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    1. Loans
    2. Conventional
    3. Fixed Rate Loans
    Conventional

    Fixed Rate Loans

    "Lock in your rate. Lock in your peace of mind."

    The most popular mortgage in America. Your rate stays the same for the entire loan, giving you predictable payments forever. Available in 15, 20, 25, and 30-year terms.

    3% (20% to avoid PMI)

    Min Down

    620+

    Min Credit

    $766,550 conforming

    Max Loan

    Get My Fixed Rate QuoteCompare Terms with an Expert
    Last reviewed: January 2026 · CMS Mortgage Editorial Team

    Is This Loan Right for You?

    This Loan is Perfect If You...

    • Want payment predictability month after month
    • Plan to stay in home 7+ years
    • W-2 employee with tax returns
    • Credit score 620 or higher
    • Want to lock in today's rates

    This Might NOT Be Right If...

    • Moving in 3-5 years (consider ARM)
    • Self-employed without tax returns (see Non-QM)
    • Need absolute lowest initial payment
    • Comfortable with rate adjustments

    Fixed Rate Loans Benefits

    Everything you need to know about your benefits

    Rate Never Changes

    Your interest rate is locked for the entire loan - no surprises

    Predictable Payments

    Same payment every month makes budgeting easy

    As Low as 3% Down

    Start building equity without a huge down payment

    PMI Removal

    PMI drops automatically once you hit 20% equity

    Refinance Anytime

    Rates drop? Refinance to a lower rate with no penalty

    Multiple Terms

    Choose 15, 20, 25, or 30 years to fit your goals

    How It Works

    Your path to homeownership in just a few simple steps

    Get Pre-Approved

    Quick credit check and income review to know your budget

    Find Your Home

    Shop with confidence knowing your rate and payment

    Lock Your Rate

    Secure your rate while we finalize the mortgage

    Close & Move In

    Sign the papers, get the keys, enjoy your fixed payment

    Get Pre-Approved

    Quick credit check and income review to know your budget

    Find Your Home

    Shop with confidence knowing your rate and payment

    Lock Your Rate

    Secure your rate while we finalize the mortgage

    Close & Move In

    Sign the papers, get the keys, enjoy your fixed payment

    Types of Fixed Rate Loans

    Choose the option that fits your situation

    30-Year Fixed

    America's most popular choice. Lower payments free up cash for other goals. Best for first-time buyers and budget flexibility.

    20-Year Fixed

    Pay off faster than 30-year with payments lower than 15-year. Best for homeowners wanting middle ground.

    15-Year Fixed

    Build equity fast, save tens of thousands in interest. Best for higher earners and pre-retirement.

    25-Year Fixed

    Slightly higher payment than 30-year but saves years of interest. Best for those wanting to shave 5 years off.

    What You'll Need to Apply

    Standard documentation for conventional loans

    Option 1

    Income Verification

    • W-2s from past 2 years
    • Pay stubs (most recent 30 days)
    • Tax returns (if self-employed)

    Consistent employment history preferred

    Option 2

    Asset Verification

    • Bank statements (2 months)
    • Retirement/investment accounts
    • Gift letter (if using gift funds)

    Need to show down payment source

    Option 3

    Property & Credit

    • Purchase contract
    • Property insurance quote
    • Credit authorization

    We pull credit during application

    Self-Employed?

    If you're self-employed, you may need 2 years of tax returns. If you prefer to use bank statements instead, check out our Bank Statement Loans.

    0

    Fixed Rate Term Comparison

    Feature30-Year(This loan)15-Year
    Monthly PaymentLower ✓Higher
    Interest RateHigherLower ✓
    Total Interest PaidMore $$$Less $ ✓
    Equity BuildingSlowerFaster ✓
    Monthly Cash FlowBetter ✓Tighter
    Best ForAffordability/Cash FlowPaying Off Quickly

    * Rates and terms subject to change. Contact us for current offers.

    FAQ

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Common questions about Fixed Rate Loans

    Last updated: May 12, 2026

    What credit score do I need for a fixed-rate mortgage?

    The minimum credit score is 620 for most conventional fixed-rate mortgages. However, you'll get better rates with a 740+ score. Your credit score affects your rate, so even a small improvement can save you thousands over the loan.

    Should I choose 15-year or 30-year fixed?

    It depends on your goals. A 30-year fixed has lower monthly payments, giving you more flexibility. A 15-year fixed has higher payments but you'll pay significantly less interest overall and build equity faster. Many borrowers start with 30-year and make extra payments when possible.

    Can I pay off a fixed-rate mortgage early?

    Yes! There are no prepayment penalties on conventional fixed-rate loans. You can make extra payments, pay bi-weekly, or pay off the entire balance early. Every extra dollar goes directly to principal.

    Conforming loans are up to $766,550 (2024 limit) and follow Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac guidelines with the best rates. Jumbo loans are above this limit and have slightly different requirements and rates.
    No. You can put down as little as 3% on a fixed-rate conventional loan. However, putting down less than 20% requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) until you reach 20% equity.
    Compare all loan types — Read our comprehensive mortgage guide
    Read the Compare GuideSee how Fixed Rate Loans stacks up against other mortgage options
    Compare All Programs Side-by-SideDrop Fixed Rate Loans next to up to 2 others and compare requirements line by line

    Get Rate Drop Alerts

    We'll notify you instantly when rates drop to your target.

    Get Started with Fixed Rate Loans See Today's Rates
    Top 50 National Brokerage•NMLS #212405

    Predictable Payments Forever

    Lock in your rate in 15 minutes

    Get My Fixed Rate QuoteCompare Terms with an Expert

    Or call us directly: (757) 558-2603

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    Finally, a mortgage experience designed for humans. Not paperwork. A Top 50 national brokerage helping families get their keys since 2005.

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    Get In Touch

    • 1612 Centerville Tpke, Suite 307
      Virginia Beach, VA 23464
    • (757) 558-2603
    • info@cmsmortgage.com
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