans carry a 3.3% fee. Veterans with a 10% or higher disability rating are exempt.

Question 10

Is there a USDA loan option in Solano County?

Accepted Answer

USDA loans are available in eligible rural areas of Solano County. They require zero down and are income-limited by household size.

Question 11

What credit score do I need for a conventional loan?

Accepted Answer

Most conventional lenders require 620 FICO or higher. Stronger scores (740+) typically qualify for better rates.

Question 12

What credit score do I need for FHA?

Accepted Answer

FHA accepts 580 FICO for the 3.5% down program. Some lenders go as low as 500 with 10% down.

Question 13

How does the California Forever development affect Vacaville home values?

Accepted Answer

The proposed California Forever project in nearby areas is generating discussion about regional growth. Long-term impacts on Vacaville pricing remain uncertain.

Question 14

What does the Portuguese Festa mean for Vacaville's community?

Accepted Answer

The 133-year-old Festa reflects the region's cultural heritage and draws visitors. Strong community traditions support stable neighborhoods.

Vacaville mortgage questions answered