Choosing a Conventional Mortgage: Information for Home Buyers

When researching a conventional mortgage, it may initially seem like a government-backed option, like an FHA or USDA loan, is the better choice. However, the rates and terms of a conventional mortgage can be a better option for some borrowers, especially those who have saved for a down payment in order to afford a home—the following information details what home buyers should know when considering a conventional mortgage.

For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed mortgage or home loan professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.

How Conventional Mortgages Have Changed

It's important for buyers to first understand the basics of a conventional mortgage before shopping around. These loans have never been backed by the government, meaning a lender has to take full responsibility if a buyer is unable to make their monthly payments. However, the standards of a conventional loan have changed as a result of the FHA loan gaining so much traction in the market. Before, a lender might only approve a conventional loan from a borrower with a down payment of 15% or more. Now, they may approve a loan with as little as a 3% down payment in order to compete with the 3.5% down payment minimum of an FHA.

The Terms of a Conventional Loan

Despite the relaxation of the down payment minimums, the terms for a conventional mortgage are generally more stringent. Borrowers should have a relatively high credit score and a relatively low debt-to-income ratio (DTI). The minimum is usually 620 for credit and under 50% for a DTI, but lenders may want to see better numbers.

PMI Is Typically Required Until the Homeowner Reaches 20% Equity

Lenders regard homeowners with more equity as less likely to default, which is why borrowers are encouraged to save 20% for a down payment. A buyer with less equity will be seen as a higher risk to a lender and will likely need to pay Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI). With this type of insurance, the lender can safeguard themselves in case of a defaulting buyer. This way, if the home loses value or the lender needs to spend money in order to resell it, they can rely on the cost of PMI to be covered by an insurance company. This policy is in the lender's name, but it's the homeowner that ultimately pays the costs of the premium on a conventional loan.

Conventional Loan Rates Will Vary

There are several reasons why interest rates will change:

• Inflation or deflation
• Federal Reserve adjusts its benchmark rates
• Major financial news disrupts the market
• Mortgage-backed security trading dips or rises

Loan rates can change on an hourly basis, a fact that can quickly confound first-time buyers. This is part of the reason why lenders will inform their borrowers to lock in rates quickly once they've made their final decisions.

Some Conventional Loans Are Nonconforming

A non-conforming loan is one that falls outside the parameters set by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. These federally-backed institutions encourage lenders to approve borrowers who have a healthy financial past. Lenders who want to take a risk by approving an applicant with a recent bankruptcy, for example, will have to step outside the bounds and grant a nonconforming loan. Conforming loans typically have better rates and terms than a non-conforming one.

Alternatives to the Conventional Loan

If a conventional loan isn't for you, no matter what the reason, investigate available options. FHA loans ask for only 3.5%, but making a larger down payment may help you qualify for a lower interest rate.

VA loans for eligible borrowers require zero down and also place limitations on additional charges. In addition, there is no requirement for PMI with a VA loan, but you'll pay a one-time funding fee at closing.

In some areas, there may be other loan options that you can qualify for. The best course of action is to shop for the most favorable terms and the lowest interest rate by working with a reputable mortgage broker or shopping several lenders.

When Is a Conventional Loan the Right Choice?

While PMI may sound like a high price to pay, it may be less expensive than an FHA loan. There's also the matter of researching the conforming limits in an area, as they will change based on the area in which the borrower is looking. Finally, borrowers should consider the general economic climate when searching for a loan.

The best way for a borrower to decide is to visit several lenders and get the terms for different types of loans. Whether it's a 30-year conventional mortgage or a 15-year FHA, borrowers need to factor in the interest, fees, and rate changes that will affect how much they pay over the lifetime of the loan.

For informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed mortgage or home loan professional before proceeding with any real estate transaction.