The Conventional Rate & Term Refinance—also called a Limited Cash-Out Refinance—is designed for homeowners who want to improve loan terms without taking equity out of the property. It allows refinancing an existing mortgage to reduce interest rate, change the term, or remove mortgage insurance, while paying off only purchase-money liens and standard closing costs.
This program is ideal for borrowers who:
Occupancy Type | Property Type | Credit Score | Max LTV/CLTV | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Primary Residence | SFR / Condo | 620+ | 97% | Current loan must be owned by Fannie Mae if LTV > 95%. Manufactured homes not eligible above 95%. |
Primary Residence | 2-4 units | 620+ | 95% | Borrower must occupy one unit. |
Second Home | 1 Unit / Condo | 620+ | 90% | Must be suitable for year-round occupancy and not subject to rental agreements. |
Investment Property | 1-4 Units / Condo | 620+ | 75% | Eligible for rate & term refinance only; no cash-out allowed. |
Manufactured Home | 1 Unit | 620+ | 95% | Primary residence only. Multi-wide homes only. Single-wide limited to primary residence. |
Occupancy Requirement |
|---|
Primary residence If owner-occupied, at least one borrower must intend to occupy the home as their primary residence within 60 days of closing. |
Investment If non-owner-occupied, the borrower(s) can't occupy the home; it must be rented or held for investment, with rental income or reserves meeting Fannie Mae guidelines. |
Residency Eligibility |
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Eligible
|
Ineligible
|
Income Consistency Requirements |
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Employment History
|
Notes
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Income Type | Requirement | Documentation |
|---|---|---|
Wage Earner | 2 years stable employment history (gaps allowed if explained). Must show likelihood of continuance. | 30 days paystubs + 2 years W-2s; VOE if required. |
Self-Employed | 2 years of self-employment required (1 year possible with ≥5 years prior work history in same field or relevant professional license.). Must demonstrate stable or increasing income. | 2 years tax returns; YTD P&L; business bank statements if requested. |
Part Time | 2-year history required; must be likely to continue. | W-2s, paystubs, VOE verifying hours and history. |
Seasonal | 2-year history required; must be likely to continue. | W-2s, paystubs, VOE or employer letter confirming rehire pattern. |
Social Security, Disability, and Retirement Income | Must be expected to continue ≥ 3 years. | Award/benefit letter (SSA, pension, disability) + proof of receipt (bank statements, 1099s, or deposits). |
Alimony / Child Support | Must be court-ordered or written agreement; ≥ 3 years continuance. | Divorce decree, separation agreement, or order + 6 months proof of receipt. |
Loan Amounts |
|---|
Minimum Loan Amount $50,000 minimum (case-by-case exceptions possible). |
Maximum Loan Limits Must meet FHFA conforming loan limit values. |
Non-Occupant Co-Borrowers |
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Eligibility
|
LTV Limits & Exceptions
|
Property Types |
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Eligible
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Ineligible
|
Disclaimer – This matrix was published on 09/20/2025. Program guidelines may have changed since then. Please contact Alexis to confirm the most current requirements. For complete details, refer to the Partner Matrices PDF or reach out directly to Alexis for program-specific guidance.
Contact Loan Officer
Alexis Andrade
Mortgage Loan Officer
NMLS #2553405
alexis@sjmorganple.com
Partner Matrix