Can I buy an investment property in Houston with a Conventional loan?

Yes, Conventional loans can be used for primary residences, investment properties, second homes, condos, and more.

How much down payment is required for a conventional loan in Texas?

The general rule of thumb for conventional loan down payments is 20%, but you can put down as little as 3 – 5%. Your down payment requirement and rate will depend on your lender and your credit history. You will have to cover appraisal and origination costs and pay mortgage insurance if your down payment is less than 20%.

What credit score do I need for a Conventional loan in Houston?

Most lenders require a score of 620 or higher. A score above 740 gets you the most competitive rates and terms.

How much income do I need for a conventional loan?

There are no specific income requirements to qualify for a mortgage, but mortgage lenders do evaluate whether your income suffices to repay the amount you want to borrow. To determine if you’ll be eligible, mortgage lenders review your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio, credit score and other factors.

Houston Living: Unlock Your Dream Home with Conventional Home Loans

Discover Houston: Where Opportunity Meets Homeownership

Conventional Home Loans in Houston

Conventional home loans, a popular choice among homebuyers in Houston, offer a level of flexibility that distinguishes them from government-backed mortgages. Financed through private lenders, these loans cater to buyers with good credit and steady income, offering a range of terms and conditions. In Houston, there are several Conventional home loan options, each tailored to meet the unique needs of first-time buyers, move-up owners, and investors, empowering you to find the perfect fit for your dream home.

Before we delve into the types of programs available, it’s important to understand that Conventional mortgage options fall into two broad categories: conventional conforming loans and Conventional Non-Conforming loans. The latter, often referred to as Jumbo or non-QM loans, are designed for homes that exceed the conforming loan limit. These loans offer more

Houston boasts vibrant diversity, a robust job market, and thriving cultural and culinary scenes. The city’s real estate landscape offers a blend of value and opportunity, with inventory rising and buyers finding more choices than ever in one of America’s fastest-growing metros. Whether you’re eyeing a bungalow in the Heights or a sleek condo downtown, Houston’s housing market rewards savvy, informed buyers.

Types of Conventional Home Loan Programs in Houston

Houston’s lenders offer a variety of Conventional loan products, each suited for unique borrower needs:

Conventional-Conforming Loans

These loans “conform” to specific standards established by the Government-Sponsored Enterprises (GSEs) Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, such as credit score minimums, income verification rules, and maximum loan limits (for Houston, up to $806,500 in 2025). Conforming loans are the bread and butter of U.S. mortgages, ideal for primary residences, second homes, and investment properties, all within the set loan cap.

Key features: Competitive interest rates, low minimum down payment (as little as 3%–5%), and flexible repayment options (15, 20, or 30 years).
Most buyers qualify with a credit score of 620 or above, a stable employment and income history, and a reasonable debt-to-income (DTI) ratio (typically below 45%).
Mortgage insurance is a cost that’s only required when your down payment is less than 20%. It’s a protection for the lender in case you default on your loan. However, it can be removed as your equity in the home grows, which is a significant advantage for buyers who can’t afford a large down payment.

Conventional Non-Conforming (Jumbo & Non-QM Loans)

If the price of your dream home exceeds the conforming loan limit, you’ll need a Non-Conforming loan. In Houston, these are often referred to as “Jumbo loans” and are designed for upscale or luxury homes. Non-QM (Non-Qualified Mortgage) loans offer even more flexibility for buyers who don’t meet traditional underwriting criteria, such as self-employed borrowers or those with complex financial situations.

Jumbo loan features: Larger loan amounts (above $806,500), stricter credit and asset requirements, and higher income verification standards.
Non-QM loan features: Alternative documentation (like bank statements for self-employed), higher allowable debt ratios, and shorter waiting periods after financial setbacks.
Note: Interest rates may be higher than those for conforming loans due to increased lender risk.

Houston Conventional Loan Requirements

Lenders in Houston follow clear eligibility rules for Conventional loans:

Minimum Credit Score: 620 (higher scores get better rates).
Down Payment: 3%–5% minimum; 20% to avoid PMI (private mortgage insurance).
Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI) is a key factor in determining your eligibility for a Conventional loan. It’s usually below 45% (rarely reaching 50%). This means that your total monthly debt payments, including your mortgage, should not exceed 45% of your gross monthly income.
Employment/Income: Two years’ stable employment and income history.
Property Appraisal: Must meet lender valuation standards.
Loan Limits: Up to $806,500 (for 2025) for conforming, higher for Jumbo loans

The Advantages of Conventional Loans

Why Choose a Conventional Mortgage for Your Houston Home Purchase?

Lower Interest Rates for well-qualified borrowers;
No Upfront Mortgage Insurance Premium (unlike FHA);
No PMI when you put 20% down;
Flexible Use: Buy primary homes, second homes, or investment properties;
Faster Processing: Fewer government requirements can mean quicker closings;
Customizable Terms: Choose 30, 20, or 15-year fixed or adjustable-rate options;
High Loan Limits: Finance more expensive homes with a Jumbo mortgage

"We believe Conventional Loans Texas are the key to making homeownership achievable, affordable, and accessible for everyone."

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I buy an investment property in Houston with a Conventional loan?
A: Yes, Conventional loans can be used for primary residences, investment properties, second homes, condos, and more.
Q: How much down payment is required for a conventional loan in Texas?
A: The general rule of thumb for conventional loan down payments is 20%, but you can put down as little as 3 – 5%. Your down payment requirement and rate will depend on your lender and your credit history. You will have to cover appraisal and origination costs and pay mortgage insurance if your down payment is less than 20%.
Q: What credit score do I need for a Conventional loan in Houston?
A: Most lenders require a score of 620 or higher. A score above 740 gets you the most competitive rates and terms.
Q: How much income do I need for a conventional loan?
A: There are no specific income requirements to qualify for a mortgage, but mortgage lenders do evaluate whether your income suffices to repay the amount you want to borrow. To determine if you’ll be eligible, mortgage lenders review your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio, credit score and other factors.

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Apply for a Conventional Home Loan in Houston

You deserve a home and a mortgage that fits your life in Houston. Conventional home loans offer flexibility, great rates, and plenty of options for every stage of your homeownership journey. Take the next step and connect with our trusted conventional loan specialists at (877) 280-4833 to get prequalified and unlock your piece of Houston today.