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

Redlands California Aerial

Mortgage broker serving Redlands, 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 Redlands Homebuyers Choose Us

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

Redlands buyers compete in a market where strong financing and quick pre-approval win offers.

  • Downtown Redlands, University District, and South Redlands all average $662K—comfortably conforming under the $833K limit, allowing conventional 5% down or FHA 3.5%.
  • Tech employees with RSU compensation need lenders who count unvested stock as qualifying income, typically requiring 12-24 months of vesting history.
  • Teachers with 9-month contracts need lenders who annualize salary—divide annual pay by 12 months, not just count active paychecks.

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

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

SCHEDULE FREE CONSULTATION

What Our Clients Say Real stories from real borrowers

How the Mortgage Process Works in Redlands

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

1-2 Days
Market Insights

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

California housing market value rising with upward trend

Prices & Trends

Redlands sits in that sweet spot where you can actually afford a real house without destroying your finances. The median price is $662K right now, completely flat from last year. No crazy bidding wars, no insane appreciation. Just normal. The conforming loan limit is $833K, so you've got plenty of room to work with conventional financing without getting shoved into jumbo territory. FHA goes up to $690K here. Basically, you're not fighting against loan limits like you would closer to the coast. This is a market where your financing options are wide open.

Who's Buying in Redlands

First-time buyers dominate here, especially people fleeing Orange County and LA who finally want a yard and a garage. You've got young families who are tired of renting and relocators who sold a condo in Irvine and can suddenly afford a whole house. The median household income is $94K, so dual-income couples in their 30s and 40s make up a huge chunk of buyers. Homeownership rate is 58.3%, so it's a balanced market. Not everyone owns, but enough people do that it feels stable. Investors show up too, but they're not running the show like in purely rental markets. This is a place where normal people can still buy.

Your Loan Fit

FHA and conventional both work great here. You're not stuck with one strategy. Budget matters more than loan type.
  • FHA at 3.5% down gets you in for around $23K, perfect if you're stretching to buy but have solid income
  • Conventional at 5% down is about $33K and gets you better rates, plus you can drop PMI later when you hit 20% equity
  • VA is unbeatable if you qualify. Zero down, no PMI, lower rates across the board
  • USDA might work for some areas just outside the main city if you're under income limits. Worth checking.
Don't overthink it. Run the numbers on FHA versus conventional and see what your monthly payment actually looks like. Sometimes FHA wins, sometimes conventional does. Depends on your credit and how much cash you have sitting around.

Down Payment & Refinance in Redlands

Already own here? Refinancing makes sense if rates dropped since you bought or if you need cash for something real. Rate-term refi is straightforward if you can shave half a point or more off your current rate. Cash-out refi works if you've built equity and want to renovate or pay off high-interest debt. PMI removal is huge if you bought with less than 20% down and your home value stayed flat or went up. You hit 20% equity, you call your lender, done. If you're an investor with a rental property here, DSCR loans let you refi based on the property's rent income instead of your personal income. Super clean if your tax returns are messy.

Get Started

Down payment reality: you need somewhere between $19K and $55K depending on your loan type. FHA at 3.5% is $23K. Conventional at 10% is $66K. Most people coming from other parts of SoCal have equity from a previous sale, so they're dropping $50K-$80K and getting a killer monthly payment. First-timers are scraping together savings, maybe getting $10K-$15K in gift money from family, and going FHA. Some people tap a 401k loan for part of it. Others use down payment assistance programs if they qualify based on income. And look, if you genuinely don't have the cash, our no-money-down program covers your minimum 3-3.5% down payment requirement. It's not a magic trick, but it gets you in the door without draining your entire savings account. You still need closing costs and reserves, but the down payment piece gets handled.

Local Redlands Expertise

Start with preapproval. Seriously, don't even look at houses until you know what you can actually borrow and what your payment looks like. Sellers in Redlands aren't desperate, but they're not getting 15 offers either. A clean preapproval makes you look serious. Schedule a free call and we'll run your numbers in about 20 minutes. We'll tell you if FHA or conventional makes more sense, what your real monthly payment is, and how much you need to close. Our team works this market every day. We know what lenders are actually approving and what underwriters are flagging. Let's figure out your best move.

Popular Redlands Neighborhoods

Downtown Redlands • University District • South Redlands

Zip Codes We Serve

92373, 92374, 92375

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

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

Redlands Loan Program Guide Purchase, Refinance & Investment Programs

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

Quick Compare: Redlands 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 Redlands

Conforming Loans

Standard option for Redlands buyers. Most homes under $833K with competitive rates.

FHA Loans

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

VA Loans

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

Bank Statement Loans

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

Calhfa Programs

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

Jumbo Loans

Premium Redlands homes over $833K require jumbo loans. Less common but available for luxury properties.

Bridge Loans

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

LLC Funding Programs

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

Best Refinance Options in Redlands

Conforming Refinance

Conforming refinance for Redlands homeowners. Best rates for loans under $833K.

FHA Loans Refinance

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

VA Loans Refinance

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

Cash Out Refinance

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

HELOC Refinance

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

Home Equity Refinance

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

Best Investment & Commercial Loans in Redlands

DSCR Loans

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

Fix And Flip Loans

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

Multifamily Loans

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

Commercial Hard Money Loans

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

Best Down Payment Assistance Programs for Redlands

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 Redlands buyers with qualifying income.

CalHFA Down Payment Assistance

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

Local Down Payment Programs

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

Elite Grant Program

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

Gift of Equity

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

Non-Occupant Co-Borrower

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

Redlands sits in the Inland Empire about 65 miles east of LA, tucked against the San Bernardino Mountains. Population is 73,234, median household income $94,473. The homeownership rate here is 58.3%, which is right around the California average, but here's what makes it interesting: at $662K median home price, you're getting a legitimate college town with actual culture and history for about half what you'd pay in comparable Orange County cities. A household pulling in $95K can qualify for a mortgage here with 10-15% down on a conventional loan, which puts you in a real community, not just another subdivision.

