Jumbo Mortgage Options for Higher-Priced Homes
A jumbo loan is a mortgage that exceeds the conforming loan limit that applies to the property’s county. These loans can help qualified borrowers finance higher-priced homes in Maryland, Washington, DC and Virginia when a conventional conforming loan is not large enough.
2026 Conforming Loan Limits
For 2026, the baseline conforming loan limit for a one-unit property is $832,750. The maximum one-unit limit in designated high-cost areas is $1,249,125. Because limits vary by county and property type, the property location must be reviewed before determining whether financing is conforming or jumbo. Current county limits can be confirmed using the FHFA Conforming Loan Limit Map.
How Jumbo Financing Is Different
Jumbo mortgages are not purchased under the standard Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac conforming guidelines. Each jumbo investor establishes its own requirements, so available options can differ significantly.
Depending on the loan program and borrower profile, jumbo financing may involve:
- Higher minimum credit-score requirements
- Larger down payments
- Additional cash-reserve requirements
- More detailed income and asset documentation
- Limits based on property type, occupancy and total financed properties
Some qualified borrowers may have access to lower-down-payment jumbo options. Available loan amounts, rates and requirements depend on the complete financial and property scenario.
Choosing the Right Jumbo Loan
Jumbo financing is not one-size-fits-all. We compare available programs and review credit, income, assets, property type, planned occupancy and long-term goals before recommending an option.
The Chris Jordan Mortgage Team serves borrowers throughout Maryland, Washington, DC and Virginia. Call (240) 670-5090, email CJMT@mainstreethl.com, or begin your prequalification online.
Loan programs, guidelines and availability are subject to change. This information is not a commitment to lend. All financing is subject to application, documentation, property eligibility and underwriting approval.
