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

Downtown Hollister, California

Mortgage broker serving Hollister, 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 Hollister Homebuyers Choose Us

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

In Hollister's market, the right loan program can save thousands over the life of your mortgage.

  • Downtown Hollister homes at $720K fit comfortably under the $1.25M conforming limit, allowing conventional loans with just 3-5% down instead of jumbo requirements.
  • Government and education workers with steady W-2 income qualify easily, though teachers need salary annualization to account for 9-month payment schedules.
  • Self-employed buyers with tax write-offs should explore bank statement loans that qualify on deposits rather than reduced taxable income.

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

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

SCHEDULE FREE CONSULTATION

What Our Clients Say Real stories from real borrowers

How the Mortgage Process Works in Hollister

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

1-2 Days
Market Insights

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

California housing market value rising with upward trend

Prices & Trends

Hollister sits in that sweet spot where you can actually afford a real house without selling your soul to Bay Area rent forever. The median home price is $720K. Prices haven't moved much this year, which honestly means the panic buying is over and you can breathe again. The conforming loan limit here is $1.25M, so you've got the full menu of loan options at your disposal. No jumbo weirdness, no restricted programs. You're in the conventional sweet spot where lenders compete hard for your business. And compared to what people pay an hour north, this feels like a bargain even if the price tag still makes you swallow hard.

Who's Buying in Hollister

First-time buyers dominate here, especially people fleeing the insane costs in San Jose or the Peninsula. You're seeing young families who did the math and realized they could own a 3-bedroom house in Hollister or rent a 1-bedroom apartment in Mountain View. Median household income is around $95K, so dual-income households make this work without stretching into dangerous territory. Some investors are active here too, buying properties to rent back to people who aren't ready to buy yet. And veterans absolutely crush it in this market because their VA benefits go so much further than in coastal cities. The homeownership rate is 62.5%, so this isn't some transient rental town. People put down roots.

Your Loan Fit

Conventional and FHA both work at this price point, but your down payment changes the math fast. FHA gets you in the door at 3.5% down, but you're stuck with mortgage insurance that never drops off. Conventional at 5% down costs a bit more upfront but you can ditch PMI once you hit 20% equity. Here's what actually pencils out:
  • FHA at 3.5% down if you've got limited cash and plan to refi later
  • Conventional at 5% down if you can swing it - better rates, cleaner exit from PMI
  • VA loans if you're eligible - zero down, no PMI, best rates available
  • USDA loans work in some parts of San Benito County if you're buying outside city limits
Don't overthink this. Run the numbers on FHA versus conventional with your actual credit score and down payment, then pick the one with the lower monthly payment.

Down Payment & Refinance in Hollister

Already own here? Refinancing makes sense if you bought when rates were higher or you've built up decent equity. Cash-out refis are big right now because people want to renovate instead of move. You can pull equity to redo a kitchen or add square footage without dealing with this market as a buyer again. If you put down less than 20% originally and you've gained equity, a rate-term refi to drop PMI saves you real money every month. And if you're an investor with a rental property, DSCR loans let you refi based on the rent coming in, not your W-2 income. Rates have stabilized enough that you can actually plan instead of just hoping they'll drop next quarter.

Get Started

Down payment reality: you're looking at $25K to $50K for most conventional loans, or around $25K if you go FHA. That's not pocket change. Most first-timers piece it together from a few years of savings plus a gift from family. If you sold a condo or starter home in a pricier market, you've probably got enough equity to cover it easily. But if you're coming from renting and don't have family money, that's a steep climb. This is exactly why we created our no-money-down program that covers your minimum 3-3.5% down payment requirement. You still need closing costs covered, but it opens the door if the down payment is the only thing holding you back. Real talk: most people wait too long thinking they need 20% down. You don't. Get in at 3.5-5% if the monthly payment works, then build equity as you go.

Local Hollister Expertise

Start with preapproval so you know exactly what you can afford before you fall in love with a house that's out of reach. We'll run your numbers, show you what FHA versus conventional actually costs per month, and tell you if programs like VA or USDA give you an edge. Schedule a free call and we'll map out your best move. Our team knows San Benito County and we're not going to waste your time with loan products that don't fit. Get your preapproval locked, then go shopping with confidence.

