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A personal loan can be a lifesaver. But what if you realize you should have taken out more than you did? In most cases, you can’t increase your loan after the fact. However, you may be able to take out a second personal loan.

If you want or need to borrow more, we’ll review your options, their pros and cons, and some alternatives to borrowing.

What if You Want to Borrow More in Personal Loans

If you’ve already taken out a loan but need additional funds, you might be wondering if you can add to your existing personal loan. In most cases, the answer is no. You can’t increase your loan amount, but you may be able to apply for a second loan. Technically, there’s no limit to how many personal loans you can have.

Lenders may approve a second or third loan if the borrower has paid off part of the first loan and has a history of on-time repayment. In some cases, you need to have made at least three consecutive scheduled payments on your existing loan.

To help your chances of getting approved for a new loan, it helps to understand the general process.

Considerations Before Applying for a New Personal Loan

If you’re looking into adding to an existing personal loan, you’re probably already familiar with the basics. While there are different types of personal loans, they all typically have lower interest rates than credit cards. According to the Federal Reserve, the average APR for personal loans was 8.73% as of September 2022, compared to the typical credit card interest rate of 16.65%.

Common uses for personal loans include covering medical bills, paying for home repairs, and consolidating debt. Plus, personal loans are widely available from a variety of sources, from banks and online lenders to credit unions and nonprofits.

But debt is still debt. Increasing debt can have negative consequences: lowering your credit score, raising your risk of defaulting, and adding to general financial stress. Plus, loans come with interest that accrues over time, so you are paying more for the borrowed money over the life of your loan. The last thing you want to do is dig yourself into a deeper financial hole.

Before you take out another loan, take a step back and consider whether you truly need to borrow the money. Ask yourself:

•   Can you save for your goal by trimming expenses or taking on a side hustle?

•   Can you work on paying off your existing debt first?

Applying for a New Personal Loan

Of course, we’d all like to have enough savings in the bank to cover a major expense. But reality is complicated and emergencies are, by definition, hard to plan for. (Hello, surprise medical bills!)

If you’ve decided that borrowing makes sense for you, it’s possible to apply for an additional personal loan. A personal loan calculator can help you find out what interest rate and term options you may qualify for. Generally, shopping around for a loan requires only a soft credit inquiry, which doesn’t affect your credit score.

Applying with a Co-Applicant

In some cases, you may realize that your existing debt is making it hard to qualify for a new loan. But you still have another option: You may be able to re-apply with a co-applicant. If the co-applicant has a strong credit history and income, you may be able to obtain a loan or qualify for a lower interest rate together.

Once you receive the loan, both you and the co-applicant (who typically becomes the co-borrower) will be responsible for paying it off. That means if you fail to live up to your agreement in making payments, the other can be held responsible for the full amount of the loan. A co-borrower typically can’t be removed from the loan unless they die or you pay the loan off entirely.

If you still don’t qualify, the biggest help for qualifying in the future might be time. Building up a history of making debt payments on schedule, paying down other debt, and increasing your income via a new job or side gig can all turn things around.

Recommended: Getting a Personal Loan with a Co-Applicant

The Takeaway

In most cases, borrowers can’t add to an existing personal loan. However, you may be able to apply for a second loan. Eligibility requirements vary by lender, but in some cases you need to have made several consecutive on-time payments before applying for a new loan. Whenever possible, borrowers should look into cutting back on expenses or trying to increase income before taking on more debt.

SoFi Relay can help you keep track of your budget while you’re paying off debt. If you’re looking to apply for a personal loan, consider checking out the options available at SoFi. SoFi Personal Loans have absolutely no fees — no origination fees required, no prepayment fees, and no late fees.

Whether it’s your first time or you’ve borrowed before, it’s easy to apply for a personal loan with SoFi.

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Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

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For better or worse, the real estate market can fluctuate from year to year or even month by month. In recent memory, there’s been a pandemic-fueled buying frenzy that fueled bidding wars over the limited supply of properties. Now, as mortgage rates increase, it remains to be seen if the situation is evolving into a low-demand, high-availability market. Signs point to the market being a bit more forgiving for those shopping for homes.

For both buyers and sellers, real estate inventory is a key factor to note. Whether the housing inventory is high or low can carry advantages or drawbacks. It can also impact your strategy if you are hunting for a home or trying to get yours sold.

Here’s a closer look at how to gauge the local real estate market and navigate high and low housing inventory through the perspective of buyers vs. sellers. Read on for details.

What Is Housing Inventory?

An area’s real estate inventory can be thought of as the current supply of properties for sale.

The housing inventory will increase or decrease according to the difference between the rate of new listings on the market and the number of closed sales or houses taken off the market for other reasons.

Although this calculation can be done at any time, it’s common practice to assess the balance at the end of the month. Comparing monthly figures can show if housing inventory is trending up, down, or staying relatively stable.

If there appears to be a rapid trend in either direction, it may signal the need to take quick action on a purchase or sale, or take a wait-and-see position and hold off for a while.

