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

Remote Camera Affixed to Landing Mat Style Border Fencing in Calexico, California

Mortgage broker serving Calexico, 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 Calexico Homebuyers Choose Us

Why Choose a California Mortgage Broker Serving Calexico, 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 Calexico buyers, we match your unique situation to the right program.

Calexico's market offers opportunity for buyers who understand their financing options.

  • Donovan Estates, Cibola Heights, and Hazelwood Estates ($294K-$546K) all fit conventional or FHA loans well below the $833K conforming limit.
  • Government and public sector workers need lenders who properly annualize 9-month contracts and count CalPERS pension income for qualifying.
  • Border city location creates unique opportunities for ITIN loans serving recent immigrants with 15-20% down and no SSN required.

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

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

SCHEDULE FREE CONSULTATION

What Our Clients Say Real stories from real borrowers

How the Mortgage Process Works in Calexico

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 Calexico 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 Calexico home. We coordinate everything to make closing day smooth and stress-free.

1-2 Days
Market Insights

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

California housing market value rising with upward trend

Prices & Trends

Calexico sits right on the border, and the housing market here is something most Californians forgot existed. Median home price is $420,000. Yeah, you read that right. Prices haven't moved in a year, which actually gives you time to shop without the panic that dominated the last few years. The conforming loan limit is $832,750, so you're nowhere near jumbo territory. FHA goes up to $541,287 here. Honestly, this is one of the few places in California where regular people can still buy without family money or a six-figure tech salary.

Who's Buying in Calexico

First-time buyers are all over this market. Household income sits around $51,667, and people are still buying homes. That tells you something about affordability here compared to the rest of the state. You've also got investors looking at rental properties because the numbers actually pencil out at this price point. And yeah, people moving from San Diego or LA who are tired of throwing away $3,000/month on rent for a one-bedroom. Homeownership rate is 50.6%, so it's split pretty evenly between renters and owners. This isn't some investor-heavy flip market.

Your Loan Fit

FHA is huge here because you only need 3.5% down. But don't sleep on conventional loans if you can scrape together 5% because you'll avoid that lifetime mortgage insurance premium that FHA sticks you with. Your loan strategy really depends on what you can bring to closing:
  • FHA at 3.5% down works for most first-timers, especially if your credit is in the 600s
  • Conventional at 5% down saves you money long-term and gets you out of PMI faster
  • VA is unbeatable if you qualify - zero down, no PMI, better rates
  • USDA might be an option depending on exactly where in Calexico you're buying, worth checking eligibility
  • Gift funds from family count toward your down payment on any of these programs
Don't overthink it. Run the numbers on FHA versus conventional and see what your actual monthly payment looks like.

Down Payment & Refinance in Calexico

Already own here? Refinancing makes sense if rates dropped since you bought or if your home value went up enough to ditch PMI. Rate-and-term refis are straightforward when you just want a lower payment. Cash-out refinancing is popular for renovations because you can tap equity at mortgage rates instead of using credit cards or personal loans. Investors should look at DSCR loans if they want to pull cash out based on rental income instead of personal income. And if you bought with FHA years ago, refinancing into conventional gets rid of that mortgage insurance you're still paying for no reason.

Get Started

Let's talk actual dollars. FHA at 3.5% down means you need about $14,700 to get into a median-priced home here. Conventional at 5% is $21,000. A lot of buyers piece this together from multiple sources. Some saved, some gift money from parents, some are using equity from selling a condo somewhere else. If you've got nothing saved, look at our no-money-down program that covers your minimum 3-3.5% down payment requirement. You still need cash for closing costs, usually another $8,000-$12,000, but down payment assistance programs exist in Imperial County. Real talk: if you can't come up with anything, talk to us anyway. There are ways to make this work that most people don't know about.

Local Calexico Expertise

Stop renting and throwing money away every month. At $420,000, your mortgage payment is probably close to what you're paying in rent, except you're building equity instead of making your landlord richer. Schedule a free call with our team and we'll run your numbers. We'll tell you exactly what you qualify for, what your payment looks like, and how much you need to bring to closing. Preapproval takes a day or two, then you're shopping with real buying power. Don't wait for prices to go up again.

