Mortgage broker serving Chowchilla, 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.
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 Chowchilla buyers, we match your unique situation to the right program.
Chowchilla provides attainable homeownership, but buyers face specific financing challenges.
We've spent 40+ years solving these exact challenges.
We're here to help match you with the perfect loan program for your Chowchilla purchase.
SCHEDULE FREE CONSULTATION"For over 30 years, A Good Lender has been a trusted and essential part of my family's financial journey, guiding us through more than a dozen mortgage financing transactions with professionalism, integrity and care. What sets A Good Lender apart is their reliability and ability to demystify the mortgage process."
"Rodney Roloff & The Team at A Good Lender made my house buying process a breeze. Rodney helped me to better understand the loan process and walked me through everything step by step. If your looking for a good lender. One who will help you get the best rate. I highly recommend reaching out to Rodney and his team at 'A good lender'"
"From our first home buying experience, to exploring HELOC options, and refinancing, every step we were supported with clear and accurate information. A team who's knowledgeable, prompt to respond to any questions, and who genuinely cares for their clients is a rare find in this industry."
We've simplified the mortgage maze into four clear steps. No surprises, just results.
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.
We submit your application to our lending partners. Their underwriters review your documents, verify your income and credit, and issue your loan approval.
Sign your final documents, get your keys, and move into your Chowchilla home. We coordinate everything to make closing day smooth and stress-free.
Finding the right home loan in Chowchilla starts with understanding your options. We've streamlined hundreds of mortgage programs into 8 clear categories for Chowchilla 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 Chowchilla property.
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 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.
Finance commercial real estate, owner-occupied buildings, or business expansions. Explore all commercial financing programs below.
Finance new construction, renovations, or land purchases. Explore all construction and renovation programs below.
From condos and townhomes to multi-family buildings and unique property types. Explore all specialized property financing programs below.
We specialize in complex financing scenarios where traditional loans don't fit. Explore all niche programs below.
Access California's down payment assistance programs. Explore all DPA programs below.
Self-employed professionals, freelancers, and business owners. Explore all special income documentation programs below.
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.
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.
SBA 504 & 7(a)
Finance commercial real estate, owner-occupied buildings, or business expansions. Explore all commercial financing programs below.
Build & Improve
Finance new construction, renovations, or land purchases. Explore all construction and renovation programs below.
Specialized Properties
From condos and townhomes to multi-family buildings and unique property types. Explore all specialized property financing programs below.
Complex Scenarios
We specialize in complex financing scenarios where traditional loans don't fit. Explore all niche programs below.
CalHFA & Local DPA
Access California's down payment assistance programs. Explore all DPA programs below.
Alternative Documentation
Self-employed professionals, freelancers, and business owners. Explore all special income documentation programs below.
Popular loan programs for Chowchilla homebuyers. Compare options and find your best fit.
| Loan Type | Down Payment | Credit Score | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| No Down Payment Program Featured | $0 (3.5% grant) | 580+ | Any buyer - grant covers FHA or Conventional down payment, forgiven after 6 payments |
| 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
FHA dominates Chowchilla purchases. Low down payment and credit flexibility for first-time buyers.
CalHFA is a strong option for Chowchilla. State programs reduce out-of-pocket costs significantly.
Veterans buy Chowchilla homes with $0 down. Full VA benefits cover all properties here.
Many Chowchilla properties qualify for USDA zero-down loans. Rural designation required.
All Chowchilla properties qualify for conforming loans. 3% down minimum for first-time buyers.
Chowchilla local programs provide significant DPA. Stack with state programs for best results.
Bridge financing for Chowchilla homeowners moving. Buy your next home without waiting to sell.
LLC financing available in Chowchilla. Investors can purchase in entity names.
FHA streamline dominates Chowchilla refinances. Quick approval with minimal paperwork.
VA IRRRL is the best refi for Chowchilla veterans. No paperwork hassles, quick closing.
Many Chowchilla homeowners with USDA loans can use streamline refinance. No appraisal needed.
Every Chowchilla refinance qualifies for conforming rates. Best terms for rate reduction.
Chowchilla owners can access equity through cash-out refi. Rates competitive with purchase loans.
Fixed home equity loan option in Chowchilla. Predictable payments for major expenses.
DSCR financing for Chowchilla investors. Buy rentals based on property income potential.
