Mortgage Loans in
Barstow, California
Barstow Home Loans & Refinancing Experts

Aerial view of Barstow, California

Mortgage broker serving Barstow, CA, offering a full range of loan programs - purchases, refinancing, investment properties, FHA, VA, jumbo, DSCR, bank statement loans, down payment assistance, and more. Personalized programs for your unique situation. 40+ years California mortgage experience.

Why Barstow Homebuyers Choose Us

Why Choose a California Mortgage Broker Serving Barstow, CA?
Custom programs, not one-size-fits-all bank products

Happy couple celebrating home purchase with A Good Lender

Schedule a quick 15-minute call and we'll match you to the right program and give you the best rate for your unique situation.

We as brokers shop hundreds of lenders for you. Banks offer their own limited products.

As mortgage specialists serving Barstow buyers, we match your unique situation to the right program.

Barstow provides affordable options for buyers who leverage the right loan programs.

  • Ridgecrest Heights, North Park, and Wildwood Park ($177K-$328K) all sit well below the $833K conforming limit, making conventional and FHA loans ideal.
  • Military personnel at the Marine Corps base should leverage VA loans offering $0 down and no PMI, even using BAH as qualifying income.
  • With 43.1% homeownership, first-time buyers can qualify using IBR student loan payments rather than the punishing 1% balance calculation.

We've spent 40+ years solving these exact challenges.

We're here to help match you with the perfect loan program for your Barstow purchase.

SCHEDULE FREE CONSULTATION

What Our Clients Say Real stories from real borrowers

How the Mortgage Process Works in Barstow

We've simplified the mortgage maze into four clear steps. No surprises, just results.

Happy woman showing phone with A Good Lender loan approval
1
Optional

Talk with a Barstow mortgage expert to understand your situation and see your personalized loan options. Call (510) 589-4096 or schedule online. No pressure - just honest guidance.

15-Minute Call Schedule Call
2

Complete your loan application online and upload your documents. We'll review everything to make sure it's complete before submitting to our lending partners.

15-30 Minutes Apply Now
3

We submit your application to our lending partners. Their underwriters review your documents, verify your income and credit, and issue your loan approval.

2-3 Weeks

Sign your final documents, get your keys, and move into your Barstow home. We coordinate everything to make closing day smooth and stress-free.

1-2 Days
Market Insights

What is the Barstow, CA Housing & Mortgage Market Like in 2026? Financing options, loan programs & affordability guide

California housing market value rising with upward trend

Prices & Trends

Barstow sits in a weird spot. You've got a median home price of $252,500, flat from last year. Zero movement. That tells you the market's stabilized after years of volatility, but it also means sellers aren't budging much on price. The conforming loan limit here is $832,750, which honestly doesn't matter because almost nobody's hitting that. FHA caps at $690,000. Still way above what most transactions look like. The real story is that homeownership sits at 43.1%, meaning most people here rent. That creates opportunity if you're willing to stop throwing rent money away.

Who's Buying in Barstow

First-time buyers dominate this market. You've got median household income around $52,200, and people are stretching to make homeownership work because renting forever in California is a losing game. Investors show up too, looking for rental income in a town where 57% of residents don't own. Retirees on fixed incomes buy here because it's one of the last affordable spots in Southern California. Local workers, folks who actually live and work in Barstow, they're trying to plant roots without getting priced out. Nobody's buying vacation homes here. This is practical, boots-on-the-ground homeownership.

Your Loan Fit

FHA loans with 3.5% down are the workhorse in Barstow. Most buyers can't drop 20% on anything, so FHA makes sense even with the mortgage insurance. USDA loans are absolutely worth checking since Barstow qualifies for rural designation in many cases. Zero down, lower rates, income limits that most buyers here fit under. Don't sleep on that option. VA buyers should obviously use their benefit. Conventional makes sense if your credit's above 740 and you can put down at least 5%, but honestly most people here don't have that luxury. The loan strategy breakdown:
  • FHA at 3.5% down for credit scores 580+, accepts higher debt ratios
  • USDA at zero down if you meet income caps, best rates available
  • VA at zero down for veterans, no mortgage insurance ever
  • Conventional at 5-10% down if credit's strong and you want lower fees
Don't overthink it. Get the loan that requires the least cash and the lowest monthly payment.

