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

Aerial view of Riverbank, California, October

Mortgage broker serving Riverbank, 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 Riverbank Homebuyers Choose Us

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

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

  • Downtown Riverbank and North Riverbank both average $507K, fitting comfortably within the $833K conforming limit with conventional 5-10% down options.
  • Agricultural and food processing workers with seasonal income patterns need bank statement loans or 24-month income averaging for stable qualification.
  • Self-employed agricultural workers with tax write-offs should use bank statement loans qualifying on gross deposits rather than reduced taxable income.

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

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

SCHEDULE FREE CONSULTATION

What Our Clients Say Real stories from real borrowers

How the Mortgage Process Works in Riverbank

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

1-2 Days
Market Insights

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

California housing market value rising with upward trend

Prices & Trends

Riverbank sits in that sweet spot where California homeownership actually makes sense for normal people. The median price is $506,950, and it's held dead flat over the past year. No crazy appreciation, but also no freefall. The conforming loan limit is $832,750, so basically everyone here stays conventional or FHA. You're not dealing with jumbo loan headaches unless you're really stretching up. This is Central Valley pricing with real stability. Prices aren't skyrocketing, but you're also not catching a falling knife. It's just... steady. And honestly, steady is underrated when you're trying to plan a mortgage.

Who's Buying in Riverbank

First-time buyers and Bay Area refugees dominate here. Median household income is $89,504, so dual-income families can actually make the math work without killing themselves. The homeownership rate is 69.3%. People buy here and stay put. You've got younger families escaping the coast, investors picking up rentals with actual cash flow, and some retirees who want small-town life without the small-town boredom of being too remote. Real talk, a lot of buyers here are coming from places where $507K wouldn't even get them a condo. So they show up with equity or savings and suddenly they're competitive. If you're local and starting from scratch, you need a plan. But it's doable.

Your Loan Fit

FHA is your best friend at this price if you're light on down payment. The numbers actually work:
  • FHA gets you in for 3.5% down with a 580 credit score. That's around $17,700 on a median-priced home. Doable if you've been saving or have family help.
  • Conventional at 5% down is about $25,350. Cleaner loan, no upfront mortgage insurance premium, and PMI drops off easier once you hit 20% equity.
  • VA loans are unbeatable if you qualify. Zero down, no PMI, and better rates than conventional. Don't leave that on the table.
  • USDA might work depending on exactly where in Riverbank you're looking. Some pockets qualify, some don't. Worth checking because it's zero down for non-veterans.
Don't overthink it. If you've got less than $20K saved, go FHA. If you've got $25K-$50K and decent credit, conventional is cleaner.

Down Payment & Refinance in Riverbank

Already own here? You've got options. If you bought with FHA and you've got some equity now, refinancing to conventional kills that monthly PMI payment. Rate-and-term refis make sense if rates dropped since you locked in, but honestly, if you're sub-6%, you're probably fine holding. Cash-out refis are popular for people tapping equity to fix up their place or consolidate debt. And investors should look at DSCR loans if they're building a rental portfolio. Rates are slightly higher, but you qualify based on rent income, not your W2. That's huge if you're scaling.

Get Started

Down payment reality: $17,700 gets you in with FHA. That's 3.5% on the median price. A lot of first-timers scrape that together over a year or two of serious saving, or they get help from family. Gift funds are totally allowed and honestly super common. If you're coming from the Bay with home equity, you're showing up with $100K+ and you're basically a cash buyer in everyone's eyes. For locals starting fresh, look at our no-money-down program that covers your minimum 3-3.5% down payment requirement. You still need closing costs covered, but it removes the biggest barrier. And some buyers are piecing it together with savings, a small gift, and seller credits. It's not always one clean check.

Local Riverbank Expertise

Start with preapproval. Not prequalification, actual preapproval with documentation. Sellers in Riverbank want to see you're serious and funded. Schedule a free call with our team and we'll walk through your exact situation. What you've saved, what loan type fits, what your buying power actually is. We know this market and we know what works at $507K. Don't wait until you find a house to figure out your financing. Get clear now, then shop with confidence.