Fix-and-flip financing for Chowchilla investors. Buy distressed properties, renovate, sell.
Commercial hard money in Chowchilla. Quick funding when timing is critical.
Multifamily loans available for Chowchilla apartment investors. Commercial financing options.
Buy a home with zero down payment. Our lenders cover your entire down payment through grant programs. No repayment required. Available for Chowchilla buyers with qualifying income.
CalHFA is a strong option for Chowchilla. State programs reduce out-of-pocket costs significantly.
Chowchilla local programs provide significant DPA. Stack with state programs for best results.
Elite grants provide Chowchilla down payment help. Free money for qualified buyers.
Many Chowchilla properties qualify for USDA zero-down loans. Rural designation required.
Family property transfers in Chowchilla benefit from gift of equity. No cash down payment needed.
Chowchilla 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
Chowchilla sits in [Madera](/mortgage-loans-and-refinance-in-madera-ca) County about 40 minutes north of [Fresno](/mortgage-loans-and-refinance-in-fresno-ca) in the Central Valley. Population is 18,772, median household income $67,212. The homeownership rate here is 60%, and at $370K median home price, you're looking at one of the more affordable entry points in the Central Valley where a household pulling in $65-70K can actually qualify for a conventional loan on a single-family home. The two state prisons anchor the local economy, which means steady public sector jobs and predictable property values.
If you've got kids, the school ratings run consistent across the district. Chowchilla Elementary and Alview Elementary both pull a 6 rating, Chowchilla Union High School also a 6. These aren't top-tier scores, but they're stable and the district serves a tight-knit community where families tend to stick around once they buy. That 60% homeownership rate tells you most of your neighbors aren't renters passing through. When you're thinking resale value, consistency matters more than you'd think. Schools that maintain steady enrollment and funding make lenders more comfortable with property values long-term.
Where you buy in Chowchilla directly affects your loan options and monthly payment. Downtown Chowchilla runs $320K-$420K, mix of historic homes and newer builds, good for buyers who want walkability to local businesses and schools. FHA loans work well here for first-timers. North Chowchilla goes $350K-$450K, bigger lots with that rural feel, popular with families who want space. These properties often qualify for conventional loans with standard down payments. East Chowchilla is the sweet spot for young families at $340K-$400K, newer construction near Robertson Park, and you'll see a lot of FHA and conventional financing in this range. West Chowchilla is your value play at $310K-$380K, established neighborhood with mature trees, perfect for buyers stretching their budget or looking to build equity in a stable area.
The commute to Fresno runs about 40 minutes on Highway 99, which is manageable if you work in the city but want Central Valley affordability. [Stockton](/mortgage-loans-and-refinance-in-stockton-ca) is 84 minutes north, [Bakersfield](/mortgage-loans-and-refinance-in-bakersfield-ca) 136 minutes south. Most buyers here either work locally or make that Fresno run daily. The commute time is part of why Chowchilla stays affordable compared to Fresno suburbs like [Clovis](/mortgage-loans-and-refinance-in-clovis-ca) where median prices push $450K and up. You're trading a bit of drive time for a mortgage payment that won't crush you. Local transit exists but this is a car-dependent town, so factor that into your total housing budget.
Here's the thing about Chowchilla's economy. Valley State Prison for Women and Central California Women's Facility are the dominant employers, which means steady state jobs with benefits and pensions. That kind of employment base keeps the housing market predictable, lenders like seeing government jobs when they're reviewing your application. The two school districts add more public sector stability. Fagundes Dairy and various agricultural operations round out the job mix, typical Central Valley ag economy. Real talk, the prison economy keeps this town running and keeps property values from swinging wild. If you work in corrections or education, you're buying in a town built around your industry.
Common questions from Chowchilla homebuyers and refinance clients. Can't find your answer? Book a 15-minute call with a Senior Loan Officer.
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.
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.
Typical Chowchilla 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.
You have several low down payment options in Chowchilla: Conventional (3% down), FHA (3.5% down), VA (0% for veterans), and our 6-Month Forgivable Grant Program covering your entire down payment. Many Chowchilla buyers purchase with 3.5% or less down.
Our No Money Down program offers $0 down payment for qualified Chowchilla 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.
Yes! Zero-down options for Chowchilla 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 Chowchilla families purchase with minimal upfront cash.
