What is a conventional loan?

Introduction

A conventional loan is a type of mortgage that is not guaranteed or insured by the federal government. This means that the lender assumes all the risk of lending money to the borrower. Conventional loans are commonly referred to as "traditional" mortgages and are most often used when purchasing a home or for refinancing an existing mortgage.

How Do Conventional Loans Work?

Conventional loans are typically offered by banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions. The lender sets the terms and conditions of the loan and the borrower must meet the lender's requirements in order to qualify for the loan. Typically, conventional loans come with stricter eligibility requirements and higher credit score standards than government-backed loans like FHA and VA loans.

Types of Conventional Loans

There are two types of conventional loans: conforming and non-conforming. Conforming loans follow the guidelines set by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, which are government-sponsored entities that purchase mortgages from lenders. Non-conforming loans, on the other hand, do not meet these guidelines and are considered riskier for lenders.

Benefits of Conventional Loans

There are several benefits to obtaining a conventional loan, including:

  • Lower interest rates compared to some government-backed loans
  • No mortgage insurance required if the borrower puts down at least 20% of the home's value
  • More flexibility in terms of property type and loan amount
  • No upfront funding fee or monthly premiums like with some government-backed loans

Drawbacks of Conventional Loans

While there are many benefits to conventional loans, they also come with some drawbacks, including:

  • Stricter eligibility requirements compared to some government-backed loans
  • Higher credit score standards
  • May require larger down payments compared to some government-backed loans
  • May have more limited options for borrowers with lower credit scores or lower down payments

Should You Get a Conventional Loan?

Whether or not you should get a conventional loan depends on your individual financial situation and goals. If you have a good credit score and can afford a larger down payment, a conventional loan may be a good option for you. However, if you have a lower credit score or cannot afford a large down payment, you may want to consider a government-backed loan instead.

Tips for Qualifying for a Conventional Loan

If you're interested in obtaining a conventional loan, here are some tips to improve your chances of qualifying:

  • Maintain a good credit score (generally around 620 or higher)
  • Save up for a larger down payment (at least 10-20% of the home's value)
  • Keep your debt-to-income ratio low
  • Have a steady source of income
  • Shop around for lenders to find the best rates and terms

Why Choose Mortgage Brokers Pro ?

If you're looking for a lender to help you obtain a conventional loan, Mortgage Brokers Pro is a great choice. Our experienced team of mortgage professionals can help guide you through the process and find the best loan options for your individual needs. We offer competitive rates and flexible terms, so you can find a loan that fits your budget. Contact us today to learn more about our conventional loan options!

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