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

Fontana California Aerial

Mortgage broker serving Fontana, 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 Fontana Homebuyers Choose Us

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

Fontana buyers compete in a market where strong financing and quick pre-approval win offers.

  • South Fontana, North Fontana, and Sierra Lakes all average $620K, comfortably within the $833K conforming limit for conventional or FHA financing.
  • Healthcare workers with overtime and shift differentials need lenders who average 12-24 months of variable income for accurate qualification.
  • Self-employed buyers with tax write-offs should explore bank statement loans that qualify on gross deposits rather than reduced tax returns.

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

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

SCHEDULE FREE CONSULTATION

What Our Clients Say Real stories from real borrowers

How the Mortgage Process Works in Fontana

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

1-2 Days
Market Insights

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

California housing market value rising with upward trend

Prices & Trends

Fontana sits in an interesting spot right now. The median home price is $620,000, and it hasn't budged in the past year. No wild appreciation, but also no crash. You're well under the $833K conforming limit, so you've got access to every conventional loan program without hitting jumbo territory. And honestly? That makes your life easier. Rates are better, guidelines are clearer, and you're not fighting the same frenzy that was here two years ago. The homeownership rate is 66.6%, so this is a market where people actually buy and stick around. Not just investors flipping or renters cycling through.

Who's Buying in Fontana

First-time buyers are everywhere here. Young families relocating from LA, Orange County, or the Inland Empire because they're tired of watching $900K tear-downs get bidding wars. Median household income is $93,230, so you're looking at dual-income households who can swing a $620K purchase without being house-poor. You also see some investors picking up properties now that prices have stabilized. But the bulk of activity? Families who want space, a yard, and a mortgage payment that doesn't eat half their income. People move here because Southern California coastal pricing is insane, and Fontana offers actual affordability without leaving the region entirely.

Your Loan Fit

Conventional and FHA are both solid plays here. You're not forced into one corner.
  • FHA at 3.5% down gets you in for around $21,700. Popular with first-timers who don't have a pile of cash sitting around.
  • Conventional at 5% down is about $31,000 and gets you better rates. Worth the extra savings if you can swing it.
  • VA loans are unbeatable if you're a veteran. Zero down, no PMI, and you're buying at $620K without stretching.
  • Don't sleep on down payment assistance programs either. They exist, and they can cover that 3-5% gap if you qualify.
You've got options here because you're not butting up against loan limits. Use that to your advantage.

Down Payment & Refinance in Fontana

Already own in Fontana? Refinancing makes sense in a few scenarios. Cash-out refis are huge right now for people pulling equity to remodel, add square footage, or pay off higher-interest debt. If you bought with FHA and you've got 20% equity built up, dropping PMI alone saves you $150-$300 a month. Rate-and-term refis are worth running numbers on if rates dip or if you're still sitting on a higher rate from a couple years ago. And if you're an investor with a rental property here, DSCR loans let you refi based on the property's cash flow instead of your personal income. Don't just sit on equity or overpay monthly because you haven't checked your options lately.

Get Started

Let's talk real numbers. At $620K, 3.5% down is $21,700. That's FHA territory and it's doable for a lot of buyers, especially if you've been saving or get a gift from family. Conventional at 5% is $31,000. If you've got equity from selling another property, you're golden. But if you're coming in cold with no prior homeownership? That's a heavy lift on a $93K income. This is exactly why our no-money-down program that covers your minimum 3-3.5% down payment requirement exists. It's not a loan, it's not something you pay back. It gets you in the door when your income qualifies but your savings account doesn't. Real talk, most first-timers here either use assistance, bring a co-borrower, or save aggressively for 18-24 months. The down payment is the hardest part of this purchase, not the monthly payment.

Local Fontana Expertise

Start with preapproval. Not a pre-qual, not a maybe, but actual underwriter-reviewed approval so you know your ceiling and can move fast when you find the right place. Fontana's market isn't cutthroat right now, but solid offers still beat wishful ones. Schedule a free call and we'll walk through your income, debts, and what loan structure makes sense. We work this market daily and know what lenders are actually approving right now. Our team handles Fontana buyers all the time, and we'll tell you straight what works and what doesn't. Don't guess your way through this.