Even within a town or city, real estate inventory can vary significantly. To better understand your local housing market trends, you can dig deeper into important indicators like average time on the market and average price of nearby homes or in your desired neighborhood. Next, we’ll delve into this in more depth.

High Housing Inventory

An area with a high housing inventory has more properties on the market than there are people looking to buy. This can also be referred to as a buyer’s market, since the larger selection of homes usually favors prospective buyers more than sellers.

These conditions may cause the price of homes to stagnate or, in more extreme cases, fall. Typically, the average property will also take longer to sell in this environment.

Still, there’s a huge variety of financial situations and unique property characteristics out there. Each case will be different, but here are some considerations if you’re buying or selling during a moment of high housing inventory.

If You’re a Buyer Amid High Housing Inventory

In many cases, shopping for a new home during high housing inventory can be a blessing.

•   Take it slow (or at least slower). You may be able to see multiple properties before making an offer and size up which home best suits you. High housing inventory means there are fewer buyers to compete with, so there’s less of a risk that homes will quickly get scooped up.

•   Shop around. Knowledge is power when it comes to making an offer. Having viewed comparable houses in the area firsthand could help when it’s your turn at the negotiating table.

•   Do your research. Other property details, such as price reductions and total days on the market, are potential indicators that sellers might be ready to accept an offer below asking price.

Although buyers can have a comparative edge when housing inventory is high, there is, of course, still a chance of multiple offers and bidding wars for well-priced homes. There are likely to be others who want to take advantage of what may be called a soft market in real estate terms.

💡 Recommended: A Guide to Real Estate Counter Offers

If You’re a Seller Amid High Housing Inventory

Putting a property on the market in a location with high housing inventory may require more time to find the right buyer. After all, you’re not the only game in town. However, there are several strategies at a seller’s disposal to unload a house without financial loss.

•   Fix it up. To stand out in a crowded field, it can help to address any persisting issues and accentuate your home’s best assets. Parts of the property in need of common home repairs — the foundation, electrical system, HVAC system, and so on — could discourage potential buyers. Instead of accepting lower offers or other concessions, sellers may save more money by handling the repairs before putting the house on the market.

•   Improve it. Making improvements can be helpful, too. A kitchen reno may be out of reach in terms of time and money, but doing a thorough cleaning and tidying up landscaping are easy fixes that could make a better impression on prospective buyers.

•   Declutter. It’s another way to enhance a house for showings and listing photos. It could also indicate a shorter turnaround for buyers eager to move quickly.

•   Price it right. When all is said and done, setting an asking price that’s not too far above similar properties may be necessary to keep your property on buyers’ radar.

Low Housing Inventory

Also known as a seller’s market or a hot housing market, an area with low housing inventory has a surplus of interested homebuyers and a shortage of available listings.

Usually, sellers in an area with low housing inventory can get a higher price for their property. Thanks to the abundance of buyers, It’s not uncommon to see multiple offers and bidding wars for any type of housing stock.

Let’s take a closer look at how to make the most of low housing inventory for either side of the deal.

If You’re a Buyer Amid Low Housing Inventory

Although the odds may not favor buyers in a low housing inventory environment, they still have some options to increase their chances of finding a dream home.

•   Think beyond price. In a multiple-offer situation, the highest price may not be the most advantageous deal for the seller. Being flexible on the closing date and limiting contingencies can affect an offer’s competitiveness.

•   Get pre-qualified or pre-approved. Doing the legwork, researching the different kinds of mortgages in advance, and getting pre-qualified can show that buyers are ready to go and financially eligible. Typically, lenders provide potential borrowers with a letter stating how much they can borrow, given some conditions.

◦   Pre-approval, which involves analysis of at least two years of tax returns, months’ worth of income history and bank statements, and documents showing any additional sources of income, can carry more weight and speed up the mortgage application process.

•   Consider cash. If you can swing it, a cash offer is often seen as advantageous because there’s no risk of the deal falling through from a denied mortgage loan.

•   Opt for an escalation clause, a method for beating out competing bids. The clause means a buyer automatically will increase their initial bid up to a specified dollar amount. For example, a buyer with an escalation clause could offer $250,000 with an option to bump up to $255,000 if another offer exceeded theirs.

•   Know what a place is worth. Even in a seller’s market, house hunters would do best to keep appraised values in mind. If buyers pay thousands more than the appraised value of a house, their home equity could take a hit.

If You’re a Seller Amid Low Housing Inventory

When the forces of supply and demand favor sellers, they have a better chance of fielding multiple offers on a property. Still, getting a great deal is not a sure thing. Here, some advice to help you take advantage of this scenario.

•   Spruce it up. The same conventional wisdom applies for cleaning and touching up a house to get more foot traffic at showings or open houses.

•   Set a reasonable asking price just below the market value — a figure based in part on comps, or comparables, which reveal what similar homes in the same area have sold for recently. This can be a good way to capture buyer interest. In a multiple-offer situation, this gives buyers room to outbid each other, potentially increasing the purchase price above asking.

