Standard Mortgage Blog

The Federal Housing Finance Authority (FHFA) recently released updated 2026 conforming loan limits. Beginning January 1, 2026, the conventional loan limit will increase by 3.26 % to $832,750 for a single-family home in the 48 contiguous states. The maximum amount in 2025 was $806,500.

When most people think of a mortgage, they think of it as a monthly payment. But in reality, your mortgage can be one of the most powerful wealth-building tools you’ll ever have. With the right strategy, your home loan doesn’t just put a roof over your head; it can also help you grow equity, secure financial stability, and create opportunities for future investments.

When buying a home, there are many decisions to make. First, you have to select the property and home itself, and next, you need to select the mortgage product that best fits your needs. One decision when selecting the mortgage product is deciding the length of your mortgage. For most homebuyers, that decision comes down to a 15-year vs. 30-year mortgage. While the difference might seem simple on..