Above the national conforming limit and below the local high-cost ceiling for eligible counties.
Loan Programs
High-balance loans for buyers above the standard conforming limit
When the home price sits above the national conforming cap but below the local high-cost ceiling, a high-balance loan can offer agency-style pricing without pushing you into a full jumbo structure.
High-balance, high-cost, and super-conforming are often used interchangeably. In the DC metro area, these loans can be a smart way to stretch loan amount while keeping the pricing and underwriting advantages that come with conforming execution.
Often as low as 5 percent for one-unit primary homes.
Typically stronger pricing begins around 680 and improves further above 700.
Many files need only one appraisal, unlike some jumbo transactions.
Why Borrowers Choose This Program
High-Balance Loan advantages at a glance.
- Near-conforming pricing for higher loan amounts in high-cost counties.
- Flexible down payment options for move-up buyers.
- One set of agency-aligned guidelines rather than a completely custom jumbo structure.
- Guidance on local transfer taxes and closing-cost strategy in Maryland, Virginia, and DC.
- Fast timelines supported by warehouse funding relationships and experienced underwriting coordination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Helpful detail before you apply.
How is a high-balance loan different from a jumbo loan?
A high-balance loan still follows Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac high-cost limits, while a jumbo loan exceeds those limits and uses portfolio-style underwriting.
How much can I put down?
Primary-home buyers can sometimes qualify with as little as 5 percent down, depending on credit and occupancy.
Does PMI apply?
It can, but in many cases PMI can later be removed once you reach the right loan-to-value threshold.
How long do high-balance loans take to close?
With a complete file, many close in roughly 21 to 30 days.
Start The Process
Tell us a bit about your High-Balance Loan scenario.
We will review your information, organize next steps, and tell you which documents will move the file forward fastest.
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