•   Look past price alone. If faced with more than one offer, it may be tempting to go for the highest bidder. It can be beneficial to review each buyer’s finances and contingencies to lower the risk of a deal falling through.

•   Recognize that cash is king. Cash offers are generally the most secure. These have risen significantly in the current hot market, according to a National Association of Realtors® report. They made up 25% of sales in May of 2021.

•   Check contingencies. If there are offers with contingencies like the house passing an inspection, they could allow a buyer to back out of a deal vs. ones that waive such contingencies.

💡 Recommended: What Is a Mortgage Contingency? How It Works Explained

Other Considerations When Buying a Home

Housing inventory can be an important factor when looking for a new home and may impact your experience in a positive or negative way. Knowing how to negotiate both scenarios, whether as a buyer or seller, can help you get the best deal with the least amount of stress.

You’ll also have other considerations to keep in mind as you shop for your home. These may include:

•   How much you can put down

•   What type of mortgage works best for you

•   How much your mortgage will cost

•   What your closing costs will be

•   How much you’ll need for any necessary renovations

•   What the property taxes are

The Takeaway

If you’re a buyer, finding the right mortgage will also be a big factor. That’s where SoFi can help. SoFi offers mortgage loans with competitive rates, and as little as 3% down for qualifying first-time homebuyers. Mortgage Loan Officers are on hand to help you through the process and make your dream home a reality.

Get the scoop on a SoFi mortgage in just minutes.

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SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

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Buying a house is one of life’s most exciting milestones — not to mention one of the biggest purchases. With the median U.S. home sale price sitting at $428,700 in mid-2022, most people acquire a fixed-rate or adjustable-rate mortgage to fund their new domicile.

But if you’re preparing to take the homeownership plunge, how do you know which kind of loan is right for you and what the most important features are?

This article can help. We’ll introduce you to the wide (and slightly wacky) world of mortgages. You’ll learn:

•   What’s the definition of a fixed-rate mortgage?

•   Pros and cons of fixed-rate mortgages.

•   When is a fixed-rate mortgage the right choice?

What Is a Fixed-Rate Mortgage?

A fixed-rate mortgage is, as its name suggests, a mortgage loan whose interest rate is fixed across the lifetime of the loan. The rate is stated at the time the documents are signed and does not change at any point throughout the loan term (provided that all payments are made in full and on time). Fixed-rate mortgage terms can be 10, 15, 20, or 30 years. A mortgage broker or online calculator can help you work through the different monthly payments for each and see what best suits your situation.

Fixed-Rate Mortgages vs Adjustable-Rate Mortgages

If you’re deciding between a fixed-rate vs. adjustable-rate mortgage (or ARM), the difference is that with ARM, the interest rate can move up or down according to the market. The rate is calculated according to the index and margin — the index is a benchmark interest rate based on market conditions at large, and the margin is a number set by the lender when the loan is applied for.

You may see options like a 5/1 ARM, which means the rate is set for the first five years of the loan and then adjusts annually after that.

Long story short: A fixed-rate mortgage offers you a predictable interest rate and monthly payment, whereas an adjustable-rate mortgage can shift over the course of the loan term according to external factors, like inflation affecting the APR.

It is, however, important to understand that your total monthly housing bill can still change, even with a fixed-rate mortgage, if, for example, your property taxes or homeowners insurance rates change or if you miss several payments.

Types of Fixed-Rate Mortgages

There are a few variables to fixed-rate mortgages.

•   Conventional Loans: Conventional fixed-rate mortgages are offered by banks, credit unions, and other lending institutions. They typically have stringent requirements about credit score and debt-to-income ratio (or DTI) that an applicant must meet.

•   Government-Insured Loans: FHA, USDA, VA: Government-insured loans, such as FHA, USDA, and VA mortgages (more on these below), tend to have less tough requirements and target certain kinds of homebuyers, like those with lower income, in the military (past or present), and living in rural areas. They may offer no or low down payment and other perks, too.

•   Conforming and Non-Conforming Loans: Mortgages can also be considered “conforming” or “nonconforming,” depending on whether or not they meet the guidelines established by the Federal Housing Finance Agency (commonly known as Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac). In 2022, the conforming loan limit for one-unit properties was $647,200, or $970,800 in areas deemed “high cost.”

Of course, homes costlier than these limits exist, and it is possible to take out mortgage to buy one. Those loans are considered “nonconforming” and are also sometimes called “jumbo loans.”

Because the loans are so large, eligibility requirements tend to be more stringent, with borrowers usually needing a down payment well above 3%, cash in the bank, and a solid credit score.

Example of a Fixed-Rate Mortgage

Here’s an example of how a fixed-rate mortgage might work. If you buy a house for $428,700 with 20% down and take out a 30-year fixed-rate home loan. Your mortgage principal will be $342,960, and at a rate of 6.72% with a solid credit score of 740+, your monthly payment (not including any taxes or insurance) will be $2,217.

