Loan Comparison
The dividing line is the conforming loan limit set for your county each year. At or below it, you’re in standard conventional territory. Above it, you need a jumbo loan with its own underwriting rules. If your price range sits near the limit, smart structuring can save you significantly.
| Conventional Loan | Jumbo Loan | |
|---|---|---|
| Loan size | Up to the county conforming limit | Above the conforming limit |
| Typical credit score | 620 minimum | 700+ preferred |
| Down payment | As low as 3% | Typically 10–20% |
| Reserves required | Modest | Often 6–12 months of payments |
| Rates | Benchmark conforming pricing | Competitive — sometimes lower than conforming |
| Sold to | Fannie Mae / Freddie Mac | Private investors with their own guidelines |
Near the limit? Sometimes a slightly larger down payment keeps you conforming and unlocks easier qualifying. Well above it, we shop multiple jumbo investors — jumbo pricing is often surprisingly competitive for strong borrowers. High-balance conforming loans in high-cost counties are a third option we always check.
Still Deciding?
We'll price both programs with your actual numbers and show you the payment, cash to close, and long-term cost side by side — no credit pull required.
Questions
It’s the maximum loan size Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will buy, set annually per county. High-cost counties get significantly higher limits. We confirm your county’s current limit before you shop.
Not necessarily. Jumbo borrowers tend to have strong credit, so investors price aggressively — jumbo rates sometimes beat conforming. The real difference is stricter documentation and reserve requirements.
Often, yes. Putting down enough to bring the loan amount to the conforming limit — or pairing a conforming first with a second mortgage — can secure easier qualifying. We model these structures on every high-balance purchase.
About Us
CDL Mortgage Services Inc. is an independent, full-service mortgage company. Instead of pushing one bank’s products, we shop multiple wholesale lenders to secure the best loan at the best rate for every borrower.
Purchase, refinance, and home equity — all under one roof, focused on the best loans at the best rates.
Based at 6524 Lonetree Blvd, Rocklin, CA 95765 and licensed in California, Texas, Georgia, Tennessee, Oklahoma & Idaho.
Every file is handled start-to-finish by a licensed loan officer who knows your name and your goals.
Fully licensed and regulated, with award-winning lender partnerships and 35+ years serving borrowers.
Ready When You Are
One application, multiple wholesale lenders, and a licensed loan officer who explains the tradeoffs before you commit.