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

40+
Years Experience

Mortgage broker serving Gridley, 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 Gridley Homebuyers Choose Us

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

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

  • Downtown Gridley homes at $423K fit comfortably under the $833K conforming limit, allowing buyers to access conventional and FHA loans without jumbo financing.
  • Agricultural workers with seasonal income from rice farming and orchards need bank statement loans or asset-based programs to qualify without traditional W-2 documentation.
  • USDA rural-eligible areas offer $0 down and low rates, though income limits apply—ideal for Gridley's affordable market and agricultural community.

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

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

SCHEDULE FREE CONSULTATION

What Our Clients Say Real stories from real borrowers

How the Mortgage Process Works in Gridley

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

1-2 Days
Market Insights

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

California housing market value rising with upward trend

Prices & Trends

Gridley sits in that sweet spot where California homeownership is still realistic. The median home price is $423K, and it hasn't budged in the past year. Prices are stable, not climbing, not crashing. You've got plenty of room under the conforming loan limit at $833K, so conventional financing works clean without jumping into jumbo territory. FHA caps out at $541K here, which is way above what most homes sell for. The market isn't flashy, but it's functional. And honestly, that stability matters more than people think when you're planning financing.

Who's Buying in Gridley

First-time buyers dominate here because the price point actually makes sense. You've got young families trying to get out of the rental cycle, folks relocating from pricier parts of California who finally see a path to ownership, and investors eyeing the rental market since the homeownership rate is only 46.9%. More than half the town rents. That's opportunity if you're buying to hold. Median household income is $56K, so buyers aren't rolling in cash, but they're making it work with smart loan products. A lot of people are bringing family help or using every assistance program they can find. This isn't Palo Alto. You don't need a tech salary to buy here.

Your Loan Fit

FHA is the workhorse loan at this price point. 3.5% down gets you in the game, and most people can actually save that amount. But don't sleep on conventional if you can scrape together 5% or more. You'll dodge mortgage insurance faster and save long-term. VA buyers have a massive advantage if they qualify. USDA might even be on the table depending on exactly where the property sits, since Gridley has that small-town rural character. Your loan strategy breaks down like this:
  • FHA with 3.5% down if you're stretching to buy and need the lowest barrier to entry
  • Conventional at 5% down if you've got a bit more saved and want better long-term costs
  • VA with zero down if you're eligible, no contest, use it
  • USDA for certain properties if you meet income limits and the location qualifies
The math changes based on what you bring to the table. Run the numbers on PMI costs versus interest rates before you commit.

Down Payment & Refinance in Gridley

Refinancing here is all about timing and what you need the loan to do. If you bought when rates were higher, a rate-term refi could drop your payment significantly. PMI removal is huge once you hit 20% equity, especially if you went FHA originally and are stuck with that mortgage insurance for life unless you refi out. Cash-out refis make sense if you need to renovate or consolidate debt, but don't pull equity just because you can. Investors should look at DSCR loans if they're holding rentals and want to streamline or pull cash for the next property. The stable pricing actually helps here since you're not chasing a moving target on appraisals.

Get Started

Let's talk real numbers on down payment. FHA at 3.5% is about $14,800 on a median-priced home. That's achievable if you're disciplined about saving. Conventional at 5% is around $21,150. Most buyers I see are cobbling it together from a few sources: some savings, a gift from parents or family, maybe selling a car or cashing out investments. If you've got equity from another property, even better. And look, if saving even that feels impossible, we have our no-money-down program that covers your minimum 3-3.5% down payment requirement. It's not a magic trick, but it removes the biggest barrier for people who can afford the monthly payment but can't park $15K in escrow. Down payment assistance programs exist in Butte County too. Use them.

Local Gridley Expertise

Start with preapproval so you know exactly what you can afford and which loan products make sense for your situation. Don't guess. Don't browse Zillow for six months without talking to a lender. The Gridley market moves differently than Sacramento or the Bay, and you need financing lined up before you find the right place. Schedule a free call with our team and we'll map out your best path. We know the Butte County market, we know which programs work here, and we'll shoot straight about what's realistic for your budget. California homeownership isn't out of reach. You just need the right strategy.

Popular Gridley Neighborhoods

Downtown Gridley

Zip Codes We Serve

95948

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

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

Gridley Loan Program Guide Purchase, Refinance & Investment Programs

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

Quick Compare: Gridley 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 Gridley

FHA Loans

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

Calhfa Programs

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

VA Loans

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

Usda Loans

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

Conforming Loans

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

Local Dpa Programs

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

Bridge Loans

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

LLC Funding Programs

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

Best Refinance Options in Gridley

FHA Loans Refinance

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

VA Loans Refinance

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

Usda Loans Refinance

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

Conforming Refinance

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

Cash Out Refinance

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

Home Equity Refinance

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

Best Investment & Commercial Loans in Gridley

DSCR Loans

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

Fix And Flip Loans

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

Commercial Hard Money Loans

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

Multifamily Loans

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

Best Down Payment Assistance Programs for Gridley

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 Gridley buyers with qualifying income.

CalHFA Down Payment Assistance

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

Local Down Payment Programs

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

Elite Grant Program

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

USDA Zero Down Loans

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

Gift of Equity

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

Non-Occupant Co-Borrower

Gridley 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 Gridley is a Great Place to Buy a Home

Gridley sits in California's North State farm country, about 70 miles north of Sacramento in Butte County. Population is 7,444, median household income $56,428. The homeownership rate here is 46.9%, which is low for a rural area and tells you something important: this is a community where renting is still common, partly because agricultural workers move seasonally. At $423K median home price, you're looking at numbers that have climbed significantly in recent years as Bay Area buyers search farther out for affordability.