As you make your loan payments, at first most of the money goes towards interest. This is because the interest is “front-loaded,” to use the industry lingo. Perhaps 90% of your payment will be paying interest and 10% will be applied to the principal. As you get to the end of your loan payment, these figures may well be reversed. That is, 10% of the $2,217 goes towards interest and 90% towards the principal.

Pros and Cons of Fixed-Rate Mortgages

Fixed-rate mortgages are more common among homebuyers because of the predictability they offer. Still, there are both drawbacks and benefits to pursuing this kind of home loan.

Benefits of Fixed-Rate Mortgages

Because homebuyers who take out fixed-rate mortgages will know their rates at the time they sign on the dotted line, these loans provide long-term predictability and stability — which can help people who need to fit their housing expenses into a tight budget.

Fixed-interest mortgages, and other types of fixed-rate loans, shield borrowers from potentially high interest rates if the market fluctuates in such a way that the index significantly rises.

Drawbacks of Fixed-Rate Mortgages

Although fixed-rate mortgages are more predictable over time, they tend to have higher interest rates than ARMs — at least at first. Sometimes an ARM might have a lower interest rate but only for a relatively brief introductory period, after which the rate will be adjusted.

If the index rate falls in the future, homebuyers might end up paying more in interest than they would have with an ARM.

Because the principal balance is generally chipped away at more slowly with a fixed-interest rate mortgage than with an ARM, it can take longer for borrowers to build equity in their home.

Because lenders risk losing money on fixed-interest mortgages if index interest rates go up, these loans can be harder to qualify for than their adjustable-rate counterparts.

How to Calculate Fixed-Rate Mortgage Payments

Now that you know what a fixed-rate mortgage is and how it functions, you might wonder how much it could cost you. If you are curious about what fixed-rate mortgage payments would look like at different home price points, for varying terms, you can break out pencil and paper or your phone’s calculator function and do the math.

However, this gets fairly complicated because it’s not a matter of simple interest (and basic multiplication and division) when you try to replicate how banks come up with their numbers. You’ll need to get involved in calculating how the loan amortizes (gets paid down) over time.

Unless you’re a math major, your best option may be to use an online mortgage payment calculator. With a few simple pieces of data and clicks, you’ll get the numbers you need.

When Is a Fixed-Rate Mortgage the Right Choice?

Fixed-rate mortgages offer long-term predictability, which can be a must for those who need budget stability.

Furthermore, fixed interest rates can be beneficial for those who plan to stay in their home for a longer period of time — say, at least seven to 10 years.

Here’s why: Homebuyers are less likely to miss out on building home equity, as they might if they sold the house after making higher interest payments for a shorter period of time.

Finally, if homebuyers suspect that interest rates are about to rise, a fixed-interest loan can be a good way to protect themselves from those increasing rates over time.

That said, there are some instances in which an ARM may be a better choice. If a homebuyer is planning to sell in a short amount of time, for example, the low introductory interest rate on an adjustable-interest loan could save them money. You’ll have sold the property before the rate can tick upward.

💡 Recommended: Guide for First-Time Homebuyers

The Takeaway

When you’re in the market for a home, shopping for the right loan is almost as important as shopping for the house itself.

Although there are many mortgage lenders to choose from, including government-insured options, SoFi® offers competitive rates on conventional, fixed-rate mortgages with terms ranging from 10 to 30 years.

SoFi® offers mortgage loans with a down payment as low as 3% for qualifying first-time homebuyers, and a Mortgage Loan Officer can guide you through what can be a complicated process. Members can rest assured that questions they have will be answered by professionals who are just a phone call away.

Ready to learn your rate? Check out SoFi fixed-interest home loans today.

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SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

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There are few things as exciting as touring a house and thinking, “This is it! I’ve found my dream home.” Maybe the property has a fireplace or the perfect patio that has you imagining how great it would be to make it yours.
Then comes the less fun part: figuring out how to finance your home purchase.

For the vast majority of people, acquiring a new home means taking out a mortgage. For 90% of homebuyers, that means opting for a conventional 30-year fixed-rate mortgage.

Conventional mortgages are those that are not insured or guaranteed by the government.

But that doesn’t mean what is called a conventional home loan is right for everyone. Here, learn more about conventional mortgages and how they compare to other options, including:

•   How do conventional mortgages work?

•   What are the different types of conventional loans?

•   How do conventional loans compare to other mortgages?

•   What are the pros and cons of conventional mortgages?

•   How do you qualify for a conventional loan?

How Conventional Mortgages Work

Conventional mortgages are loans that are not backed by a government agency. Provided by private lenders, they are the most common type of home loan. A few points to note:

•   Conventional loans are offered by banks, credit unions, and mortgage companies, as well as by two government-sponsored enterprises, known as Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. (Note: Government-sponsored and government-backed loans are two different things.)

•   Conventional mortgages tend to have a higher bar to entry than government-guaranteed home loans. You might need a better credit score and pay more in interest, for example. Government-backed FHA loans, VA loans, and USDA loans, on the other hand, are designed for certain kinds of homebuyers or homes and are often easier to qualify for. You’ll learn more about them below.

