Conventional Loan
A conventional loan is one of the most popular mortgage options for Raleigh homebuyers. It’s flexible, widely accepted, and often more affordable than many people realize.
And in 2026, conventional financing just got even better.
Thanks to the new conforming loan limits, qualified first-time home buyers may now be able to buy a home priced up to $844,330 with as little as 3% down. That works out to a loan amount of $819,000, which some lenders are already honoring ahead of the official FHFA announcement.
At Martini Mortgage Group, our fiduciary duty means we’re here to give you clarity, not confusion, so you can move forward with confidence.
Table of Contents
What Is a Conventional Loan?
A conventional loan is any mortgage not backed by a government agency like the FHA, VA, or USDA. Instead, it follows guidelines set by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
Why does that matter?
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Today's Mortgage Rates- These loans are trusted and recognized nationwide.
- They often come with competitive rates and flexible terms.
- They’re designed to work for a wide range of buyers, including first-time buyers with as little as 3% down.
For many Raleigh homebuyers, a conventional loan is the perfect balance between flexibility, affordability, and long-term wealth-building.
The Big 2026 Update: Higher Conforming Loan Limits
Here’s the exciting part:
- In 2026, the conforming loan limit in Wake County rose to a loan amount of $819,000.
- With as little as 3% down, that means a purchase price of up to $844,330 may qualify under conventional financing.
- For first-time buyers, it makes higher price points achievable without entering the jumbo loan space.
- For move-up buyers, it removes hurdles like stricter jumbo underwriting and larger required reserves.
👉 Learn more about the 2026 conforming loan limits here
This change is a game-changer—especially in a market like Raleigh where home prices continue to appreciate.
The Myth of 20% Down
Too many buyers still believe they need 20% down to purchase a home. That’s simply not true.
With a conventional loan:
- First-time buyers can put down as little as 3% (up to that $819,000 loan cap).
- Repeat buyers may qualify with just 5% down.
- Private mortgage insurance (PMI) can often be removed once you build equity—something FHA loans don’t allow.
For example:
- On an $400,000 home, a 3% down payment is just $12,000, not $80,000.
- On an $800,000 home, you’d need $24,000 instead of $160,000.
This flexibility is why conventional loans remain a cornerstone of smart home financing.
Why Conventional Loans Still Win in Raleigh Real Estate
Even as markets shift, conventional loans remain a powerful tool for wealth-building.
- Equity growth: Raleigh home values continue to trend upward, giving homeowners a strong long-term return.
- Lower costs: With the right structure, conventional loans often deliver lower monthly costs than other options.
- Flexibility: Choose from a variety of terms (fixed or adjustable) to match your financial plan.
- Control: With the right strategy, you can refinance, recast, or restructure your loan as your life evolves.
The Fiduciary Style Difference with Martini Mortgage Group
At Martini Mortgage Group, we don’t just help you qualify for a loan—we help you create a plan for wealth.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Fiduciary style guidance: Your best interest always comes first.
- Clarity over confusion: We explain your options in plain English, not mortgage jargon.
- Same-As-Cash Approval: Our pre-approval process carries the strength of cash, giving you a competitive edge in Raleigh’s market.
- Long-term partnership: We manage your mortgage before, during, and after closing.
When you work with Kevin Martini and Logan Martini, you don’t just get a mortgage. You get a trusted partner in your financial journey.
Real Story: Winning with Same-As-Cash Approval
One Raleigh buyer recently came to us nervous about competing with cash offers. Sellers weren’t even looking at “pre-qual letters.”
With our Same-As-Cash Approval, her offer carried the weight of a cash buyer. She didn’t have to overpay—and she won the home.
That’s the power of combining conventional financing with a fiduciary style strategy.
Steps to Getting Pre-Approved
- Book a complimentary consultation with our team.
- Share your goals and documents (income, assets, credit).
- Receive your Same-As-Cash Approval.
- Shop with confidence knowing your numbers are solid.
👉 Schedule your consultation now or give the Martini Mortgage Group a call at (919) 238-4934.
TL;DR: Why 2026 Is Your Moment
With the new 2026 conforming loan limits, buying a home has never been more accessible. Whether it’s your first step into homeownership or your forever home, you deserve clarity, confidence, and a fiduciary partner guiding you every step of the way.
That’s what you get with Martini Mortgage Group.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Conventional Loan Options with Martini Mortgage Group
What are conforming loan limits?
Conforming loan limits are the maximum loan amounts that are eligible for purchase by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Loans under these limits usually enjoy lower interest rates, more flexible qualification criteria, and often smaller required down payments compared to jumbo loans.
What is the 2026 conforming loan limit in Raleigh / Wake County, NC?
The 2026 conforming loan limit in Raleigh (Wake County) for a single‐unit (1-unit) home is $819,000. For multi-unit properties, the limits go up to $1,048,500 (2-unit), $1,268,000 (3-unit), and $1,575,000 (4-unit). Martini Mortgage Group has already adopted these new limits ahead of many lenders.
Do these conforming loan limits apply across all of North Carolina?
Yes. The 2026 conforming loan limits apply statewide, across all 100 counties. That includes cities like Raleigh, Durham, Charlotte, Greensboro, and all others.
What’s the difference between “loan amount” and “purchase price” under these new limits?
Great question. The conforming limit refers to the maximum loan amount (for example, $819,000 for a 1-unit home). The purchase price is what you pay for the home, which includes the down payment. For example:
If you put down 3%, with an $819,000 cap, you could purchase up to $844,330.
With 5% down, you could purchase up to $862,105.
What is the minimum down payment required with a conventional loan under the 2026 limits?
For many first-time homebuyers, a 3% down payment is possible (on single-unit homes up to the conforming limit). Repeat buyers often qualify with 5% down. The specific requirements depend on credit, income, and other underwriting criteria.
What is a jumbo loan and how do I avoid it with these new limits?
A jumbo loan is any mortgage that exceeds the conforming loan limit. Jumbo loans typically require:
*Larger down payments (often 10-20% or more)
*Higher credit scores
*More stringent income and asset verification
With the 2026 limit now at $819,000 (1-unit), buyers whose homes cost more than that will need jumbo loans. Staying under the limit means you avoid the extra costs and stricter rules.
Can I refinance under the new conforming loan limits?
es. If you currently have a jumbo loan—or if your existing loan is close to the old conforming cap—refinancing into a conventional conforming loan under the new 2026 limits may lead to:
*Lower interest rates
*More favorable terms
*More affordable payments
*Easier qualification standards
How do rising rates affect Raleigh homebuyers, especially under the new limits?
Rising mortgage rates can reduce buying power, meaning you’ll pay more monthly or qualify for a lower purchase price. However, in Raleigh’s market, waiting often costs more because home prices tend to keep climbing. With the 2026 conforming limits, you have more flexibility and more room to act before crossing into jumbo territory—even if rates are rising. (This is one reason many buyers are moving now.)
Who is Kevin Martini (and Logan Martini), and why do clients trust them?
Kevin and Logan Martini lead Martini Mortgage Group. Their approach is fiduciary (meaning your best interest comes first), education-driven, and centered on giving you clarity—not pushing sales. They’ve adopted the 2026 limits early, offer Same-As-Cash Approval, and work with Raleigh’s local market deeply. This track record and transparency are why clients feel confident partnering with them.
Do you know how much home you can afford?
Most people don’t... Find out in 10 minutes.
Today's Mortgage Rates
