Standard conforming
Within the national baseline for the property’s unit count.
Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac eligibility rules apply, along with the lender’s requirements.
Room for bigger plans
Jumbo Loans
More borrowing power.
A mortgage that fits your bigger plans.
Buying or refinancing a home with a larger mortgage? Explore financing beyond your county’s conforming loan limit, with guidance that starts with your goals and finances.
Explore My Jumbo OptionsStart with the right category
What makes a loan Jumbo?
A Jumbo Loan is a conventional mortgage with a loan amount above the conforming limit for the property’s county and number of units. Because it exceeds that limit, it is not eligible for purchase by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac.
In designated high-cost counties, a loan above the national baseline can still be conforming. This is commonly called high-balance conforming financing. We start by checking the county limit, then compare the financing paths that fit your situation.
Location changes the answer
High-cost areas have higher loan limits.
Here’s how the same mortgage amount can fall into a different category depending on where you buy.
| Property location | Conforming limit | A $900,000 mortgage |
|---|---|---|
| Duval County, FL Jacksonville | $832,750 | Above the limit → Jumbo |
| Monroe County, FL Florida Keys | $990,150 | Within the limit → High-balance conforming may fit |
| Los Angeles County, CA | $1,249,125 | Within the limit → High-balance conforming may fit |
The county limit is just the starting point. A loan within the limit must also meet the applicable underwriting and property requirements to qualify as conforming.
Not every expensive neighborhood is in a designated high-cost county. Two- to four-unit properties have different limits. Find a Broker to check your county’s loan limit →
Compare your paths
Conforming, high-balance, or Jumbo?
High-balance conforming
Above the baseline, but within the higher limit in an eligible high-cost county.
Still conforming. Additional high-balance requirements and different pricing may apply.
Jumbo
Above the applicable county conforming limit.
Maximum amounts, documentation, reserves, and other requirements depend on the lender and program.
Your finances, in focus
What lenders look at
There isn’t one set of requirements for every Jumbo Loan.
Credit and monthly debts
Your credit history and debt-to-income ratio help the lender evaluate your ability to repay.
Income and documentation
Expect a review of earnings and supporting records. Self-employed borrowers may need business and tax documents.
Down payment and reserves
The lender reviews your equity or down payment and eligible assets remaining after closing.
Property and loan structure
Loan size, property type, occupancy, appraisal, and the selected program influence eligibility.
A broker in your corner
Compare the whole mortgage.
A useful comparison looks beyond the interest rate. Consider closing costs, the total payment, cash needed at closing, reserve requirements, and how long you expect to keep the mortgage.
We help you review the available lender options and understand how they fit your plans. Discuss fixed and adjustable structures, purchase or refinance goals, and any special income documentation needs with your broker.
Get a clearer picture
Jumbo Loan questions
Do I have to put 20% down?
Not necessarily. Down-payment requirements vary by lender, loan amount, property, and borrower profile. Your broker can confirm the options available for your situation.
Can I qualify if I’m self-employed?
Self-employment does not automatically rule out Jumbo financing. The lender must verify qualifying income and review the required documents. If tax returns do not fully reflect your income, ask your broker whether a separate alternative-documentation program fits.
How much can I borrow?
There is no single nationwide maximum Jumbo Loan amount. The available amount depends on the lender’s program, your finances, and the property.
Does Jumbo mean Non-QM?
No. Jumbo describes a loan amount above the applicable conforming limit. Non-QM describes a different mortgage category related to Qualified Mortgage criteria. A Jumbo Loan can be a Qualified Mortgage.
Does the limit apply to the price of the home?
No. The conforming limit applies to the mortgage amount. A higher-priced home may still qualify for conforming financing if the mortgage amount stays within the applicable limit and all other requirements are met.
Sources and program information
Research checked October 9, 2026. Loan limits shown are for calendar year 2026.
Sources: FHFA county loan limits, Fannie Mae loan limits, and CFPB conventional-loan guidance. Jumbo requirements vary by lender and program. Availability and approval depend on your application, property, and lender review.
Your next step
Make room for what’s next.
Let’s review your county, loan amount, and financing goals.