•   Among conventional loans, you’ll find substantial variety. You’ll have a choice of term length (how long you have to pay off the loan with installments), and you’ll probably have a choice between fixed-rate and adjustable-rate products. Keep reading for more detail on these options.

•   Because the government isn’t offering any assurances to the lender that you will pay back that loan, you’ll need to prove you are a good risk. That’s why lenders look at things like your credit score and down payment amount when deciding whether to offer you a conventional mortgage and at what rate.

Conventional vs Conforming Loans

As you pursue a home loan, you’ll likely hear the phrases “conventional loan” and “conforming loan.” Are they the same thing? Not exactly. Let’s spell out the difference:

•   A conforming loan is one in which the underlying terms and conditions adhere to the funding criteria of Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae. There’s a limit to how big the loan can be, and this figure is determined each year by the Federal Housing Finance Agency, or FHFA. In 2023, that ceiling was set at $766,550 for most of the United States. (It was a higher number for those purchasing in certain high-cost areas.)

So all conforming loans are conventional loans. But what is a conventional mortgage may not be conforming. If, for instance, you apply for a jumbo mortgage (meaning one that’s more than $766,550 in 2023), you’d be hoping to be approved for a conventional loan. It would not, however, be a conforming mortgage because the amount is over the limit that Freddie Mac or Fannie Mae would back.

Types of Conventional Loans

When answering, “What is a conventional loan?” you’ll learn that it’s not just one single product. There are many options, such as how long a term (you may look at 15- and 30-year, as well as other options). Perhaps one of the most important decisions is whether you want to opt for a fixed or adjustable rate.

Fixed Rate

A conventional loan with a fixed interest rate is one in which the rate won’t change over the life of the loan. If you have one of these “fully amortized conventional loans,” as they are sometimes called, your monthly principal and interest payment will stay the same each month.

Although fixed-rate loans can provide predictability when it comes to payments, they may initially have higher interest rates than adjustable-rate mortgages.

Fixed-rate conventional loans can be a great option for homebuyers during periods of low rates because they can lock in a rate and it won’t rise, even decades from now.

💡 Recommended: What Is a Fixed-Rate Mortgage?

Adjustable Rate

Adjustable-rate mortgages (also sometimes called variable rate loans) have the same interest rate for a set period of time, and then the rate will adjust for the rest of the loan term.

The major upside to choosing an ARM is that the initial rate is usually set below prevailing interest rates and remains constant for a specific amount of time, from six months to 10 years.

There’s a bit of lingo to learn with these loans. A 7/6 ARM of 30 years will have a fixed rate for the first seven years, and then the rate will adjust once every six months over the remaining 23 years, keeping in sync with prevailing rates. A 5/1 ARM will have a fixed rate for five years, followed by a variable rate that adjusts every year.

An ARM may be a good option if you’re not planning on staying in the home that long. The downside, of course, is that if you do stay put, your interest rate could end up higher than you want it to be.

Most adjustable-rate conventional mortgages have limits on how much the interest rate can increase over time. These caps protect a borrower from facing an unexpectedly steep rate hike.

Also, read the fine print and see if your introductory rate will adjust downward if rates shift lower over the course of the loan. Don’t assume they will.

💡 Recommended: Fixed-Rate vs Adjustable-Rate Mortgages

How Are Conventional Home Loans Different From Other Loans?

Wondering what a conventional home loan is vs. government-backed loans? Learn more here.

Conventional Loans vs. FHA Loans

Wondering whether a conventional or FHA loan is better for you? FHA loans are geared toward lower- and middle-income buyers; these mortgages can offer a more affordable way to join the ranks of homeowners. Unlike conventional loans, FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration, so lenders take on less risk. If a borrower defaults, the FHA will help the lender recoup some of the lost costs.

But are FHA loans right for you, the borrower? Here are some of the key differences between FHA loans and conventional ones:

•   FHA loans are usually easier to qualify for. Conventional loans usually need a credit score of at least 620 and 3% down. With an FHA loan, you may get approved with a credit score as low as 500 with 10% down or 580 to put down 3.5%.

•   Unlike conventional loans, FHA loans are limited to a certain amount of money, depending on the geographic location of the house you’re buying. The lender administering the FHA loan can impose its own requirements as well.

•   An FHA loan can be a good option for a buyer with a lower credit score, but it also will require a more rigorous home appraisal and possibly a longer approval process than a conventional loan.

•   Conventional loans require private mortgage insurance (PMI) if the down payment is less than 20%, but PMI will terminate once you reach 20% equity. FHA loans, however, require mortgage insurance for the life of the loan if you put less than 10% down.

💡 Recommended: Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) vs Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP)

Conventional Loans vs VA Loans

Not everyone has the choice between conventional and VA loans. Conventional loans are available to all who qualify, but VA loans are only accessible to those who are veterans, active-duty military, or surviving spouses of those who served.

VA loans offer a number of perks that conventional loans don’t:

•   No down payment is needed.

•   No PMI is required, which is a good thing, because it’s typically anywhere from 0.58% to 1.86% of the original loan amount per year.

