Mortgage broker serving Malibu, 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.
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 Malibu buyers, we match your unique situation to the right program.
Malibu buyers in the luxury segment face unique challenges with high-value properties exceeding $1.25M.
We've spent 40+ years solving these exact challenges.
We're here to help match you with the perfect loan program for your Malibu purchase.
SCHEDULE FREE CONSULTATION"For over 30 years, A Good Lender has been a trusted and essential part of my family's financial journey, guiding us through more than a dozen mortgage financing transactions with professionalism, integrity and care. What sets A Good Lender apart is their reliability and ability to demystify the mortgage process."
"Rodney Roloff & The Team at A Good Lender made my house buying process a breeze. Rodney helped me to better understand the loan process and walked me through everything step by step. If your looking for a good lender. One who will help you get the best rate. I highly recommend reaching out to Rodney and his team at 'A good lender'"
"From our first home buying experience, to exploring HELOC options, and refinancing, every step we were supported with clear and accurate information. A team who's knowledgeable, prompt to respond to any questions, and who genuinely cares for their clients is a rare find in this industry."
We've simplified the mortgage maze into four clear steps. No surprises, just results.
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.
We submit your application to our lending partners. Their underwriters review your documents, verify your income and credit, and issue your loan approval.
Sign your final documents, get your keys, and move into your Malibu home. We coordinate everything to make closing day smooth and stress-free.
Finding the right home loan in Malibu starts with understanding your options. We've streamlined hundreds of mortgage programs into 8 clear categories for Malibu 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 Malibu property.
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 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.
Finance commercial real estate, owner-occupied buildings, or business expansions. Explore all commercial financing programs below.
Finance new construction, renovations, or land purchases. Explore all construction and renovation programs below.
From condos and townhomes to multi-family buildings and unique property types. Explore all specialized property financing programs below.
We specialize in complex financing scenarios where traditional loans don't fit. Explore all niche programs below.
Access California's down payment assistance programs. Explore all DPA programs below.
Self-employed professionals, freelancers, and business owners. Explore all special income documentation programs below.
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.
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.
SBA 504 & 7(a)
Finance commercial real estate, owner-occupied buildings, or business expansions. Explore all commercial financing programs below.
Build & Improve
Finance new construction, renovations, or land purchases. Explore all construction and renovation programs below.
Specialized Properties
From condos and townhomes to multi-family buildings and unique property types. Explore all specialized property financing programs below.
Complex Scenarios
We specialize in complex financing scenarios where traditional loans don't fit. Explore all niche programs below.
CalHFA & Local DPA
Access California's down payment assistance programs. Explore all DPA programs below.
Alternative Documentation
Self-employed professionals, freelancers, and business owners. Explore all special income documentation programs below.
Popular loan programs for Malibu homebuyers. Compare options and find your best fit.
| Loan Type | Down Payment | Credit Score | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jumbo | 10-20% | 680+ | Luxury properties above $1,249,125 |
| Bank Statement | 10-20% | 660+ | Self-employed, business owners, tech consultants |
| Asset Depletion | 10-20% | 680+ | Retirees, investors with $500K+ liquid assets |
| VA | $0 | No minimum | Veterans, active military (0% down on any price) |
| DSCR | 20-25% | 660+ | Investment properties, no income verification |
| No Down Payment Program Featured | $0 (3.5% grant) | 580+ | First-time buyers - grant covers FHA or Conventional down payment |
| Reverse Mortgage | N/A | No minimum | Seniors 62+ accessing Malibu home equity |
Questions? Call (510) 589-4096 or email info@agoodlender.com
With Malibu's $2.9M median, most buyers need jumbo loans above $1.25M. Rates now competitive with conforming.
Business owners in Malibu qualify on bank deposits. Write-offs hurt tax returns but deposits tell the real story.
Wealthy Malibu buyers use portfolio value instead of employment. Asset depletion works for retirees and investors.
Some Malibu condos and smaller homes under $1.25M get conforming rates. Most properties need jumbo.
Malibu veterans get zero down with no loan limit. Best benefit for luxury purchases.
Malibu buyers use bridge loans to avoid contingent offers. Buy first, sell later.
