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

Fresno, California

Mortgage broker serving Fresno, 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 Fresno Homebuyers Choose Us

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

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

  • Local neighborhoods with varying price points require strategic financing to match each property's requirements.
  • FHA loans with 3.5% down compete well with conventional options in this price range.
  • First-time buyers benefit from education on FHA vs conventional tradeoffs.

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

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

SCHEDULE FREE CONSULTATION

What Our Clients Say Real stories from real borrowers

How the Mortgage Process Works in Fresno

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

1-2 Days
Market Insights

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

California housing market value rising with upward trend

Prices & Trends

Fresno is one of the last genuinely affordable spots in California where you can still buy something decent without jumping through insane hoops. The median home price sits around $379K. Prices are basically flat, down 0.7% over the last year. The frenzy is done, and that's a good thing for buyers. You're not competing with fifteen cash offers anymore. The conforming loan limit here is $832,750, which is honestly irrelevant for most buyers in this market since you're nowhere near that threshold. FHA loan limits go up to $541K, which gives you plenty of room to work with.

Who's Buying in Fresno

Two types of buyers dominate here. First-timers on modest incomes who've been priced out of the Bay Area or coastal markets and finally found something they can actually afford. And investors looking for rental cash flow in a market where you can still make the numbers work. Median household income is $63K, so most buyers aren't rolling in equity from a previous home. The homeownership rate is only 48.1%, so more than half the city rents. That's a massive renter pool if you're thinking about investment properties. Real talk, a lot of people relocating from the Bay Area to the Central Valley are shocked at how far their money goes here. That $800K San Jose condo just became a house with a yard and money left over.

Your Loan Fit

FHA is your workhorse loan at this price point. 3.5% down, decent credit gets you in. But don't sleep on these options:
  • Conventional with 3-5% down if your credit is solid (mid-600s or better). You'll save on mortgage insurance long-term.
  • VA loans if you're a veteran. Zero down, no PMI, best rates available. This is a no-brainer.
  • USDA loans for properties in eligible rural zones around Fresno County. Seriously underused program with zero down payment required.
  • DSCR loans for investors who want to buy rental properties based on the property's cash flow, not their personal income. Game-changer if you're building a portfolio.
Look, if you've got 5% to put down and decent credit, conventional usually beats FHA once you factor in the upfront mortgage insurance premium. Run the numbers both ways before you commit.

Down Payment & Refinance in Fresno

Already own here? Refinancing is straightforward and can save you real money. If you bought when rates were higher, a rate-term refi could drop your payment by a couple hundred bucks a month. That adds up. If you've been paying PMI and your home value has held steady or climbed a bit, you might be able to get an appraisal and drop that insurance. That's another $100-200 a month back in your pocket. Cash-out refis make sense if you need to do repairs or improvements that'll boost your property value. Fresno isn't a crazy appreciation market, but equity builds slowly if you stay put. Don't leave money on the table just because you're not in a hot market.

Get Started

Let's talk real numbers on down payments. 3.5% FHA on a $379K house is about $13,300. That's not pocket change, but it's achievable if you've been saving or have family willing to help with gift funds. A lot of first-timers here use gift money from parents or relatives. Totally allowed and common. If you're coming from the Bay Area with equity from a sale, you're golden. If you're scraping together savings on a $63K income, it's harder but not impossible. Down payment assistance programs exist specifically for buyers in this income range. And honestly, our no-money-down program that covers your minimum 3-3.5% down payment requirement is built for exactly this scenario. You still need closing costs covered, but eliminating that down payment hurdle changes everything.

Local Fresno Expertise

Start with preapproval so you know exactly what you can afford and what loan programs make sense for your situation. Don't guess. The difference between FHA and conventional might be $50 a month or $300 a month depending on your credit and down payment. We'll run the scenarios and show you the real numbers. Fresno is still a market where regular people on regular incomes can buy homes. Schedule a free call and we'll map out your best path. Our team works with first-timers and investors in the Central Valley every week. We know what works here.

Popular Fresno Neighborhoods

Fig Garden • Woodward Park • Tower District • Old Fig Garden

Zip Codes We Serve

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

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

Fresno Loan Program Guide Purchase, Refinance & Investment Programs

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

Quick Compare: Fresno 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 Fresno

FHA Loans

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

Calhfa Programs

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

VA Loans

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

Usda Loans

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

Conforming Loans

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

Local Dpa Programs

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

Bridge Loans

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

LLC Funding Programs

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

Best Refinance Options in Fresno

FHA Loans Refinance

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

VA Loans Refinance

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

Usda Loans Refinance

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

Conforming Refinance

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

Cash Out Refinance

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

Home Equity Refinance

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

Best Investment & Commercial Loans in Fresno

DSCR Loans

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

Fix And Flip Loans

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

Commercial Hard Money Loans

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

Multifamily Loans

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

Best Down Payment Assistance Programs for Fresno

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 Fresno buyers with qualifying income.

CalHFA Down Payment Assistance

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

Local Down Payment Programs

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

Elite Grant Program

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

USDA Zero Down Loans

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

Gift of Equity

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

Non-Occupant Co-Borrower

Fresno 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 Fresno is a Great Place to Buy a Home

Fresno sits right in the heart of the Central Valley, population 541,528, median household income $63,001. The homeownership rate is 48.1%, which is lower than you'd expect for a city this affordable, but here's why that matters: at $379K median home price, you've got room to buy while a lot of California has priced out regular earners. A household pulling in $60-70K can actually qualify for a conventional loan on a solid single-family home here, something that's basically impossible in the Bay Area or most of Southern California anymore.