Popular Riverbank Neighborhoods

Downtown Riverbank • North Riverbank

Zip Codes We Serve

95367, 95390

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

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

Riverbank Loan Program Guide Purchase, Refinance & Investment Programs

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

Quick Compare: Riverbank 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 Riverbank

FHA Loans

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

VA Loans

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

Conforming Loans

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

Calhfa Programs

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

Bank Statement Loans

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

Usda Loans

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

Bridge Loans

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

LLC Funding Programs

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

Best Refinance Options in Riverbank

FHA Loans Refinance

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

Conforming Refinance

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

VA Loans Refinance

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

Cash Out Refinance

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

HELOC Refinance

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

Home Equity Refinance

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

Best Investment & Commercial Loans in Riverbank

DSCR Loans

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

Fix And Flip Loans

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

Commercial Hard Money Loans

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

Multifamily Loans

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

Best Down Payment Assistance Programs for Riverbank

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 Riverbank buyers with qualifying income.

CalHFA Down Payment Assistance

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

Local Down Payment Programs

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

Elite Grant Program

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

USDA Zero Down Loans

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

Gift of Equity

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

Non-Occupant Co-Borrower

Non-occupant co-borrower helps Riverbank 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 Riverbank is a Great Place to Buy a Home

Riverbank sits in Stanislaus County in the Central Valley, about 10 miles east of Modesto. Population is 24,803, median household income $89,504. The homeownership rate here is 69.3%, which tells you people are actually buying and staying put. At $507K median home price, you're looking at Central Valley pricing that requires solid income to qualify, but that $89K median household income shows the local economy can support it. This isn't a cheap starter market anymore, but it's still more accessible than anything you'll find in the Bay Area two hours west.

Schools & Family Appeal

If you're buying with kids in mind, you'll want to know what you're getting into. Riverbank High School serves most families here, and Cardozo High is the continuation school for alternative education paths. Mesa Verde Elementary and Crossroads Elementary handle the younger grades. The schools are typical Central Valley, not pulling Bay Area numbers but serving the community that lives here. That 69.3% homeownership rate means most families are invested long-term, which creates neighborhood stability. When you're thinking about resale value five or ten years out, that stability matters more than you'd think.

  • Riverbank High School
  • Cardozo High School (Continuation)
  • Mesa Verde Elementary School
  • Crossroads Elementary School

The Neighborhood Feel

The market here is pretty straightforward since both main areas hit around the same $507K median. Downtown Riverbank gives you the historic core with the original town center and main commercial strips within walking distance. North Riverbank is where you'll find newer housing developments with more modern floor plans and subdivision layouts. Both areas work well with conventional loans if you've got the 20% down and income to qualify at current rates. FHA is an option if you're coming in with 3.5% down, but at $507K you're looking at a mortgage payment that needs that $89K household income or close to it. The choice between downtown and north really comes down to whether you want older character or newer construction.

  • Downtown Riverbank
  • North Riverbank

Getting Around

Here's the thing about Riverbank: you're not commuting to the Bay Area daily unless you really hate yourself. Stockton is 39 minutes, which is doable if you work there. Fresno runs 111 minutes on a good day, Bakersfield over three hours. Highway 108 is your main commercial corridor running through town. Local transit exists but this is car country, plain and simple. Most people who buy here either work in Modesto, Turlock, or somewhere else in Stanislaus County. If you're thinking about buying here but working in the Bay, you'll be looking at a brutal commute or need to work remote most days.