LLC purchases for Malibu investment properties. Buy in entity name for liability protection.
Pull equity from your Malibu home. Cash-out refinance for investments, renovations, or debt payoff.
Conforming refi for Malibu properties under the limit. Most will need jumbo refinancing.
Malibu owners tap equity with HELOC. Draw funds as needed, pay interest only on balance.
Fixed home equity loans in Malibu. Lump sum with predictable payments.
Malibu veterans use VA IRRRL to lower rates. Streamlined process with minimal documentation.
No seasoning cash-out for Malibu properties. Access equity right after closing.
DSCR loans for Malibu investors. Qualify based on property cash flow, not personal income.
Fix-and-flip loans for Malibu investors. Finance purchase plus renovation costs.
Malibu apartment investors use multifamily loans. Commercial financing for 5+ units.
Malibu commercial investors use hard money. Quick closing for time-sensitive deals.
Buy a home with zero down payment. Our lenders cover your entire down payment through grant programs. No repayment required. Available for Malibu buyers with qualifying income.
CalHFA down payment help available for Malibu first-time buyers. Income limits may restrict use.
Gift of equity for Malibu family sales. Equity counts as down payment in related transactions.
Malibu buyers can add parent as co-borrower. Combined income qualifies for higher amount.
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
Malibu stretches 21 miles along the Pacific Coast Highway in western Los Angeles County. Population is just 10,698, but median household income hits $186,905 and the median home price sits at $2.9M. The homeownership rate of 76.5% is sky-high for California, which makes sense when you realize most people here are either buying with significant cash or securing jumbo loans well above conforming limits. This isn't a market where conventional financing gets you in the door.
The school picture here is surprisingly straightforward for such an expensive area. Malibu High, Juan Cabrillo Elementary, Webster Elementary, and Malibu Elementary all serve the community through Santa Monica-Malibu Unified. The schools are solid but not the main draw. Families buying here are usually prioritizing lifestyle and location over test scores. That said, the small-town feel and beach access matter a lot for families who can afford the entry price. When you're financing $2.9M, you're looking at roughly $580K down on a conventional jumbo at 20%, and monthly payments around $18K depending on rates. The math only works if your household income is well into six figures.
Here's the thing about Malibu neighborhoods. They all hover around that $2.9M median, but the character and financing approach can differ. Point Dume sits on dramatic cliffs with killer ocean views, mostly detached homes on larger lots where jumbo loans in the $2M-$4M range are standard. Malibu Colony is the gated beachfront enclave where celebrities buy, often with significant cash components or portfolio loans if traditional jumbos don't cover the full amount. Carbon Beach earns its 'Billionaire's Beach' nickname honestly, with properties often transacting well above $5M where private banking relationships matter more than conventional mortgage products. Serra Retreat offers hillside living in eastern Malibu, still expensive but sometimes you'll find properties in the $2M-$3M range where a standard jumbo loan actually works. The loan structure you need depends entirely on which micro-market you're targeting.
Pacific Coast Highway is your lifeline here, running the entire length of Malibu. Commute to Santa Monica takes about 26 minutes, LA proper around 45 minutes, but traffic can double those times easily. Long Beach sits 57 minutes away, Irvine about 77 minutes. The drive is scenic but it's still a drive, and PCH gets clogged on weekends and summer months. Most buyers here either work remotely, run their own businesses, or have flexible schedules that let them avoid rush hour. If you're commuting daily to a 9-to-5 in downtown LA, you'll feel that drive in your quality of life no matter how nice your house is. The isolation is part of the appeal for some buyers and a dealbreaker for others.
The local job market is tiny but stable. Pepperdine University is the largest employer, followed by Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District, City of Malibu, and hospitality spots like Nobu Malibu. Real talk, most people living here don't work here. They're entrepreneurs, entertainment industry folks, tech executives, or finance professionals who've already made their money. The high median income of $186,905 reflects that reality. When you're buying in Malibu, your lender will scrutinize your income sources carefully because jumbo loans require strong financials. You'll need documented income, solid credit, and usually significant reserves beyond your down payment. The local economy supports the lifestyle, but it doesn't drive the real estate market.
Common questions from Malibu homebuyers and refinance clients. Can't find your answer? Book a 15-minute call with a Senior Loan Officer.
