What is typically required for a borrower to receive a conventional loan?

For a borrower to receive a conventional loan, a higher down payment is often required. Conventional loans are those that are not guaranteed or insured by the government, which includes conventional conforming loans and non-conforming loans. Lenders perceive these loans as riskier because they lack government backing. To mitigate this risk, lenders usually ask for a larger down payment, which may range from 5% to 20% of the home's purchase price or more, depending on various factors like the borrower's creditworthiness and the loan type. A higher down payment can help reduce the lender's risk by lowering the loan-to-value ratio and showing the borrower’s commitment to the investment.

While having a strong credit score is beneficial and can improve the borrower’s chances of loan approval, perfection is not necessary to qualify. Similarly, collateral in the form of property is inherent in all mortgage loans, as the property itself secures the loan amount. Government backing, on the other hand, refers to loans such as FHA or VA loans, which are specifically designed to assist borrowers who may not meet the qualifications for conventional loans. Therefore, a higher down payment is a common requirement for obtaining a conventional loan and is a key factor in the lending decision.