Jumbo Loans in California

We help California homebuyers secure financing for high-value homes that exceed conventional loan limits. With a Jumbo Loan, you can buy luxury or high-priced properties with competitive interest rates, flexible terms, and personalized lending solutions tailored to your financial goals.

About

What Is a Jumbo Loan?

A Jumbo Loan is a mortgage designed for properties that exceed the standard conforming loan limits set by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. In California, where home prices are higher than the national average, jumbo loans allow qualified buyers to finance homes above the conforming loan limit. For 2026 that limit is $832,750 in most counties and $941,850 in Santa Barbara County, rising to $1,249,125 in California’s highest-cost counties. Because these loans are not government-backed, they require strong credit, stable income, and larger down payments, but they also offer flexibility and competitive rates for well-qualified borrowers.

Eligibility Criteria

Who Is Eligible for a Jumbo Loan in California?

You may qualify for a Jumbo home loan if you meet the following criteria:

  • Loan Amount: The total loan exceeds the local conforming limit ($832,750 in most counties for 2026; $941,850 in Santa Barbara County).
  • Credit Score: Minimum 700 or higher preferred.
  • Down Payment: Larger than a conforming loan typically requires; the amount depends on loan size, property type and your overall profile.
  • Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI): Generally below 43%.
  • Income & Assets: Proof of consistent income and strong financial reserves.
  • Property Type: Can be used for primary homes, vacation homes, or investment properties.
Benefits

Benefits of a Jumbo Loan

Higher Loan Limits

Finance luxury or high-value homes above conforming limits.

Flexible Property Options

Buy primary, secondary, or investment properties.

Competitive Interest Rates

Rates often comparable to conventional loans.

Custom Loan Terms

Choose fixed or adjustable terms to fit your strategy.

No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)

Typically not required on jumbo loans, even with a smaller down payment.

Refinancing Options

Refinance your existing jumbo loan for better terms later.

Types

Types of Jumbo Loans We Offer

Fixed-Rate Jumbo Loan

Best For: Long-term homeowners
Highlights: Stable payments with 15–30 year terms

Adjustable-Rate Jumbo Loan (ARM)

Best For: Short-term buyers
Highlights: Lower initial rate for 5–10 years

Jumbo Refinance Loan

Best For: Existing homeowners
Highlights: Lower your rate or cash out home equity

Interest-Only Jumbo Loan

Best For: High-income buyers
Highlights: Pay interest only for a set period to manage cash flow

Comparison

Jumbo Loan vs Conventional Loan

Jumbo Loan

  • Loan Limit: Above the conforming limit ($832,750 in most counties; $941,850 in Santa Barbara County for 2026)
  • Down Payment: Typically larger; varies by loan amount and profile
  • Credit Score: 700+
  • PMI Required: No
  • Property Type: Primary, secondary, or investment
  • Interest Rates: Competitive
  • Documentation: More detailed

Conventional Loan

  • Loan Limit: Up to $832,750 in most counties; $941,850 in Santa Barbara County; up to $1,249,125 in the highest-cost counties (2026)
  • Down Payment: Lower minimums available, depending on program
  • Credit Score: 620+
  • PMI Required: Yes, with a smaller down payment
  • Property Type: Any
  • Interest Rates: Competitive
  • Documentation: Standard
FAQs

Frequently
Asked Questions

Still have a question?

JLLendingTeam: A collaborative group specializing in providing tailored lending solutions and financial support for clients.

What’s the current jumbo loan limit in California?

It varies by county and is reset each year. For 2026, the conforming limit is $832,750 in most counties, $941,850 in Santa Barbara County, and up to $1,249,125 in California’s highest-cost counties. Any loan above your county’s limit is a jumbo loan.

Can I use a jumbo loan for a second home?

Yes! Jumbo loans can be used for vacation or investment properties, not just primary residences.

Do jumbo loans have higher interest rates?

Not necessarily. With strong credit and income, rates can be similar to conventional loans.

Can I refinance my jumbo loan later?

Yes, you can refinance to lower your rate or change your loan type anytime.

Still have a question?

JLLendingTeam: A collaborative group specializing in providing tailored lending solutions and financial support for clients.
Mortgage advisor reviewing loan numbers with a client
Clients talking with a mortgage advisor in an office
JL Lending Team

Why Choose Us for Jumbo Loans?

Local Experts

Serving California’s veterans with deep knowledge of the state’s housing market.

Fast, Tech-Enabled Process

Apply, upload documents, and track your loan online.

Personalized Guidance

We’re not tied to one lender — we find the best loan for you.

Contact Us

Ready to Get Started with Your Jumbo Loan?

Buying a high-value home in California doesn’t have to be complicated. Let JL Lending Team help you secure the financing you need with competitive jumbo loan options and expert guidance every step of the way.

Start today and get pre-approved for your California jumbo loan.

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