Loan Program
High‑Balance Conforming Loans in California
For California's higher‑cost counties: loan amounts above the baseline conforming limit but within the county's high‑cost ceiling — under conventional guidelines.
High‑balance conforming loans sit between the standard conforming limit and a full jumbo loan. In designated high‑cost California counties, the conforming ceiling is raised, so some higher loan amounts can still follow conventional guidelines instead of jumbo guidelines.
Whether your scenario is high‑balance conforming or jumbo depends on your county's limit and your loan amount — something a licensed mortgage professional can confirm.
Who it's for
- Buyers in high‑cost California counties above the baseline limit
- Homeowners refinancing within the county high‑cost ceiling
- Borrowers who prefer conventional guidelines over jumbo
What's typically reviewed
- Your county's current high‑cost conforming ceiling
- Credit and income documentation
- Down payment or equity
- Occupancy and property type
Why borrowers choose it
- Conventional guidelines on higher loan amounts in high‑cost counties
- Potential alternative to a full jumbo loan
- Options for low‑down‑payment scenarios where eligible
FAQ
High‑Balance Conforming — common questions
How is high‑balance conforming different from jumbo?
High‑balance conforming stays within the county's raised conforming ceiling and follows conventional guidelines; jumbo exceeds that ceiling and uses jumbo guidelines. Limits vary by county.
Do California loan limits change?
Yes — conforming and high‑cost limits are set annually and vary by county. A licensed mortgage professional can confirm the current figure for your area.
Is mortgage insurance required?
It depends on your down payment and program. We help organize the scenario so the options can be reviewed.
Explore other California loan programs
Jumbo Loans
Financing above conforming limits for California's higher‑value homes.
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Government‑backed financing with flexible qualifying and a low down payment.
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$0‑down options and no monthly mortgage insurance for eligible veterans.
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Qualify an investment property using rental cash flow — not personal income.
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Use bank deposits to document income — built for self‑employed borrowers.
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Bank statement, 1099, P&L, and Non‑QM paths for complex income.
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A common path for primary homes, second homes, and investment properties.
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Access home equity for renovations, investing, or consolidation.
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Flexible programs for unique income, credit, or property scenarios.
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Vacation and second‑home options across California.
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Condo‑specific guidelines for California condominium purchases and refinances.
Learn moreSee Which Program Fits Your Scenario
Start with your situation — a few simple questions, then a licensed mortgage professional can review the right path.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a loan approval, loan commitment, or rate quote. Program availability, terms, and eligibility are subject to review and approval by a licensed mortgage professional.