Conventional Home Loans
Often referred to as the “Traditional Mortgage”, a conventional loan is a great way to finance the purchase of a home and will typically appeal to buyers that have good credit and money for a down payment. If you’re a buyer with less than perfect credit or need a lower down payment option, the conventional loan may not be right for you. Every loan program has its pros and cons and we will help find the best fit for your situation when we run thru the loan application.
Pros for conventional loan?
- As little as 3% down for owner occupants
- For investors; 15% down single family and 25% down 2-4 units
- Great Rates
- Low private mortgage insurance (PMI) with good credit
- PMI monthly premiums “drop off” (must meet requirements)
- No PMI required if down payment is 20% or more
- Most lenient appraisal process
- Appraisal Waivers available
- Works with down payment assistance programs like MSHDA for people in Michigan
- 15, 20, & 30 year options are available
- Ability to finance in renovations with the Conventional Homestyle Loan
Cons to conventional loans
- Rates are based on credit score; the lower the score the higher the rate
- 620 is the minimum credit score where other programs allow for lower scores (exception is some averaging of credit scores)
- PMI premiums can be higher if the credit scores are low
- Guidelines for a borrower to qualify are stricter compared to other loan programs
Conventional loans are one of the best options out there for many home buyers. Everyone’s situation is different call us today at 269.360.7109 to start the process and figure out the best program for you!
Latest Blog Post
Conventional vs USDA Loan Michigan: Your 2026 Mortgage Flight Plan
The “obvious” choice for your mortgage might actually be the most expensive path if you don’t account for the unique terrain of the West Michigan housing market. While you might assume a massive down payment is the only way to avoid financial turbulence, comparing a Conventional vs USDA Loan Michigan reveals that the right flight plan often involves much less upfront cash than expected.
We understand that staring at a map of geographic eligibility or weighing monthly mortgage insurance costs can feel like flying through heavy fog. It’s frustrating when you’re ready to move but feel grounded by confusing requirements. This guide will help you compare these options with the precision of a seasoned navigator. You’ll learn how to identify if your dream neighborhood is USDA-eligible, how the 2026 loan limit of $832,750 impacts your Conventional path, and how the $119,850 income limit affects your USDA eligibility. By the end of this flight plan, you’ll have the expert coordinates needed to choose a loan that offers maximum lift for your West Michigan home journey.
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