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If you’re planning to buy a higher-priced home, you may be looking to finance your purchase with a jumbo loan. And you’re probably also wondering about the difference between a jumbo and a conventional loan.

A jumbo loan is necessary to purchase a home where the loan amount is above the conforming loan limit values set by the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA). Conforming loan limits change every year. For 2023, the limit for a single-unit property is $726,200 for most counties across the U.S. In high-cost areas, this amount increases to $1,089,300.

If you’re buying a home below this amount, you can finance with a traditional, conventional, conforming mortgage, or perhaps through one of several first-time home buyer programs. But if you need a mortgage that goes above the conforming loan limit, you’re going to be looking at a jumbo loan, so it’s time to get familiar with how to qualify and how the costs compare to other loans.

Recommended: The Cost of Living by State

What’s the Difference Between Jumbo and Conventional Loans?

Here’s a surprise: There isn’t really a difference between a jumbo and a conventional loan. Jumbo loans are conventional. “Conventional” simply means that a loan isn’t backed by a specific government agency such as the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), or U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

Many people get tangled up in the terminology. While jumbo loans are conventional, they are not “conforming.” Though the terms conventional and conforming are often used interchangeably (and mistakenly), a conforming loan is one that falls within the FHFA limits, meaning the lender can sell it to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to increase its liquidity. (Again, in 2023, the amount is $726,200 for most areas in the U.S., but can go up to $1,089,300 for high cost of living areas. If you’re wondering about your specific region, have a look at the conforming loan levels by state.)

💡 Quick Tip: One answer to rising house prices is a jumbo loan. Apply for a jumbo loan online with SoFi, and you could finance up to $2.5 million with as little as 10% down. Get preapproved and you’ll be prepared to compete in a hot market.

A jumbo loan exceeds these limits and is, thus, non-conforming. So when you’re comparing jumbo loans against other loans, you’re really comparing non-conforming loans against conforming loans. Other differences that affect borrowers are summarized in the table below:

	Conforming Loan	Jumbo Non-conforming Loan
Loan amount	Below $726,200 for most areas, $1,089,300 for high-cost areas	Above $726,200 for most areas, above $1,089,300 for high-cost areas
Loan type	Fixed or variable rate	Fixed or variable rate
Down payment	Can be as low as 3%	Usually 10% or more
Credit score	660+	700+
Income requirements	Lower income requirements	Higher income requirements. For example, a payment on a $726,200 mortgage at 6.7% interest would be $4,969. In order for your payment to not exceed 28% of your monthly income (the margin of safety, you would need to make $17,746 per month or $212,952 per year.
Cash reserves or assets	Not required	6 to 12 months may be needed
How the loan is backed	Backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac	Not backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac

How to Qualify for a Jumbo Loan

Requirements for jumbo loans are more stringent than those for other types of loans. Because these types of mortgages can’t be sold to Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, the lender takes on more risk should the borrower default.

These requirements include:

•   Debt-to-income (DTI) ratio. You need plenty of income to qualify for a jumbo loan. Qualified mortgages require a DTI of 43% or lower.

•   High credit score. Lenders want to be sure you’ll repay the loan, especially since it’s a much larger amount. A credit score of 700 or above is recommended.

•   Assets. Lenders look for cash that can be used to pay the mortgage. To be safe, you may want to put aside enough money to cover the mortgage for 6 to 12 months.

What to Know About Jumbo Loan Mortgage Rates

Prospective jumbo loan borrowers often wonder, “Are jumbo loan rates higher than other loans?” Jumbo conventional loans don’t automatically have higher interest rates and can be competitive with conforming conventional loan interest rates. They fluctuate with market conditions. Sometimes, they’re even lower than conventional loan interest rates.

You may be able to check your jumbo loan rate with your lender before submitting a full application.

Jumbo Loan Closing Costs

With a larger loan amount, you can also expect jumbo loan closing costs to be higher. While many closing costs are fixed, there are others that are larger due to percentage-based compensation closing costs.

Should I Choose a Jumbo Mortgage?

If you have the option to choose between a jumbo loan vs. a conforming loan, (such as when you have enough money to reduce the principal loan amount so that it qualifies as a conforming loan), you’ll want to ask yourself if it’s worth it to put down the extra money to qualify for a conforming conventional loan. There are some specific scenarios where a jumbo loan vs. a conforming loan makes sense.

💡 Quick Tip: To see a house in person, particularly in a tight or expensive market, you may need to show the real estate agent proof that you’re preapproved for a mortgage. SoFi’s online application makes the process simple.

When to Choose a Jumbo Mortgage

Borrowers who should consider jumbo mortgages:

•   If you’re looking for a luxury home

•   If you’re buying a vacation home

•   If you live in a high-cost area

•   If you have a great credit score

•   If you have a strong DTI ratio

•   If you have plenty of income

When to Choose a Conventional Mortgage

Borrowers who should consider conventional mortgages:

•   If you have moderate income

•   If you’re looking for a moderately priced home

•   If the mortgage amount is below the conforming loan limits

•   If you need a down payment lower than 10%

•   If your cash reserves after your down payment will be limited

If you’re close to the conforming loan limits, you may also want to consider a piggyback mortgage. If you’re able to obtain a piggyback loan, you may be able to buy your home with a conventional, conforming mortgage instead of a jumbo loan.