2026 Madera County limits: FHA $541,287, Conventional $832,750. Any loan above $832,750 is a jumbo loan. Most Chowchilla properties fall within conforming limits, maximizing your financing options.
For Chowchilla'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.
A denial doesn't mean you can't buy in Chowchilla. 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.
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.
Absolutely—first-time buyers are our specialty in Chowchilla. We guide you through the entire process, help you understand FHA vs conventional vs VA options, identify all available down payment assistance in Madera County, and structure your purchase to minimize upfront costs.
You still have options in Chowchilla. 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.
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.
You work directly with a Senior Loan Officer (15+ years average experience) from application through closing—not a call center. We have local Madera County expertise, same-day underwriting decisions, and flexibility to solve complex situations that algorithm-based lenders decline.
Closing costs in Chowchilla 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.
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.
You have several low down payment options in Chowchilla: Conventional (3% down), FHA (3.5% down), VA (0% for veterans), and our 6-Month Forgivable Grant Program covering your entire down payment. Many Chowchilla buyers purchase with 3.5% or less down.
A denial doesn't mean you can't buy in Chowchilla. 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.
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.
You work directly with a Senior Loan Officer (15+ years average experience) from application through closing—not a call center. We have local Madera County expertise, same-day underwriting decisions, and flexibility to solve complex situations that algorithm-based lenders decline.
Closing costs in Chowchilla 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.
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.
Typical Chowchilla 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.
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.
2026 Madera County limits: FHA $541,287, Conventional $832,750. Any loan above $832,750 is a jumbo loan. Most Chowchilla properties fall within conforming limits, maximizing your financing options.
Our No Money Down program offers $0 down payment for qualified Chowchilla 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.
Yes! Zero-down options for Chowchilla 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 Chowchilla families purchase with minimal upfront cash.
Absolutely—first-time buyers are our specialty in Chowchilla. We guide you through the entire process, help you understand FHA vs conventional vs VA options, identify all available down payment assistance in Madera County, and structure your purchase to minimize upfront costs.
You still have options in Chowchilla. 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.
For Chowchilla'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.
The FHA loan limit in Chowchilla is $541,000 for 2025. This is more than enough for most homes in Chowchilla, where the median price is around $370,000. FHA loans are extremely popular here since they allow down payments as low as 3.5% with credit scores starting at 580.
You won't need a jumbo loan in Chowchilla. With homes typically priced between $300K and $450K and conforming loan limits at $833,000, virtually every property here qualifies for conventional, FHA, or VA financing. Jumbo loans are reserved for amounts exceeding the conforming limit, which is rare in this market.
For 2026, Madera County's conforming and VA loan limit is $833,000, while the FHA limit is $541,000. These limits are well above Chowchilla's median home price of $370,000, giving buyers plenty of financing options. Limits are typically announced each fall and may adjust based on home price trends.
Yes, VA loans are available in Chowchilla with a loan limit of $833,000, which covers all homes in the area. If you're a qualified veteran or active military, VA loans offer 0% down with no mortgage insurance. This is one of the best options for service members buying in this entry. level market.
Our No Money Down program offers $0 down payment for qualified buyers in Chowchilla. CalHFA programs are also game. changers here, providing down payment and closing cost assistance for first. time buyers. Additionally, some areas of Chowchilla may qualify for USDA loans with zero down, and Madera County may offer local assistance programs for income. eligible buyers.
You can buy a Chowchilla home with as little as 0% down through VA, USDA, or our No Money Down program. FHA loans require just 3.5% down (about $13,000 on a $370,000 home), while conventional loans typically need 3. 5% down. With the right down payment assistance, many first. time buyers here put down little to nothing.
You can qualify for an FHA loan in Chowchilla with a credit score as low as 580, or even 500 with 10% down. Conventional loans typically require a 620 minimum, while VA loans are often approved with scores around 580. 620. Given that most buyers here use FHA financing, scores in the 580. 640 range are common and workable.
Choose a lender experienced with Chowchilla's entry. level market who understands FHA loans and down payment assistance programs inside and out. You'll want someone who can navigate CalHFA, USDA eligibility, and local programs to maximize your buying power. Look for responsive communication, competitive rates, and a track record of closing loans on time for first. time buyers with limited savings.
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