Popular Calexico Neighborhoods

Downtown Calexico • Nosotros • Villa Del Sol • El Centro Road Area

Zip Codes We Serve

92231, 92232

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

Finding the right home loan in Calexico starts with understanding your options. We've streamlined hundreds of mortgage programs into 8 clear categories for Calexico 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 Calexico 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

Calexico Loan Program Guide Purchase, Refinance & Investment Programs

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

Quick Compare: Calexico Mortgage Options

Loan Type Down Payment Credit Score Best For
VA $0 No minimum Veterans, active military, surviving spouses
Conventional 3-20% 620+ Good credit, stable income. Max: $832,750
FHA 3.5% minimum 580+ First-time buyers with limited savings
Down Payment Assistance $0 (grant covers 3-3.5%) 640+ First-time buyers needing down payment help
Bank Statement 10-20% 660+ Self-employed buyers who write off business expenses
DSCR 20-25% 660+ Rental income properties, real estate investors

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

Best Home Purchase Loans in Calexico

FHA Loans

FHA dominates Calexico purchases. Low down payment and credit flexibility for first-time buyers.

Calhfa Programs

CalHFA is a strong option for Calexico. State programs reduce out-of-pocket costs significantly.

VA Loans

Veterans buy Calexico homes with $0 down. Full VA benefits cover all properties here.

Usda Loans

Many Calexico properties qualify for USDA zero-down loans. Rural designation required.

Conforming Loans

All Calexico properties qualify for conforming loans. 3% down minimum for first-time buyers.

Local Dpa Programs

Calexico local programs provide significant DPA. Stack with state programs for best results.

Bridge Loans

Bridge financing for Calexico homeowners moving. Buy your next home without waiting to sell.

LLC Funding Programs

LLC financing available in Calexico. Investors can purchase in entity names.

Best Refinance Options in Calexico

FHA Loans Refinance

FHA streamline dominates Calexico refinances. Quick approval with minimal paperwork.

VA Loans Refinance

VA IRRRL is the best refi for Calexico veterans. No paperwork hassles, quick closing.

Usda Loans Refinance

Many Calexico homeowners with USDA loans can use streamline refinance. No appraisal needed.

Conforming Refinance

Every Calexico refinance qualifies for conforming rates. Best terms for rate reduction.

Cash Out Refinance

Calexico owners can access equity through cash-out refi. Rates competitive with purchase loans.

Home Equity Refinance

Fixed home equity loan option in Calexico. Predictable payments for major expenses.

Best Investment & Commercial Loans in Calexico

DSCR Loans

DSCR financing for Calexico investors. Buy rentals based on property income potential.

Fix And Flip Loans

Fix-and-flip financing for Calexico investors. Buy distressed properties, renovate, sell.

Commercial Hard Money Loans

Commercial hard money in Calexico. Quick funding when timing is critical.

Multifamily Loans

Multifamily loans available for Calexico apartment investors. Commercial financing options.

Best Down Payment Assistance Programs for Calexico

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 Calexico buyers with qualifying income.

CalHFA Down Payment Assistance

CalHFA is a strong option for Calexico. State programs reduce out-of-pocket costs significantly.

Local Down Payment Programs

Calexico local programs provide significant DPA. Stack with state programs for best results.

Elite Grant Program

Elite grants provide Calexico down payment help. Free money for qualified buyers.

USDA Zero Down Loans

Many Calexico properties qualify for USDA zero-down loans. Rural designation required.

Gift of Equity

Family property transfers in Calexico benefit from gift of equity. No cash down payment needed.

Non-Occupant Co-Borrower

Calexico first-time buyers often use co-borrowers. Family help for qualification.