How it works: A piggyback loan allows you to take a second loan to “piggyback” off the first mortgage with the purpose of lending you enough money to avoid a jumbo mortgage or the PMI that comes with a down payment less than 20%. It’s essentially a second mortgage, and you’ll be making a second payment to cover it.

The Takeaway

When it comes to whether or not to choose a jumbo loan, the decision may be made for you based on the price of the home you want to buy. Mortgages above the conforming loan limit need jumbo loan financing. If you want a conforming, conventional loan, you’ll need to get a mortgage below $726,200 for most areas in the U.S. and $1,089,300 for high cost of living areas.

When you’re ready to take the next step, consider what SoFi Home Loans have to offer. Jumbo loans are offered with competitive interest rates, no private mortgage insurance, and down payments as low as 10%.

SoFi Mortgage Loans: We make the home loan process smart and simple.

FAQ

Are jumbo rates higher than a conventional mortgage?

Jumbo rates fluctuate with market conditions. They may be on par with rates of loans that fall within the limits for conforming loans set by the Federal Housing Finance Agency (so-called conforming loans). Sometimes, they’re even lower.

What is the downside of a jumbo mortgage?

Possible downsides of a jumbo mortgage include requirements for a higher down payment, higher credit score, more cash reserves, and a higher monthly payment because of the higher home price.

Do jumbo loans have PMI?

Private mortgage insurance is not always required on jumbo loans. Whether or not PMI is needed will depend on your lender and the size of your down payment.

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Photo credit: iStock/courtneyk

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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Most people you know who have bought a home have probably done so with the help of a Realtor® or real estate agent. In fact, a 2023 report shows that 89% of home purchases involve a Realtor or broker. (Realtors, by the way, are real estate agents who belong to the National Association of Realtors, requiring them to adhere to a certain code of ethics; we’ll use the terms interchangeably here.)

But agents may charge a fee, so you might be asking yourself, “Do I need a Realtor or real estate agent to buy a house?” The answer is no — you aren’t required to go through a professional to complete the transaction.

That said, doing without an agent is not a decision to make lightly. Buying a house is likely the biggest investment you’ll ever make. So if you make a mistake in the home-buying process, there’s a lot of money and possibly other risks on the line. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of going solo as a home shopper.

What Does a Real Estate Agent Do?

Before you decide whether or not to forgo a real estate agent, it can be a good idea to brush up on what they actually do.

Real estate agents are licensed to help clients buy and sell real estate. Realtors, as mentioned, have to follow an ethics code, which includes putting their clients’ interests first.

Among the work that real estate agents do for buyers is:

•   Look for property listings that fit their clients’ goals

•   Check out listings in person

•   Write offers and counteroffers

•   Be present for inspections

•   Help negotiate with the seller

•   Troubleshoot any roadblocks that come up

They can also often help with a variety of referrals, whether to a mortgage broker, a home stager, a real estate lawyer, or a contractor.

How to Buy a House Without a Real Estate Agent

If you want to join the few buyers who forge ahead and buy a house without a Realtor, it’s important to prepare yourself to take on the tasks agents normally do.

Especially if you’re green, it’s essential to learn how you can prepare to buy a home. Here’s a rundown of some of the key responsibilities you will likely need to manage.

Step 1. Consider Your Mortgage Options

Unless you are an all-cash buyer, you’ll need to explore the different types of mortgage loans. You could get prequalified for a mortgage with several lenders so you have a sense of what size mortgage loan you might qualify for.

Step 2. Research Neighborhoods

As you zero in on neighborhoods that meet your criteria, then it’s a good idea to do your research and learn the price of recent sales. This will help you understand if the homes you tour are priced correctly — and if they fit within your budget.

Step 3. Get Preapproved For a Home Loan

As your house search starts to heat up, you’ll probably want to get preapproved for a mortgage. Once your application is processed, you’ll have a preapproval letter to share with sellers to reassure them that you’re serious about buying. The lender will consider your income, your debt-to-income ratio, credit scores, and ability to make a down payment and meet closing costs.

Step 4. Hire a Home Inspector

When you find a home you’re interested in, it’s recommended that you hire a home inspector. This professional will issue a report that lets you know the ins and outs of a home’s condition and may lead to further negotiation.

Step 5. Request a Seller’s Disclosure

Ask for a seller’s disclosure, a document that can contain information about repairs and upgrades the seller did on the home as well as problems they’re aware of. You can ask them about any structural problems; condition of the HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems; mold and mildew; termite damage; the presence of lead paint, radon, and asbestos, and so forth.

Step 6. Make An Offer

The offer will include the amount you’re offering, what you’d like to stay in the home (such as appliances), and closing dates. Including an appraisal contingency in the offer means you can cancel the contract if something goes wrong without losing your deposit.

Recommended: How to Make An Offer On a House

Step 7. Hire a Real Estate Lawyer

It’s usually a good idea to hire a real estate lawyer to prepare documents and look over your contract before you sign it.

Step 8. Negotiate

Sellers, meanwhile, will likely include a loan contingency. During this part of the process, there may be counteroffers and negotiations between you and the seller about the price of the home or repairs you might want the seller to make. The appraiser will also file a report on the home, so that you and your lender can feel confident the home’s value matches its price. Keep copies of all communications as negotiations progress.