There are a couple of potential drawbacks to be aware of:

•   Most VA loans demand that you pay what’s known as a funding fee. This is typically 1.25% to 3.3% of the loan amount.

•   A VA loan must be used for a primary residence; no second homes are eligible.

Conventional Loans vs USDA Loans

Curious if you should apply for a USDA loan vs. a conventional loan? Consider this: No matter where in America your dream house is, you can likely apply for a conventional loan. USDA loans, however, are only available for use when buying a property in a qualifying rural area. The goal is to encourage people to move into certain areas and help them along with accessible loans.

Beyond this stipulation, consider these upsides of USDA loans vs. conventional loans:

•   USDA loans can offer a very affordable interest rate versus other loans.

•   USDA loans are available without a down payment.

•   These loans don’t require PMI.

But, to provide full disclosure, there are some downsides, beyond limited geographic availability:

•   USDA loans have income-based eligibility requirements. The loans are designed for lower- and middle-income potential home buyers, but the exact cap on income will depend on your geographic area and how many household members you have.

•   This program requires that the loan holder pay a guarantee fee, which is typically 1% of the loan’s total amount.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Conventional Mortgages

Now that you’ve learned what is a conventional loan and how it compares to some other options, let’s do a quick recap of the pros and cons of conventional loans.

Benefits of Conventional Loans

The upsides are:

•   Competitive rates. Yes, mortgage rates have been rising steeply recently, but they are still far from their high point of 16.63% in 1981. Plus, lenders want your business and you may be able to find attractive offers.

•   The ability to buy with little money down. Some conventional mortgages can be had with just 3% down.

•   PMI isn’t forever. Once you have achieved 20% equity in your property, your PMI can be canceled.

•   Flexibility. There are different conventional mortgages to suit your needs, such as fixed and variable rate home loans. Also, these mortgages can be used for primary residences (whether single- or multi-family), second homes, and other variations.

Drawbacks of Conventional Loans

Now, the downsides of conventional loans:

•   PMI. If your mortgage involves a small down payment, you do have to pay that PMI until you reach a target number, such as 20% equity.

•   Tougher qualifications vs. government programs. You’ll usually need a credit score of 620 and, with that number, your rate will likely be higher than it would be if you had a higher score.

•   Stricter DTI requirements. It’s likely that lenders will want to see a 45% debt-to-income ratio (or DTI, your total monthly recurring payments divided by your monthly gross income). Government programs have less rigorous qualifications.

How Do You Qualify for a Conventional Loan?

Conventional mortgage requirements vary by lender, but almost all private lenders will require you to have a cash down payment, a good credit score, and sufficient income to make the monthly payments. Here are more specifics:

•   Down Payment: Many lenders that offer conventional loans require that you have enough cash to make a decent down payment. Even if you can manage it, is 20% down always best? It might be more beneficial to put down less than 20% on your dream house.

•   Credit score and history: You’ll also need to demonstrate a good credit history to buy a house, which means at least 620, as mentioned above. You’ll want to show that you make loan payments on time every month.

Each conventional loan lender sets its own requirements when it comes to credit scores, but generally, the higher your credit score, the easier it will be to secure a conventional mortgage at a competitive interest rate.

•   Income: Most lenders will require you to show that you have a sufficient monthly income to meet the mortgage payments. They will also require information about your employment and bank accounts.

💡 See what your mortgage payments would be using our mortgage calculator.

The Takeaway

A conventional home loan is a very popular option for homebuyers. These mortgages, which are not guaranteed by the government, have their pros and cons, as well as variations. It’s also important to know how they differ from government-backed loans, so you can choose the right product to suit your needs. Buying a home is a major step and a big investment, so you want to get the mortgage that suits you best.

That’s where SoFi can help. We offer fast, competitive fixed-rate mortgage loans with as little as 3% down for qualifying first-time homebuyers. Let us help make your dreams of homeownership come true.

It takes just minutes to get prequalified online.

FAQ

What is the minimum down payment for a conventional loan?

What is a conventional home mortgage’s minimum down payment? In most cases, 3% of the purchase price is the lowest amount possible.

How many conventional loans can you have?

A lot! The Federal National Mortgage Association (FNMA, aka Fannie Mae) allows a person to have up to 10 properties with conventional financing. Just remember, you’ll have to convince a lender that you are a good risk for each and every loan.

Do all conventional loans require PMI?

Most lenders require PMI (private mortgage insurance) if you are putting less than 20% down when purchasing a property. However, you may find some PMI-free loans available. They typically have a higher interest rate, though, so make sure they are worthwhile given your particular situation.

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A growing list of businesses accept cryptocurrencies like Dogecoin as a form of payment, especially as crypto itself becomes more widespread and commonplace. Though Dogecoin is not as big or as popular as Bitcoin or Ethereum, it’s still gaining more and more acceptance among merchants and service providers.

That’s a list that includes airlines, professional sports teams, and many more.