Down Payment & Refinance in Barstow

Refinancing in Barstow usually means one of two things. Rate-term refi to drop your payment if rates fell since you bought. That's been harder lately, but if you locked in at 7% and can get 6%, do the math. Cash-out refi for repairs makes sense too. Homes here aren't new, and sometimes you need 30K for a roof or HVAC. Pulling equity beats credit cards at 22%. PMI removal is the other big one. If you bought with FHA years ago and now have 20% equity, refinancing into conventional kills that mortgage insurance. On a $250K home, that's $175+ per month back in your pocket. Not every refi makes sense, but those three scenarios usually pencil out.

Get Started

Let's talk real numbers. On a $252,500 home, 3.5% down is $8,838. Under nine grand. That's achievable if you're disciplined about saving, even on $52K household income. But look, most people here don't have that sitting around. Down payment assistance programs exist specifically for this. Gift funds from family cover it for some buyers. Others tap our no-money-down program that covers your minimum 3-3.5% down payment requirement. USDA and VA buyers put down literally zero. The point is, you don't need to wait five years saving pennies. The money can come from multiple sources, and there are legitimate ways to buy without draining your entire emergency fund. Stop assuming homeownership is impossible because you don't have $20K in the bank.

Local Barstow Expertise

Getting started means getting preapproved first. Not pre-qualified, actually preapproved with docs reviewed. In Barstow's market, sellers want to see you're serious because they're not desperate but they're also not getting flooded with offers. Schedule a free call with our team and we'll walk through your actual numbers, not generic advice. We'll check USDA eligibility, compare FHA vs conventional, figure out down payment options. Most people are closer to buying than they think. They just need someone to map out the path instead of guessing from Google articles. Let's get you out of the rental trap.

Popular Barstow Neighborhoods

Ridgecrest Heights • Lenwood • Daggett • Yermo

Zip Codes We Serve

92311, 92312

What Types of Mortgages Are Available in Barstow, CA? Purchase, refinance, commercial, and specialized financing

Finding the right home loan in Barstow starts with understanding your options. We've streamlined hundreds of mortgage programs into 8 clear categories for Barstow home buyers—covering purchase loans, refinance, commercial real estate, and specialized financing like bank statement and jumbo loans. Explore the general programs to compare down payment options and requirements, or apply now for a custom financing solution tailored to your Barstow property.

Purchase Loans

Speed & Certainty

Whether you're buying your first condo or a $3M estate, we offer comprehensive financing solutions with 14-day closings. Explore our complete range of purchase loan programs below.

Refinance

Rate & Term, Cash-Out

Refinance to lower your interest rate, shorten your loan term, or access home equity for renovations, debt consolidation, or investment opportunities. Explore all refinance programs below.

Commercial Loans

SBA 504 & 7(a)

Finance commercial real estate, owner-occupied buildings, or business expansions. Explore all commercial financing programs below.

Construction & Renovation

Build & Improve

Finance new construction, renovations, or land purchases. Explore all construction and renovation programs below.

Property Types

Specialized Properties

From condos and townhomes to multi-family buildings and unique property types. Explore all specialized property financing programs below.

Down Payment Assistance

CalHFA & Local DPA

Access California's down payment assistance programs. Explore all DPA programs below.

Special Income Doc

Alternative Documentation

Self-employed professionals, freelancers, and business owners. Explore all special income documentation programs below.

Loan Programs

Barstow Loan Program Guide Purchase, Refinance & Investment Programs

Popular loan programs for Barstow homebuyers. Compare options and find your best fit.

Quick Compare: Barstow Mortgage Options

Loan Type Down Payment Credit Score Best For
FHA 3.5% minimum 580+ First-time buyers, lower credit. Limit: $832,750
VA $0 No minimum Veterans, active military - best 0% down option
Down Payment Assistance $0 (grant covers 3-3.5%) 640+ First-time Barstow buyers, income-qualified
Conventional 3% 620+ Good credit, faster closing than FHA

Questions? Call (510) 589-4096 or email info@agoodlender.com

Best Home Purchase Loans in Barstow

Usda Loans

USDA loans are ideal for Barstow. Zero down payment for rural properties. Income limits apply.

FHA Loans

Most Barstow buyers use FHA. 3.5% down payment with 580+ credit. Easiest path to homeownership.