Step 9. Finalize Documentation and Close On Your Property

At the closing of the loan, you’ll need to sign documents and handle other aspects that a Realtor might typically help you with.

It is typically recommended that the buyer obtain owner’s title insurance, which protects the buyer against title defects such as mechanic’s liens and other after-closing problems. It usually costs about $1,000, but will vary with the price of your home and from state to state.

Recommended: How Long Does It Take to Close On a House?

Benefits of Buying a House Without a Realtor

Buying a home without a real estate professional can have some upsides. Here’s a closer look at the benefits you might reap.

1. Saving Money

Historically, there wasn’t much incentive for a homebuyer to work without a real estate agent because the agent’s commission fees were paid by the seller. But starting in mid-2024, the landscape changed. Now real estate commission fees are changing, and there is no guarantee that the seller will pay the buyer’s agent. Instead, the buyer and agent need to discuss a fee structure before they begin working together. You might find that an agent is paid an hourly fee, or perhaps charges a flat rate. Some agents may request a percentage of the home price.

While working without an agent may save you money, how much is up in the air. The only thing you can be certain of is that if you don’t use an agent, you will work harder to find a home and close the deal.

2. Info Galore

If you’re planning on buying a house without a Realtor, you likely have access to some of the same information that the pros do. Historically, agents had lots of insider tidbits about listings.

Now, you can instantly find out about new properties and neighborhood demographics with the click of a button online. That means taking the buying process into one’s own hands is considered by some as increasingly feasible. Plus, there are an array of great tools to help you with calculations, like a home affordability calculator.

And since no one knows what you are looking for as well as you do, the search process can sometimes be more efficient.

3. A Familiar Real Estate Deal

One situation where it might make sense to eschew an agent is if a friend or family member is selling you the property.

Although risks may still be involved, the transaction may be more straightforward if you are buying a house from a relative or someone you know well. You still want to make sure you and the seller are clear on the price, closing date, what furniture or fixtures will be included, contingencies, and more.

It is typically recommended that a buyer review and approve home inspections and obtain full loan approval in writing before lifting certain contingencies.

If it is known that a contingency date cannot be met or another material change takes place after the contract is written, such as a seller credit for closing costs, a contract addendum executed by all parties outlining the change is usually obtained.

Drawbacks of Buying Without a Realtor

Not hiring a real estate agent or Realtor to assist you with your home search comes with disadvantages and risks.

1. All the Work

You have to be constantly on the ball, keeping a lookout for properties and arranging a time with sellers to visit them.

The process can be exhausting and time consuming, and if you aren’t attentive, you could let great homes slip by or make the hunt longer than it might have been with a real estate agent.

You’ll also have to navigate the world of mortgages (from the mortgage basics to possibly buying points to bring down your rate) without an agent to serve as a sounding board or offer a second opinion.

2. All the Risk

You’ll be on the hook for all the details of the transaction. Without an agent, you’ll need to determine the correct bid price and terms, watch the contract contingency dates, and know the ins and outs of the purchase contract.

Agents are experienced in helping to point to hidden flaws in the property or transaction.

If you don’t have a real estate agent in your corner to help research the proper bid price, you may risk paying more than you need to on the home — which may work out to more money spent.

3. Your Pool of Knowledge May Not Be That Deep

Agents have access to information that’s not necessarily online, thanks to their connections with other real estate agents, inspectors, etc.

Then there’s the experience factor. Most agents operate under a seasoned broker who oversees and consults on various transactions.

It could take a lot of effort to figure out what a Realtor has learned through years on the job and ongoing education. That learning curve may not be worth your time.

Factors to Consider When You Buy Without an Agent

So now that you have read about how to buy a home without a Realtor, as well as the pros and cons, perhaps you are still thinking that flying solo is right for you. If so, do one more check-in and consider these factors:

Market Knowledge

You will not have in-depth, ongoing insight into housing prices in the area where you are searching. A Realtor can help you understand pricing history, potential upcoming property-tax hikes, local drainage or flood potential, and more. They are often skilled at pointing out distinctive features as well as potential problem areas with homes.

Negotiation Strategy

Real estate agents typically have years of experience knowing when a home seller is negotiable and by how much. They can guide you through offers and counteroffers, as well as bidding wars. They also know next steps if a home inspection points out significant problem areas or if there are hitches as you work through your mortgage contingencies. This can save you time and stress, as well as keep your deal in play.

Red Tape and Paperwork

Bidding on and purchasing a home involves all kinds of paperwork, including mortgage applications, offers, contracts, title searches, and more. For someone who is not familiar with the process (you, quite possibly), this can be a steep, time-consuming, and possibly frustrating learning curve. A Realtor can help alleviate a chunk of this burden.

Professional Connections

As noted above, it can take a village of professionals to finalize a home sale. Some of the people who may be involved include mortgage brokers, home inspectors, roof inspectors, real estate lawyers, contractors, and more. Most real estate agents have an extensive network to quickly get you the connections you need to qualified professionals.

The Takeaway

Do you need a real estate agent to buy a house? No, you don’t. It’s entirely possible to learn how to buy a home without a Realtor and perhaps avoid paying for the agent’s time and expertise. Just realize all of the work and risk involved in finding a home, making an offer, handling contingencies, and closing the deal.

Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.

SoFi Mortgages: simple, smart, and so affordable.

FAQ

Can you make an offer on a house without a real estate agent?

A buyer is not required to be represented by a real estate agent in order to make an offer on a house, but unless the house is for sale by owner, you’ll need to work with the seller’s agent to communicate your offer to the owner.

Does buying a house without a real estate agent reduce the price?

Not necessarily. Even if you, as the buyer, are not represented by a real estate agent, the seller may use an agent to list and show the home and process offers.

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SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.

*SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.


Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

This article is not intended to be legal advice. Please consult an attorney for advice.

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As far as the simple math goes, a $200,000 home loan at a 7% interest rate on a 30-year term will give you a $1,330.60 monthly payment.

That $200K monthly mortgage payment includes the principal and interest. But here’s where options become evident: How much your interest will cost you each month is determined by your mortgage term and interest rate. You might pay a lower or higher annual percentage rate (or APR), and you might opt for a variable rate loan or a different term (say, 15 years).

Understanding what your total mortgage will cost vs. just the payments on a $200K mortgage can be a smart way to look at your finances when you’re buying a home. If you want to know the full cost of a $200K mortgage, read on for the breakdown so you can make the best decision for your home purchase.

Total Cost of a 200K Mortgage

The total cost of a $200,000 mortgage may surprise you. Beyond the principal, there are upfront costs to acquire the mortgage as well as long-term costs that come from paying years of interest. Here’s a closer look.

Upfront Costs

These expenses can include the following:

•   Closing costs: What you pay to secure a mortgage for the property you want. They include fees for appraisals, title insurance, government taxes, prepaid expenses, and mortgage origination fees.

The average closing cost on a new home is between 3% and 6% of the loan amount. This works out to be between $6,000 and $12,000 for a 200K mortgage.

•   Downpayment: While the average down payment on a home is around 13%, you can often elect to put down an amount that works for your financial situation. This is cash you put down vs. the amount you borrow for your mortgage. Some of the most common amounts for a down payment on a $200,000 house can be:

◦   20% down payment: $40,000

◦   10% down payment: $20,000

◦   5% down payment: $10,000

◦   3.5% down payment: $7,000

◦   3% down payment: $6,000

Long-Term Costs

The total cost for a 200K mortgage at today’s interest rates is almost half a million dollars. Over the course of the 30-year loan on a $200K mortgage at 7% APR, you will pay $279,017.80 in interest for a total cost of $479,017.80.

It’s a bit of a surprise to most borrowers that the amount they will pay in interest exceeds the price of the home. After all, $279,000 in interest costs for a $200,000 home doesn’t seem like it would come from a 7% APR, but that’s how mortgage APR works.

By choosing a mortgage term that’s 15 years, you substantially decrease the total 200K mortgage cost. The monthly payment on a 15-year loan at 7% APR increases to $1,797.66 from $1,330.60 for a 30-year mortgage. But 15 years of interest will cost $123,578.18 with a 7% APR, bringing the total cost of the principal plus interest to $323,578.18.

To compare the 15-year vs. 30-year mortgage that costs $479,017.80, that’s a savings of $155,439.62. In short, if you’re able to pay another $450 on your mortgage every month, you’ll save over $100,000 during the course of your loan.

“Really look at your budget and work your way backwards,” explains Brian Walsh, CFP® at SoFi, on planning for a home mortgage.

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Estimated Monthly Payments of a 200K Mortgage

Since interest costs can vary so much, here’s a handy table to help you estimate what your monthly home mortgage loan costs would be for a $200,000 mortgage. The APR can vary considerably, depending on the lender, whether you choose variable or fixed rate, and other loan specifics.

APR	15-year loan payments	30-year loan payments
3.5%	$1,429.77	$898.09
4%	$1,479.38	$954.83
4.5%	$1,529.99	$1,013.37
5%	$1,581.59	$1,073.64
5.5%	$1,634.17	$1,135.58
6%	$1,687.71	$1,199.10
6.5%	$1,742.21	$1,264.14
7%	$1,797.66	$1,330.60
7.5%	$1,854.02	$1,398.43
8%	$1,911.30	$1,467.53
8.5%	$1,969.48	$1,537.83
9%	$2,028.53	$1,609.25
9.5%	$2,088.45	$1,681.71
10%	$2,149.21	$1,755.14

Recommended: First-Time Home Buyer Guide

Monthly Payment Breakdown by APR and Term

The APR makes a huge difference in your monthly payment. When your monthly payment is increased because of a higher interest rate, you’ll pay hundreds of dollars more each month as well as tens, if not hundreds, of thousands more over the course of the loan.

Here’s what your monthly $200K mortgage payment and total loan cost will look like in 15-year and 30-year loan terms with different APRs.

