Conventional Loans · South Florida

The workhorse mortgage — flexible, fair, and often cheaper than you think.

Conventional loans are the standard against which everything else is measured — and for buyers with solid credit, they're usually the most economical path to owning in South Florida. Down payments start at 5% for qualified buyers, mortgage insurance can be removed once you build equity, and the rate structure rewards good credit.

  • NMLS #1615071
  • Licensed in Florida
  • English / Español

Plain English

What is a conventional loan?

A conventional loan is a mortgage that isn't backed by a government agency (unlike FHA, VA, or USDA) — instead it follows guidelines set by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. That structure gives it two big advantages: private mortgage insurance (PMI) drops off once you reach 20% equity — unlike FHA insurance, which usually stays for the life of the loan — and pricing rewards strong credit. Primary residences can qualify with as little as 5% down; second homes and investment properties are also eligible with larger down payments.

5% down for qualified buyers

Qualified buyers can put down as little as 5% on a primary residence. You don't need 20% to buy — 20% only matters for avoiding PMI.

PMI that actually goes away

Unlike FHA mortgage insurance, conventional PMI can be removed once you reach 20% equity — through paydown, appreciation, or both. In South Florida's market, appreciation often gets you there faster than expected.

Fixed or adjustable

30- and 15-year fixed for certainty; ARMs for buyers who plan to sell or refinance within a few years and want a lower initial rate. I'll model both against your actual plans.

Second homes & investments

Conventional financing covers second homes and rental properties — with different down-payment and reserve requirements. Often the cleanest option for a first investment property.

Credit-score pricing

Conventional pricing tiers reward credit. Sometimes a 20-point score improvement before applying saves more than months of rate shopping — I'll tell you if waiting is worth it.

When it beats FHA

Good credit and 5%+ down usually favors conventional over FHA — lower total insurance cost. Thin credit or a lower score can flip the answer. I run the comparison side-by-side, so you see the real numbers.

Clients Who Closed

Real clients, real closings

Verified Google reviews.

M
Marilyn Google Review · Homebuyer

Reinier is extremely knowledgeable, responsive, and professional. He took the time to explain each step of the process clearly and stayed proactive throughout, which made everything feel smooth and stress-free. His attention to detail and communication truly set him apart.

I
Isaac C. Google Review · Client

Very responsive and communicative. Focuses on assisting clients any way he can and will work around the clock for you.

★★★★★ Rated 5.0 on Google

Read what other clients say.

Honest answers

Conventional loan questions, answered

How much down payment do I need for a conventional loan?

As little as 5% for qualified buyers on a primary residence, 10% for second homes, and 15–25% for investment properties. The 20% figure is about avoiding PMI, not qualifying.

What credit score do I need?

Most conventional programs require a minimum 620, but pricing improves meaningfully at higher tiers. If your score is close to a threshold, sometimes a short credit-optimization plan before locking saves real money — I'll tell you honestly.

Conventional vs FHA — which is better?

It depends on your credit and down payment. Strong credit with 5%+ down usually favors conventional (removable PMI, better insurance economics). Lower scores or thin credit often favor FHA. I run both scenarios so you choose on numbers, not guesses.

Can I use a conventional loan for a condo in Miami?

Yes — if the building is warrantable (meets Fannie/Freddie guidelines on owner-occupancy, reserves, and litigation). I check the building before you fall in love with the unit; non-warrantable buildings need different programs.

How fast can I close?

Typically 30–45 days from contract, and often faster when documentation is ready. Pre-approval within 24–48 hours of receiving your documents.

Get Started

Ready to price out a conventional loan?

Call, text, WhatsApp, or start the secure application — whichever feels easiest. Free consultation, no obligation, no hard credit pull to start.

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