Understanding Jumbo Loans in Florida: Your Guide to Financing High-Value Homes
When you’re looking at high-end real estate in Florida - whether it’s a waterfront single-family home in Miami, a luxury condo in Palm Beach, or a second home out on the Keys - the financing often moves beyond standard mortgage options. That’s where a jumbo loan comes into play.
What is a Jumbo Loan?
A Jumbo Loan (also called a jumbo mortgage) is a home loan that exceeds the conforming loan limits set by the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) - meaning the loan cannot be purchased or guaranteed by the government-sponsored enterprises. (GSEs) like Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. Because of that, lenders assume more risk with jumbo loans, and the underwriting requirements typically reflect that.
Why Jumbo Loans Matter in Florida
Florida’s real estate market has many high-value properties, especially in coastal areas, resort communities, and upscale neighborhoods. In shoe cases, the purchase price (and thus the loan size) often surpasses what’s considered “conforming.” That means many buyers require a jumbo loan to finance the purchase.
Florida’s Conforming Loan Limit - And When You Need a Jumbo
One of the key thresholds to know: For more of Florida (2025), the confirming limit for a single-family home is $806,500. In some high-cost counties, the conforming limit can go up to about $967,150. So, if you’re buying or refinancing a home and your loan amount is above the conforming limit for that county, you’ll be dealing with a jumbo loan.
Final Thoughts
If you’re shopping in Florida’s higher-end real estate markets, a jumbo loan may be an essential part of your financing strategy. It gives you access to the capital necessary to compete for luxury, second-home, or investment properties - but it also brings heightened requirements and considerations compared to standard mortgages.
Before diving in, make sure you understand the threshold in your county and work with an experienced mortgage consultant. With preparation and the right financial picture, you can make a jumbo loan work in Florida’s exciting high-value market.
