Conforming loan explained

A conforming loan is one that fits the Federal Housing Finance Agency’s (FHFA) monetary restrictions as well as Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae’s funding conditions. Conforming loans are helpful for customers with great credit because of their low interest rates.

Conforming loan process

The Federal National Mortgage Association and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation are government-sponsored organizations that help to drive the housing market. These quasi-governmental agencies have created standardized rules and guidelines to which mortgages for one-unit properties must conform if they are to be eligible for the agencies’ backing.

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac do not lend money to people. Instead, they guarantee mortgages issued by lenders like banks and operate as secondary market makers for lenders that want to sell their mortgages.

Different loan restrictions apply in Alaska, Hawaii, Guam, and the US Virgin Islands due to special statutory provisions. In these places, the baseline loan limit for one-unit houses is also $970,800 in 2022.

Difference between conforming loans and nonconforming loans?

Nonconforming or jumbo mortgages are those that are larger than the conforming loan limit. Nonconforming loans are in significantly lower demand since Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac only acquire conforming loans to repackage for the secondary market.

Nonconforming mortgage terms and conditions vary greatly from lender to lender, but the interest rate and minimum down payment are often higher because the lender is taking on more risk with these loans. Not only does the loan need extra money, but it also cannot be insured by government-sponsored institutions.

Conforming loan limits of 2022

For most of the United States, the baseline limit for 2022 is $647,200. The restriction is greater in some high-cost regions, such as San Francisco and New York City. The cap for these places in 2022 is $970,800, which is 150 percent of the current $647,200.

Conforming loan vs VA loan

When it comes to conforming loans vs VA loans, it’s usually a no-brainer: if you’re eligible, go with the VA loan in South Carolina. Mortgage loans, however, aren’t one-size-fits-all, and your circumstances may be unique. Even if they’re VA-qualified, some homeowners are better off with a standard loan. Fortunately, weighing your options is simple.
Your mortgage lender can compare the costs of a VA loan vs. a conventional loan and help you choose the best option for you. 

If you have any other questions regarding Conforming loans, contact the mortgage experts at 864-397-8500 or click Mortgage Rates Today!