What Does It Take to Qualify for a Jumbo Loan?
Jumbo loan borrowers need larger down payments and detailed income documentation
In recent years, getting a jumbo loan has gotten a little harder than it used to be. Before the 2008 housing crisis, it was somewhat common for borrowers to get away with putting only 5% down on $500,000+ jumbo loan -- basically allowing them to buy a mansion on a shoestring salary. While things have loosened up since the first few years after the crisis, requirements are still a bit stricter, and most potential jumbo loan borrowers should expect to make at least a 15% down payment. They should also carefully record and document their income. Plus, they may have to be okay with getting an adjustable rate loan, and making sure that their monthly payment does not exceed 38% of their income before taxes.