Agency Financing Above the Standard Limit
High-balance conventional loans follow Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac guidelines in designated high-cost counties — delivering better rates and lower down payments than jumbo, with loan amounts up to $1,209,750.
$806,501–$1,209,750
Loan Range
5%
Min. Down Payment
620
Min. Credit Score
Fannie / Freddie
Agency Backed
Overview
The Sweet Spot Between Conforming and Jumbo
In high-cost counties across Oregon and California, the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) sets higher conforming loan limits — known as high-balance or 'super-conforming' limits. For 2026, these ceilings reach up to $1,209,750 in designated areas. Loans in this range still follow Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac guidelines, which means they can be sold on the secondary market and carry the rate advantages and flexibility that come with agency backing.
The practical result for borrowers: you get access to loan amounts well above the standard $832,750 limit without crossing into jumbo territory. That means lower down payments (as little as 5%), PMI that cancels automatically, lower reserve requirements, and rates that are meaningfully better than most jumbo products. If your purchase price falls between the standard conforming limit and roughly $1.5 million in a qualifying high-cost area, a high-balance loan is almost certainly worth exploring first.
Who This Is For
Not Sure Which Limit Applies in Your County?
High-balance loan limits vary by county and change annually. Call us or request a consultation — we'll confirm the exact limit for your target area and determine whether a high-balance or jumbo loan is the better fit for your purchase price and financial profile.
Key Features
What Makes This Program Work
Agency-Backed Security
Follows Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac guidelines — eligible for sale to the secondary market, which translates to lower rates and more standardized underwriting than true jumbo loans.
As Low as 5% Down
Unlike jumbo loans that typically require 10–20% down, qualifying high-balance loans allow down payments as low as 5% for primary residences with strong credit.
Better Rates Than Jumbo
Because these loans follow agency guidelines, pricing is typically 0.25–0.75% lower than comparable jumbo products — a significant savings on a $1M+ loan over 30 years.
PMI Cancels at 80% LTV
Unlike most jumbo loans, high-balance loans that require PMI have it automatically cancel once your loan balance reaches 80% of the original home value — just like a standard conventional loan.
Fixed & ARM Options
Choose from 15-, 20-, or 30-year fixed terms, or a 5/1, 7/1, or 10/1 ARM for buyers who expect to sell or refinance within the initial fixed period.
High-Cost County Access
Available in FHFA-designated high-cost counties throughout Oregon and California — including Portland metro, the Bay Area, Los Angeles, San Diego, and select coastal markets.
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Requirements
General Qualifications
Ready to See If You Qualify?
Every borrower's situation is unique. Give us 15 minutes and we'll review your financial picture, identify every program you qualify for, and walk you through your options — at no cost and with no obligation.
Licensed in Oregon & California · NMLS #1498678
Related Programs
Conventional Loans
If your loan amount falls under $832,750, a standard conventional loan offers the lowest rates and most program flexibility.
Jumbo Loans
Need more than $1,209,750? Our jumbo program covers loan amounts up to $3M+ with customized underwriting.
First-Time Buyer Programs
First-time buyers in high-cost markets may combine high-balance financing with down payment assistance programs.
FAQ
Common Questions
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Our loan officers will review your scenario, walk you through your options, and guide you from application to close — with full transparency at every step.