Above the conforming loan limit, luxury buyers move into jumbo financing — stricter underwriting, larger down payments and reserves, but competitive rates for strong borrowers.
When you need a jumbo
If your loan amount exceeds the county conforming limit (about $1,089,300 in Ventura County for 2026), it's a jumbo. On a luxury Simi Valley, Calabasas, or Westlake Village purchase, that's common. Jumbos are portfolio or privately securitized loans, so each lender sets its own overlays.
What jumbo underwriting expects
- 20%+ down (often 25% for second homes or investment).
- 6–12 months of liquid reserves.
- Strong credit and a clean, well-documented income picture.
- Lower debt-to-income ceilings than conforming.
- Sometimes two appraisals on higher loan amounts.
Getting it done
The key with jumbo is choosing the right lender for your profile — self-employed, equity-rich-but-income-light, and high-net-worth buyers each fit different programs (including asset-depletion and bank-statement options). I connect luxury buyers with jumbo-experienced lenders and structure offers that hold up to stricter underwriting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a jumbo loan in California?
A loan above the county conforming limit — roughly $1,089,300 in Ventura County for 2026.
How much down do I need for a jumbo loan?
Typically 20%+ (often 25% for second homes), plus 6–12 months of reserves and strong credit.
Are jumbo rates higher than conventional?
Not necessarily — for well-qualified borrowers, jumbo rates are often competitive with conforming.
Can self-employed buyers get a jumbo loan?
Yes — through bank-statement or asset-depletion programs with the right lender.
