Deciding between a conforming mortgage and a non-conforming loan is one of the most important financial decisions a homebuyer in Kansas City will make. This comparison is part of our comprehensive Jumbo Loan resource hub, where we break down the nuances of high-value financing in Kansas and Missouri.
The answer hinges on one critical number: the Conforming Loan Limit set by the federal government. At Metropolitan Mortgage, we specialize in helping you navigate the difference to secure the right financing for your home. To start with the basics of standard financing, visit our hub for Conventional Mortgages.
🔑 The Defining Difference: Conforming Loan Limits
A Conventional Loan and a Jumbo Loan are both mortgages offered by private lenders, but they are defined by their size relative to a cap set by the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA).
| Loan Type | Definition | Your Property’s Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Conventional Loan | A mortgage that conforms to the loan amount limits set by the FHFA. These loans can be purchased by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. | Up to $832,750 in most Kansas/Missouri counties in 2026. |
| Jumbo Loan | A type of conventional loan that is non-conforming because the loan amount exceeds the FHFA limit. | Above $832,750 in most Kansas/Missouri counties. |
The limit for a single-family home in all of our service counties is $832,750 for 2026. If the amount you need to borrow is more than this, you enter the territory of a Jumbo Loan.
➡️ Need to confirm the exact limit for your county? View our dedicated 2026 Loan Limits for Kansas and Missouri page.
📊 Side-by-Side Qualification Comparison
Because Jumbo Loans are not backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, the lender assumes all the risk. As a result, qualification standards are stricter.
| Feature | Conventional (Conforming) | Jumbo (Non-Conforming) |
|---|---|---|
| Min. Credit Score | 620+. See Credit Score Tiers. | Generally 700+. See Jumbo Credit Requirements. |
| Min. Down Payment | As low as 3% (See Conventional 97) | Typically 10% to 20%. |
| Max DTI Ratio | Up to 50%. See DTI Guidelines. | 43% or lower. See Jumbo DTI Limits. |
| Cash Reserves | Often minimal or none required. | 6–12 months PITI. See Reserve Requirements. |
Note for Entrepreneurs: If you are a business owner, your income analysis will be different for each loan type. Read our specific guide on Jumbo Loans for self-employed borrowers to see how we calculate qualifying income.
Want to check your eligibility? Start the process with our Pre-Approval Application.
⚖️ Interest Rates and Underwriting
Historically, Jumbo Loan rates were higher than conventional rates, but for borrowers with excellent credit (740+ FICO), Jumbo rates are now very competitive.
The underwriting process for a Jumbo Loan is often more manual and demanding. You should expect to provide more detailed records, as outlined in our Mortgage Documentation Checklist.
If your home value has increased, see how our Jumbo refinancing options can help you lower your monthly payment or access equity.
🎯 Who Should Choose Which Loan?
Choose a Conventional Loan If:
- Your loan amount is less than $832,750.
- You need a low down payment (as low as 3%).
- You are using specialized programs like HomeReady.
➡️ Explore all features in our Conventional Home Loan Guide.
Choose a Jumbo Loan If:
- Your desired loan amount exceeds the 2026 county limit.
- You have a strong credit profile (720+) and significant cash reserves.
- You are buying a luxury property in areas like Overland Park.
➡️ Review all requirements in our Jumbo Loan Hub.
Ready to Find Your Program?
Whether you need the flexibility of a Conventional Loan or the power of a Jumbo Loan, our local experts are here to guide you. We will analyze your county’s limit and your financial profile to ensure you get the best terms.
Speak with a Loan Specialist Today to determine the perfect fit for your home purchase.