Schools & Family Appeal

If you're buying with kids in mind, Gridley High serves the community along with Sycamore Middle, Wilson Elementary, and McKinley Elementary. The schools aren't going to win state awards, but they're stable and the district is one of the area's largest employers, which means job security for public sector workers. For families buying here, the real calculation is whether you can handle a smaller school system in exchange for lower property taxes and more space. That 46.9% ownership rate means more than half your neighbors are renting, which can affect neighborhood stability when you're thinking about long-term property values and resale potential down the road.

  • Gridley High School
  • Sycamore Middle School
  • Wilson Elementary School
  • McKinley Elementary School

The Neighborhood Feel

Here's the thing about Gridley: it's small enough that neighborhoods blend together more than they divide. Downtown Gridley runs around $423K and centers on the historic core near Hazel Street, where you'll find older homes with character, some dating back a century. These properties work well with conventional loans if you've got decent credit and 10-20% down, though some of the older homes might need renovation financing like FHA 203k if they need work. The town doesn't have the distinct subdivisions you'd see in suburban areas. You're buying into a rural agricultural community where lot sizes vary and many properties have room for gardens or small-scale farming. USDA loans can work here for qualifying buyers since Gridley sits in a rural zone, offering zero down payment options if your income fits the limits.

  • Downtown Gridley

Getting Around

The commute situation is rough if you work in a major metro. San Francisco is 145 minutes on a good day, Sacramento about 70 minutes, and LA is completely off the table at nearly 7 hours. There's no freeway running through town, which is part of why Gridley stays affordable compared to Interstate 5 corridor towns. Local transit exists but it's minimal. Real talk: most buyers here either work locally in agriculture, schools, or county services, or they've gone fully remote. If you're commuting to Sacramento or Chico regularly, you're trading serious windshield time for a mortgage payment that won't crush your budget. That tradeoff works for some buyers, especially if gas prices cooperate and your employer offers flexible schedules.

Jobs & Economy

Gridley Unified School District is the anchor employer, which gives the town some economic stability even when agriculture has tough years. The surrounding area runs on rice farming and orchards, meaning seasonal work dominates the private sector employment picture. Butte County government services provide additional public sector jobs, and local retail keeps Main Street alive. The job mix explains that lower homeownership rate: if you're working harvest seasons or contract agricultural work, qualifying for a mortgage gets harder even if you're making decent money. For buyers with steady W-2 income from the school district or county, lenders will work with you on conventional or FHA loans. Self-employed agricultural workers often need two years of tax returns and a larger down payment to overcome income documentation challenges.

  • Gridley Unified School District
  • Agricultural operations (rice farming, orchards)
  • Butte County government services
  • Local retail and services

Gridley Mortgage FAQs
Common questions answered

Common questions from Gridley 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 Gridley?

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 Gridley?

Typical Gridley 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 Gridley?

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

What down payment assistance programs are available in Gridley?

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

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

What are the loan limits in Gridley?

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

Should I get an FHA or conventional loan in Gridley?

For Gridley'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 Gridley. 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 Gridley?

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 Gridley?

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

What if my credit score is below 620?

You still have options in Gridley. 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 Butte 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 Gridley?

Closing costs in Gridley 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 Gridley?

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 Gridley?

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

Closing costs in Gridley 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 Gridley?

Typical Gridley 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 Gridley?

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 Gridley?

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

What down payment assistance programs are available in Gridley?

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

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

Do you work with first-time homebuyers in Gridley?

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

What if my credit score is below 620?

You still have options in Gridley. 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 Gridley?

For Gridley'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 Gridley?

The FHA loan limit in Gridley is $541,000 for 2025. This covers most homes in the area since the median price is around $423,000, making FHA loans an excellent option for first. time buyers with as little as 3.5% down.

Do I need a jumbo loan in Gridley?

You won't need a jumbo loan in Gridley for most purchases. With conforming and VA loan limits at $833,000 and FHA at $541,000, nearly all homes in the $300K. $450K range qualify for conventional financing with better rates than jumbo products.

What are the 2026 loan limits for Butte County?

For 2026, Butte County loan limits are $833,000 for conforming and VA loans, and $541,000 for FHA loans. These limits are more than sufficient for Gridley's market where most homes sell between $300,000 and $450,000.

Can I get a VA loan in Gridley?

Yes, VA loans are available in Gridley with a loan limit of $833,000 and no down payment required for eligible veterans. VA loans are particularly attractive here since they don't require mortgage insurance and cover all price points in the local market.

What down payment assistance programs are available in Gridley?

Our No Money Down program offers $0 down payment for qualified buyers in Gridley. CalHFA programs provide down payment and closing cost assistance for first. time buyers, and some areas of Gridley may qualify for USDA loans with zero down. Butte County also offers local DPA programs that can cover 3. 5% of your purchase price.

What down payment do I need for a Gridley home?

You can buy a Gridley home with as little as 3.5% down using an FHA loan, which means about $14,800 on a $423,000 home. VA and USDA loans offer $0 down in eligible areas, and conventional loans require 3. 5% down for qualified first. time buyers.

What credit score do I need to buy in Gridley?

You can qualify for an FHA loan in Gridley 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, while VA loans are more flexible and often approve scores in the 580. 620 range.

How do I choose the right mortgage lender?

Choose a lender experienced with Gridley's entry. level market who understands FHA loans and down payment assistance programs that are crucial here. Look for someone who can explain CalHFA, local DPA options, and USDA eligibility, since these programs can make homeownership possible with limited savings in Butte County.

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