Mortgage Loan Programs Throughout Florida
Eight programs. One question: which one fits you? Here’s the short version of each. Call me for the details that apply to your situation.
Conventional Loans
Conventional loans aren’t backed by a government agency. Most follow Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac guidelines and can be used for a primary home, second home, or investment property.
With a smaller down payment, you’ll typically pay private mortgage insurance (PMI). PMI can generally be removed later once you meet the requirements.
Good fit if
- Solid credit and documented income
- You want flexibility on property type
- You want to avoid mortgage insurance with a larger down payment — or want a low-down-payment option
FHA Loans
FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration. They allow a lower minimum down payment and more flexible credit guidelines than many conventional loans.
FHA loans require mortgage insurance premiums, are for primary residences only, and are subject to FHA loan limits for the county.
Good fit if
- First-time and repeat buyers with a smaller down payment
- Credit that’s still being rebuilt
- Buying a home you’ll live in
VA Loans
VA loans are guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. They’re available to eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and some surviving spouses.
Many eligible borrowers may qualify with a low down payment, and there’s no monthly mortgage insurance. A VA funding fee usually applies unless you’re exempt. You’ll need a Certificate of Eligibility — I can help you get it.
Good fit if
- Eligible veterans and service members
- Buying with a low down payment
- Avoiding monthly mortgage insurance
Jumbo LoansLee’s focus
A jumbo loan is a mortgage above the conforming loan limit the FHFA sets each year for your county.
Expect stricter requirements than a conforming loan: typically a larger down payment, stronger credit, and more cash reserves. Terms vary by lender — which is where working with a mortgage broker like Edge Home Finance, LLC helps.
Good fit if
- Purchases or refinances above the conforming limit
- Higher-priced primary or second homes
- Borrowers with strong credit and reserves
First-Time Homebuyer Loans
First-time homebuyer financing isn’t one loan — it’s a set of options. Depending on your situation, that can mean a low-down-payment conventional loan, FHA, or VA.
I’ll show you what you qualify for, what you’ll need at closing, and what the monthly payment looks like — before you make an offer.
Good fit if
- You’ve never owned a home, or haven’t in a while
- You want to know your real budget before shopping
- You want the costs explained in plain English
Refinance & Cash-Out Loans
A rate-and-term refinance changes your interest rate, your loan term, or both. A cash-out refinance replaces your current loan with a larger one and pays you the difference in cash.
Refinancing has closing costs. Extending your term or taking cash out can increase the total finance charges you pay over the life of the loan. I’ll tell you straight whether it makes sense.
Good fit if
- Changing your rate or term
- Removing mortgage insurance
- Using equity for renovations, debt payoff, or other goals
DSCR / Investor LoansNon-QM
DSCR (debt service coverage ratio) loans are for investment properties. Qualification is based mainly on whether the property’s rental income covers its monthly payment — not on your personal income.
For investment property only, not a home you’ll live in. DSCR loans are non-QM and typically require a larger down payment and carry higher rates than conventional financing.
Good fit if
- Real estate investors buying or refinancing rentals
- Investors with complex tax returns
- Growing a rental portfolio
Bank Statement / Self-Employed LoansNon-QM
Bank statement loans are for self-employed borrowers whose tax returns don’t reflect what they actually earn. Income is calculated from personal or business bank statements (commonly 12 or 24 months) instead of tax returns.
Bank statement loans are non-QM and typically carry higher rates and larger down payments than conventional loans.
Good fit if
- Business owners and self-employed borrowers
- 1099 contractors and commission earners
- Borrowers with significant write-offs
Program availability, terms, and eligibility vary by lender and borrower. Descriptions are general information only, not an offer or commitment to lend. Non-QM loans may carry higher rates and fees than conventional loans. All loans subject to credit approval.
Not sure which program fits?
Call me. Five minutes on the phone usually answers it.