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

Railroad Street In Colfax California - panoramio

Mortgage broker serving Colfax, 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 Colfax Homebuyers Choose Us

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

First-time buyers in Colfax need the right loan programs to maximize their purchasing power.

  • Historic Downtown homes at $440K fit comfortably within the $833K conforming limit, allowing conventional loans with as little as 3% down or FHA at 3.5%.
  • Public sector workers and educators with 9-month contracts need lenders who annualize salaries and count pension income for stronger qualification.
  • Wildfire zones require FAIR Plan insurance as backup, adding $2,000-4,000 annually when standard carriers decline coverage in high-risk foothill areas.

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

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

SCHEDULE FREE CONSULTATION

What Our Clients Say Real stories from real borrowers

How the Mortgage Process Works in Colfax

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

1-2 Days
Market Insights

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

California housing market value rising with upward trend

Prices & Trends

Colfax sits in that sweet spot where California homeownership still feels achievable. The median home price is $440K, and it's held steady over the past year. No crazy swings, no bidding wars pushing prices into the stratosphere. You're working with a conforming loan limit of $833K and an FHA limit of $765K, but honestly, most deals here stay well under those caps. This is one of those rare markets where you don't need a trust fund or tech salary to make it work. Prices flatlined because there's actual inventory and buyers aren't panic-bidding anymore. Makes for cleaner transactions and realistic appraisals.

Who's Buying in Colfax

First-time buyers dominate here, especially people relocating from pricier parts of California. You're seeing a lot of folks cashing out equity from the Bay Area or Sacramento and suddenly realizing their $200K from a condo sale goes a long way in Colfax. The median household income is $70K, so dual-income families make the numbers work pretty easily. But here's the thing: only 48.8% of people here own. More than half are renting. That tells you there's a huge pool of potential buyers who just haven't pulled the trigger yet, plus solid investor opportunities if you're thinking rental properties. Retirees love it here too because they can downsize from a $800K house somewhere else and buy with cash or a small mortgage.

Your Loan Fit

FHA loans are popular here for good reason. At $440K, the math works cleanly for buyers who don't have massive savings but can scrape together $15K-$17K for 3.5% down. Conventional at 5% down isn't much more, around $22K, and you dodge the upfront MIP that FHA charges. VA buyers absolutely crush it if they qualify because zero down on a $440K house is a game-changer.
  • FHA makes sense if you're under 680 credit or have limited savings. The upfront premium stings but monthly payments stay manageable.
  • Conventional at 5% down beats FHA after about year three once you factor in total MI costs. Run both scenarios.
  • VA is the obvious winner if you're eligible. Zero down, no PMI, competitive rates.
  • USDA might work depending on exactly where the property sits. Colfax has some qualifying zones, and zero down with solid rates beats FHA every time.
Don't assume FHA is your only low-down-payment option. You've got choices.

Down Payment & Refinance in Colfax

Refinancing here depends on when you bought. If you locked in a rate above 6.5%, a rate-term refi could save you real money as rates keep bouncing around. PMI removal is huge for anyone who put down less than 20% and has seen even modest appreciation or paid down principal. Cash-out refis are popular for renovations because older homes here need updates, and pulling $50K-$75K in equity beats credit cards or HELOCs for bigger projects. Investors should look at DSCR loans if they're buying more rentals. With over half the town renting, the rental market supports investment properties, and DSCR doesn't care about your W-2 income, just whether the rent covers the mortgage.

Get Started

Real talk: coming up with a down payment is the biggest hurdle for most buyers here. FHA at 3.5% means you need about $15,400. Conventional at 5% is $22K. But where does that actually come from? A lot of buyers tap equity from selling a previous home. Others get gift funds from family, which is completely legit and lenders expect it at this price point. Some people save aggressively for 18-24 months. And look, if the down payment is your main obstacle, our no-money-down program that covers your minimum 3-3.5% down payment requirement might be exactly what you need. You still need reserves and closing costs covered, usually another $8K-$12K, but eliminating that down payment chunk changes the timeline completely. Down payment assistance programs exist too, especially for first-timers, but they come with income caps and sometimes require you to stay in the home for a set period.