Jobs & Economy

Riverbank Unified School District is the anchor employer, which gives you that public sector stability. Foster Farms has operations here, and that's real employment with benefits and steady paychecks. Agricultural operations dot the area because you're in the Central Valley, and retail and service businesses along Highway 108 provide the rest of the job base. The economy is typical for a smaller Central Valley town: education, food processing, ag, and local services. That $89K median household income is actually pretty solid for this region, which is why home prices can sit at $507K and people can still qualify. If you're buying here, you're probably working locally or in Modesto, not making a long haul commute.

  • Riverbank Unified School District
  • Foster Farms
  • Various agricultural operations
  • Retail and service businesses along Highway 108

Riverbank Mortgage FAQs
Common questions answered

Common questions from Riverbank 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 Riverbank?

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 Riverbank?

Typical Riverbank 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 Riverbank?

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

What down payment assistance programs are available in Riverbank?

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

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

What are the loan limits in Riverbank?

2026 Stanislaus County limits: FHA $541,287, Conventional $832,750. Any loan above $832,750 is a jumbo loan. Most Riverbank properties fall within conforming limits, maximizing your financing options.

Should I get an FHA or conventional loan in Riverbank?

For Riverbank'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 Riverbank. 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 Riverbank?

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 Riverbank?

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

What if my credit score is below 620?

You still have options in Riverbank. 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 Stanislaus 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 Riverbank?

Closing costs in Riverbank 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 Riverbank?

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 Riverbank?

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

Closing costs in Riverbank 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 Riverbank?

Typical Riverbank 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 Riverbank?

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 Riverbank?

2026 Stanislaus County limits: FHA $541,287, Conventional $832,750. Any loan above $832,750 is a jumbo loan. Most Riverbank properties fall within conforming limits, maximizing your financing options.

What down payment assistance programs are available in Riverbank?

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

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

Do you work with first-time homebuyers in Riverbank?

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

What if my credit score is below 620?

You still have options in Riverbank. 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 Riverbank?

For Riverbank'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 Riverbank?

The FHA loan limit in Riverbank is $541,000 for 2025. This covers most homes in the area since the median price is around $507,000, making FHA loans an excellent option for first. time buyers and those with smaller down payments.

Do I need a jumbo loan in Riverbank?

You won't need a jumbo loan for most Riverbank homes since the conforming loan limit is $833,000 and typical homes range from $450,000 to $600,000. Even the FHA limit of $541,000 covers the majority of properties in the area.

What are the 2026 loan limits for Stanislaus County?

For Stanislaus County in 2025, the conforming loan limit is $833,000, the FHA limit is $541,000, and the VA limit is $833,000. These limits comfortably accommodate Riverbank's median home price of $507,000 and give buyers plenty of financing options.

Can I get a VA loan in Riverbank?

Yes, VA loans work extremely well in Riverbank with a loan limit of $833,000 and no down payment required for eligible veterans. With most homes priced between $450,000 and $600,000, you'll have excellent purchasing power and can avoid mortgage insurance entirely.

What down payment assistance programs are available in Riverbank?

Our No Money Down program offers $0 down payment for qualified buyers in Riverbank. You can also access CalHFA programs and Stanislaus County assistance, and many first. time buyers can stack multiple programs to cover down payment and closing costs on homes in the $450,000 to $600,000 range.

What down payment do I need for a Riverbank home?

You can buy a Riverbank home with as little as 3% down on a conventional loan (around $15,000 on a $507,000 home) or 3.5% with FHA (about $17,700). VA buyers and those using down payment assistance programs can often get in with $0 down.

What credit score do I need to buy in Riverbank?

You can qualify for an FHA loan in Riverbank with a credit score as low as 580, while conventional loans typically require 620 or higher. Many local buyers are credit rebuilders, so lenders familiar with the area can help you find options even if your score isn't perfect.

How do I choose the right mortgage lender?

Look for a lender experienced with Riverbank's affordable market who understands FHA loans, down payment assistance programs, and working with first. time buyers. The right lender should help you compare FHA, conventional 97, and VA options to find the best fit for your situation and maximize your buying power in the $450,000 to $600,000 range.

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