The Ultimate Guide to Conventional Loan Programs
Getting a mortgage is one of the most significant financial decisions you'll make, and a conventional loan is a popular path to homeownership. However, understanding the nuances - from down payments to debt-to-income ratios - can be challenging. This article library is designed to simplify the process. We've curated our best resources to help you understand conventional loan requirements, compare programs, and answer your most pressing questions. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to refinance, these articles provide the clarity you need.
Start Here: Key Pages & Tools
Begin your journey with our main guides and essential tools. Learn the fundamentals, check current rates, and explore our calculators.
Conventional Loan Basics
Master the core requirements for a conventional mortgage. From credit scores to down payments, get a clear picture of what it takes to qualify.
The Full Conventional Loan Checklist for 2026
Credit Score Requirements for a Conventional Mortgage
Understanding DTI for a Conventional Loan
How to Qualify for a Conventional Loan: A Step-by-Step Guide
How Much Down Payment Is Needed?
Pros and Cons of a Conventional Loan
3% Down Payment Programs
If a 20% down payment feels out of reach, you have options. Explore these low-down-payment conventional loan programs designed to make homeownership more accessible.
The Conventional 97 Loan: Buy a Home with 3% Down
HomeReady Mortgage from Fannie Mae
Home Possible Loan from Freddie Mac
HomeOne Loan: A 3% Down Option with No Income Limits
Conventional 97 vs. FHA Loan: Which is Better?
HomeReady vs. FHA: A Detailed Comparison
HomeReady vs. Home Possible: Key Differences
PMI, Escrow, Appraisals & More
Don't let PMI or the appraisal process catch you off guard. Learn how these key components of the mortgage process work and what they mean for your wallet.
Mortgage Calculators & Tools
Crunch the numbers with confidence. Use our suite of mortgage calculators to understand your budget, compare loan programs, and plan your path to homeownership.
Mortgage Comparisons: FHA, VA, & Jumbo Loans
Deciding which loan is right for you? Our side-by-side comparisons help you weigh the pros and cons of conventional loans against FHA, VA, and jumbo loans.
Investment Properties, Second Homes & Cash-Out Refinance
Explore loan options for more complex real estate situations, whether you're buying an investment property, a second home, or tapping into your home's equity.
ARM, Buydowns & Interest Rates
Find out if an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) or a temporary rate buydown could be the right strategy for you.
Refinancing with Conventional Loans
Explore your refinancing options. From standard rate/term refis to special programs like Fannie Mae's RefiNow, learn how to potentially lower your payment.
Special Topics: Co-Signers, Seller Concessions, & More
Learn about specific scenarios, from using a co-signer to understanding seller concessions and gift funds.
More Helpful Mortgage Resources
Find answers to specific questions about credit, bankruptcy, home warranties, and the underwriting process.
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