APR	15-year loan payments	Total loan cost (200K + interest)	30-year loan payments	Total loan cost (200K + interest)
3.5%	$1,429.77	$257,357.71	$898.09	$323,312.18
4%	$1,479.38	$266,287.65	$954.83	$343,739.01
4.5%	$1,529.99	$275,397.58	$1,013.37	$364,813.42
5%	$1,581.59	$284,685.71	$1,073.64	$386,511.57
5.5%	$1,634.17	$294,150.04	$1,135.58	$408,808.08
6%	$1,687.71	$303,788.46	$1,199.10	$431,676.38
6.5%	$1,742.21	$313,598.65	$1,264.14	$455,088.98
7%	$1,797.66	$323,578.18	$1,330.60	$479,017.80
7.5%	$1,854.02	$333,724.45	$1,398.43	$503,434.45
8%	$1,911.30	$344,034.75	$1,467.53	$528,310.49
8.5%	$1,969.48	$354,506.24	$1,537.83	$553,617.71
9%	$2,028.53	$365,135.97	$1,609.25	$579,328.28
9.5%	$2,088.45	$375,920.89	$1,681.71	$605,415.03
10%	$2,149.21	$386,857.84	$1,755.14	$631,851.53

Again, it’s pretty shocking to see that a $200K mortgage could possibly cost over $600,000 with a 10% interest rate on a 30-year loan. If you want to play around with different numbers, this mortgage payment calculator can help.

200K Mortgage Amortization Breakdown

Amortization shows you how much of your monthly payment is applied to the original loan amount, or principal.

Loans are amortized so that most of your monthly payment goes toward interest each month when you’re just starting to repay your loan. When you’re toward the end of your loan term, most of the money goes toward the principal.

In the example below, of $200K mortgage payments and balances, you’ll see that over the course of the first year, the borrower made $15,967.20 in payments ($1,330.60 per month for 12 months). Of this, $13,935.65 is applied to interest and only $2,031.55 to the principal.

Year	Mortgage Payment	Beginning Balance	Total Amount Paid for the Year	Interest Paid During the Year	Principal Paid During the Year	Ending Balance
1	$1,330.60	$200,000.00	$15,967.20	$13,935.65	$2,031.55	$197,968.38
2	$1,330.60	$197,968.38	$15,967.20	$13,788.78	$2,178.42	$195,789.89
3	$1,330.60	$195,789.89	$15,967.20	$13,631.29	$2,335.91	$193,453.93
4	$1,330.60	$193,453.93	$15,967.20	$13,462.42	$2,504.78	$190,949.09
5	$1,330.60	$190,949.09	$15,967.20	$13,281.34	$2,685.86	$188,263.18
6	$1,330.60	$188,263.18	$15,967.20	$13,087.17	$2,880.03	$185,383.10
7	$1,330.60	$185,383.10	$15,967.20	$12,879.00	$3,088.20	$182,294.83
8	$1,330.60	$182,294.83	$15,967.20	$12,655.74	$3,311.46	$178,983.30
9	$1,330.60	$178,983.30	$15,967.20	$12,416.34	$3,550.86	$175,432.38
10	$1,330.60	$175,432.38	$15,967.20	$12,159.64	$3,807.56	$171,624.77
11	$1,330.60	$171,624.77	$15,967.20	$11,884.38	$4,082.82	$167,541.90
12	$1,330.60	$167,541.90	$15,967.20	$11,589.24	$4,377.96	$163,163.88
13	$1,330.60	$163,163.88	$15,967.20	$11,272.76	$4,694.44	$158,469.38
14	$1,330.60	$158,469.38	$15,967.20	$10,933.39	$5,033.81	$153,435.50
15	$1,330.60	$153,435.50	$15,967.20	$10,569.48	$5,397.72	$148,037.73
16	$1,330.60	$148,037.73	$15,967.20	$10,179.28	$5,787.92	$142,249.76
17	$1,330.60	$142,249.76	$15,967.20	$9,760.87	$6,206.33	$136,043.37
18	$1,330.60	$136,043.37	$15,967.20	$9,312.20	$6,655.00	$129,388.32
19	$1,330.60	$129,388.32	$15,967.20	$8,831.13	$7,136.07	$122,252.17
20	$1,330.60	$122,252.17	$15,967.20	$8,315.25	$7,651.95	$114,600.16
21	$1,330.60	$114,600.16	$15,967.20	$7,762.08	$8,205.12	$106,394.98
22	$1,330.60	$106,394.98	$15,967.20	$7,168.93	$8,798.27	$97,596.64
23	$1,330.60	$97,596.64	$15,967.20	$6,532.88	$9,434.32	$88,162.27
24	$1,330.60	$88,162.27	$15,967.20	$5,850.89	$10,116.31	$78,045.90
25	$1,330.60	$78,045.90	$15,967.20	$5,119.56	$10,847.64	$67,198.20
26	$1,330.60	$67,198.20	$15,967.20	$4,335.40	$11,631.80	$55,566.33
27	$1,330.60	$55,566.33	$15,967.20	$3,494.53	$12,472.67	$43,093.59
28	$1,330.60	$43,093.59	$15,967.20	$2,592.86	$13,374.34	$29,719.19
29	$1,330.60	$29,719.19	$15,967.20	$1,626.01	$14,341.19	$15,377.96
30	$1,330.60	$15,377.96	$15,967.20	$589.31	$15,377.89	$0.00

Recommended: Understanding the Different Types of Mortgage Loans

What Is Required to Get a 200K Mortgage?

To qualify for any mortgage, you will need to show that you can afford a down payment, have a solid credit score, and have a consistent work history, among other factors.

