Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

The limit is $806,500 for single-family homes. Anything above that requires a jumbo loan.

Question 2

Can I get a jumbo loan with less than 20% down?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but expect stricter credit and reserve requirements. Most lenders want at least 10% down for single-family homes.

Question 3

Do jumbo loans have prepayment penalties?

Accepted Answer

Most don't, but some portfolio lenders include them. Always confirm before signing loan documents.

Question 4

Why are jumbo rates higher than conventional?

Accepted Answer

Lenders hold jumbos in portfolio instead of selling them to Fannie or Freddie. That extra risk gets priced into the rate.

Question 5

Can I use a piggyback loan to avoid jumbo financing?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes. You'd take a conventional first up to $806,500, then a second mortgage for the rest. It works if total debt-to-income stays under limits.

Conventional vs Jumbo Loans in Ceres: Which Fits Your Budget?