Mortgage Loans in
La Puente, California
La Puente Home Loans & Refinancing Experts

The Donut Hole, La Puente, California LCCN2017709502.tif

Mortgage broker serving La Puente, 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 La Puente Homebuyers Choose Us

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

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

  • Central and North La Puente homes at $762K fit comfortably within the $1.25M conforming limit, allowing conventional financing with just 3-5% down.
  • Public sector workers and educators need lenders who can annualize 9-month teaching contracts and count CalPERS pension income for qualification.
  • Move-up buyers in this 60% homeownership market need bridge loans or HELOCs to purchase before selling their current property.

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

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

SCHEDULE FREE CONSULTATION

What Our Clients Say Real stories from real borrowers

How the Mortgage Process Works in La Puente

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

1-2 Days
Market Insights

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

California housing market value rising with upward trend

Prices & Trends

La Puente sits in that interesting zone where you're paying real money but not insane money. The median home price is $762K, and it's held flat over the past year. No wild swings. The conforming loan limit here is $1.25M, so you've got plenty of breathing room before you hit jumbo territory. That matters because conventional loans under the conforming limit get the best rates and terms. You're not scraping by in a $400K market, but you're also not bleeding cash in a $1.2M neighborhood. It's a solid middle ground for buyers who want space without the coastal premium.

Who's Buying in La Puente

Two types of buyers dominate here. First-timers with strong dual incomes who've been saving and are ready to jump. And move-up buyers selling a starter home in a nearby area, bringing $100K-$200K in equity to roll forward. The median household income is $77K, but honestly, most successful buyers here are above that. You need closer to $100K+ combined to make a $762K purchase work comfortably. Families looking for more square footage than they can get closer to LA proper. Young professionals who work remotely or don't mind the commute. The homeownership rate is 60.2%, so people are buying and staying, not just renting short-term.

Your Loan Fit

Conventional loans are your best play here. You're well under that $1.25M conforming limit, so you get the tightest pricing and the most flexibility. FHA works if you're putting down less than 10%, but the mortgage insurance sticks around longer and costs more. Veterans should absolutely use VA loans if eligible. Zero down, no PMI, and competitive rates. Here's what actually makes sense:
  • Conventional with 10-15% down gets you solid rates without bleeding cash reserves
  • FHA with 3.5% down if you're income-strong but cash-light, just know the MI cost
  • VA is unbeatable if you qualify. Use it.
  • Jumbo loans aren't even in play here unless you're buying way above median
Don't overthink it. Most buyers here land on conventional with 10-20% down and call it a day.

Down Payment & Refinance in La Puente

Refinancing in La Puente depends on when you bought. If you locked in a rate above 6% in the last couple years, a rate-term refi could save you real money once rates dip. Cash-out refis make sense if you bought before the recent plateau and have equity to tap. Home values haven't moved much lately, but if you bought three or four years ago, you've got options. PMI removal is huge once you hit 20% equity. If you put down 10% two years ago and values stayed flat, you're probably close. Run the numbers. Dropping $200-$300/month in PMI is worth the refi cost.

Get Started

Down payment reality is $38K to $150K depending on your loan type and how aggressive you want to be. First-timers with FHA are looking at around $27K minimum (3.5%). Conventional buyers typically bring $76K (10%) or $114K (15%). Move-up buyers selling a starter home in the area often roll in $100K-$150K from their sale. Gift funds from family are super common here, especially for first-timers stretching to get in. If you're cash-strapped but income-strong, look at our no-money-down program that covers your minimum 3-3.5% down payment requirement. It's not magic, but it gets you in the door faster. Real talk: most buyers here aren't dropping 20% unless they're bringing equity from another property. The sweet spot is 10-15% down with reserves left over.

Local La Puente Expertise

Start with preapproval so you know exactly what you can afford and which loan type fits best. Don't guess. The difference between FHA and conventional at this price point is thousands per year in costs. We'll run the numbers on every scenario and show you what actually saves money. Schedule a free call and we'll map out your best path forward. Our team knows La Puente and the surrounding market cold. We close loans here regularly and know what underwriters are looking for. Get your financing locked down first, then go hunt for the right house.

