What is conventional mortgage?
A conventional mortgage is a type of mortgage loan that is not guaranteed or insured by the government, such as the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), or the Department of Agriculture (USDA). Instead, conventional mortgages are backed by private lenders and investors.
Conventional mortgages typically require a down payment of at least 5% of the home’s purchase price, although a higher down payment may be required to avoid private mortgage insurance (PMI). PMI is a type of insurance that protects the lender in case the borrower defaults on the loan, and it typically costs between 0.3% and 1.5% of the original loan amount per year.
Conventional mortgages also typically have stricter credit and income requirements than government-backed mortgages. Borrowers with good credit scores and a stable income are more likely to be approved for a conventional mortgage, while those with lower credit scores or inconsistent income may have a harder time qualifying.
One advantage of conventional mortgages is that they often offer lower interest rates than government-backed mortgages. Additionally, borrowers who are able to put down a larger down payment may be able to avoid PMI and save money in the long run. However, conventional mortgages may not be the best option for all borrowers, and it’s important to compare different types of mortgages and lenders to find the best option for your financial situation.
Some borrowers may qualify for a 3% down payment conventional loan.