The standard mortgage for buyers with steady credit
A conventional loan is a mortgage that isn't insured or guaranteed by a government agency like the FHA, VA, or USDA. Instead, it follows underwriting guidelines set by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the two entities that buy and securitize most U.S. mortgages.
Because they aren't government-backed, conventional loans typically require a somewhat stronger credit profile — but reward that with lower overall borrowing costs and the ability to drop mortgage insurance entirely once you reach 20% equity.