LTV Calculator
Used for CLTV (combined LTV)
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How to use
- 1 Enter your home's appraised value (use a recent appraisal, AVM estimate, or comparable sales — not the Zillow Zestimate alone).
- 2 Enter your current 1st mortgage payoff balance (call your servicer for the exact number — interest accrues daily).
- 3 If you have a HELOC or 2nd mortgage, enter that balance to compute Combined LTV (CLTV).
- 4 Click Calculate to see LTV %, CLTV %, equity tier, and PMI status.
- 5 Compare your cash-out refi capacity across Conventional 80%, FHA 90%, and VA 100% limits to plan your next move.
About LTV Calculator
FAQ
Q What is a good LTV ratio for a mortgage?
An LTV at or below 80% is considered ideal — you avoid PMI on conventional loans, qualify for the best rates, and have a comfortable equity cushion. Below 60% LTV unlocks the very best jumbo and refinance pricing tiers.
Q When does PMI automatically come off my mortgage?
Under the federal Homeowners Protection Act of 1998, your servicer must automatically terminate PMI when your LTV reaches 78% based on the original amortization schedule. You can REQUEST cancellation earlier at 80% LTV if you are current on payments.
Q How do I calculate my home's loan-to-value ratio?
Divide your current mortgage balance by your home's appraised value, then multiply by 100. Example: $320,000 loan ÷ $400,000 home = 80% LTV. For combined LTV (CLTV), add any HELOC or 2nd mortgage balance to the numerator.
Q What is the difference between LTV and CLTV?
LTV uses only your 1st mortgage. CLTV (Combined Loan-to-Value) includes your 1st mortgage, HELOC, and any 2nd lien. Lenders use CLTV when you apply for a HELOC or 2nd mortgage — most cap CLTV at 85-90%.
Q Can I refinance with high LTV?
Yes — VA and USDA loans allow 100% LTV refinances for eligible borrowers. FHA allows rate-and-term refinance up to 97.75% LTV. Conventional rate-and-term goes to 95-97%. But cash-out refis cap tighter: conventional 80%, FHA 80%, VA 100%.
Q How much equity do I need for a HELOC?
Most lenders require at least 15-20% equity (CLTV ≤ 80-85%) and a credit score of 680+. Some lenders go to 90% CLTV for strong borrowers. Use the CLTV field above to model your HELOC capacity.
Q Does FHA mortgage insurance ever go away?
For FHA loans originated AFTER June 3, 2013 with less than 10% down, MIP lasts the entire loan term — you must refinance to a conventional loan to remove it. With 10%+ down, MIP cancels after 11 years. Pre-2013 loans follow the 78% LTV rule.
Q Why is my LTV higher than I expected?
Three common reasons: (1) closing costs were rolled into the loan, (2) home value declined since purchase, (3) you took out a HELOC that pushed CLTV up. An updated appraisal or AVM may help — but Zillow Zestimates alone are not accepted by lenders.
Official resources
CFPB — How to Remove PMI
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau official guidance on the Homeowners Protection Act and PMI cancellation rights.
FHFA — 2026 Conforming Loan Limits
Federal Housing Finance Agency announcement of the 2026 baseline limit ($832,750) used to define jumbo vs. conforming.
HUD — FHA Single Family Handbook 4000.1
HUD official handbook covering FHA maximum LTV thresholds for purchase, rate-term, and cash-out refinances.
VA — Cash-Out Refinance Loans
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs guide to VA cash-out refinances allowing up to 100% LTV for eligible veterans.