The Mortgage Sensei

Conventional Loans · 11 states

Conventional home loans, compared across many lenders.

Fixed and adjustable mortgages backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. I help buyers and homeowners in the 11 states where I am licensed find the structure that fits their budget.

Licensed in 11 states

Compare many lenders

No-pressure advice

The Basics

The most common way to finance a home

A conventional loan is a mortgage that is not insured by a government agency such as the FHA, VA or USDA. Most follow Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac guidelines, which makes them widely available and flexible for primary homes, second homes and investment properties.

As an independent broker, I am not tied to one lender's menu. I compare conventional options across many lenders, so you can weigh rate, fees, mortgage insurance and term side by side before you commit.

As little as 3% down

Programs for eligible first-time buyers start at 3% down. Many other buyers put 5% or more. Putting 20% down avoids private mortgage insurance.

Mortgage insurance that can end

With less than 20% down, PMI applies. Unlike FHA insurance, conventional PMI can typically be removed once you reach enough equity.

Fixed or adjustable

Choose a 15, 20 or 30 year fixed term for a steady payment, or an adjustable rate if you expect to move or refinance sooner.

Homes and investments

Use it for a primary residence, a second home or an investment property. Down payment and credit requirements rise with the property use.

How It Works

From first call to closing

01

Soft credit review

I start with a soft credit review so you see where you stand before anything is pulled for real.

02

Compare your options

I price conventional programs across lenders and show you rate, cost and payment side by side.

03

Apply and upload securely

Complete your application and send documents through a secure portal.

04

Close with confidence

I track your file to the closing table and keep you updated at every milestone.

Where I Lend

Conventional loans in 11 states

I am licensed in VA, FL, TN, GA, NC, SC, MD, DC, WV, TX and KY. Here is what I watch in three popular markets.

Virginia

Richmond to Northern Virginia

Conforming limits are higher in high-cost parts of Northern Virginia, so many buyers there can stay in a conventional loan. Virginia Housing programs are also worth comparing for eligible buyers.

Tennessee

Nashville to the Smokies

Programs from the Tennessee Housing Development Agency may pair with conventional financing for eligible buyers. Second home and cabin purchases have their own guidelines.

Georgia

Atlanta to the coast

Georgia Dream programs from the state housing agency may pair with a conventional loan for eligible buyers. I price metro Atlanta, coastal and rural purchases with the same care.

Common Questions

Conventional loan FAQs

What credit score do I need?

Many conventional programs start around 620. Higher scores generally earn better pricing and lower mortgage insurance costs.

Conventional or FHA?

It depends on your credit, your down payment and how long you plan to stay. I run both so you can compare the monthly payment and the total cost.

Can I use gift funds for the down payment?

Often yes, with proper documentation. The rules change with your down payment size and how you use the home, so ask before you move any money.

Next Step

Talk through your conventional loan with Duane

Share your goals and I will walk you through your options. No pressure and no obligation.

Duane Buziak, NMLS #1110647, Coast2Coast Mortgage, LLC, NMLS #376205. Licensed in VA, FL, TN, GA, NC, SC, MD, DC, WV, TX and KY. Equal Housing Lender. This information is educational and is not an indication of loan qualification, approval or a commitment to lend. Rates, programs and guidelines change and are subject to credit approval.