Popular Fontana Neighborhoods

South Fontana • North Fontana • Sierra Lakes • Hunter's Ridge

Zip Codes We Serve

92334, 92335, 92336, 92337

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

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

Fontana Loan Program Guide Purchase, Refinance & Investment Programs

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

Quick Compare: Fontana Mortgage Options

Loan Type Down Payment Credit Score Best For
Conventional 3-20% 620+ Good credit, stable income. Max: $832,750
FHA 3.5% minimum 580+ First-time buyers with limited savings
VA $0 No minimum Veterans, active military, surviving spouses
Jumbo 15-20% 680+ Properties exceeding $832,750
Bank Statement 10-20% 660+ Self-employed buyers who write off business expenses
DSCR 20-25% 660+ Rental income properties, real estate investors
Reverse Mortgage N/A No minimum Homeowners 62+ tapping equity without payments

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

Best Home Purchase Loans in Fontana

Conforming Loans

Standard option for Fontana buyers. Most homes under $833K with competitive rates.

FHA Loans

Strong FHA option in Fontana. Low down payment gets you into most properties here.

VA Loans

$0 down for Fontana veterans. VA loans cover all properties with no PMI required.

Bank Statement Loans

Fontana business owners qualify on deposits. Tax write-offs reduce income on paper. Bank statements show reality.

Calhfa Programs

CalHFA programs popular in Fontana. State assistance helps with down payment and closing costs.

Jumbo Loans

Premium Fontana homes over $833K require jumbo loans. Less common but available for luxury properties.

Bridge Loans

Fontana sellers can buy first with bridge loans. Short-term financing until sale closes.

LLC Funding Programs

LLC financing options for Fontana investors. Buy rentals in entity names.

Best Refinance Options in Fontana

Conforming Refinance

Conforming refinance for Fontana homeowners. Best rates for loans under $833K.

FHA Loans Refinance

FHA streamline refinance for Fontana. Easiest way to lower your existing FHA rate.

VA Loans Refinance

VA streamline refi for Fontana veterans. Fastest way to reduce your mortgage payment.

Cash Out Refinance

Turn Fontana home equity into cash. Refinance at competitive rates for home improvements or debt.

HELOC Refinance

HELOC available for Fontana homeowners. Access equity without replacing first mortgage.

Home Equity Refinance

Fontana owners can get home equity loans. Fixed rate for predictable payments.

Best Investment & Commercial Loans in Fontana

DSCR Loans

DSCR loans work for Fontana investment properties. Cash flow analysis replaces income docs.

Fix And Flip Loans

Fix-and-flip available for Fontana projects. Short-term financing for value-add investments.

Multifamily Loans

Multifamily options for Fontana investors. Finance apartment buildings with commercial loans.

Commercial Hard Money Loans

Fontana investors use hard money for quick closes. Higher rate but fast funding.

Best Down Payment Assistance Programs for Fontana

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 Fontana buyers with qualifying income.

CalHFA Down Payment Assistance

CalHFA programs popular in Fontana. State assistance helps with down payment and closing costs.

Local Down Payment Programs

Fontana has local down payment programs. Combine with CalHFA for maximum assistance.

Elite Grant Program

Elite grant available for Fontana buyers. Down payment assistance with no repayment.

Gift of Equity

Fontana family sales can use gift of equity. Equity difference becomes down payment.

Non-Occupant Co-Borrower

Add a co-borrower for Fontana purchases. Family member income boosts 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 Fontana is a Great Place to Buy a Home

Fontana sits in the Inland Empire about 50 miles east of LA, right where San Bernardino County starts to spread out. Population is 209,279, median household income $93,230. The homeownership rate here is 66.6%, and at $620K median home price, you're looking at one of the last affordable entry points to Southern California homeownership if you're earning in that $90-100K range. It's not cheap, but compared to Orange County or West LA, a household pulling down six figures can actually qualify for a conventional loan on a single-family home here.

Schools & Family Appeal

If you've got kids or you're planning to, the school ratings matter for both your daily life and your resale value down the line. Live Oak Elementary pulls an 8, which is solid for the area. A.B. Miller High and Sequoia Middle both score 7s, while Fontana High comes in at a 6. These aren't the 9s and 10s you'll find in Irvine, but they're respectable, and here's the thing: that 66.6% homeownership rate means most families around you are invested in the community long-term. When you're looking at a 30-year mortgage, you want neighbors who stick around and care about property values.

  • A.B. Miller High School
  • Fontana High School
  • Sequoia Middle School
  • Live Oak Elementary School

The Neighborhood Feel

Where you buy in Fontana makes a real difference in what you'll pay and what loan product makes sense. South Fontana runs $550K-$650K, established neighborhoods with mature trees and well-kept homes, mix of single-family and some townhomes. This is where FHA and conventional loans with lower down payments work well for families stretching to buy. North Fontana goes $580K-$700K, newer builds closer to major employers and shopping, attracts dual-income households who can handle conventional financing. Hunter's Ridge is $600K-$720K, newer construction with HOA amenities, popular with first-timers who've saved up that 5-10% down payment. Sierra Lakes is the move-up market at $750K-$950K, custom homes with golf course access and mountain views. You're looking at conventional or jumbo loans here depending on how much you put down, and buyers are typically trading up from somewhere else in the IE.