Calhfa Programs

CalHFA plus local DPA can cover full down payment in Barstow. Stack programs for maximum assistance.

VA Loans

VA loans are perfect for Barstow. Zero down, no PMI, and every property qualifies.

Local Dpa Programs

Maximum local DPA available in Barstow. Combine city, county, and state programs.

Conforming Loans

Every Barstow home qualifies for conforming financing. Best rates with good credit.

Bridge Loans

Bridge loans help Barstow owners transition between homes. Short-term gap financing.

LLC Funding Programs

Barstow investors use LLC financing. Entity ownership for asset protection.

Best Refinance Options in Barstow

Usda Loans Refinance

USDA streamline refinance for Barstow. Lower your rate with minimal paperwork.

FHA Loans Refinance

Most Barstow refinances use FHA streamline. No appraisal, no income docs, fast closing.

VA Loans Refinance

Barstow veterans should use VA IRRRL. Streamline your refinance with zero hassle.

Conforming Refinance

Conforming refinance rates for all Barstow properties. Straightforward rate-and-term refi.

Cash Out Refinance

Cash-out refinance available for Barstow homeowners. Convert equity to cash for any need.

Home Equity Refinance

Home equity loans available in Barstow. Fixed rate second mortgage against equity.

Best Investment & Commercial Loans in Barstow

DSCR Loans

Investment properties in Barstow use DSCR loans. Rental income drives qualification.

Fix And Flip Loans

Rehab loans available in Barstow. Fix-and-flip financing covers purchase plus renovation.

Commercial Hard Money Loans

Hard money available for Barstow deals. Fast closing for investment properties.

Multifamily Loans

Barstow apartment buildings use multifamily financing. Commercial loan programs available.

Best Down Payment Assistance Programs for Barstow

No Money Down Program

Buy a home with zero down payment. Our lenders cover your entire down payment through grant programs. No repayment required. Available for Barstow buyers with qualifying income.

USDA Zero Down Loans

USDA loans are ideal for Barstow. Zero down payment for rural properties. Income limits apply.

CalHFA Down Payment Assistance

CalHFA plus local DPA can cover full down payment in Barstow. Stack programs for maximum assistance.

Local Down Payment Programs

Maximum local DPA available in Barstow. Combine city, county, and state programs.

Elite Grant Program

Maximum grant assistance for Barstow. Elite and local programs reduce buyer costs.

Gift of Equity

Gift of equity works for Barstow family sales. Seller discount becomes buyer's down payment.

Non-Occupant Co-Borrower

Co-borrower option for Barstow buyers. Family member can help you qualify.

Every situation is unique. The right loan program depends on your unique situation. See what works best for you.

Questions? Call (510) 589-4096 or email info@agoodlender.com

Why Barstow is a Great Place to Buy a Home

Barstow sits right at the crossroads of I-15 and I-40 in the Mojave Desert, about 115 miles northeast of LA. Population is 25,235, median household income $52,200. The homeownership rate here is 43.1%, lower than the state average, which tells you this is more of a transient community tied to logistics and military work. At $252,500 median home price, you're looking at one of the most affordable entry points in Southern California where a household earning $50-60K can actually qualify for a mortgage without stretching to the breaking point.

Schools & Family Appeal

The school situation here is pretty straightforward. Barstow High pulls a 6 rating, Henderson Elementary gets a 7, and Cameron Elementary sits at 6. These aren't trophy scores, but they're functional schools that serve the community. Here's the thing - if you're buying in Barstow, you're probably prioritizing affordability and proximity to work over top-tier schools. The lower homeownership rate means more rental properties in the market, which can actually work in your favor if you're a first-time buyer competing against fewer owner-occupants. When you're ready to sell, understand that families here tend to move more frequently than in higher-priced markets, so you'll want to price competitively.

  • Barstow High School
  • Henderson Elementary School
  • Cameron Elementary School

The Neighborhood Feel

Where you buy in Barstow really depends on whether you want community amenities or pure desert space. Ridgecrest Heights runs $240K-$280K with newer construction and mountain views, popular with military families stationed at Fort Irwin - VA loans are common here and sellers know how to work with them. Lenwood sits along the Mojave River corridor at $220K-$270K, offering ranch-style homes that attract conventional buyers looking for established neighborhoods. Daggett goes rural at $180K-$240K with larger lots for buyers who want elbow room - cash deals and land loans are more common out here since some properties don't fit standard conforming loan boxes. Yermo is your entry point at $160K-$220K near Calico Ghost Town, where FHA loans dominate because first-time buyers can get in with minimal down payment on these affordable properties.

