Question 1

What is the conforming loan limit in Sonoma County for 2026?

Accepted Answer

The 2026 conforming limit is $897,000. FHA and VA loans cap at the same amount. Loans above that are jumbo and require stricter qualification.

Question 2

How much down payment do I need to buy in Windsor?

Accepted Answer

Conventional loans typically require 5% to 20% down. FHA allows 3.5% down with a 580+ credit score. VA loans offer zero down for eligible veterans.

Question 3

What credit score do I need for a mortgage in Windsor?

Accepted Answer

Conventional loans usually require 620+. FHA accepts 580+ for the 3.5% down program. VA lenders typically want 620+ but have no official minimum.

Question 4

Is Sonoma County an FHA high-cost area?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Sonoma County is designated FHA high-cost, which affects MIP rates. The 2026 FHA limit matches the conforming limit at $897,000.

Question 5

Is Sonoma County a VA high-cost area?

Accepted Answer

Yes. VA loans in Sonoma County are subject to high-cost area rules. The 2026 VA limit is $897,000, matching the conforming ceiling.

Question 6

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

Accepted Answer

Yes — 20% down (80% LTV) eliminates PMI entirely. Below 20% down, PMI applies. PMI cancels automatically at 78% LTV.

Question 7

How does the Medtronic job loss affect Windsor's housing market?

Accepted Answer

Medtronic's exit removes over 300 jobs by 2028. This may pressure local employment and buyer confidence. Existing homeowners with stable income face less direct impact.

Question 8

What's the difference between FHA and VA loans in Windsor?

Accepted Answer

FHA requires a down payment (3.5% minimum) and charges MIP for the loan's life if down is under 10%. VA offers zero down with no PMI but charges a funding fee.

Question 9

Can I get a VA loan if I have a disability rating?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Veterans with any VA disability rating can use VA loans. A 10% or higher rating exempts you from the funding fee.

Question 10

What happens to my mortgage if I sell my Windsor home early?

Accepted Answer

You pay off the remaining loan balance at sale. If you owe less than the sale price, you keep the difference. If you owe more, you cover the gap.

Question 11

How long does it take to close a mortgage in Windsor?

Accepted Answer

Most mortgages close in 30 to 45 days. Conventional loans often move faster than FHA or VA. Your lender's speed and appraisal timeline matter most.

Question 12

What is the median household income in Sonoma County?

Accepted Answer

Sonoma County's median household income is $102,840. This figure helps determine USDA eligibility. It guides lender income-to-debt calculations for all loan types.

Question 13

Do I need to sell my current home to buy in Windsor?

Accepted Answer

You can carry two mortgages if your income and debt ratios support both. Most lenders require strong reserves and income to approve a second mortgage.

Question 14

What is MIP on an FHA loan and how long does it last?

Accepted Answer

MIP is mortgage insurance premium on FHA loans. It runs for the loan's life if you put down less than 10%. With 10%+ down, MIP cancels after 11 years.

Question 15

What is the VA funding fee and can it be waived?

Accepted Answer

The VA funding fee is 2.15% at zero down for first-time use. It replaces PMI. A 10% or higher VA disability rating waives the fee entirely.

Windsor home loan questions answered