Popular Hollister Neighborhoods

Downtown Hollister

Zip Codes We Serve

95023, 95024

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

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

Hollister Loan Program Guide Purchase, Refinance & Investment Programs

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

Quick Compare: Hollister 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 Hollister

Conforming Loans

Standard option for Hollister buyers. Most homes under $1.25M with competitive rates.

FHA Loans

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

VA Loans

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

Bank Statement Loans

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

Calhfa Programs

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

Jumbo Loans

Premium Hollister homes over $1.25M require jumbo loans. Less common but available for luxury properties.

Bridge Loans

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

LLC Funding Programs

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

Best Refinance Options in Hollister

Conforming Refinance

Conforming refinance for Hollister homeowners. Best rates for loans under $1.25M.

FHA Loans Refinance

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

VA Loans Refinance

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

Cash Out Refinance

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

HELOC Refinance

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

Home Equity Refinance

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

Best Investment & Commercial Loans in Hollister

DSCR Loans

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

Fix And Flip Loans

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

Multifamily Loans

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

Commercial Hard Money Loans

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

Best Down Payment Assistance Programs for Hollister

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 Hollister buyers with qualifying income.

CalHFA Down Payment Assistance

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

Local Down Payment Programs

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

Elite Grant Program

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

Gift of Equity

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

Non-Occupant Co-Borrower

Add a co-borrower for Hollister 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 Hollister is a Great Place to Buy a Home

Hollister sits in San Benito County about 45 miles south of [San Jose](/mortgage-loans-and-refinance-in-san-jose-ca), right where the Central Coast meets the Bay Area sprawl. Population is 42,093, median household income $95,764. The homeownership rate here is 62.5%, which tells you something important: at $720K median home price, this is where Bay Area workers come when they're ready to actually own instead of rent forever. You're paying a premium compared to the Central Valley, but you're saving $500K compared to Santa Clara County next door.

Schools & Family Appeal

If you've got kids, the school quality matters for both your family's future and your resale value when you eventually move. San Benito High School serves the whole district and pulls decent marks. Hollister Dual Language Academy offers bilingual education that attracts families willing to pay a bit more for that option. Rancho San Justo Middle and Calaveras Elementary round out the district. The schools aren't Palo Alto level, but they're stable and improving, which is what you want when you're stretching your budget to get into a $720K house. That household income of $95K means most families here are dual-income earners who prioritized homeownership over staying in pricier Bay Area rentals.

  • San Benito High School
  • Rancho San Justo Middle School
  • Hollister Dual Language Academy
  • Calaveras Elementary School

The Neighborhood Feel

Here's the thing about Hollister: it's not a huge place, so you don't have the massive neighborhood price swings you'd see in San Jose or Gilroy. Downtown Hollister centers around San Benito Street with historic buildings and the county courthouse, and homes near downtown run right around that $720K median. You're looking at older housing stock, mostly single-family homes built in the 70s through 90s, with some newer developments on the edges of town. Most buyers here use conventional loans with 10-20% down, though you'll see some FHA action on the lower end of the market. The uniformity actually helps: you're not going to overpay by picking the wrong neighborhood, and appraisals come in clean because there's plenty of comparable sales data.

  • Downtown Hollister

Getting Around

The commute to [San Francisco](/mortgage-loans-and-refinance-in-san-francisco-ca) runs about 98 minutes on a good day, which is brutal but doable if you're hybrid or going in three days a week. San Jose is closer at around 45-50 minutes depending on traffic through Gilroy. That commute is exactly why Hollister stays at $720K while similar-sized homes in Morgan Hill or Los Gatos run $1.5M or more. If you work in tech and your company went permanent remote or mostly remote, you're getting California coastal weather and Bay Area adjacency without the Bay Area mortgage payment. But if you're commuting daily, do the math on gas and car maintenance before you commit. That two-hour round trip adds up, and it affects how much house you can really afford when you factor in the true cost.

