← Back to All Programs

Conventional, VA & FHA

Geneva Financial offers the full range of traditional forward mortgage programs — from conforming conventional loans to government-backed VA and FHA financing. Whether you're buying your first home, moving up, or refinancing, we'll find the right fit.

Purchase & Refinance Primary, Second Home & Investment Fixed & Adjustable Rates First-Time Homebuyers Welcome
805-231-1644 DWaldman@genevafi.com Geneva Financial NMLS #42056
Traditional Mortgage Programs

The Right Loan for the Right Borrower

Geneva Financial is a full-service mortgage lender, which means we offer the complete spectrum of home loan options — not just specialty programs. Whether you qualify for a conventional loan with strong credit and a solid down payment, need a VA loan to take advantage of your military service benefits, or are looking for an FHA loan with a lower barrier to entry, we have you covered.

These are forward mortgages — meaning you receive funds upfront and make regular monthly principal and interest payments over the life of the loan. They can be used for purchases, rate-and-term refinances, or cash-out refinances, subject to program guidelines.

Not sure which program fits your situation? Our loan officers will walk you through the options and help you compare costs, rates, and qualification requirements side by side.

Which Program Is Right for You?

  • Conventional — Strong credit, 3–20%+ down, primary or investment property
  • VA — Eligible veteran, active duty, or surviving spouse with no down payment required*
  • FHA — First-time buyer or lower credit score with as little as 3.5% down

Not Sure Where to Start?

Talk to a Geneva Financial loan officer. We'll compare your options across all three programs — with no obligation — and help you understand the real cost of each.

Call 805-231-1644
The Programs

Conventional · VA · FHA

Three distinct programs, each designed for a different borrower profile. Here's how they compare.

Standard Program

Conventional

Conforming loans purchased by Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac

Key Features

  • Down payment as low as 3% (primary residence)
  • No upfront mortgage insurance premium
  • PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance) required if down payment is less than 20% — but can be removed once you reach 20% equity
  • Fixed or adjustable rate options
  • Eligible for primary residences, second homes, and investment properties
  • Competitive rates for borrowers with strong credit

Best For

Borrowers with a credit score of 620+ and a down payment saved, especially those who want flexibility on property types or want to avoid long-term mortgage insurance.

Military & Veterans

VA Loan

Backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

Key Features

  • No down payment required for eligible borrowers*
  • No private mortgage insurance (PMI)
  • Competitive interest rates — often below conventional
  • One-time VA funding fee (may be waived for disabled veterans)
  • Primary residence only
  • Purchase, refinance (IRRRL (Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan)), and cash-out options available
  • No minimum credit score set by VA (lender overlays apply)

Who Qualifies

Eligible active-duty service members, veterans with honorable discharge, and eligible surviving spouses. A Certificate of Eligibility (COE (Certificate of Eligibility)) is required — we can help you obtain one.

Government-Backed

FHA Loan

Insured by the Federal Housing Administration

Key Features

  • Down payment as low as 3.5% with a 580+ credit score**
  • Credit scores as low as 500 may qualify with 10% down**
  • More flexible debt-to-income ratio guidelines
  • Upfront MIP (Mortgage Insurance Premium) (mortgage insurance premium) at closing
  • Annual MIP applies for the life of the loan in most cases
  • Primary residence only
  • Purchase and refinance eligible

Best For

First-time homebuyers, borrowers with lower credit scores, or those with limited cash for a down payment who don't qualify for a VA loan.

Family in front of their new home

Full-Service Mortgage Lending

From First Home to Investment Property

Helocs & Heroes, backed by Geneva Financial, has been originating conventional, VA (Veterans Affairs), and FHA (Federal Housing Administration) loans since 2007. Whether you're purchasing your first home, refinancing to a better rate, or pulling equity out of a property, we handle the full process in-house.

Our specialty is finding the right program for borrowers who don't fit the standard mold — but we're equally equipped to serve straightforward conventional and government loan scenarios with speed and professionalism.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Program At a Glance

A simplified overview — actual program guidelines vary by loan amount, property type, and borrower profile. Contact us for details specific to your situation.

Feature Conventional VA FHA
Min. Down Payment 3% 0%* 3.5%
Mortgage Insurance PMI if <20% down None (funding fee) MIP for life of loan
Min. Credit Score 620+ No VA minimum* 580+ (3.5% down)
Property Types Primary, 2nd home, investment Primary residence only Primary residence only
Rate Type Fixed or ARM (Adjustable-Rate Mortgage) Fixed or ARM Fixed or ARM

All programs subject to credit, underwriting, and eligibility requirements. Lender overlays apply. Not all applicants will qualify. See disclosures below.

Program Disclosures

* 100% financing up to the appraised value of the property, for eligible VA borrowers.

** Based on manual underwriting and verified compensating factors. Additional restrictions or fees may apply. Please contact your licensed loan officer for details.

Ready to Find Your Program?

Whether you're buying your first home, refinancing, or comparing your options, Geneva Financial can walk you through conventional, VA, and FHA side by side and help you make a confident decision.

Call 805-231-1644 Email DWaldman@genevafi.com