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

Indio Middle School, in Indio, California

Mortgage broker serving Indio, 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 Indio Homebuyers Choose Us

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

Indio buyers benefit from comparing multiple loan options to find the best fit.

  • Old Town Indio, Shadow Hills, and Indian Palms all sit at $530K median, fitting comfortably within conforming loan limits for conventional or FHA financing.
  • Hospitality and casino workers need lenders who average tip income over 12-24 months and verify adequate reserves for seasonal fluctuations.
  • Desert climate brings wildfire zone risks requiring specialized insurance; FAIR Plan coverage adds significant costs when standard carriers decline.

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

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

SCHEDULE FREE CONSULTATION

What Our Clients Say Real stories from real borrowers

How the Mortgage Process Works in Indio

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

1-2 Days
Market Insights

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

California housing market value rising with upward trend

Prices & Trends

Indio's sitting at a $530K median, and it's been flat for the past year. No wild appreciation, no scary drops. Just steady. You're comfortably under the $833K conforming limit, so you won't get pushed into jumbo territory unless you're buying something significantly above median. The FHA limit here is $690K, giving you serious room to work with if you're going that route. Honestly, this is one of the more approachable markets in Southern California right now. Prices haven't run away from incomes the way they have in Orange County or San Diego. You can still make California homeownership work here without needing a trust fund.

Who's Buying in Indio

First-time buyers are all over this market. So are families relocating from pricier parts of SoCal who are tired of getting crushed by rent or priced out entirely. Median household income is $68K, and people are making it work with dual incomes, down payment help from family, or VA benefits if they've served. The homeownership rate is 69.3%, so this isn't some transient rental town. People actually buy and stay. Retirees are here too, cashing out equity from LA or the Inland Empire and living more comfortably. And investors like the rental demand because there's a solid tenant base. Real talk, if you've got stable income and can scrape together a down payment, you're competitive here.

Your Loan Fit

FHA is huge in Indio because it only requires 3.5% down and your credit doesn't need to be perfect. Conventional works great if you've got 5% or more and decent credit, especially since you avoid the upfront mortgage insurance premium that FHA hits you with. VA loans are a massive advantage if you're military or a veteran. Zero down, no PMI, better rates. Riverside County has a strong military presence, so VA gets used here constantly. Some outer areas might even qualify for USDA loans if they're designated rural, and that's another zero-down option worth checking. Your loan choice matters more than people think:
  • FHA if you're at 3.5% down and credit is in the 600s
  • Conventional if you've got 5-10% and can avoid PMI faster
  • VA if you're eligible, period. Don't leave that benefit on the table
  • USDA for certain zip codes on the edges of town
Don't just default to what your neighbor did. Run the numbers based on your actual situation.

Down Payment & Refinance in Indio

Already own here? Refinancing makes sense if rates dropped since you bought or if you've built enough equity to ditch PMI. A lot of people bought with FHA a few years back and are still paying mortgage insurance they don't need anymore. If your home's worth more now and you're at 20% equity, refinance into conventional and kill that monthly PMI hit. Cash-out refinances are popular for renovations or consolidating higher-interest debt. And if you're an investor with rental properties, DSCR loans let you refinance based on the property's income, not your personal tax returns. Don't just sit on your current loan if the math says you can do better.

Get Started

Let's talk actual dollars. FHA at 3.5% down on a $530K home is about $18,550. Conventional at 5% is $26,500. That's not pocket change, but it's achievable if you've been saving or if family can gift you funds. A lot of buyers here are using gift money from parents or relatives who sold in expensive markets and want to help. If you're coming from another property, your equity can cover it entirely. And look, if saving that much feels impossible, our no-money-down program that covers your minimum 3-3.5% down payment requirement is an option. You still need to cover closing costs and have reserves, but it removes the biggest barrier. Down payment assistance programs exist too, especially for first-timers. The money doesn't have to come from one place.

Local Indio Expertise

Start with preapproval so you know exactly what you can afford and what loan type makes sense for your situation. Don't guess. Don't assume FHA is your only shot or that you need 20% down to buy a house. We'll run your numbers, show you the real monthly payments across different loan types, and figure out what actually works. Schedule a free call with our team and we'll map it out. Indio is one of those markets where homeownership is still within reach if you know how to structure the deal right.

Popular Indio Neighborhoods

Old Town Indio • Shadow Hills • Indian Palms

Zip Codes We Serve

92201, 92202, 92203

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

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

Indio Loan Program Guide Purchase, Refinance & Investment Programs

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

Quick Compare: Indio 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 Indio

FHA Loans

FHA is the go-to for Indio buyers with limited savings. 3.5% down, flexible credit.