Schools & Family Appeal

If you're buying with kids in mind, the school ratings here are genuinely strong. Clovis North High and Clovis West High both pull 9s, Bullard High gets an 8, Cooper Elementary scores an 8. Those Clovis schools especially drive property values in the northeast part of the metro, and buyers with families will pay a premium to be in those boundaries. The Clovis Unified district has a reputation that extends statewide, which means when you go to sell five or ten years down the road, you'll have an easier time moving the property. Families looking at Fresno specifically target these school zones, and lenders know properties near top-rated schools appraise more consistently.

  • Clovis North High School
  • Clovis West High School
  • Bullard High School
  • Cooper Elementary School

The Neighborhood Feel

Where you buy in Fresno changes your loan strategy and monthly payment pretty dramatically. Fig Garden runs $600K-$1.2M, the most prestigious pocket in the city with tree-lined streets and upscale builds near Fig Garden Village shopping. You're looking at conventional or jumbo loans here depending on your down payment. Old Fig Garden sits nearby at $500K-$900K, mature trees and custom homes with solid walkability, still conventional territory for most buyers. Woodward Park is the family sweet spot at $400K-$700K, newer construction near the park and those top Clovis schools, conventional loans dominate and appraisals come in clean. Tower District is your entry point at $250K-$450K, historic homes with character in the arts district, popular with first-timers using FHA or conventional with lower down payments. The price spread here gives you actual options based on what you can qualify for.

  • Fig Garden
  • Old Fig Garden
  • Woodward Park
  • Tower District

Getting Around

Fresno isn't a commuter city to somewhere else, it's the destination. CA-99 runs north-south through town connecting you to the rest of the Valley, CA-41 heads north toward Yosemite, CA-180 goes east to Kings Canyon. If you're thinking about commuting to Bakersfield that's 104 minutes, Stockton is 120 minutes, which basically means don't. The FAX bus system exists but most people drive. The advantage here is you're not buying a house based on commute tolerance, you're buying because you work in Fresno or the surrounding Valley. That's actually a plus for property values since the local economy supports the housing market instead of depending on people driving two hours each way.

Jobs & Economy

The employment base here is diversified enough to keep the housing market stable. Community Medical Centers and Saint Agnes Medical Center are major healthcare employers, Kaiser Permanente adds to that. Fresno Unified School District is one of the largest employers in the region, California State University Fresno brings education jobs and keeps demand steady for rental properties too. Pelco manufactures security equipment and employs a solid white-collar workforce. The mix of healthcare, education, and manufacturing means you're not overly dependent on one sector, which matters when you're taking out a 30-year mortgage. Lenders look at local employment diversity when they're assessing risk on a property, and Fresno's job base checks that box.

  • Community Medical Centers
  • Saint Agnes Medical Center
  • Fresno Unified School District
  • California State University, Fresno
  • Pelco
  • Kaiser Permanente

Fresno Mortgage FAQs
Common questions answered

Common questions from Fresno 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 Fresno?

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 Fresno?

Typical Fresno 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 Fresno?

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

What down payment assistance programs are available in Fresno?

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

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

What are the loan limits in Fresno?

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

Should I get an FHA or conventional loan in Fresno?

For Fresno'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 Fresno. 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 Fresno?

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 Fresno?

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

What if my credit score is below 620?

You still have options in Fresno. 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 Fresno 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 Fresno?

Closing costs in Fresno 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 Fresno?

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 Fresno?

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

Closing costs in Fresno 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 Fresno?

Typical Fresno 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 Fresno?

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 Fresno?

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

What down payment assistance programs are available in Fresno?

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

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

Do you work with first-time homebuyers in Fresno?

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

What if my credit score is below 620?

You still have options in Fresno. 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 Fresno?

For Fresno'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 Fresno?

The 2026 FHA loan limit for Fresno (Fresno County) is $524K for a single-family home. This is a standard area limit. Properties above this amount require jumbo financing. FHA loans allow down payments as low as 3.5% for qualified borrowers.

Do I need a jumbo loan in Fresno?

Most Fresno properties are under the $833K conforming loan limit and don't require jumbo financing. Jumbo loans are typically only needed for luxury homes or larger estates.

What are the 2026 loan limits for Fresno County?

The 2026 Fresno County loan limits are: FHA: $524K, VA: $1.25M, Conventional: $833K. Any loan amount above $833K is considered a jumbo loan.

Can I get a VA loan in Fresno?

Yes! Veterans and active military can use VA loans in Fresno with $0 down payment. The 2026 VA loan limit for Fresno County is $1.25M. For properties above this amount, you can still use a VA loan but will need a down payment on the amount exceeding the limit.

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

We provide same-day pre-approvals for most loan programs. Full loan approval and closing typically takes 21-30 days for conventional and jumbo loans, and 30-45 days for FHA and VA loans.

What down payment do I need for a Fresno home?

Down payment requirements vary by loan type: Conventional: 3-5%, FHA: 3.5%, VA: $0 for eligible veterans. For Fresno's median price of $379K, many first-time buyers use 3-5% down programs.

What credit score do I need to buy in Fresno?

Minimum credit scores vary by loan type: FHA: 580, Conventional: 620, VA: typically 620, Jumbo: 680-700+. Higher credit scores qualify for better interest rates.

How do I choose the right mortgage lender?

Look for a lender with California experience, strong communication, competitive rates, and the ability to close on time. We've been serving California homebuyers for 40+ years with senior loan officers who specialize in complex scenarios.

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