Local Colfax Expertise

Getting started means getting preapproved before you even look at houses. Sellers in Colfax aren't entertaining offers without solid financing behind them, even in a slower market. Schedule a free call and we'll walk through your specific situation. Income, credit, savings, the whole picture. We'll tell you exactly what you qualify for and which loan program actually saves you money long-term, not just what gets you the lowest monthly payment on paper. Our team works this market constantly and knows what appraisers are seeing, what underwriters flag, and how to structure deals that actually close. Don't waste time guessing what you can afford or trusting Zillow calculators. Let's run real numbers.

Popular Colfax Neighborhoods

Historic Downtown

Zip Codes We Serve

95713

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

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

Colfax Loan Program Guide Purchase, Refinance & Investment Programs

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

Quick Compare: Colfax 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 Colfax

FHA Loans

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

Calhfa Programs

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

VA Loans

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

Usda Loans

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

Conforming Loans

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

Local Dpa Programs

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

Bridge Loans

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

LLC Funding Programs

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

Best Refinance Options in Colfax

FHA Loans Refinance

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

VA Loans Refinance

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

Usda Loans Refinance

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

Conforming Refinance

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

Cash Out Refinance

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

Home Equity Refinance

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

Best Investment & Commercial Loans in Colfax

DSCR Loans

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

Fix And Flip Loans

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

Commercial Hard Money Loans

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

Multifamily Loans

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

Best Down Payment Assistance Programs for Colfax

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 Colfax buyers with qualifying income.

CalHFA Down Payment Assistance

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

Local Down Payment Programs

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

Elite Grant Program

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

USDA Zero Down Loans

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

Gift of Equity

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

Non-Occupant Co-Borrower

Colfax 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 Colfax is a Great Place to Buy a Home

Colfax sits in the Sierra foothills of Placer County, about 52 minutes from Sacramento. Population is just 2,230, median household income $70,720. The homeownership rate here is 48.8%, which is low for a rural California town, and that tells you something important. At $440K median home price, you're paying close to metro prices for a mountain community with limited inventory. Most buyers here are either looking for the small-town lifestyle or they're priced out of Roseville and willing to make the commute.

Schools & Family Appeal

If you've got kids, you're working with a small district setup. Colfax Elementary and Colfax High serve the town, while some families send kids to Placer Union High School nearby. The schools don't have the ratings or programs you'd find in Auburn or Roseville, which matters when you're thinking about resale. That 48.8% ownership rate means more than half the town rents, so you're not in a family-heavy ownership community like you'd find in the valley. For buyers, this means less competition from families but also a smaller pool of buyers when you eventually sell. If schools are your top priority, you'll want to look hard at the district before committing to a mortgage here.

  • Colfax Elementary School
  • Colfax High School
  • Placer Union High School

The Neighborhood Feel

Here's the thing about Colfax. It's small enough that neighborhoods don't really break into distinct price tiers like they would in a bigger town. Historic Downtown runs around $440K, the original town center along the railroad corridor with older homes and buildings. You're looking at conventional loans for most properties, though some of the older homes might need renovation financing if they haven't been updated. The inventory is tight because there just aren't that many homes, so when something decent hits the market, it moves. FHA can work here if the property meets condition standards, but a lot of these older mountain homes need some love, which can complicate financing.

  • Historic Downtown

Getting Around

The commute to Sacramento is 52 minutes on a good day, 34 minutes to Roseville. Interstate 80 is your lifeline, running through the area and connecting you to the valley and Tahoe. That commute is the trade-off for living in the foothills. If you work in Roseville or Sacramento, you're spending over an hour in the car daily, which is why a lot of Colfax residents work locally or remotely. Local transit exists but it's limited, so count on owning a vehicle. The drive keeps prices from going completely crazy like they have in Auburn, but you're still paying $440K for a town of 2,230 people.

Jobs & Economy

The job market here is what you'd expect for a tiny foothill town. Placer Hills Union Elementary School District is the main employer, along with the City of Colfax and local retail and service businesses. Real talk, most people buying in Colfax either commute down the hill or they're retired and not worried about the job market. If you need local employment, your options are limited to education, municipal work, or service industry. The economy is stable but small, which is fine if you've already got income figured out. Just don't move here expecting a robust job market, because your mortgage payment will depend on income you're likely earning somewhere else.