One key qualification is your ability to afford the loan you are applying for. An example: For a $200,000 mortgage with a $1,330.60 payment, lenders look for your housing expenses to be between 25% and 28% of your gross income. That means your monthly income should be at least $4,752.14 for the $1,330.60 payment to meet that guideline. That’s just over $57,000 per year if you have no other debts.

Another way lenders look at how much house you can afford is your debt-to-income ratio (aka your DTI). Lenders look for your total debt expenses (including the new housing payment) to be no more than 36% of your gross monthly income. For a borrower making $10,000 per month, for example, debts should not exceed $3,600 per month, including the new housing payment.

To find your debt-to-income ratio, multiply your monthly income by .36. Set that number aside. Next, add up all of your debt obligations, including car payments, credit cards, hospital bills, etc. Then, add in your new mortgage payment to your existing debt payments.

As a formula, it looks like this:

•   Monthly income X .36 = Max debt-to-income ratio.

•   Mortgage payment + debts = Total debts

•   Max debt-to-income ratio > total debts

Compare the two numbers to see where you stand with the maximum DTI versus your total debts. If you’re not in the desired range, know that some lenders will allow a higher percentage; you might shop around if your DTI is above the 36% mark. However, the terms might not be as desirable. It can be wise to explore your options with a mortgage professional or look online at a home loan help center.

This is an example of why you always hear the advice to pay down debt to qualify for a better, bigger mortgage. The amount of debt you have directly affects how much mortgage you’re able to qualify for.

How Much House Can You Afford Quiz

The Takeaway

Understanding the monthly and total cost of a $200K mortgage can help you understand the options available for financing a home purchase, as well as understand the implications on your long-term financial situation. You can then assess what’s possible and make decisions about the best way to finance a $200K mortgage.

With any mortgage, you’ll want a lender on your side. SoFi Mortgage Loans have dedicated loan officers waiting to help. Competitive interest rates, low down payment options, and a wide range of loan terms can help you make a mortgage for your home possible.

See how smart, flexible, and simple a SoFi Mortgage Loan can be.

FAQ

How much is a down payment on a 200K house?

A 20% down payment on a 200K house is $40,000. A 5% down payment is $10,000, and a 3.5% is $7,000. Talk with various lenders to see what you might qualify for.

How can I pay a 200K mortgage in 5 years?

Making extra payments or larger lump-sum payments can help you pay off your mortgage faster. For a $200K mortgage amortized over 5 years, you’ll need to pay the original loan amount of $200K, plus five years of interest payments. If you look at the full 30-year amortization chart (above), that’s $68,099.48 in interest and a total of $268,099.48 you’ll need to pay back to the lender.

Over five years and 60 equal payments, this works out to $4,468.32 each month to pay off your mortgage in five years. (Quick side note: the amount of interest you’ll pay in an accelerated five-year repayment plan won’t nearly be this much because your extra payments to the principal will decrease the amount of interest you pay every year.)

How much mortgage can I qualify for on a 200K salary?

How much mortgage you qualify for depends on your income, debt levels, down payment, loan program, and credit score, among other factors. As a rule of thumb, you may be able to qualify for homes between 2 and 3 times your gross annual salary. For a $200K salary, you may be looking for homes in the $400K to $600K range.

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Photo credit: iStock/AnnaStills

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

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A jumbo loan is a mortgage that is larger than the loan-servicing limits set by the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA). If you know you need a large loan to cover a higher home mortgage loan, you might be wondering how to qualify for a jumbo loan.

Jumbo loan qualifications are more stringent than conforming conventional loans. Because a jumbo loan is a nonconforming loan, banks take on more risk as they are not able to sell the loan to government-sponsored enterprises Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Since the loans are not guaranteed by the government, lenders are more cautious about the type of borrowers they do business with.

What this means for your money: You need conditions to be pretty optimal to qualify for a jumbo loan. But it can be done. Learn more here, including:

•   How to qualify for a jumbo loan

•   What factors lenders consider for jumbo loans

•   The jumbo loan qualification process

•   How to decide if a jumbo loan is right for you

Jumbo Mortgage Requirements

The current limits for jumbo loans are defined as exceeding $726,200 for single-family homes, except in Alaska, Hawaii, and some federally designated markets that are considered high-cost. In those areas, the limit that’s exceeded is $1,089,300 since these locations tend to have pricier housing markets.

Jumbo mortgage requirements are similar to conventional conforming loan requirements, but there are some key differences that make them harder to qualify for.

A High Credit Score

Experts recommend a credit score of 700 or above for jumbo loan borrowers. A higher credit score when buying a house is indicative of a borrower’s behavior with credit and how likely they are to repay the loan. A higher credit score is needed for the higher loan amounts of a jumbo loan. That lofty score can help the lender feel more secure that you’ll pay back the amount you borrow.

Cash Reserves

A cash reserve is how much liquid money you have at your disposal. What counts as liquid money can vary from lender to lender. For example, some will allow a percentage of vested 401(k) funds to count toward the reserve requirement. Others do not.

Because jumbo loans are so large, lenders look for cash reserves in your account to guard against default. For the best jumbo loan terms, lenders can require as much as 12 months of reserves.

