Jumbo Loans- Frequently Asked Questions

JUMBO LOAN FAQ

What is a jumbo loan?
A jumbo loan, considered a non-conforming loan, is a loan for an amount that exceeds the conventional loan limit. This limit is determined by the Federal National Mortgage Association (FNMA) or Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (FHLMC) guidelines. The limit for a conventional loan is currently $ 417,000, and the limit for high high balance conforming loans is upt to $729,750 or higher in some markets. Anything over these expanded conforming limits is a Jumbo loan.

How does the interest rates for jumbo loans compare to that of conventional loans?

The interest rate on a jumbo loan is usually higher than that of a conforming loan because the risks to the lender are higher. For example, if the buyer defaults, a luxury home is hard to sell quickly at its full value. Luxury homes are simply more vulnerable to market highs and lows. Because of this, jumbo loan interest rates usually run between .25% and .5% higher, and have jumped as high as 1% higher during times of housing turmoil or high investor anxiety. Other factors that determine the interest rate include property types and mortgage amounts.

Do jumbo loans require a down payment?

Yes. In fact, lenders often require a higher than usual down-payment on a jumbo loan, commonly an additional 5%, in an attempt to alleviate the high risk they assume by carrying the loan.

Can you refinance a jumbo loan?

Yes, the amount that can be borrowed is determined by the value of the property and acceptable loan to value guidelines which may vary by lender and investor.

Are jumbo loans only used for 2^nd homes or vacation homes?

No. In fact, homes in many big cities and their surrounding suburbs require a jumbo loan because of the steep rise in housing prices. To make these loans more affordable, some lenders offer a 40 or 50 year repayment option. Others give borrowers the option of making interest only payments, allowing borrowers to purchase homes that would have been otherwise impossible to afford.

Do I have to maintain Private Mortgage Insurance (“PMI”) on a jumbo loan?

Not always. There are ways to avoid paying PMI. PMI is only required for those who borrow more than 80% of the value of their home. As long as the Loan to Value (“LTV”) ratio is under 80%, PMI is optional. Many choose to split the mortgage into two parts, borrowing 80% with a jumbo loan and borrowing the rest with a higher interest 2^nd mortgage. This alleviates the need for PMI on the primary/jumbo loan.