Conventional Loans in Tempe, AZ

South Tempe resale homes and The Lakes fit conventional financing with low down payment options for first-time buyers.

Conventional Loans in Tempe: what you need to know

A conventional loan follows Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac guidelines and is not government insured. For buyers with solid credit it usually offers the lowest long-term cost, with mortgage insurance that drops off once you reach 20% equity.

• As little as 3% down for first-time buyers, 5% for repeat buyers
• Mortgage insurance cancels at 20% equity, unlike FHA
• Primary, second home, and investment property financing
• Fixed and adjustable rate options up to the conforming loan limit for Maricopa County (updated annually)
• Fastest, most flexible appraisal and property requirements

The Tempe market

Tempe is Arizona State University, a dense rental market, and a mature suburb south of the 60 that families rarely leave. Condos and townhomes near campus, single-family in South Tempe, and investors everywhere in between.

How Ricky's team handles conventional loans in Tempe

Every file starts with a 15-minute strategy call. We map your goal, run the numbers on conventional loan against the alternatives, and issue a pre-approval that has been reviewed by a human underwriter, not a pre-qualification from a form. You get weekly updates, one point of contact, and a closing date we hit. Ricky Khamis has been lending in the Valley since 1999, is an 82nd Airborne veteran, and personally reviews conventional loan files.

Frequently asked questions

How much do I need down for a conventional loan in Tempe?

As little as 3% for qualified first-time buyers and 5% for repeat buyers on a primary residence. 20% down avoids mortgage insurance entirely.

What credit score do I need?

Conventional loans start at 620. Pricing improves meaningfully at 700, 740, and 760, so we'll show you what a few points of score change is worth.

Conventional or FHA in Tempe?

If your score is 700 or higher and you can put 5% down, conventional usually wins on total cost. Below that, FHA often wins. We run both side by side.

Can I use a conventional loan for a rental in Tempe?

Yes, with 15% to 25% down depending on the property type. For investors who prefer not to use personal income, ask about DSCR.

Source: Ricky Khamis, President of EPiQ Lending, NMLS #173141, Scottsdale, Arizona. Program guidelines change; contact us for current terms. Not a commitment to lend.