Jobs & Economy

San Benito County Government and the two school districts are the biggest employers, which gives the area that public sector stability lenders like to see on your application. Hazel Hawkins Memorial Hospital adds healthcare jobs that tend to be recession-resistant. The truth is, most people buying in Hollister at $720K don't work locally. They're commuting to San Jose, Salinas, or working remotely for Bay Area companies. That $95K median income is high for a town this size, and it reflects the fact that Hollister has become a bedroom community for higher earners who got priced out of Santa Clara County. If you lose your Bay Area job, finding equivalent pay locally is tough, which is something to consider when you're deciding how much house to buy.

  • San Benito County Government
  • San Benito High School District
  • Hazel Hawkins Memorial Hospital
  • Hollister School District

Hollister Mortgage FAQs
Common questions answered

Common questions from Hollister 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 Hollister?

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 Hollister?

Typical Hollister 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 Hollister?

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

What down payment assistance programs are available in Hollister?

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

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

What are the loan limits in Hollister?

2026 San Benito County limits: FHA $1,249,125, Conventional $1,249,125. Any loan above $1,249,125 is a jumbo loan. Most Hollister properties fall within conforming limits, maximizing your financing options.

Should I get an FHA or conventional loan in Hollister?

For Hollister'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 Hollister. 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 Hollister?

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 Hollister?

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

What if my credit score is below 620?

You still have options in Hollister. 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 Benito 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 Hollister?

Closing costs in Hollister 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 Hollister?

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 Hollister?

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

Closing costs in Hollister 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 Hollister?

Typical Hollister 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 Hollister?

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 Hollister?

2026 San Benito County limits: FHA $1,249,125, Conventional $1,249,125. Any loan above $1,249,125 is a jumbo loan. Most Hollister properties fall within conforming limits, maximizing your financing options.

What down payment assistance programs are available in Hollister?

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

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

Do you work with first-time homebuyers in Hollister?

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

What if my credit score is below 620?

You still have options in Hollister. 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 Hollister?

For Hollister'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 Hollister?

The FHA loan limit in Hollister is $1,250,000 for 2026. This higher limit covers most homes in San Benito County's market, where the median home price is around $720,000. You'll be able to purchase well above the median price with just 3.5% down using an FHA loan.

Do I need a jumbo loan in Hollister?

Most buyers in Hollister don't need a jumbo loan since the conforming loan limit is $1,250,000. With typical home prices ranging from $600K to $900K, you'll likely qualify for conventional financing with better rates and terms. Only homes priced above $1.25 million would require a jumbo loan.

What are the 2026 loan limits for San Benito County?

San Benito County's 2026 loan limits are $1,250,000 for conforming, FHA, and VA loans. These limits apply to single. family homes in Hollister and throughout the county. The higher limits make it easier to finance homes in Hollister's $600K. $900K price range without going jumbo.

Can I get a VA loan in Hollister?

Yes, VA loans are very competitive in Hollister with a loan limit of $1,250,000 and no down payment required for eligible veterans. With the median home price at $720,000, most properties are well within VA loan limits. VA loans offer excellent terms with no PMI and competitive interest rates for service members and veterans.

What down payment assistance programs are available in Hollister?

Our No Money Down program offers $0 down payment for qualified buyers in Hollister. CalHFA programs provide down payment and closing cost assistance with options like the MyHome Assistance Program offering up to 3.5% in grants. San Benito County may also offer local programs for first. time buyers and moderate. income households.

What down payment do I need for a Hollister home?

Down payments in Hollister typically range from 0% to 20% depending on your loan type. FHA loans require just 3.5% down (about $25,000 on a $720,000 home), while conventional loans can start at 3% for first. time buyers. VA loans and USDA loans offer $0 down options for qualified buyers.

What credit score do I need to buy in Hollister?

Most lenders in Hollister require a minimum credit score of 620 for conventional loans and 580 for FHA loans. With the median home price at $720,000, you'll get the best rates with a score of 700 or higher. If your score is below 620, consider working with a credit counselor to improve it before applying.

How do I choose the right mortgage lender?

Look for a lender experienced with Hollister's balanced market and the mix of conforming, FHA, and VA loans common in San Benito County. Compare rates, fees, and closing timelines from multiple lenders, and ask about their experience with homes in the $600K. $900K range. A local lender who understands the area can help you navigate down payment assistance programs and close on time.

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