Conventional

A conventional, aka conforming, mortgage follows the guidelines set by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. These guidelines determine things such as maximum loan amount, down payment, and the borrower's credit and income requirements.  The most popular conventional loans are usually referred to as  30-year fixed rate or 15-year fixed rate mortgages. These loans allow you to lock in the interest rate for the entire life of the loan, creating attractive stability for the borrower.

Non-Conforming or Jumbo

If a loan exceeds the conforming loan limits, it is considered a jumbo loan. These loans tend to have a little higher interest rates and stricter requirements because there are greater risks at stake. As of 2017, the limit is $424.100 in most of the US, including Texas.

FHA

These loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration. The FHA loan program was developed to stimulate the housing market by making home loans both accessible and affordable. FHA loans are a great option for first time home buyers as they require a minimum down payment of only 3.5%. The interest rates are attractive and the credit qualifications are less stringent.

VA

VA loans are guaranteed by the US Department of Veteran Affairs. These loans are a wonderful option for eligible veterans who are looking to buy a home or refinance a current loan. In most cases, there is no down payment required for the veteran borrower, and the interest rate is usually lower than other loan products.

USDA

A USDA loan is backed by the US Department of Agriculture, and is only offered to home buyers in specific, rural areas with low to moderate incomes. These loans offer 100% financing with no money down to those that qualify. The borrower is also allowed to use a gift or grant to go toward the mortgage. The guidelines and requirements about income limits and property location are set by the USDA.