Jumbo Loans in San Diego and Across California

What makes a loan jumbo?

Every year the Federal Housing Finance Agency sets the conforming loan limit, which is the largest loan Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will buy. Any loan above that limit is a jumbo loan.

For 2026, the baseline conforming limit is $832,750. California's higher-cost counties get more room. In San Diego County, the 2026 limit is $1,104,000 for a single-family home, and in counties like Los Angeles, Orange, and much of the Bay Area it's $1,249,125. Borrow more than your county's limit, and you're in jumbo territory.

Why jumbo loans are common in California

With median home prices in many California markets well above national levels, jumbo financing isn't just for luxury estates. It's how many families buy a regular single-family home in coastal San Diego, Orange County, or the Bay Area.

What lenders typically look for

Because jumbo loans are larger and aren't backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, guidelines are usually stricter. Each lender sets its own rules, but expect:

• Strong credit, often in the 700s
• A down payment commonly between 10 and 20 percent, sometimes less with select programs
• Cash reserves, often several months of payments left in the bank after closing
• Full documentation of income and assets, or an alternative program if you're self-employed
• A lower debt-to-income ratio than some other loan types allow

Jumbo options worth knowing about

• Fixed and adjustable rates. Some jumbo borrowers save with an ARM if they don't plan to keep the loan for 30 years.
• Self-employed jumbo. Bank statement and other non-QM jumbo programs qualify you without tax returns.
• Jumbo for investors. DSCR loans can go into jumbo loan amounts for rental properties.
• Jumbo cash-out refinance to tap equity in a high-value home.
• Piggyback structures. In some cases, a first mortgage at the conforming limit plus a second loan can beat a single jumbo.

Why a broker makes a big difference on jumbo loans

Jumbo pricing and guidelines vary more from lender to lender than almost any other loan type. A small rate difference on a large balance adds up to real money. As a broker, I shop your jumbo loan across multiple wholesale lenders, including portfolio lenders with flexible rules, so you're not stuck with one bank's offer.

Your loan and your agent under one roof

At higher price points, the details matter: appraisal strategy, reserves, and timing. The Loan Me Company is both a mortgage brokerage and a real estate brokerage, so the same team that structures your jumbo loan can negotiate your purchase. Offers are written around your real approval, not a guess.

Talk it through with Conor

Book a free 15-minute consultation with no credit impact and no commitment. We'll look at jumbo, conforming, and second-loan structures side by side. Book your free consultation or call 925-708-7991.

Jumbo loan FAQ

What is the jumbo loan limit in San Diego for 2026?

Any loan above $1,104,000 for a single-family home in San Diego County is considered jumbo in 2026. The threshold is different in other counties.

How much do I need to put down on a jumbo loan?

Commonly 10 to 20 percent, depending on the lender, loan size, and your credit. Some programs allow less.

Are jumbo loan rates higher than conventional rates?

Not always. Jumbo rates can be close to, or occasionally below, conforming rates depending on the market and your profile. Contact us for a current rate quote.

Can I get a jumbo loan if I'm self-employed?

Yes. Full-documentation jumbo loans can work for self-employed borrowers, and bank statement jumbo programs are available if your tax returns don't show your full income.

Is it better to do a jumbo loan or a first and second mortgage?

It depends on rates, your down payment, and how long you plan to keep the loan. We run both scenarios so you can compare the real numbers.

Related loan programs

• Bank Statement Loans: Self-employed? Qualify on deposits, not tax returns

• Bridge Loans: Buy your next home before you sell

• HELOCs & Home Equity Loans: Tap your equity and keep your first mortgage

The Loan Me Company (Loan Me, Co.) · NMLS #2497863 · CA DRE #02220434 · Conor Cappa, NMLS #1450916 · CA DRE #02100091. This is not a commitment to lend. All loans are subject to credit approval, income, asset and property qualification, and lender guidelines. Loan limits shown are for 2026 and can change. Contact us for a current rate quote. Equal Housing Opportunity.