Freddie Mac Super Conforming 2026: High-Balance Loans in High-Cost Areas

Freddie Mac super conforming loans allow loan amounts above the standard conforming limit for properties located in FHFA-designated high-cost counties. In 2026, the standard conforming limit is $806,500 for a one-unit property. High-cost area limits can reach up to 150% of that figure, depending on the county. Super conforming loans offer agency pricing and underwriting for borrowers who would otherwise need jumbo financing.

How High-Cost Area Limits Are Determined

FHFA sets high-cost area limits each November based on local median home prices. Counties where 115% of the median home price exceeds the baseline conforming limit qualify for higher limits, up to the statutory ceiling of $1,209,750 for a one-unit property in the highest-cost markets (e.g., certain counties in CA, NY, and HI). Look up county-specific limits at FHFA.gov or confirm in your LOS before quoting. Limits vary at the county level and change annually.

Freddie Mac Super Conforming vs. Fannie Mae High Balance

• ✦Both use the same county-level loan limits set by FHFA -- the limits are identical
• ✦Freddie calls the product Super Conforming; Fannie calls it High Balance -- different names, same eligibility geography
• ✦Both price at a slight premium over standard conforming (typically 0.25% to 0.50% in rate or points)
• ✦Credit, LTV, and DTI standards are the same as standard conforming for most parameters
• ✦Investment property super conforming is limited to 75% LTV vs. 85% LTV on standard conforming for purchase

When to Use Super Conforming vs. Jumbo

For loan amounts within the high-cost area limit, super conforming almost always prices better than jumbo because it benefits from agency liquidity and standardized underwriting. Jumbo pricing becomes competitive only above the county limit or for borrowers who cannot meet agency credit standards. Compare the actual rate on both products before placing the file -- jumbo lenders with portfolio concentration in a market occasionally beat agency pricing in specific rate environments.