Schools & Family Appeal

The school situation here matters if you're buying long-term. Redlands High and Redlands East Valley High both serve the district, and the presence of University of Redlands right in town changes the whole vibe. You've got a college town feel without the typical college town chaos, which means better resale value when you eventually sell. Families who buy here tend to stay because the schools are stable and the town actually invests in education. That matters when you're comparing this to other Inland Empire options at similar price points. The university also brings cultural programming and events that you don't typically get in cities this size, which helps property values hold steady even when the broader market dips.

  • Redlands High School
  • Redlands East Valley High School
  • University of Redlands

The Neighborhood Feel

Where you buy in Redlands affects your lifestyle more than your loan type, since prices hover around $662K across most areas. Downtown Redlands gives you Victorian architecture, State Street walkability, and tree-lined streets, which is rare in the Inland Empire. You'll use conventional financing here, and the historic character means appraisals tend to hold up better than newer construction when rates spike. University District surrounds the campus with a mix of student rentals and owner-occupied homes, so you'll want to check the specific block before you buy. South Redlands offers more traditional residential neighborhoods with less foot traffic and more yard space. Most buyers in all three areas are putting down 10-20% conventional, though FHA works if you're at the lower end of the price range and can handle the competition.

  • Downtown Redlands
  • University District
  • South Redlands

Getting Around

The commute to LA runs about 65 minutes on I-10, which is the main reason Redlands costs $662K instead of $1.2M like similar towns closer to the coast. You're far enough out that you get breathing room and a real downtown, but close enough that commuting to Ontario, Riverside, or even LA is doable if you have to. Local transit exists but most people drive. If you work remotely or locally, you're in great shape because you get the California lifestyle without the California mortgage payment that requires two tech salaries. The commute time is the trade-off that keeps your monthly payment under $4,500 instead of over $7,000.

Jobs & Economy

Esri, the mapping software giant, is headquartered here and employs a solid chunk of the professional workforce. That's not typical for an Inland Empire city and it matters for property values because you've got high-earning tech workers buying homes locally. University of Redlands and Redlands Unified School District provide stable public sector employment, while Loma Linda University Health and Redlands Community Hospital anchor the healthcare sector. The job mix is more diverse than most Inland Empire cities, which means the local economy doesn't tank when logistics or construction slows down. If you're buying here, you're betting on a town with actual economic fundamentals, not just bedroom community sprawl.

  • Esri (Environmental Systems Research Institute)
  • University of Redlands
  • Redlands Unified School District
  • Loma Linda University Health
  • Redlands Community Hospital

Redlands Mortgage FAQs
Common questions answered

Common questions from Redlands 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 Redlands?

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 Redlands?

Typical Redlands 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 Redlands?

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

What down payment assistance programs are available in Redlands?

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

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

What are the loan limits in Redlands?

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

Should I get an FHA or conventional loan in Redlands?

For Redlands'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 Redlands. 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 Redlands?

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 Redlands?

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

What if my credit score is below 620?

You still have options in Redlands. 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 Bernardino 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 Redlands?

Closing costs in Redlands 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 Redlands?

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 Redlands?

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

Closing costs in Redlands 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 Redlands?

Typical Redlands 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 Redlands?

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 Redlands?

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

What down payment assistance programs are available in Redlands?

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

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

Do you work with first-time homebuyers in Redlands?

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

What if my credit score is below 620?

You still have options in Redlands. 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 Redlands?

For Redlands'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 Redlands?

The FHA loan limit in Redlands is $690,000 for 2026. This covers most homes in the area since the median home price is around $662,000, making FHA loans a solid option for buyers who want lower down payment requirements.

Do I need a jumbo loan in Redlands?

Most buyers in Redlands won't need a jumbo loan since the conforming loan limit is $833,000 and the median home price is $662,000. You'll only need a jumbo loan if you're purchasing a home above $833,000, which represents the higher end of the local market.

What are the 2026 loan limits for San Bernardino County?

For 2026, San Bernardino County loan limits are $690,000 for FHA loans and $833,000 for both conforming and VA loans. These limits give buyers in Redlands plenty of financing options for homes in the typical $600K. $900K range.

Can I get a VA loan in Redlands?

Yes, VA loans are very competitive in Redlands with a loan limit of $833,000, which covers virtually all homes in the area. If you're a qualified veteran or active military, you can purchase with $0 down and no PMI, making it one of the best financing options available.

What down payment assistance programs are available in Redlands?

Our No Money Down program offers $0 down payment for qualified buyers in Redlands. You can also explore CalHFA programs that provide down payment and closing cost assistance, plus San Bernardino County's MyHome Assistance Program which offers deferred. payment junior loans to help with upfront costs.

What down payment do I need for a Redlands home?

Down payments in Redlands typically range from 3% to 5% for conventional loans ($19,860 to $33,100 on a $662,000 home) and 3.5% for FHA loans (about $23,170). VA loans and our No Money Down program allow qualified buyers to purchase with $0 down, which is popular in this market.

What credit score do I need to buy in Redlands?

Most lenders require a minimum credit score of 620 for conventional loans and 580 for FHA loans in Redlands. If you have a score of 640 or higher, you'll qualify for better rates and more loan options, which is important in a balanced market where both first. time and move. up buyers compete.

How do I choose the right mortgage lender?

Look for a lender with strong experience in Redlands's $600K. $900K market who can explain your options across FHA, VA, and conventional loans. The right lender should offer competitive rates, understand local down payment assistance programs, and provide clear communication throughout the process so you can close confidently.

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