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.
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.
Typical Malibu 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.
You have several low down payment options in Malibu: Conventional (3% down), FHA (3.5% down), VA (0% for veterans), and our 6-Month Forgivable Grant Program covering your entire down payment. Many Malibu buyers purchase with 3.5% or less down.
Our No Money Down program offers $0 down payment for qualified Malibu 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.
Yes! Zero-down options for Malibu 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 Malibu families purchase with minimal upfront cash.
2026 Los Angeles County limits: FHA $1,249,125, Conventional $1,249,125. Any loan above $1,249,125 is a jumbo loan. Most Malibu properties fall within conforming limits, maximizing your financing options.
For Malibu'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.
A denial doesn't mean you can't buy in Malibu. 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.
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.
Absolutely—first-time buyers are our specialty in Malibu. 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.
You still have options in Malibu. 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.
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.
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.
Closing costs in Malibu 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.
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.
You have several low down payment options in Malibu: Conventional (3% down), FHA (3.5% down), VA (0% for veterans), and our 6-Month Forgivable Grant Program covering your entire down payment. Many Malibu buyers purchase with 3.5% or less down.
A denial doesn't mean you can't buy in Malibu. 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.
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.
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.
Closing costs in Malibu 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.
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.
Typical Malibu 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.
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.
2026 Los Angeles County limits: FHA $1,249,125, Conventional $1,249,125. Any loan above $1,249,125 is a jumbo loan. Most Malibu properties fall within conforming limits, maximizing your financing options.
Our No Money Down program offers $0 down payment for qualified Malibu 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.
Yes! Zero-down options for Malibu 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 Malibu families purchase with minimal upfront cash.
Absolutely—first-time buyers are our specialty in Malibu. 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.
You still have options in Malibu. 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.
For Malibu'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.
The FHA loan limit in Malibu is $1,250,000 for 2025. However, with a median home price of $2.9M, FHA loans won't cover most properties in this luxury coastal market. You'll typically need jumbo financing to purchase a home in Malibu.
Yes, you'll almost certainly need a jumbo loan in Malibu since the median home price is $2.9M and most properties range from $2M to $3M. The conforming loan limit is only $1,250,000, so any mortgage above that amount requires jumbo financing. Many Malibu buyers work with lenders experienced in jumbo and super. jumbo loans for higher. priced oceanfront properties.
For 2026, Los Angeles County loan limits are $1,250,000 for conforming, FHA, and VA loans. These limits apply countywide, including Malibu, though they cover only a small fraction of available homes in luxury markets. Final 2026 limits are typically announced by FHFA in November 2025.
Yes, VA loans are available in Malibu with a loan limit of $1,250,000 for zero down payment. However, since most Malibu homes cost $2M to $3M, you'd need a substantial down payment to cover the difference or consider a VA jumbo loan. Eligible veterans and service members should explore both options with a VA. experienced lender.
Our No Money Down program offers $0 down payment for qualified buyers. However, given Malibu's luxury market with homes typically priced at $2M to $3M, traditional down payment assistance programs like CalHFA aren't practical or applicable. Most Malibu buyers rely on personal savings, investment portfolios, or equity from previous properties.
For Malibu's luxury market, you'll typically need 20% to 25% down on a jumbo loan, which means $580,000 to $725,000 on a $2.9M median. priced home. Larger down payments often secure better rates and terms on jumbo financing. Some lenders offer jumbo loans with 10% to 15% down for highly qualified borrowers with excellent credit and substantial reserves.
Jumbo lenders in Malibu typically require a minimum credit score of 700, though 740 or higher will qualify you for the best rates and terms. Given the luxury price point and loan amounts exceeding $2M, many lenders prefer scores above 760. Strong credit is essential since you'll likely need jumbo financing for most Malibu properties.
For Malibu's luxury market, choose a lender with extensive jumbo loan experience who understands high. net. worth financing, including stock compensation and complex income structures. Look for competitive jumbo rates, experience with properties over $2M, and a track record of closing luxury coastal real estate transactions. A lender familiar with Malibu's unique market conditions can help navigate appraisals and underwriting for oceanfront properties.
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