The payment is more than principal and interest
Your total monthly payment includes more than principal and interest.
Conventional financing can be a strong fit for borrowers who want flexible terms across primary homes, second homes and qualifying investment properties. The best structure depends on far more than the advertised rate—down payment, mortgage insurance, reserves, occupancy and the property itself all matter.
The strongest option depends on the complete financial profile, desired payment, property and plans for the future.
Buyers with established credit and documentable income
Move-up buyers using proceeds from another property
Borrowers purchasing a second home
Qualified real estate investors
RFG compares eligible paths and explains the tradeoffs so the decision is based on more than a headline feature.
Your total monthly payment includes more than principal and interest.
Condominium, insurance and property-condition requirements can affect eligibility.
A smaller down payment may preserve cash but can change mortgage insurance and pricing.
Final terms depend on verified qualifications, property review and underwriting.
A disciplined process creates room for better decisions and fewer preventable surprises.
Review income, assets, credit and goals
Compare down-payment and mortgage-insurance structures
Complete a documented preapproval
Update the scenario for the selected property
Move through appraisal, underwriting and closing
Every mortgage is specific to the borrower, property and current program requirements. These answers are educational starting points.
No. Eligible borrowers may have conventional options with less than 20% down. The appropriate structure depends on qualifications, occupancy, property type and current program requirements.
Yes, qualifying conventional programs can finance investment properties. Down payment, reserve and underwriting requirements are generally different from a primary residence.
Removal rules depend on the loan, payment history, loan-to-value and applicable law or investor requirements. Your servicer can explain the requirements for your specific mortgage.
Last reviewed August 5, 2026. This page provides general education. Loan programs, pricing, documentation and eligibility can change and must be confirmed for the borrower, property and transaction.
Tell us what you are planning. We will help you understand the available paths and decide what makes sense next.