What happens if I need a loan above $832,750?
Above the conforming limit, the loan moves to jumbo (a non-agency loan) unless the property is in a high-cost county where the conforming limit goes up to $1,249,125 in 2026. Jumbo has different qualifying rules, often stricter credit and reserves, and pricing varies by lender.
What this actually means.
Three paths above $832,750: 1) High-cost area conforming — if the property's county has a higher local limit (up to $1,249,125 in 2026), the loan stays conforming with similar pricing; 2) Jumbo loan — non-agency, often requires 720+ credit, 6-12 months reserves, larger down payment (10-20%+), and pricing is lender-specific; 3) Conforming + 2nd mortgage (piggyback) — split the loan into a conforming first mortgage and a HELOC or second to keep the first below the limit. Subject to lender programs.
Where this can move.
FHFA county limits update annually. Confirm against the current FHFA conforming loan limit lookup before structuring an offer.
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More conventional questions on Loan Limits.
Educational only. Conventional loan guidelines, lender overlays, rates, fees, PMI, LLPAs, and underwriting requirements can change. Final eligibility depends on full underwriting review. Mortgage Expert, Inc. is not affiliated with Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, FHFA, or any government agency.