Dogecoin Basics

Dogecoin, as of September 24, 2022, is valued at around $0.06, with a total market cap of more than $8.5 billion. While this may seem like a lot — and enough to put it in the cryptocurrency top ten, according to CoinMarketCap — it’s still relatively small compared to Bitcoin (valued at $19,000 with a $366 billion market cap) or Ethereum ($1,345, $164.4 billion). Yet, it’s still one of the top cryptos by market cap.

History of Dogecoin

Jackson Palmer created Dogecoin in 2013 as both a reference to the then-popular meme and to what was then seen as an explosion of interest in Bitcoin. In early 2018, during another huge runup in crypto prices, Dogecoin’s market cap reached more than $1 billion, which may have been seen as extreme at the time (it would fall back down to around $400 million), but was nothing compared to what was coming.

Between April and May of 2021, Dogecoin’s market cap rose from around $8 billion to almost $95 billion. After values dropped in 2022, it’s currently at around $8.5 billion. So, if you had hopes to see Dogecoin to $100, or to the moon, those hopes have likely been dashed for now.

💡 Recommended: Dogecoin Price History: 2013 to 2022

While traders can buy and sell Dogecoin like any cryptocurrency on mainstream exchanges like Coinbase, it does not have the buzzing hive of developer activity and use in businesses that others do. That’s slowly starting to change.

More than 240,000 people have signed a Change.org petition aimed at getting Amazon to start accepting the coin. While that request hasn’t gotten much traction, there are some businesses that have decided to start accepting it as a means of payment.

How Dogecoin Works

As for how Dogecoin actually works, it’s more or less the same as Bitcoin. Dogecoin is a virtual currency that lives on a blockchain network, operating off of a proof-of-work protocol. That means that participants on the blockchain network can mine new coins.

Transactions are verified and recorded on the blockchain, and new coins are produced, or mined, every minute.

💡 Recommended: SoFi’s Crypto Guide for Beginners

15 Companies That Accept Dogecoin as Payment in 2022

1. The Dallas Mavericks

The NBA basketball team, owned by billionaire Mark Cuban, is not afraid of the occasional stunt to get attention. In March 2021, the basketball team said in an official statement that it would be accepting Dogecoin for both tickets and merchandise. Cuban explained the reasoning for the decision:

   “The Mavericks have decided to accept Dogecoin as payment for Mavs tickets and merchandise for one very important, earth-shattering reason, because we can! Because we can, we have chosen to do so. We have chosen to do so because sometimes in business you have to do things that are fun, engaging and hopefully generate a lot of PR. So we will take Dogecoin, today, tomorrow and possibly forever more. For those of you who would like to learn more about Dogecoin we strongly encourage you to talk to your teenagers who are on TikTok and ask them about it. They will be able to explain it all to you”

There are some other sports teams that accept cryptocurrencies, too, like the NBA’s Sacramento Kings, the NFL’s Tennessee Titans, the NHL’s San Jose Sharks, and MLB’s Oakland Athletics.

2. AirBaltic

Around the same time the Mavericks said they would begin accepting Dogecoin as payment, the European airline AirBaltic made a similar announcement.

“As an innovative airline, we always strive to search for ways to improve the customer experience starting from the booking process. Over the years around 1,000 clients have used the payment option, which may not seem like a lot, but still offers passengers a unique payment option hard to find elsewhere,” the airline’s CEO Martin Gauss said in a statement.

AirBaltic is majority owned by the Latvian state, adding an official level of approval to a cryptocurrency that, as its founder has said whenever anyone would ask, is meant to be a joke.

3. Newegg

The electronics online retailer said in April 2021 that it would start accepting Dogecoin. “We’re committed to making it easy for our customers to shop however works best for them, and that means letting them complete transactions with the payment method that suits them best. To that end, we’re happy to give Dogecoin fans an easy way to shop online for tech,” a Newegg executive said in a statement.

4. The Kessler Collection

The Kessler Collection owns several luxury hotels throughout the United States. In March 2021, the company said it would “accept Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin.” The company specifically pointed to cryptocurrencies hitting “an all-time high” as a justification for the expansion of the number of currencies they would accept.

5. Twitch

Twitch is a digital streaming service traditionally used by gamers to broadcast their gaming and associated commentary. Though it’s owned by Amazon, which does not accept Dogecoin or other cryptocurrencies as a valid form of payment, you can use Dogecoin on Twitch. Users can tip streamers in a variety of cryptos, in fact.

6. Tesla

As of early 2022, electric car maker Tesla accepts crypto. Tesla accepts Dogecoin, too, but not all Tesla products are eligible for purchase with crypto, though, so take note before you try and pre-order a Cybertruck with your DOGE holdings.

7. Keys4Coins

Keys4Coins is a digital PC games store, which sells a number of different products and services in the gaming sphere. As the name of the company suggests, it does take coins (crypto coins) as a form of payment, too, including Dogecoin.

8. AMC

You can also buy movie tickets at AMC Theaters with Dogecoin and Shiba Inu, using the company’s mobile app. AMC’s leadership made the announcement in early 2022, and have said that they will accept other cryptocurrencies in the future, too.