A Low Debt-to-Income Ratio

A debt-to-income ratio is the amount of income you make relative to the amount of debt obligations you have. If you have what is considered too much debt, the lender will not offer a loan to you. With jumbo loans, a healthy DTI ratio is essential to qualify for the mortgage. A DTI ratio below 43% is recommended or possibly a lower figure.

What Does the Jumbo Qualification Process Include?

When you’re looking at jumbo loan requirements and the qualification process, there are some things you should keep in mind. Here, what’s needed to get a mortgage:

Documents Required for Jumbo Loan

When you apply for a jumbo loan, the lender will look to verify the information you provided. Some documents you may be required to provide include:

•   Two years of tax returns

•   Profit & Loss (P&L) statement if you’re a business owner

•   Pay stubs

•   Bank statements

•   Documentation for other income

Loan-to-Value Ratio Evaluation

In addition to your application, the jumbo loan will require an appraisal of your property to ensure they’re not lending too much on the home (that is, more than it’s worth). This appraisal will ensure the home’s price is not too high and determine that the loan-to-value ratio (LTV) is within its guidelines.

Evaluating How Jumbo Down Payments Will Impact You

How much you put down on the home of your dreams will impact what loan you qualify for. If you’re able to put down enough, you may be able to forgo the jumbo loan requirements and get into a conforming conventional loan.

Is a Jumbo Mortgage Right for You? Questions To Ask

When it comes to making a decision on a jumbo loan, it’s helpful to ask yourself some questions that can help determine if a jumbo loan will work for you.

Do I Have Good Credit?

Ask yourself if your credit is strong enough to qualify for a jumbo loan. These mortgages do come with higher loan amounts and higher payments, and a good credit score range (over 700 typically) can help you get the best terms possible to qualify for a jumbo loan.

Do I Have a Low DTI and High Cash Reserves?

It’s important to have a low debt-to-income ratio and ample reserves to qualify for a jumbo mortgage, as discussed above. While some lenders may go up to as high as a 43% DTI, others will want to see a lower number.

Can I Prove I’m in Good Financial Health?

Qualifying for a jumbo mortgage goes beyond the numbers. Can you demonstrate to the lender that you’re able to continue making payments? Do you have a consistent job history? Are all the other financial factors in your life lined up so you can afford the mortgage?

Is the Property Value High Enough for a Jumbo Loan?

The jumbo loan value minimum (and conforming loan limits) is $726,200 for most areas in the U.S. If your mortgage is below this amount, you’ll want to look at financing with a conforming conventional loan instead. In high-cost areas, the home would have to hold a value of more than $1,089,300.

Do I Have Enough Money Saved?

A down payment on a property that merits a jumbo loan will often be a significant amount of cash. And while some closing costs are a flat fee that won’t go up, many are labor-intensive or percentage-based (3% to 6% of the loan amount), so your jumbo loan closing costs are larger than for a conventional, conforming loan.

Recommended: 18 Mortgage Questions for Your Lender

The Takeaway

If you are in the market for a high-value home, a jumbo mortgage can help you make it your own. However, you will need to meet the loan requirements, which may be somewhat more demanding than those for a conforming loan. By focusing on optimizing your credentials and financial profile, you can work to secure the mortgage that makes your home-ownership dreams come true.

When you’re ready to take the next step, consider what SoFi home loans have to offer. Jumbo loans are offered with competitive interest rates, with no PMI, and down payments as low as 10%.

SoFi Mortgage Loans: We make the home loan process smart and simple.

FAQ

Is it harder to qualify for a jumbo loan?

Yes, jumbo loans are harder to qualify for. You will need a larger down payment than you would with a conforming loan, a higher credit score, a low debt-to-income ratio, more cash reserves, and a tighter loan-to-value ratio.

What credit score do you need for a jumbo loan?

For a jumbo loan, you may want to aim for a credit score above 700.

Do jumbo loans require a 20% down payment?

It is possible to obtain a jumbo loan with a down payment as low as 10% or possibly even lower.

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Photo credit: iStock/lovenimo

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

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The total number of homes for sale hit a record low in August 2023. That means home sellers may get several offers when they put their house on the market.

To help stand out from the pack, some buyers choose to write an offer letter. They may believe an offer letter could help personalize the negotiation and possibly make a connection with the seller. But writing an offer letter comes with potential risks buyers should be aware of.

Thinking about writing an offer letter? Read on to learn how to write an offer letter for a house, what to say in the letter, what to avoid, how long the letter should be, and the risks that may be involved.

What Is a House Offer Letter?

A house offer letter is a personal letter written in hopes of helping to convince the seller to choose the buyer’s offer, especially when there are multiple offers on a house.

Offer letters have become more popular in recent years due to the high number of real estate bidding wars.

In an offer letter, a buyer, whether they’re a millennial homebuyer or any homebuyer, is trying to show the seller why they’re the ideal candidate for the house.

When writing a real estate offer letter, buyers often include certain details to help make a connection with the seller, such as:

•   Introductions. The potential buyer will want to say who they are, of course.

•   Contract details that might help. Buyers may want to briefly note that they’ve been pre-approved for a mortgage, are flexible with the closing date, or can otherwise meet the seller’s needs.

•   Compliments about the house. If there’s a well-tended garden or custom wall finishes, a buyer may want to note how much they like those things.