  • South Fontana
  • North Fontana
  • Sierra Lakes
  • Hunter's Ridge

Getting Around

The commute to LA is about 55 minutes when traffic cooperates, which honestly isn't that often. That drive is exactly why Fontana stays in the $600Ks while similar homes in Pasadena or Burbank cost twice as much. You're trading time on the 10 or 60 for a mortgage payment that won't eat your whole paycheck. Local transit exists but most people drive. If you work in Ontario, Rancho Cucamonga, or anywhere in the Inland Empire, your commute drops to 15-25 minutes. Real talk: the location works best if you've got a job locally or you're okay with that LA commute a few days a week.

Jobs & Economy

The employment base here is actually pretty solid, which matters when you're thinking about long-term property values and job stability. Fontana Unified School District is the biggest employer, followed by Kaiser Permanente Fontana Medical Center. Then you've got the logistics giants: Amazon, Walmart, and UPS all run major distribution centers here. The City of Fontana itself employs a decent number of people. This mix of education, healthcare, and logistics means the local economy isn't dependent on one sector. When you're taking out a 30-year mortgage, you want to know there'll be jobs keeping people moving into the area and supporting home values.

  • Fontana Unified School District
  • Kaiser Permanente Fontana Medical Center
  • City of Fontana
  • Amazon Distribution Center
  • Walmart Distribution Center
  • UPS Hub

Fontana Mortgage FAQs
Common questions answered

Common questions from Fontana 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 Fontana?

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 Fontana?

Typical Fontana 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 Fontana?

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

What down payment assistance programs are available in Fontana?

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

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

What are the loan limits in Fontana?

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

Should I get an FHA or conventional loan in Fontana?

For Fontana'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 Fontana. 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 Fontana?

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 Fontana?

Absolutely—first-time buyers are our specialty in Fontana. 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 Fontana. 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 Fontana?

Closing costs in Fontana 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 Fontana?

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 Fontana?

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

Closing costs in Fontana 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 Fontana?

Typical Fontana 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 Fontana?

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 Fontana?

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

What down payment assistance programs are available in Fontana?

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

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

Do you work with first-time homebuyers in Fontana?

Absolutely—first-time buyers are our specialty in Fontana. 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 Fontana. 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 Fontana?

For Fontana'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 Fontana?

The FHA loan limit in Fontana is $690,000 for 2026. This covers most homes in Fontana's market, where the median price is around $620,000, making FHA loans a popular choice for first. time buyers who want lower down payment options.

Do I need a jumbo loan in Fontana?

Most buyers in Fontana won't need a jumbo loan since the conforming loan limit is $833,000 and the median home price is $620,000. You'll only need a jumbo loan if you're purchasing a home above $833,000, which represents the higher end of Fontana's market.

What are the 2026 loan limits for San Bernardino County?

For 2026, San Bernardino County loan limits are $690,000 for FHA loans, $833,000 for VA loans, and $833,000 for conforming conventional loans. These limits give buyers in Fontana strong purchasing power across most price ranges in the local market.

Can I get a VA loan in Fontana?

Yes, VA loans are highly competitive in Fontana with a loan limit of $833,000, which covers virtually all homes in the area. Veterans and active military can benefit from $0 down payment and no mortgage insurance, making homeownership more affordable in this balanced market.

What down payment assistance programs are available in Fontana?

Our No Money Down program offers $0 down payment for qualified buyers, making homeownership immediately accessible. Additionally, CalHFA offers down payment assistance grants, and San Bernardino County provides programs like the Mortgage Assistance Program (MAP) that can help with down payment and closing costs for first. time and moderate. income buyers.

What down payment do I need for a Fontana home?

Down payments in Fontana vary by loan type. Conventional loans typically require 3. 5% down ($18,600. $31,000 on a $620,000 home), FHA loans need 3.5% ($21,700), and VA loans offer $0 down for eligible veterans. Our No Money Down program can also eliminate the down payment requirement for qualified buyers.

What credit score do I need to buy in Fontana?

Most lenders require a minimum credit score of 620 for conventional loans and 580 for FHA loans in Fontana. With the median home price at $620,000, having a score of 640 or higher will give you access to better rates and more loan options in this competitive market.

How do I choose the right mortgage lender?

Look for a lender with strong knowledge of Fontana's $600K. $900K market and experience with the loan types that work best here, including FHA, VA, and conforming loans. Compare rates, fees, and closing timelines, and choose someone who can explain your options clearly and help you navigate down payment assistance programs if needed.

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