9. GameStop

GameStop has embraced its place in the meme space, and has started accepting meme coins, like Dogecoin, as a form of payment. GameStop is getting deeper into the crypto space with NFTs and metaverse projects, too, and is also accepting a short list of other cryptos as well.

10. Bitrefill

Bitrefill is a digital platform that allows customers to buy gift cards or even cell phone air time with crypto. Given the wide range of gift cards available from the retailer, it could be a good way to get a lot of utility from your crypto holdings. Bitrefill accepts Dogecoin, and several other cryptos.

11. Sling TV

You can even pay for your monthly television subscription with Dogecoin, as Sling TV has partnered with a crypto payment processor to accept crypto payments. Along with Dogecoin, you can pay for Sling TV with Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, and Ethereum.

12. Menufy

Menufy is an online ordering platform designed for use by restaurants. It allows restaurants to accept cryptocurrency payments through a crypto payment processor. There are thirteen in all, including Dogecoin.

13. ExpressVPN

For those seeking to cover their tracks on the internet, a VPN can go a long way. And now, you can pay for a VPN service using crypto like Dogecoin. ExpressVPN accepts several cryptocurrencies in exchange for using its service.

14. Sheetz

Sheetz, a chain of convenience stores in the eastern United States, is unique among businesses of its type in that it will accept crypto at the gas pump and in the store. That includes Dogecoin, along with Bitcoin and Ethereum.

15. Various Non-Profits

There are many non-profit organizations that allow people to donate money to, or pay them using Dogecoin and cryptocurrency. An internet search will yield many, many results.

	Bitcoin	Dogecoin	Ethereum	Tether	Bitcoin Cash
Newegg	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes
Dallas Mavericks	Yes	Yes	No	No	No
The Kessler Collection	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No
AirBaltic	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes
Twitch	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes
Tesla	No	Yes	No	No	No
Keys4Coins	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes
AMC	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes
GameStop	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No
Sheetz	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes
Bitrefill	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No
Sling TV	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes
Menufy	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Yes
ExpressVPN	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No

Pros and Cons of Using Dogecoin for Purchases

There are some considerations, or pros and cons, to take into account when using Dogecoin to make purchases.

On the pro side, Dogecoin’s user base is growing, and so is the potential number of businesses that might accept it. And since Dogecoin is modeled after Bitcoin, it’s relatively easy to transact. It’s also easy to exchange for fiat or other cryptocurrencies, as Dogecoin is listed on most major crypto exchanges.

Conversely, though it’s become more popular, Dogecoin is still not accepted by many businesses, relatively speaking. It’s also worth noting that it’s an incredibly volatile asset, and could lose value before you’re able to make a purchase. Finally, there’s no supply cap for Dogecoin, which could affect its value going forward.

Pros & Cons of Making Purchases With Dogecoin
Pros	Cons
Growing in popularity	Still not widely accepted
Easy to transact	Fluctuations in value
Easy to exchange	No supply cap

Buying Crypto Today

While merchants have not begun accepting any types of cryptocurrencies, many do accept Dogecoin. Given its volatility, however, it can be hard to know whether using Dogecoin to make purchases will end up saving or costing the buyer money.

FAQ

Which retailers will accept Dogecoin?

Many retailers accept Dogecoin, such as Sheetz, GameStop, and Newegg. It’s likely that more will in the future, too.

How many companies accept Dogecoin as payment?

It’s hard to pin down just how many companies accept Dogecoin as payment, but the list is likely growing by the day. As cryptocurrency becomes more commonplace, it’s likely that more companies will accept it as payment, and Dogecoin may be among those cryptos.

Does Amazon take Dogecoin?

No, Amazon does not accept Dogecoin as a form of payment. In fact, it doesn’t accept any cryptocurrencies at all.

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Photo credit: iStock/Ksenia Raykova

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Crypto: Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies aren’t endorsed or guaranteed by any government, are volatile, and involve a high degree of risk. Consumer protection and securities laws don’t regulate cryptocurrencies to the same degree as traditional brokerage and investment products. Research and knowledge are essential prerequisites before engaging with any cryptocurrency. US regulators, including FINRA , the SEC , and the CFPB , have issued public advisories concerning digital asset risk. Cryptocurrency purchases should not be made with funds drawn from financial products including student loans, personal loans, mortgage refinancing, savings, retirement funds or traditional investments. Limitations apply to trading certain crypto assets and may not be available to residents of all states.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

²Terms and conditions apply. Earn a bonus (as described below) when you open a new SoFi Digital Assets LLC account and buy at least $50 worth of any cryptocurrency within 7 days. The offer only applies to new crypto accounts, is limited to one per person, and expires on December 31, 2023. Once conditions are met and the account is opened, you will receive your bonus within 7 days. SoFi reserves the right to change or terminate the offer at any time without notice.

First Trade Amount		Bonus Payout
Low	High
$50	$99.99	$10
$100	$499.99	$15
$500	$4,999.99	$50
$5,000+		$100

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