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Owner-Occupant & First-Buyer

Conventional 97 Loan (3% Down, No Income Limit)

Fannie/Freddie 3%-down conventional with removable PMI — no income cap unlike FHA MIP.

Overview

Conventional 97 (Fannie's Standard 97 or Freddie's HomeOne) allows 3% down on a primary residence with no income limit. Unlike FHA's lifetime MIP, PMI drops automatically at 78% LTV (or on request at 80%). Better long-term math than FHA for buyers with 680+ FICO who plan to stay 5+ years. First-time buyer requirement: at least one borrower must not have owned in the last 3 years.

Best fit
First-time buyers with 680+ FICOBuyers over FHA income limitsLong-term hold owner-occupants
Estimated impact
$40–$150/mo vs FHA (lifetime MIP savings)

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