  • Placer Hills Union Elementary School District
  • City of Colfax
  • Local retail and service businesses

Colfax Mortgage FAQs
Common questions answered

Common questions from Colfax 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 Colfax?

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 Colfax?

Typical Colfax 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 Colfax?

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

What down payment assistance programs are available in Colfax?

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

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

What are the loan limits in Colfax?

2026 Placer County limits: FHA $764,750, Conventional $832,750. Any loan above $832,750 is a jumbo loan. Most Colfax properties fall within conforming limits, maximizing your financing options.

Should I get an FHA or conventional loan in Colfax?

For Colfax'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 Colfax. 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 Colfax?

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 Colfax?

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

What if my credit score is below 620?

You still have options in Colfax. 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 Placer 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 Colfax?

Closing costs in Colfax 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 Colfax?

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 Colfax?

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

Closing costs in Colfax 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 Colfax?

Typical Colfax 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 Colfax?

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 Colfax?

2026 Placer County limits: FHA $764,750, Conventional $832,750. Any loan above $832,750 is a jumbo loan. Most Colfax properties fall within conforming limits, maximizing your financing options.

What down payment assistance programs are available in Colfax?

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

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

Do you work with first-time homebuyers in Colfax?

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

What if my credit score is below 620?

You still have options in Colfax. 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 Colfax?

For Colfax'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 Colfax?

The FHA loan limit in Colfax is $765,000 for 2025, which is well above the typical home prices in the area. Since most homes in Colfax range from $300K to $450K, you'll have plenty of room to use an FHA loan with just 3.5% down. This makes FHA financing an excellent option for first. time buyers in the Colfax market.

Do I need a jumbo loan in Colfax?

You won't need a jumbo loan in Colfax for most homes. With a median home price around $440K and conforming loan limits at $833,000, nearly all properties fall well within conventional and FHA financing ranges. Jumbo loans are only necessary if you're looking at properties above $833,000, which are rare in this entry. level market.

What are the 2026 loan limits for Placer County?

For 2025 in Placer County, the conforming loan limit is $833,000, FHA is $765,000, and VA is $833,000. These limits are typically announced in November for the following year, so 2026 limits aren't yet available. Given Colfax's median price of $440K, current limits provide plenty of financing flexibility for buyers.

Can I get a VA loan in Colfax?

Yes, VA loans are available in Colfax with a loan limit of $833,000, which covers all typical homes in the area. If you're a qualified veteran or active military, VA loans offer 0% down with no PMI, making them one of the best options for homebuyers. With most Colfax homes priced well below the VA limit, you can purchase without needing a jumbo loan.

What down payment assistance programs are available in Colfax?

Our No Money Down program offers $0 down payment for qualified buyers, making homeownership immediately accessible in Colfax. CalHFA programs are also excellent options, providing down payment and closing cost assistance for first. time buyers with competitive rates. Additionally, Placer County may offer local DPA programs, and some areas of Colfax might qualify for USDA loans with zero down in eligible rural zones.

What down payment do I need for a Colfax home?

You can buy a home in Colfax with as little as 0% down through VA, USDA, or our No Money Down program. FHA loans require just 3.5% down (around $15,400 on a $440K home), while conventional loans typically need 3% to 5% down. With Colfax's median income at $70,720, down payment assistance programs are often essential for first. time buyers to bridge the gap.

What credit score do I need to buy in Colfax?

You can qualify for an FHA loan in Colfax with a credit score as low as 580 for 3.5% down, or even 500 with 10% down. Conventional loans typically require a 620 minimum score, while VA loans are more flexible. Given that FHA dominates the Colfax market and most buyers are first. timers, scores in the 580. 680 range are common and workable.

How do I choose the right mortgage lender?

Choose a lender experienced with Colfax's entry. level market who understands FHA loans and down payment assistance programs that first. time buyers need. Look for someone who can explain CalHFA, county DPA options, and creative financing solutions for buyers with limited savings. You'll want a lender who responds quickly, offers competitive rates, and has a track record of closing loans in Placer County successfully.

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