Conventional Loans

The standard, built around you.

Conventional loans aren't backed by a government agency, but they remain the most widely used mortgage type in the country — for both purchasing a home and refinancing one, with competitive rates for buyers and homeowners with steady credit and income.

Think conventional financing fits your goals?
Down Payment
As low as 3% for qualifying buyers
Credit Score
Lender Specific
Mortgage Insurance
PMI, cancellable at 20% equity
Best For
Buyers avoiding FHA's lifetime MIP, plus refinances
Is this you?

A common fit if you’re

01

Working with solid credit and stable income

Conventional loans reward stronger credit profiles with competitive rates.

02

Looking to eventually drop mortgage insurance

PMI cancels automatically once you reach 20% equity, unlike FHA's MIP.

03

Buying a second home or investment property

Conventional financing covers more property types than most government-backed programs.

04

Refinancing to remove FHA mortgage insurance

Many homeowners refinance from FHA into a conventional loan specifically to eliminate lifetime mortgage insurance once they've built enough equity.

FAQ

Common questions

What's the difference between conventional and FHA loans?

Conventional loans aren't government-backed and generally require stronger credit, but they allow mortgage insurance to be removed once you build enough equity, while FHA mortgage insurance often lasts the life of the loan.

Do I need 20% down for a conventional loan?

No — many conventional programs allow as little as 3% down for qualifying first-time buyers, though PMI applies until you reach 20% equity.

What are conforming loan limits?

Conventional loans that meet Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac guidelines are called “conforming” loans, capped at limits set annually by the Federal Housing Finance Agency. Loans above that limit are considered jumbo.

Can I use a conventional loan to refinance?

Yes — conventional refinances are common for lowering your rate, changing your term, or doing a cash-out refinance, and they're often used to move out of FHA financing once you have enough equity to avoid PMI.

Conventional Loans from United Financial
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