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    3. Jumbo & High Balance Loans
    Conventional

    Jumbo & High Balance Loans

    "Big loans for bigger dreams."

    When your purchase exceeds conforming loan limits, jumbo and high balance loans provide the financing you need. Competitive rates for luxury homes and high-cost markets.

    10-20%

    Min Down

    700+ (720+ preferred)

    Min Credit

    No upper limit

    Max Loan

    Get a Jumbo QuoteTalk to Our Jumbo Team
    Last reviewed: January 2026 · CMS Mortgage Editorial Team

    Is This Loan Right for You?

    This Loan is Perfect If You...

    • Buying a home above $766,550 conforming limit
    • Strong credit history (700+ score)
    • 10-20% down payment available
    • Sufficient cash reserves (6-12 months)
    • High income with full documentation

    This Might NOT Be Right If...

    • Loan amount is below conforming limits
    • Credit score below 700
    • Limited cash reserves available
    • Prefer lower down payment options
    • Cannot fully document income

    Jumbo & High Balance Loans Benefits

    Everything you need to know about your benefits

    Finance Luxury Homes

    No upper limit - finance properties well above conforming limits

    Competitive Rates

    Well-qualified borrowers often get rates comparable to conforming

    Fixed & ARM Options

    Choose rate stability or lower initial payments

    Interest-Only Available

    Maximize cash flow with IO payment options

    Any Location

    Available nationwide for high-value properties

    White-Glove Service

    Dedicated jumbo specialists for personalized support

    How It Works

    Your path to homeownership in just a few simple steps

    Consult a Jumbo Specialist

    Discuss your goals and get a personalized quote

    Custom Underwriting

    We structure your loan for optimal terms

    Shop with Confidence

    Pre-approval letter for luxury properties

    VIP Closing

    White-glove service for seamless experience

    Consult a Jumbo Specialist

    Discuss your goals and get a personalized quote

    Custom Underwriting

    We structure your loan for optimal terms

    Shop with Confidence

    Pre-approval letter for luxury properties

    VIP Closing

    White-glove service for seamless experience

    Types of Jumbo & High Balance Loans

    Choose the option that fits your situation

    Loans between standard and high-cost limits. Government-backed with conventional-like terms. Only available in designated high-cost areas.

    Fixed rate for the life of the loan. Predictable payments on high-value properties. Available in 15, 20, or 30-year terms.

    Start with a lower rate for 5, 7, or 10 years. Ideal for buyers who may sell or refinance before adjustment.

    Pay only interest for an initial period (typically 10 years). Dramatically lower initial payments on luxury properties.

    Important to Know

    Things to Consider

    A reverse mortgage is a significant financial decision. Here's what you should understand before proceeding.

    Higher Requirements

    Expect stricter credit, income, and reserve requirements than conforming loans.

    Investment Properties

    Investment property jumbos require 25-30% down and 720+ credit scores.

    Second Appraisal

    High-value properties may require a second appraisal to verify value.

    HUD-approved counseling is required to ensure you fully understand these factors before proceeding.

    Loan Details

    Documentation Required

    • 2 years of tax returns and W-2s
    • 2 months of bank/investment statements
    • Proof of assets and reserves
    • Employment verification
    • Second appraisal may be required

    Eligible Property Types

    • Primary residence
    • Second/vacation home
    • Investment property (stricter requirements)

    Additional Info

    • DTI typically 43% or less
    • Full income documentation required
    • Asset verification required
    • Larger down payment for investment properties

    High Balance vs Jumbo: What's the Difference?

    Feature(This loan)High BalanceJumbo
    Loan Amount Range$766,551 - $1,149,825Above $1,149,825
    BackingFannie Mae / Freddie MacPortfolio / Non-Agency
    Available InHigh-cost areas onlyNationwide
    RatesSimilar to conformingCompetitive, may vary
    RequirementsStandard conventionalStricter (see below)
    Best ForHigh-cost area buyersLuxury / high-value homes

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

    FAQ

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Common questions about Jumbo & High Balance Loans

    Last updated: May 12, 2026

    What is the difference between high balance and jumbo loans?

    High balance loans are between the standard conforming limit ($766,550) and the high-cost area limit ($1,149,825), and are still backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. Jumbo loans exceed all conforming limits and are held by lenders as portfolio loans or sold to private investors.

    What are the 2024 conforming loan limits?

    For 2024, the standard conforming limit is $766,550 for most U.S. counties. In designated high-cost areas (like parts of California, New York, Hawaii, and DC), the limit goes up to $1,149,825. Anything above these limits requires jumbo financing.

    What credit score do I need for a jumbo loan?

    Most jumbo lenders require a minimum 700 credit score, with 720+ preferred for the best rates. Some programs may accept 680+ with compensating factors like larger down payment or significant assets.

    Jumbo loans typically require 10-20% down payment. A 20% down payment avoids PMI and often secures better rates. Investment property jumbos usually require 25-30% down.
    Not necessarily. For well-qualified borrowers, jumbo rates are often comparable to or even lower than conforming rates. This is because jumbo borrowers typically have excellent credit, substantial assets, and low default risk.
    Yes. Jumbo loans are available for primary residences, second/vacation homes, and investment properties. Investment properties have stricter requirements: 25-30% down, 720+ credit, and larger reserves.
    Compare all loan types — Read our comprehensive mortgage guide
    Read the Compare GuideSee how Jumbo & High Balance Loans stacks up against other mortgage options
    Compare All Programs Side-by-SideDrop Jumbo & High Balance Loans next to up to 2 others and compare requirements line by line

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

    Get Started with Jumbo & High Balance Loans See Today's Rates
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    Let's discuss your luxury home financing

    Get a Jumbo QuoteTalk to Our Jumbo Team

    Or call us directly: (757) 558-2603

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