Popular La Puente Neighborhoods

Central La Puente • North La Puente

Zip Codes We Serve

91744, 91746, 91747, 91749

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

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

La Puente Loan Program Guide Purchase, Refinance & Investment Programs

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

Quick Compare: La Puente Mortgage Options

Loan Type Down Payment Credit Score Best For
Conventional 3-20% 620+ Good credit, stable income. Max: $1,249,125
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 $1,249,125
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 La Puente

Conforming Loans

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

FHA Loans

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

VA Loans

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

Bank Statement Loans

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

Calhfa Programs

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

Jumbo Loans

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

Bridge Loans

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

LLC Funding Programs

LLC financing options for La Puente investors. Buy rentals in entity names.

Best Refinance Options in La Puente

Conforming Refinance

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

FHA Loans Refinance

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

VA Loans Refinance

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

Cash Out Refinance

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

HELOC Refinance

HELOC available for La Puente homeowners. Access equity without replacing first mortgage.

Home Equity Refinance

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

Best Investment & Commercial Loans in La Puente

DSCR Loans

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

Fix And Flip Loans

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

Multifamily Loans

Multifamily options for La Puente investors. Finance apartment buildings with commercial loans.

Commercial Hard Money Loans

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

Best Down Payment Assistance Programs for La Puente

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 La Puente buyers with qualifying income.

CalHFA Down Payment Assistance

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

Local Down Payment Programs

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

Elite Grant Program

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

Gift of Equity

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

Non-Occupant Co-Borrower

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

La Puente sits in the San Gabriel Valley about 20 miles east of downtown LA. Population is 37,835, median household income $77,702. The homeownership rate here is 60.2%, right around the California average, and the median home price of $762K tells you this is classic San Gabriel Valley territory. You're looking at a household needing to earn around $180K-$200K to comfortably qualify for a conventional loan at that price point, though FHA with 3.5% down can work if you've got strong income and manageable debt.

Schools & Family Appeal

The school situation here is mixed, which matters when you're thinking about resale value and how long you plan to stay. La Puente High and Bassett High serve most buyers, with ratings that sit in the middle range for LA County. Nogales High pulls from the southern edge of town. The standout is Los Angeles County High School for the Arts, a magnet program that draws talent from across the region. If you're buying with school-age kids, you'll want to check exact attendance boundaries because that can shift your property value by $50K-$100K depending on the street. Families who buy here typically stay put for 7-10 years, banking on steady appreciation in the San Gabriel Valley market.

  • Los Angeles County High School for the Arts
  • Bassett High School
  • La Puente High School
  • Nogales High School

The Neighborhood Feel

La Puente doesn't break down into fancy named subdivisions like newer cities, but where you buy still affects your loan strategy. Central La Puente runs around $762K for older single-family homes built in the 50s through 70s, mostly 3-bed, 2-bath on smaller lots. These properties work well with conventional loans if you've got 10-20% down, and FHA is common for first-timers who can handle the higher payment at 3.5% down. North La Puente hits similar price points with slightly newer housing stock from the 70s and 80s. The truth is, at $762K you're competing with buyers who have significant down payments or dual incomes, so getting pre-approved with a solid lender matters more here than in cheaper markets. Appraisals can be tight because comps vary block by block in these older neighborhoods.

  • Central La Puente
  • North La Puente

Getting Around

Here's the thing about La Puente: you're 29 minutes from downtown LA, 43 minutes to Santa Monica, 44 minutes to Irvine, 40 minutes to Long Beach. That central location is why the price sits at $762K instead of $500K. The 60 Freeway runs just south, the 10 Freeway is minutes away, and you can hit the 605 or 57 depending on where you're headed. Local transit exists but most buyers here are two-car households commuting in different directions. If both earners work in LA or Orange County, that commute flexibility justifies the mortgage payment. You're paying for access to job centers across the entire LA Basin without the $900K-$1.2M price tags you'd face closer in.

Jobs & Economy

Bassett Unified School District and the City of La Puente provide stable public sector employment, which matters for loan qualification since underwriters love W-2 income with tenure. The Puente Hills Mall area brings retail jobs, though that sector has shifted over the years as shopping habits changed. Healthcare facilities in and around La Puente add medical employment options. Real talk, most homebuyers here work elsewhere and commute out to LA, Orange County, or other parts of the San Gabriel Valley. The local economy supports the community but doesn't drive home prices the way tech hubs do. What drives prices is location and access to the broader Southern California job market.