•   Points of connection. If a buyer noticed something in the house that could help them relate to the seller, like fishing gear in the garage or a piano in the living room, they might mention that they share those hobbies.

•   Explanation about their offer. A buyer could include the reason why they offered what they did for the house, but anyone who does this should be careful. Review it with your agent first to make sure you’re not saying something that might jeopardize the deal.

•   Thank them. Express gratitude to the seller for considering the offer.

💡 Quick Tip: You deserve a more zen mortgage. Look for a mortgage lender who’s dedicated to closing your loan on time.

How Does a House Offer Letter Work?

Since an offer letter is an informal gesture, writing such a letter is optional. Plus offer letters do have drawbacks (more on that below).

If a buyer does write an offer letter, it would typically be sent, along with the formal offer on the house, to the seller’s agent.

Recommended: How to Write a Letter of Explanation for a Mortgage

Is It Worth It to Write a Letter With a House Offer?

A personal letter could help you stand out from others who are bidding on a house, but there’s no guarantee of that. Plus, an offer letter could cause problems. The National Association of Realtors is wary of offer letters because they might run the risk of violating the Fair Housing Act, even unintentionally. The Fair Housing Act seeks to create a level playing field for all people renting or buying a home, getting a mortgage, or seeking housing assistance.

For that reason, your real estate agent may advise against writing an offer letter. Instead, they may suggest that you choose another strategy for making your offer on a house more attractive.

How Long Should a House Offer Letter Be?

If you do decide to write an offer letter, the letter should be short and succinct. One page is plenty. And if your bid isn’t competitive enough to be on the seller’s radar in the first place, the offer letter probably won’t even be read.

What Should Not Be Included in a House Offer Letter

Perhaps even more important than what you write in your offer letter is what you should not include. Stay away from:

•   Overly saccharine statements. Sellers may get overwhelmed by buyers who are too profuse about their love for the property. Be complimentary, but don’t overdo it.

•   Letters that are too long. The seller doesn’t need to know everything you love about the house. Offer letters are more effective when they’re a page or less.

•   Too much personal detail. If you mention your partner or children, be aware that familial status is protected against discrimination under the Fair Housing Act. It’s wise not to share too much.

•   A picture of yourself or your family. This is another red flag. Race and gender, among other things, are protected against discrimination under the Fair Housing Act.

💡 Quick Tip: Not to be confused with prequalification, preapproval involves a longer application, documentation, and hard credit pulls. Ideally, you want to keep your applications for preapproval to within the same 14- to 45-day period, since many hard credit pulls outside the given time period can adversely affect your credit score, which in turn affects the mortgage terms you’ll be offered.

How Do You Write a Strong Offer Letter?

First, make sure your home contracts offer is strong. You want to submit a strong offer before you work on a letter.

Then, when you sit down to write the letter, consider this: If you were having a conversation with your seller about the house, what would you want to tell them? Explain briefly why you love the home, and thank them for considering your offer. Keep the focus of the letter on the house, and avoid giving too many personal details. Use a friendly tone, and be genuine and sincere.

Keep the letter to one page or less.

Recommended: Guide on How to Save Money for a House

Tips for Buying a Home

Rather than an offer letter, you may want to consider one of the following strategies instead:

•   Submit a higher offer. Winning a bidding war often comes down to one factor: price. Offering a higher price for the house is an option to think about. You might also want to add an escalation clause, which can automatically increase your offer above other offers.

•   Offer all cash. That is, if you have the resources to do this. Data from Redfin suggests buyers who offer all-cash are two to four times more likely to be chosen.

•   Waive the financing contingency. Waiving this contingency could potentially increase your odds of winning the contract over other buyers, according to Redfin. Keep in mind, however, that waiving the financing contingency means you forfeit your earnest money if you can’t get financing before the contract deadlines.

And, finally, if you’re a first-time home buyer, you may want to look into first-time homebuyer programs that could be helpful to you in your quest to buy this particular home — or any home.

The Takeaway

Offer letters have become popular in recent years as the real estate market has heated up, but these letters do have drawbacks. They could even run the risk of violating the Fair Housing Act. Discuss it with your real estate agent and weigh the pros and cons carefully before writing an offer letter.

Also, consider other options that might help improve your chances of becoming a homeowner. For instance, you may decide that offering a higher price on the house, getting preapproved for a mortgage, or being flexible about the closing date is a better way to go.

Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.

SoFi Mortgages: simple, smart, and so affordable.

FAQ

How do you write a strong offer on a house?

In addition to making a strong offer on a house, you can write an offer letter. To write a strong offer letter, focus on the property. Tell the seller why you love the home, and thank them for considering your offer. Use a friendly tone, be genuine and sincere, and keep the letter to one page or less.

How to write an offer letter for a house for sale by owner?

In a house that’s for sale by owner, you’re likely dealing directly with the seller. In that case, you can address the seller by name in the letter and tell them why you like the house. Also, if you know there’s something they’re looking for, like a quick transaction, you could indicate that you’re flexible with the closing date. And if you’re preapproved for a mortgage, you could mention that as well.

How do you write a good offer letter?

Be succinct, genuine, and sincere in your offer letter. Focus on the house and why you like it, and avoid giving personal details. Thank the owner for considering your offer.

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Photo credit: iStock/Gorica Poturak

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

*SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.


Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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