  • Ridgecrest Heights
  • Lenwood
  • Daggett
  • Yermo

Getting Around

Barstow's location is both its biggest asset and its defining limitation. You're at the junction of I-15 and I-40, which makes this a major logistics hub but also means you're 111 minutes from LA on a good day. That commute is brutal if you're doing it daily, and it's exactly why homes here cost half what they do in the Inland Empire. Local transit exists but this is really a car town. Most people who buy here either work locally at the Marine base, the rail yards, or in logistics, or they've accepted that remote work lets them trade location for a mortgage payment under $1,500 a month. If you're commuting regularly to LA or San Bernardino, think hard about whether the drive is worth the savings.

Jobs & Economy

The job market here revolves around logistics and military operations. Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow is the anchor employer, bringing stable government jobs and military families who use VA loans. BNSF Railway runs major operations through town since Barstow is a critical rail junction between LA and the rest of the country. Barstow Unified School District, Barstow Community Hospital, and Walmart's distribution center round out the major employers. Real talk - this isn't a diversified economy, and that affects long-term property values. But if you work in one of these sectors or you're military, buying here makes financial sense because your job stability is solid and your housing costs stay manageable. The transient nature of the population means you'll see more turnover in the market, which can create opportunities for buyers willing to jump on foreclosures or short sales.

  • Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow
  • BNSF Railway
  • Barstow Unified School District
  • Barstow Community Hospital
  • Walmart Distribution Center

Barstow Mortgage FAQs
Common questions answered

Common questions from Barstow homebuyers and refinance clients. Can't find your answer? Book a 15-minute call with a Senior Loan Officer.

How long does it take to get approved for a mortgage in Barstow?

Pre-approval typically takes 24-72 hours. Full underwriting approval takes 14-21 days. We work with lenders offering express underwriting for strong borrowers who need faster closings.

What documents do I need to apply for a mortgage?

Standard documents needed: pay stubs (last 30 days), W-2s (past 2 years), tax returns (past 2 years), bank statements (past 2 months), and photo ID. Self-employed borrowers need business tax returns and P&L statements. We'll provide a complete checklist for your situation.

How long does it take to close on a house in Barstow?

Typical Barstow closing timeline: 30-45 days from accepted offer. VA/FHA loans may take slightly longer. Cash buyers close in 7-14 days. We work to meet your timeline and coordinate with all parties to close on schedule.

What down payment do I need to buy a home in Barstow?

You have several low down payment options in Barstow: Conventional (3% down), FHA (3.5% down), VA (0% for veterans), and our 6-Month Forgivable Grant Program covering your entire down payment. Many Barstow buyers purchase with 3.5% or less down.

What down payment assistance programs are available in Barstow?

Our No Money Down program offers $0 down payment for qualified Barstow buyers. We also offer our 6-Month Forgivable Grant (covers 3-3.5% down, forgiven after 6 months), CalHFA programs, and local first-time buyer assistance. Unlike CalHFA's 5-year requirements, our programs have no income limits and no first-time buyer requirement.

Can I buy a home in Barstow with no money down?

Yes! Zero-down options for Barstow buyers include: VA loans (eligible veterans), USDA loans (eligible rural areas), and our 6-Month Forgivable Grant Program combined with seller concessions for closing costs. Many Barstow families purchase with minimal upfront cash.

What are the loan limits in Barstow?

2026 San Bernardino County limits: FHA $690,000, Conventional $832,750. Any loan above $832,750 is a jumbo loan. Most Barstow properties fall within conforming limits, maximizing your financing options.

Should I get an FHA or conventional loan in Barstow?

For Barstow's $500,000 median price: FHA is better for credit scores under 680 or down payments under 5%—it's more forgiving on DTI ratios too. Conventional is better with 5%+ down and 700+ credit (lower PMI costs). We compare both options for your specific situation.

What if I was denied by another lender?

A denial doesn't mean you can't buy in Barstow. We review your denial letter, identify the specific issues (credit, DTI, income documentation), and match you with lenders who have more flexible guidelines. Common solutions include FHA loans for credit flexibility, alternative documentation, or co-borrower structures.