VA Loans

Military families get zero down in Indio. VA loans are the best deal for eligible veterans.

Conforming Loans

Nearly all Indio homes qualify for conforming loans. Best rates available for qualified buyers.

Calhfa Programs

Indio buyers should check CalHFA. Zero-interest second loans cover down payment.

Bank Statement Loans

Self-employed Indio buyers can use bank statements. Deposits count when tax returns don't show full income.

Usda Loans

USDA zero-down loans available for eligible Indio areas. Check rural designation by address.

Bridge Loans

Bridge loans available for Indio transitions. Finance new purchase before selling.

LLC Funding Programs

Entity purchase programs for Indio. LLC financing for investment properties.

Best Refinance Options in Indio

FHA Loans Refinance

Indio FHA homeowners use streamline refi. Fastest path to lower monthly payments.

Conforming Refinance

Nearly all Indio refinances qualify as conforming. Competitive rates with quick approval.

VA Loans Refinance

Indio veteran homeowners use IRRRL. Easiest refinance option with no appraisal.

Cash Out Refinance

Cash-out refinance for Indio homeowners with equity. Access funds for any purpose.

HELOC Refinance

Indio owners can add HELOC for equity access. Credit line for improvements or reserves.

Home Equity Refinance

Home equity loans for Indio homeowners. Lump sum with fixed monthly payments.

Best Investment & Commercial Loans in Indio

DSCR Loans

Indio rental properties qualify with DSCR. No personal income verification needed.

Fix And Flip Loans

Indio renovation deals use fix-and-flip loans. Quick funding for rehab opportunities.

Commercial Hard Money Loans

Hard money options for Indio commercial. Fast financing for competitive markets.

Multifamily Loans

Apartment financing in Indio. Multifamily loans for 5+ unit investment properties.

Best Down Payment Assistance Programs for Indio

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 Indio buyers with qualifying income.

CalHFA Down Payment Assistance

Indio buyers should check CalHFA. Zero-interest second loans cover down payment.

Local Down Payment Programs

Local DPA strong in Indio. City programs plus CalHFA can cover most down payment.

Elite Grant Program

Grant programs for Indio first-time buyers. Elite grants don't require repayment.

USDA Zero Down Loans

USDA zero-down loans available for eligible Indio areas. Check rural designation by address.

Gift of Equity

Gift of equity for Indio family transactions. Reduced price creates instant equity.

Non-Occupant Co-Borrower

Non-occupant co-borrower helps Indio buyers qualify. Add parent income to yours.

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 Indio is a Great Place to Buy a Home

Indio sits at the eastern end of the Coachella Valley, about 125 miles east of LA and 23 miles southeast of Palm Springs. Population is 89,616, median household income $68,436. The homeownership rate here is 69.3%, which tells you people are buying and staying. At $530K median home price, you're paying a premium for the desert lifestyle and festival economy, but it's still more accessible than coastal markets. A household pulling in $70K can qualify here with the right loan structure, especially if you're looking at FHA with 3.5% down or exploring down payment assistance programs.

Schools & Family Appeal

The school district matters when you're thinking about resale value and how long you'll stay in the property. Desert Sands Unified runs the show here, with Indio High and Shadow Hills High serving most families. John Glenn Middle School feeds into the high schools and sits central to many neighborhoods. Coachella Valley High pulls students from the eastern edges. The schools aren't pulling top state rankings, but they're stable and serve a growing community. When you're getting pre-approved, lenders look at how long you plan to stay, and families with school-age kids tend to hold properties longer, which can work in your favor for loan terms.

  • Indio High School
  • Shadow Hills High School
  • Coachella Valley High School
  • John Glenn Middle School

The Neighborhood Feel

Where you buy in Indio affects your property type and loan options more than price, since everything hovers around that $530K median. Old Town Indio centers on Miles Avenue with the historic downtown vibe, older homes with character that sometimes need renovation loans like FHA 203k or conventional HomeStyle if you're buying a fixer. Shadow Hills up north has newer construction from the 2000s and 2010s, mostly tract homes that appraise clean and work well with conventional financing if you've got the 5-10% down. Indian Palms brings country club living with HOA fees you'll need to factor into your debt-to-income ratio, usually $200-400 monthly, which can affect how much house you qualify for. The neighborhoods don't vary wildly in price, so your choice comes down to lifestyle and what kind of property condition you're comfortable with.