  • Bassett Unified School District
  • City of La Puente
  • Retail employers at Puente Hills Mall area
  • Healthcare facilities

La Puente Mortgage FAQs
Common questions answered

Common questions from La Puente 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 La Puente?

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 La Puente?

Typical La Puente 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 La Puente?

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

What down payment assistance programs are available in La Puente?

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

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

What are the loan limits in La Puente?

2026 Los Angeles County limits: FHA $1,249,125, Conventional $1,249,125. Any loan above $1,249,125 is a jumbo loan. Most La Puente properties fall within conforming limits, maximizing your financing options.

Should I get an FHA or conventional loan in La Puente?

For La Puente'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 La Puente. 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 La Puente?

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 La Puente?

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

What if my credit score is below 620?

You still have options in La Puente. 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 Los Angeles 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 La Puente?

Closing costs in La Puente 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 La Puente?

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 La Puente?

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

Closing costs in La Puente 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 La Puente?

Typical La Puente 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 La Puente?

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 La Puente?

2026 Los Angeles County limits: FHA $1,249,125, Conventional $1,249,125. Any loan above $1,249,125 is a jumbo loan. Most La Puente properties fall within conforming limits, maximizing your financing options.

What down payment assistance programs are available in La Puente?

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

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

Do you work with first-time homebuyers in La Puente?

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

What if my credit score is below 620?

You still have options in La Puente. 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 La Puente?

For La Puente'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 La Puente?

The FHA loan limit in La Puente is $1,250,000 for 2025, which covers most homes in this market where the median price is around $762K. This higher limit makes FHA loans a competitive option for first. time buyers and those with lower down payments throughout La Puente. You'll need just 3.5% down with a credit score of 580 or higher to qualify.

Do I need a jumbo loan in La Puente?

Most buyers in La Puente won't need a jumbo loan since the conforming loan limit is $1,250,000 and the median home price is $762K. Only homes priced above $1.25 million would require a jumbo loan, which represents a small portion of the market here. You'll have access to competitive conforming, FHA, and VA loan options for typical La Puente properties.

What are the 2026 loan limits for Los Angeles County?

For 2026, Los Angeles County loan limits are $1,250,000 for conforming, FHA, and VA loans. These limits apply throughout La Puente and cover the vast majority of homes in the area. The limits are reviewed annually and may adjust based on housing market conditions.

Can I get a VA loan in La Puente?

Yes, VA loans are very competitive in La Puente with a loan limit of $1,250,000 and no down payment required for eligible veterans and service members. With the median home price at $762K, most properties here fall well within VA loan limits. VA loans also don't require mortgage insurance, which can save you significantly over the life of your loan.

What down payment assistance programs are available in La Puente?

Our No Money Down program offers $0 down payment for qualified buyers in La Puente. Additionally, CalHFA offers down payment assistance programs with grants and deferred. payment junior loans, and Los Angeles County has various programs for first. time buyers and moderate. income households. These programs can be combined with FHA, VA, or conventional loans to make homeownership more accessible.

What down payment do I need for a La Puente home?

Down payment requirements in La Puente vary by loan type: conventional loans can go as low as 3% ($22,860 on a $762K home), FHA requires 3.5% ($26,670), and VA loans offer $0 down for eligible veterans. With median home prices around $762K, many buyers use down payment assistance programs to reduce their upfront costs. The right amount depends on your loan type, financial situation, and whether you qualify for assistance programs.

What credit score do I need to buy in La Puente?

Most lenders require a minimum credit score of 620 for conventional loans in La Puente, while FHA loans accept scores as low as 580 (or even 500 with 10% down). VA loans typically require around 580. 620 depending on the lender. With La Puente's balanced market and median prices around $762K, having a score of 640 or higher will give you access to better rates and more loan options.

How do I choose the right mortgage lender?

Look for a lender experienced with La Puente's market and the loan types that fit your situation, whether that's conventional, FHA, or VA. Compare rates, fees, and closing costs from multiple lenders, and ask about their experience with down payment assistance programs if you're a first. time buyer. A good lender should understand Los Angeles County's $1.25M loan limits and be responsive throughout the process, especially in a balanced market where timing matters.

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