What credit score do I need to buy a home in Barstow?

Credit requirements by loan type: FHA accepts 580+ (or 500 with 10% down), conventional starts at 620, VA at 620+. Our zero-down grant program works with 640+. Higher scores (720+) get better rates, but we work with borrowers across the credit spectrum.

Do you work with first-time homebuyers in Barstow?

Absolutely—first-time buyers are our specialty in Barstow. We guide you through the entire process, help you understand FHA vs conventional vs VA options, identify all available down payment assistance in San Bernardino County, and structure your purchase to minimize upfront costs.

What if my credit score is below 620?

You still have options in Barstow. FHA loans accept credit scores as low as 580 (or 500 with 10% down). We also offer credit improvement strategies and can connect you with rapid rescoring services to boost your score before applying. Many buyers improve 20-50 points within 30 days.

How do I know I'm getting a competitive rate?

As a mortgage broker, we shop your scenario across 50+ wholesale lenders to find the best pricing. Unlike retail banks that only offer their own rates, we show you side-by-side comparisons with identical terms. No junk fees or hidden charges—just transparent pricing.

What makes A Good Lender different from online lenders or big banks?

You work directly with a Senior Loan Officer (15+ years average experience) from application through closing—not a call center. We have local San Bernardino County expertise, same-day underwriting decisions, and flexibility to solve complex situations that algorithm-based lenders decline.

What are closing costs when buying a home in Barstow?

Closing costs in Barstow typically run 2-4% of the purchase price. On a $500,000 home, expect $10,000-$20,000 covering appraisal, title insurance, escrow fees, and prepaids. FHA allows sellers to contribute up to 6% toward your closing costs.

How long does it take to get approved for a mortgage in Barstow?

Pre-approval typically takes 24-72 hours. Full underwriting approval takes 14-21 days. We work with lenders offering express underwriting for strong borrowers who need faster closings.

What down payment do I need to buy a home in Barstow?

You have several low down payment options in Barstow: Conventional (3% down), FHA (3.5% down), VA (0% for veterans), and our 6-Month Forgivable Grant Program covering your entire down payment. Many Barstow buyers purchase with 3.5% or less down.

What if I was denied by another lender?

A denial doesn't mean you can't buy in Barstow. We review your denial letter, identify the specific issues (credit, DTI, income documentation), and match you with lenders who have more flexible guidelines. Common solutions include FHA loans for credit flexibility, alternative documentation, or co-borrower structures.

How do I know I'm getting a competitive rate?

As a mortgage broker, we shop your scenario across 50+ wholesale lenders to find the best pricing. Unlike retail banks that only offer their own rates, we show you side-by-side comparisons with identical terms. No junk fees or hidden charges—just transparent pricing.

What makes A Good Lender different from online lenders or big banks?

You work directly with a Senior Loan Officer (15+ years average experience) from application through closing—not a call center. We have local San Bernardino County expertise, same-day underwriting decisions, and flexibility to solve complex situations that algorithm-based lenders decline.

What are closing costs when buying a home in Barstow?

Closing costs in Barstow typically run 2-4% of the purchase price. On a $500,000 home, expect $10,000-$20,000 covering appraisal, title insurance, escrow fees, and prepaids. FHA allows sellers to contribute up to 6% toward your closing costs.

What documents do I need to apply for a mortgage?

Standard documents needed: pay stubs (last 30 days), W-2s (past 2 years), tax returns (past 2 years), bank statements (past 2 months), and photo ID. Self-employed borrowers need business tax returns and P&L statements. We'll provide a complete checklist for your situation.

How long does it take to close on a house in Barstow?

Typical Barstow closing timeline: 30-45 days from accepted offer. VA/FHA loans may take slightly longer. Cash buyers close in 7-14 days. We work to meet your timeline and coordinate with all parties to close on schedule.

What credit score do I need to buy a home in Barstow?

Credit requirements by loan type: FHA accepts 580+ (or 500 with 10% down), conventional starts at 620, VA at 620+. Our zero-down grant program works with 640+. Higher scores (720+) get better rates, but we work with borrowers across the credit spectrum.

What are the loan limits in Barstow?