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 Calexico is a Great Place to Buy a Home

Calexico sits right on the Mexican border in [Imperial](/mortgage-loans-and-refinance-in-imperial-ca) County, about 120 miles east of [San Diego](/mortgage-loans-and-refinance-in-san-diego-ca). Population is 38,599, median household income $51,667. The homeownership rate here is 50.6%, which is actually lower than you'd expect for a place where the median home price is $420K. Here's the thing: this is a border economy town where your buying power depends heavily on understanding the local market dynamics. If you're tied to the cross-border economy or work for federal agencies, the math can work in your favor.

Schools & Family Appeal

The school ratings here are middle of the road but stable. Calexico High pulls a 6, Blanche Charles Elementary hits a 7, Jefferson and Dool both sit at 6. Not the numbers that'll make your house appreciate overnight, but the district is funded and functional. If you're buying with kids, factor in that Calexico Unified is the largest employer in town, which means the schools aren't going anywhere. That stability matters when you're locking into a 30-year mortgage. The family neighborhoods like Nosotros attract buyers who plan to stay put, and that community stability helps protect your property value even if the ratings don't wow you on paper.

  • Calexico High School
  • Blanche Charles Elementary School
  • Jefferson Elementary School
  • Dool Elementary School

The Neighborhood Feel

Where you buy in Calexico makes a real difference in what loan products you'll use. Downtown Calexico runs $320K-$480K, older homes near the port of entry that work well for FHA loans if you're a first-time buyer willing to take on some updates. Nosotros hits $380K-$520K with mid-century homes on bigger lots, solid conventional loan territory for families who want established trees and space. Villa Del Sol is the newer option at $450K-$580K, modern builds with energy-efficient features that appraise clean and qualify easily for conventional financing. El Centro Road Area sits at $350K-$500K, mix of old and new construction that attracts both FHA buyers on the lower end and conventional buyers on the higher end. Your loan officer will tell you the newer construction in Villa Del Sol is easier to finance, but you'll pay for that convenience.

  • Downtown Calexico
  • Nosotros
  • Villa Del Sol
  • El Centro Road Area

Getting Around

Real talk: Calexico isn't a commuter town to San Diego or LA. You're looking at 216 minutes to Los Angeles on a theoretical good day, which means nobody's doing that drive daily. The people who buy here either work locally or cross the border regularly for business or family. Local transit exists but most folks drive. The isolation is exactly why homes here stay at $420K instead of $720K like you'd see in East County San Diego. If your job is tied to the border, customs, agriculture, or local government, you're trading geographic isolation for a mortgage payment that won't crush you. If you need to commute to a major metro regularly, this isn't your spot.

Jobs & Economy

The employment picture here is all about the border and public sector work. Calexico Unified School District is the top employer, followed by City of Calexico and Imperial County government jobs. U.S. Customs and Border Protection is huge here, and those federal jobs come with steady paychecks that lenders love to see on mortgage applications. Heffernan Memorial Hospital District and Walmart Distribution Center round out the major employers. The job market is stable but not growing fast, which keeps home prices reasonable but also means appreciation won't be explosive. If you've got a federal job or work in education or healthcare, your income stability makes you a strong borrower here even if the household income numbers look low compared to coastal California.

  • Calexico Unified School District
  • City of Calexico
  • U.S. Customs and Border Protection
  • Imperial County
  • Heffernan Memorial Hospital District
  • Walmart Distribution Center

Calexico Mortgage FAQs
Common questions answered

Common questions from Calexico 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 Calexico?

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 Calexico?

Typical Calexico 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 Calexico?

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

What down payment assistance programs are available in Calexico?

Our No Money Down program offers $0 down payment for qualified Calexico 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 Calexico with no money down?

Yes! Zero-down options for Calexico 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 Calexico families purchase with minimal upfront cash.

What are the loan limits in Calexico?

2026 Imperial County limits: FHA $541,287, Conventional $832,750. Any loan above $832,750 is a jumbo loan. Most Calexico properties fall within conforming limits, maximizing your financing options.

Should I get an FHA or conventional loan in Calexico?

