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Reserves vs. credit scores for jumbo mortgage

A question for the experts out there: when applying for a jumbo mortgage, does having lots of reserves compensate for a mediocre credit score? My credit score is in the 760s, but my fiancee's score is in the 690s -- and my impression is that's on the low side for getting a jumbo mortgage these days. But we have a lot of reserves: probably more than 10 years, even after making a 20% down payment. Do those reserves make up for her credit score? Would we be likely to qualify for the loan? Would we get as good a rate as someone with a score in the 760s and less in reserves? Thanks in advance for any guidance you can offer. by hulamamma67 from Aiea, Hawaii. May 2nd 2011 Reply


Chris Gummerson (cgummerson11)
#397 ranked lender in California - 648 contributions

Generally you would need to have atleast a 700 fico to use a jumbo loan. Can you qualify without your wifes income on the loan? Then you can go on the loan on your own. You would need 6-12 months reserves. Having a large amount of reserves is a compensating factor, which will help you get financing. Its hard to tell what you would be qualified for, as we would need more information about your finances and loan request. Good Luck!

May 2nd 2011
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Don Maher (don@ucloan.net)
#376 ranked lender in California - 31 contributions

With so many bargains on the market, people are finding themselves moving up. Sometimes this means getting a loan over the maximum Fannie Mae limit of $729,750 for most Southern California counties. So what are your options when you get into the "non conforming" loan amounts.? Well there are many.If you are looking for a 30 year fixed to purchase a home, there are many programs that will go to $2,000,000. In order to get this amount, you will need to meet the following criteria:1. Have a 720+ credit score2. Property must be owner occupied3. Have a debt to income ratio under 45%4. Have a minimum of 12 months of payment reserves, including property taxes and insuranceDepending on what county you live in will determine how much you can borrower, as noted below:Los Angeles Count: 70%Orange County 75%San Diego County 70%Ventura County 70% There are programs for refinancing as well. For rate and term refis, the above criteria remain the same. For cash out refi's, you will most likely be limited to maximum loan of 1.5mil with a 720 credit score, and you cash out will be limited to $250,000-$350,000.If you require more than $2,000,000, there are portfolio programs that will go as high as $3,000,000. Programs are usually limted to fixed period arms, such as 3,5, and 7 year terms. Requirements for these loans are as follows:1. Credit score required is 680+2. Property can be owner occupied, investment, or 2nd home3. Loan to value cannot exceed 65% for a SFR, 60% for a condo, or 60% for a 2nd home4. Must have 12 months payment reserves5. Debt to income ratio not to exceed 40%These portfolio programs are great for high rise condos, including non warrantable condo projects, that require to that far exceed the Fannie Mae limits. They are also great for borrowers who are looking for cash out that exceeds $350,000, as there are not cash out limits on most programs.To find out more about "jumbo" or "non-conforming" loans, log on to www.DonMaher.com.

May 2nd 2011
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