2026 San Bernardino County limits: FHA $690,000, Conventional $832,750. Any loan above $832,750 is a jumbo loan. Most Barstow properties fall within conforming limits, maximizing your financing options.

What down payment assistance programs are available in Barstow?

Our No Money Down program offers $0 down payment for qualified Barstow buyers. We also offer our 6-Month Forgivable Grant (covers 3-3.5% down, forgiven after 6 months), CalHFA programs, and local first-time buyer assistance. Unlike CalHFA's 5-year requirements, our programs have no income limits and no first-time buyer requirement.

Can I buy a home in Barstow with no money down?

Yes! Zero-down options for Barstow buyers include: VA loans (eligible veterans), USDA loans (eligible rural areas), and our 6-Month Forgivable Grant Program combined with seller concessions for closing costs. Many Barstow families purchase with minimal upfront cash.

Do you work with first-time homebuyers in Barstow?

Absolutely—first-time buyers are our specialty in Barstow. We guide you through the entire process, help you understand FHA vs conventional vs VA options, identify all available down payment assistance in San Bernardino County, and structure your purchase to minimize upfront costs.

What if my credit score is below 620?

You still have options in Barstow. FHA loans accept credit scores as low as 580 (or 500 with 10% down). We also offer credit improvement strategies and can connect you with rapid rescoring services to boost your score before applying. Many buyers improve 20-50 points within 30 days.

Should I get an FHA or conventional loan in Barstow?

For Barstow's $500,000 median price: FHA is better for credit scores under 680 or down payments under 5%—it's more forgiving on DTI ratios too. Conventional is better with 5%+ down and 700+ credit (lower PMI costs). We compare both options for your specific situation.

What is the FHA loan limit in Barstow?

The FHA loan limit in Barstow is $690,000 for 2025. Since Barstow's median home price is around $253,000, this limit comfortably covers nearly all homes in the area. FHA loans are popular here because they allow down payments as low as 3.5% with credit scores starting at 580.

Do I need a jumbo loan in Barstow?

You won't need a jumbo loan in Barstow. With a conforming loan limit of $833,000 and most homes priced well under $300,000, standard conventional, FHA, and USDA loans will cover your purchase. Jumbo loans are only necessary when buying above the conforming limit, which is extremely rare in this market.

What are the 2026 loan limits for San Bernardino County?

For 2026, San Bernardino County loan limits are $833,000 for conforming and VA loans, and $690,000 for FHA loans. These limits apply throughout the county, including Barstow. USDA loans don't have a set maximum but are based on your income and the home's location in eligible rural areas.

Can I get a VA loan in Barstow?

Yes, VA loans are available in Barstow with a loan limit of $833,000, which covers all local homes. Veterans and active military can buy with $0 down, no PMI, and competitive rates. VA loans are an excellent option here since they don't require down payments on homes well below the limit.

What down payment assistance programs are available in Barstow?

Our No Money Down program offers $0 down payment for qualified buyers in Barstow. USDA loans are particularly strong here since Barstow qualifies as a rural area, offering zero down for eligible buyers. CalHFA programs and San Bernardino County DPA options can also provide down payment and closing cost assistance for first. time and low. to. moderate income buyers.

What down payment do I need for a Barstow home?

You can buy a Barstow home with as little as $0 down using USDA or VA loans if you qualify. FHA loans require just 3.5% down (about $8,855 on a $253,000 home), while conventional loans typically need 3. 5% down. With down payment assistance programs, many buyers purchase without using their own funds for the down payment.

What credit score do I need to buy in Barstow?

You can qualify for an FHA loan in Barstow with a credit score as low as 580, or even 500 with 10% down. USDA loans typically require a 640 minimum, while conventional loans prefer 620 or higher. Many Barstow buyers successfully purchase in the 580. 640 range using FHA financing.

How do I choose the right mortgage lender?

Choose a lender experienced with Barstow's rural market who can navigate USDA loans and local down payment assistance programs. Look for someone who understands the needs of budget. conscious buyers and can compare FHA, USDA, and conventional options side. by. side. Local expertise matters since Barstow's rural designation opens up financing options that urban. focused lenders might overlook.

Get Started with Your Barstow Mortgage
Get in Contact With Us

Fill out the form below and we'll reach out to discuss your Barstow mortgage options.

We respond within 24 hours

Call