Jumbo Home Loans for California Buyers

In 2026 the standard FHFA conforming loan limit is $806,500 in most California counties. In 17 designated high-cost counties — including Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego, San Francisco, Santa Clara, San Mateo, Alameda, and Ventura — the ceiling rises to $1,209,750. Any loan amount above the limit for your county is a jumbo loan.

Not always. Historically jumbo rates ran above conforming rates, but the gap has narrowed and sometimes reverses. Jumbo borrowers typically have strong credit and large reserves, which lenders compete for aggressively. Your actual rate depends on credit score, down payment, loan amount, property type, and current market conditions. Call for current pricing on your scenario.

Most jumbo programs require 10 to 20 percent down on a primary residence. Some lenders accept 5 percent down with strong credit and reserves. Second homes and investment properties typically need 20 to 30 percent down. We match your down payment, credit, and loan amount to the lender that fits best.

Yes. Beyond traditional tax-return underwriting, we offer bank statement programs (12 to 24 months of deposits), profit-and-loss programs, and asset-based qualification. These are built for business owners, 1099 contractors, and high-net-worth borrowers whose returns do not reflect their true income.

Most jumbo lenders want a 700 minimum, with 740 or higher unlocking the best pricing. Some niche programs accept lower scores with larger down payments and reserves. We review your full credit profile and identify which lender will price your scenario most aggressively.

Some lenders require a second appraisal once the loan amount crosses $1.5 million or $2 million. The threshold varies by lender and program. We let you know upfront whether your file needs one and factor the cost into your closing estimate.

Yes. Interest-only jumbo programs typically offer a 10-year interest-only period followed by a 20-year fully amortizing schedule. They reduce required monthly payments during the I/O window, which helps buyers with bonus-heavy compensation, equity vesting, or other investment priorities.

Yes. Jumbo cash-out is available in California with loan-to-value limits that depend on the program — typically 70 to 80 percent of current appraised value. It is a common move for owners with significant equity who want to fund a renovation, buy another property, or consolidate higher-rate debt.

The 17 California high-cost counties at the $1,209,750 ceiling for 2026 are Alameda, Contra Costa, Los Angeles, Marin, Monterey, Napa, Orange, San Benito, San Diego, San Francisco, San Luis Obispo, San Mateo, Santa Barbara, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Sonoma, and Ventura. All other California counties use the standard $806,500 limit.