For Calexico'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 Calexico. 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 Calexico?

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 Calexico?

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

What if my credit score is below 620?

You still have options in Calexico. 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 Imperial 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 Calexico?

Closing costs in Calexico 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 Calexico?

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 Calexico?

You have several low down payment options in Calexico: Conventional (3% down), FHA (3.5% down), VA (0% for veterans), and our 6-Month Forgivable Grant Program covering your entire down payment. Many Calexico 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 Calexico. 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 Imperial 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 Calexico?

Closing costs in Calexico 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 Calexico?

Typical Calexico 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 Calexico?

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 Calexico?

2026 Imperial County limits: FHA $541,287, Conventional $832,750. Any loan above $832,750 is a jumbo loan. Most Calexico properties fall within conforming limits, maximizing your financing options.

What down payment assistance programs are available in Calexico?

Our No Money Down program offers $0 down payment for qualified Calexico 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 Calexico with no money down?

Yes! Zero-down options for Calexico 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 Calexico families purchase with minimal upfront cash.

Do you work with first-time homebuyers in Calexico?

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

What if my credit score is below 620?

You still have options in Calexico. 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 Calexico?

For Calexico'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 Calexico?

The FHA loan limit in Calexico is $541,000 for 2025, which is well above the typical home prices in the area. Since most homes in Calexico range from $300K to $450K, FHA loans work great here and are the most popular option for first. time buyers. With just 3.5% down and flexible credit requirements, FHA is ideal for Calexico's entry. level market.

Do I need a jumbo loan in Calexico?

No, you won't need a jumbo loan in Calexico since the median home price is around $420K and most homes sell between $300K and $450K. The conforming loan limit in Imperial County is $833,000, so virtually all homes here qualify for standard conventional, FHA, or VA financing. Jumbo loans are rarely needed in this affordable, entry. level market.

What are the 2026 loan limits for Imperial County?

For 2025, Imperial County loan limits are $541,000 for FHA loans and $833,000 for both conventional conforming and VA loans. These limits typically adjust annually based on home price trends, and 2026 limits will be announced in late 2025. Given Calexico's median price of $420K, current limits provide plenty of room for buyers in this market.

Can I get a VA loan in Calexico?

Yes, VA loans are available in Calexico with a generous loan limit of $833,000, covering all homes in the area. If you're a qualified veteran or active military, VA loans offer 0% down, no PMI, and competitive rates. This is an excellent option for service members buying in Calexico's affordable market.

What down payment assistance programs are available in Calexico?

Our No Money Down program offers $0 down payment for qualified buyers, making homeownership immediately accessible in Calexico. CalHFA programs provide down payment and closing cost assistance with options up to 3.5% or more, and Imperial County may offer additional local DPA programs for first. time buyers. Some areas of Calexico may also qualify for USDA loans with zero down, so it's worth exploring all your options.

What down payment do I need for a Calexico home?

You can buy a home in Calexico with as little as 0% down through VA, USDA, or our No Money Down program if you qualify. FHA loans require just 3.5% down (about $14,700 on a $420K home), while conventional loans typically need 3% to 5% down. With median incomes around $51,667, down payment assistance programs are crucial and widely used here.

What credit score do I need to buy in Calexico?

Most FHA lenders in Calexico accept credit scores as low as 580 for 3.5% down, and some allow scores down to 500 with 10% down. Conventional loans typically require a 620 minimum, while VA loans can be more flexible. Given that FHA dominates this market, buyers with scores in the 580. 620 range can still qualify and should explore their options.

How do I choose the right mortgage lender?

Look for a Calexico lender who specializes in FHA loans and down payment assistance programs, since these are critical in this entry. level market. They should understand Imperial County's specific programs, have experience with first. time buyers earning around the median income, and offer clear guidance on maximizing your buying power. Compare rates, but also prioritize lenders who can navigate DPA options and close on time.

Get Started with Your Calexico Mortgage
Get in Contact With Us

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

We respond within 24 hours

Call