Will Conventional Loan Limits Increase in 2024? Here’s What to Expect

As we approach the new year, many aspiring homeowners are wondering what changes may be in store for the real estate market and whether they should buy a house now or wait. One area of interest is the potential increase in conventional loan limits for mortgages in 2024. Read on as we explore the latest developments and what they could mean for prospective homebuyers.

FHFA’s 2024 conventional loan limit projections 

The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) is responsible for setting loan limits for conventional mortgages. It is expected that these limits will experience a boost in 2024, allowing borrowers to qualify for larger loans. The projected increase in 2024 is approximately 3.28%, resulting in a new conforming loan limit of $750,000, up from $726,200 in 2023.

This adjustment primarily applies to single-family homes located in the continental United States. For properties with multiple units, such as duplexes or apartment buildings, the loan limits may be higher, based on the number of units.

Why do loan limits increase?

The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) raises loan limits each year to reflect changes in home prices. Loan limits are the maximum amount that a borrower can borrow for a mortgage and still qualify for a government-backed loan.

The FHFA uses average home prices reported by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) and adjusts the loan limits accordingly. With the rising cost of homes every year, raising the loan limits also allows for more borrowers to access mortgages with government backing, encouraging homeownership and increasing access to housing.

Loan limits are not raised every year, but they can be adjusted annually if average home prices rise enough to warrant an increase. Loan limits also vary by county, with higher limits in areas where the cost of living is higher. The FHFA ensures that any changes in loan limits are appropriately balanced to reflect the varying costs of homes across the country.

Leading lenders embrace expanded loan limits

Major lending institutions have already started to prepare for these changes by adopting the new loan limits. For example, Guaranteed Rate and CMG Home Loans have announced their plans to implement the increased borrowing capacity. These adjustments are expected to make homeownership more accessible to a wider range of individuals and families.

For prospective homebuyers, this increase in loan limits could hold promising opportunities. With access to larger loans, individuals may be able to afford homes in more desirable neighborhoods or secure properties with higher market values. The expanded loan limits combined with any down payment assistance programs and grants may also provide relief for those struggling to find suitable housing options within their budgetary constraints.

Taking advantage of loan limit changes

As with any change in the lending landscape, it is crucial to stay informed to take full advantage of the opportunities available. Regularly checking for updates from the FHFA and staying in touch with trusted mortgage lenders can help you navigate the evolving market.

Here are a few key takeaways to keep in mind:

1. Stay informed: Stay up to date with the latest news regarding loan limit adjustments from reliable sources, such as the FHFA and reputable mortgage lenders.
2. Consult with professionals: Reach out to mortgage lenders or financial advisors to understand how the new loan limits might impact your specific situation. They can provide personalized guidance on how to make the most of these changes.
3. Plan for the future: If you’ve been considering homeownership, now could be a great time to start planning. Take the opportunity to assess your financial situation, explore mortgage options and grants, and determine how the increased loan limits might align with your goals.

Remember, you are not just a passive observer in the real estate market. By staying informed and actively engaging with the changes happening around you, you can take control of your financial future and make informed decisions that align with your aspirations.

The bottom line

Based on the information available, it is expected that the 2024 conventional loan limits will increase to $750,000 for one-unit properties in the continental US, with a possibility of going up even higher. However, it is crucial to note that the FHFA will make the final announcement in November and the official loan limits might differ from the projected values.