Conventional Financing for Homebuyers & Investors
Conventional loans are the straightforward path to homeownership or investment property financing. Fast underwriting, competitive rates, and personalized service from a lender who actually knows your deal.
Fast Approval
Approved in days, not weeks. We respond same-day and move quickly through underwriting.
Competitive Rates
We shop the secondary market to find you the best rates and terms available.
Personalized Guidance
You'll work with a dedicated loan officer who understands your situation, not a faceless system.
Flexible Options
30-year fixed, 15-year fixed, ARM options, and investment property loans—we've got solutions.
What makes us different: Big banks are slow and impersonal. Brentwood Pacific delivers same-day service, expert guidance, and rates that compete with anyone. We understand both traditional borrowers and niche investors.
Conventional Loan Products & Eligibility
Understanding your options and what lenders look for helps you move forward with confidence. We've broken down conventional loan types and eligibility requirements in plain language.
Conventional Loan Types
30-Year Fixed-Rate
The most popular choice for homebuyers. Your interest rate and monthly payment stay the same for the entire 30 years, making budgeting predictable and simple.
15-Year Fixed-Rate
Pay off your home faster with higher monthly payments but significantly lower interest costs over the life of the loan. Great if you want to build equity quickly.
5/1 Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM)
Lower interest rate for the first 5 years, then adjusts annually based on market conditions. A smart choice if you plan to sell or refinance before rates adjust.
Jumbo Loans
For luxury homes or properties above the conventional loan limit (currently $766,200 in most areas). Requires stronger credit and larger down payment, but we make the process seamless.
Investment Property Loans
Designed specifically for rental properties and investment real estate. Different underwriting focuses on rental income and property cash flow rather than just owner-occupancy.
Conventional Refinance
Replace your existing mortgage with a new one at better terms. Whether you're lowering your rate, shortening your loan term, or accessing home equity, we guide you through the process.
Key Eligibility Factors
Lenders review these factors to assess your financial readiness and the loan's risk. Think of them as a way for us to understand your situation and find the right loan structure for you.
Credit Score (Minimum 620)
Your credit score reflects your payment history, outstanding debt, and credit management. A score of 620 or higher qualifies for most conventional programs, but higher scores (740+) typically unlock better interest rates.
Why it matters: Lenders use it to assess the likelihood you'll repay the loan on time. A strong score demonstrates financial responsibility.
Debt-to-Income Ratio (Typically ≤43%)
This is your total monthly debt payments divided by your gross monthly income. For example, if you earn $5,000/month and have $2,000 in debt payments, your ratio is 40%. Lenders typically want to see this at 43% or lower.
Why it matters: It shows you have enough income to comfortably cover your new mortgage payment plus existing obligations. It's a snapshot of your financial breathing room.
Down Payment (3–20%)
Conventional loans typically require 3–20% down. You don't need 20% to qualify—many borrowers put down 5–10%. A larger down payment can lower your interest rate and eliminate mortgage insurance requirements.
Why it matters: It shows you have skin in the game and reduces lender risk. It also affects your monthly payment and long-term costs.
Employment & Income Verification
We'll ask for recent pay stubs, tax returns (typically 2 years), and employment verification. Self-employed borrowers may need additional documentation like profit-and-loss statements or business tax returns.
Why it matters: Lenders need to confirm you have stable, verifiable income to support your mortgage payment. Consistency matters more than the exact amount.
Property Appraisal
An independent appraiser determines the property's market value. The appraisal protects both you and the lender by ensuring the loan amount doesn't exceed the home's actual worth.
Why it matters: It ensures the property is a sound investment and serves as collateral for the loan. If something seems off, the appraisal flags it early.
Assets & Cash Reserves
Lenders like to see savings or investments that could cover several months of mortgage payments. This shows financial stability and a safety net if circumstances change.
Why it matters: It demonstrates financial discipline and reduces lender risk. Even modest reserves strengthen your application.
Why These Requirements Exist
Eligibility requirements aren't designed to exclude you—they're designed to protect both you and the lender. Here's why each one matters:
- Risk Mitigation: Lenders assess the likelihood you'll repay the loan. Strong credit, stable income, and reasonable debt loads signal lower risk.
- Lender Confidence: Secondary market investors (banks that buy mortgages) have underwriting standards. Meeting these standards keeps mortgage rates competitive and accessible.
- Your Financial Health: These requirements ensure you're borrowing an amount you can realistically afford. It's in everyone's interest that you succeed.
Common Misconceptions
You need 20% down to qualify
Not true. Conventional loans accept down payments as low as 3%. You may pay mortgage insurance with a lower down payment, but it's absolutely possible to qualify and close without 20%.
Rates are the same for everyone
Rates vary based on your credit score, loan type, down payment size, and current market conditions. A higher credit score or larger down payment often unlocks better rates.
Approval takes weeks or months
Not with Brentwood Pacific. We respond same day and approve qualified borrowers in days, not weeks. Speed is one of our core strengths.
Eligibility is a yes-or-no answer
Eligibility is nuanced. If one factor is weak, other strengths can offset it. We work with you to find loan structures and programs that fit your situation.
Why Brentwood Pacific for Conventional Loans
We're faster than big banks, more personal than online lenders, and deeply familiar with Orange County and California borrowers. Here's what sets us apart.
Same-Day Pre-Qualification
No waiting weeks to hear back. Submit your details in the morning, get a pre-approval and rate quote by afternoon. We respond same day because your time matters.
Approval in Days, Not Weeks
Big banks take 30+ days. We typically approve qualified borrowers in 3–7 business days. Fast underwriting means you can close on your home faster and move forward with confidence.
Your Own Loan Officer from Day One
You get a real person assigned to your loan—not a faceless pipeline. Your loan officer knows your deal, answers your questions, and keeps you informed every step of the way.
Clear Timelines, Honest Answers
We explain what we need, when we need it, and why. No surprises. No hidden fees. You'll always know where you stand in the process and what happens next.
Flexible Documentation Review
We work with your schedule. If you need to gather documents, we'll guide you and accommodate your timeline. We're here to make the process easier, not harder.
Deep Local Market Knowledge
We know Orange County and California real estate inside and out. We understand local property values, market trends, and what lenders are looking for in your area.
"It is a great online mortgage lending service. I came across the Brentwood Pacific Financial company while doing my research, and they offered me a competitive rate and easy-to-understand paperwork. The company is very customer-oriented, which is fantastic."
— Verified Borrower
Ready to Get Pre-Approved?
Contact us today for a free pre-approval consultation. We'll guide you through every step and get you closer to homeownership.
Same-day pre-qual. Real answers. No games.