  • Old Town Indio
  • Shadow Hills
  • Indian Palms

Getting Around

The commute to LA runs about 124 minutes each way, which is brutal for daily driving but explains why Indio hasn't hit Palm Desert price levels yet. Most people who buy here either work locally or have flexible schedules that don't require daily commutes to the basin. Local transit exists but you'll realistically need a car for everything. The truth is, if you're commuting west regularly, you're going to burn out fast. But if you work in the valley or remotely, you get desert living without paying Rancho Mirage money. That commute factor keeps prices from running away completely, which is the only reason a $68K household income can still work at a $530K price point with careful loan structuring.

Jobs & Economy

Desert Sands Unified School District is the biggest employer, which gives the area that public sector job stability lenders like to see on applications. Fantasy Springs Resort Casino brings hospitality and gaming jobs with year-round employment, not just seasonal festival work. John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital adds healthcare positions that tend to pay decently and show job stability. The City of Indio and Riverside County regional offices provide more government jobs. Here's the thing: the festival economy from Coachella and Stagecoach at Empire Polo Club drives serious seasonal business, but it's not steady W-2 income most buyers can use for mortgage qualifying. If you work in hospitality or events, you'll need two years of tax returns showing consistent income, and self-employed festival workers often struggle with conventional loans without a solid CPA and documentation.

  • Desert Sands Unified School District
  • Fantasy Springs Resort Casino
  • John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital
  • City of Indio
  • Riverside County

Indio Mortgage FAQs
Common questions answered

Common questions from Indio 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 Indio?

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 Indio?

Typical Indio 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 Indio?

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

What down payment assistance programs are available in Indio?

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

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

What are the loan limits in Indio?

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

Should I get an FHA or conventional loan in Indio?

For Indio'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 Indio. 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 Indio?

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 Indio?

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

What if my credit score is below 620?

You still have options in Indio. 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 Riverside 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 Indio?

Closing costs in Indio 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 Indio?

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 Indio?

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

Closing costs in Indio 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 Indio?

Typical Indio 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 Indio?

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 Indio?

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

What down payment assistance programs are available in Indio?

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

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

Do you work with first-time homebuyers in Indio?

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

What if my credit score is below 620?

You still have options in Indio. 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 Indio?

For Indio'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 Indio?

The FHA loan limit in Indio is $690,000 for 2026, which covers nearly all homes in the area since most properties are priced between $450K and $600K. This makes FHA loans an excellent option for first. time buyers and those with smaller down payments in Indio's affordable market.

Do I need a jumbo loan in Indio?

You won't need a jumbo loan for most homes in Indio since the median price is around $530K and the conforming loan limit is $833,000. The vast majority of properties fall well below this threshold, so you'll qualify for conventional, FHA, or VA financing with better rates and terms than jumbo loans offer.

What are the 2026 loan limits for Riverside County?

For 2026, Riverside County loan limits are $690,000 for FHA loans and $833,000 for both conventional conforming and VA loans. These limits give Indio buyers plenty of purchasing power since most homes are priced well below these thresholds.

Can I get a VA loan in Indio?

Yes, VA loans work exceptionally well in Indio with a loan limit of $833,000 and no down payment required for eligible veterans and service members. With median home prices around $530K, you can purchase most homes in the area with $0 down and no monthly mortgage insurance.

What down payment assistance programs are available in Indio?

Our No Money Down program offers $0 down payment for qualified buyers, making homeownership immediately accessible in Indio's affordable market. You can also explore CalHFA programs and Riverside County assistance options, and many buyers can stack multiple programs to cover down payment and closing costs entirely.

What down payment do I need for a Indio home?

You can buy a home in Indio with as little as 3% down on a conventional loan (about $15,900 on a $530K home) or 3.5% with FHA financing (around $18,550). VA loans and our No Money Down program require $0 down for qualified buyers, making homeownership very accessible in this affordable market.

What credit score do I need to buy in Indio?

You can qualify for an FHA loan in Indio with a credit score as low as 580, which is perfect for first. time buyers and credit rebuilders common in this market. Conventional loans typically require a 620 minimum, while VA loans are often available with scores around 580. 600, giving you multiple pathways to homeownership.

How do I choose the right mortgage lender?

Choose a lender experienced with Indio's affordable market who understands FHA, VA, and down payment assistance programs that work best for first. time buyers. Look for someone who can help you stack DPA programs and navigate credit challenges, since many Indio buyers benefit from creative financing solutions to maximize affordability.

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