Licensed California Mortgage Broker

Mortgage Loans in
San Luis Obispo County
San Luis Obispo County Home Loans & Refinancing Experts

Trusted Expertise
40+ YEARS
California Experience

Licensed California mortgage broker with loan programs specialized to your unique situation. Purchase loans, refinancing, FHA, VA, jumbo, commercial, construction, down payment assistance, and more across every San Luis Obispo community.

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Why San Luis Obispo County Homebuyers Choose Us

Why Choose a California Mortgage Broker Serving San Luis Obispo County, CA?
Custom programs, not one-size-fits-all bank products

Happy couple celebrating home purchase in San Luis Obispo County

Schedule a quick 15-minute call and we'll match you to the right program for your San Luis Obispo County purchase.

We as brokers shop hundreds of lenders for you. Banks offer their own limited products.

As mortgage specialists serving San Luis Obispo County buyers across 7 cities, we match your unique situation to the right program.

San Luis Obispo County buyers navigate varied price points across 7 diverse cities.

  • Premium areas like SLO City require jumbo loans above $1.25M
  • Most neighborhoods qualify for high-balance conventional loans
  • Strategic financing depends on which community you're buying in

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

We're here to help match you with the perfect loan program for your San Luis Obispo County purchase.

SCHEDULE FREE CONSULTATION

What Our Clients Say Real stories from real borrowers

How the Mortgage Process Works in San Luis Obispo County

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 San Luis Obispo County 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 San Luis Obispo County home. We coordinate everything to make closing day smooth and stress-free.

1-2 Days

What Types of Mortgages Are Available in San Luis Obispo County, CA? Purchase, refinance, commercial, and specialized financing

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

2026 Loan Limits

San Luis Obispo County Loan Limits

High-Cost Area
Loan Type 1-Unit 2-Unit 3-Unit 4-Unit
Conventional
$948,750 $949K $1,214,400 $1.21M $1,467,716 $1.47M $1,824,446 $1.82M
FHA
$948,750 $949K $1,214,400 $1.21M $1,467,716 $1.47M $1,824,446 $1.82M

Limits effective January 1, 2026. VA loans have no county limit for qualified veterans.

San Luis Obispo County Market

San Luis Obispo County Housing & Mortgage Market in 2026 Financing options, loan programs & affordability guide

California housing market value rising with upward trend

Prices & Trends

San Luis Obispo County's Central Coast real estate market features $825K median pricing, accessible to working families, first-time buyers, and middle-income households earning moderate household incomes. The appreciating market creating refinancing opportunities presents multiple financing pathways for prospective homebuyers in San Luis Obispo County. The 58.2% homeownership rate reflects San Luis Obispo County's mix of homeowners and renters, creating opportunities for first-time buyers entering the market.

Who's Buying in San Luis Obispo County

San Luis Obispo County's median $825K pricing positions most properties comfortably within conforming loan limits, maximizing financing options including FHA, conventional, and VA programs. San Luis Obispo County offers diverse property price points across different neighborhoods, each requiring tailored financing approaches based on purchase price and buyer qualifications. Low down payment programs dominate San Luis Obispo County financing, with FHA (3.5% down), conventional (3% down), and zero-down options enabling entry for first-time and budget-conscious buyers.

Your Loan Fit

San Luis Obispo County residents work across diverse employment sectors including Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, Wine industry, Tourism, with median household income of $78,000 supporting varied mortgage qualifications. San Luis Obispo County mortgage applications reflect diverse income sources including W-2 wages, self-employment earnings, and bonus/commission income, with lenders evaluating 2-year income history and employment stability for qualification. Most San Luis Obispo County buyers maintain manageable debt-to-income ratios below 43%, though FHA and VA programs allow up to 50-55% DTI for well-qualified borrowers with compensating factors like substantial reserves or excellent credit.

Down Payment & Refinance in San Luis Obispo County

San Luis Obispo County homebuyers have access to our exclusive 6-Month Forgivable Grant Program covering the entire 3% down payment on conventional loans. This lender-paid grant requires no repayment after 6 months of homeownership, significantly shorter than CalHFA's 5-year programs, and carries no income limits or first-time buyer requirements. In San Luis Obispo County, the program covers up to $31K in down payment assistance for purchases up to $1.03M, working with San Luis Obispo County's $825K median pricing to deliver accessible zero-down financing for median-priced homes. Combined with seller concessions covering closing costs, qualified San Luis Obispo County buyers can purchase homes with minimal upfront cash requirements.

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FHA financing dominates San Luis Obispo County's mortgage market given accessible 3.5% down payments, with conventional 3% down programs and VA zero-down loans also serving qualified buyers. FHA accepts credit scores as low as 580 (or 500 with 10% down), conventional programs approve borrowers at 620+, and our zero-down program works with scores of 640+, accommodating San Luis Obispo County's diverse buyer qualifications. Our loan officers evaluate each San Luis Obispo County buyer's unique situation to recommend the most advantageous loan program based on credit profile, down payment capacity, and long-term homeownership goals.

Local San Luis Obispo County Expertise

Our team has originated mortgages throughout San Luis Obispo County across all price ranges and neighborhoods, developing expertise in local property valuations, appraisal district boundaries, and lender appetites for different San Luis Obispo County areas. Our San Luis Obispo County expertise extends beyond rate quotes to include strategic advice on offer structure, appraisal contingencies, and seller expectations in competitive San Luis Obispo County markets. This local knowledge enables us to pre-qualify buyers accurately, anticipate potential underwriting issues, and close loans efficiently in San Luis Obispo County's unique real estate environment.

San Luis Obispo County Calculators

Calculator with house model and coins representing mortgage calculations

Calculate your monthly payment, affordability, and closing costs with San Luis Obispo County-specific property tax rates and loan limits. Get accurate estimates before you start shopping.

San Luis Obispo County Mortgage FAQs
Common questions answered

Common questions from San Luis Obispo County 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 San Luis Obispo County?

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 San Luis Obispo County?

Typical San Luis Obispo County 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 San Luis Obispo County?

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

What down payment assistance programs are available in San Luis Obispo County?

Our No Money Down program offers $0 down payment for qualified San Luis Obispo County 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 San Luis Obispo County with no money down?

Yes! Zero-down options for San Luis Obispo County 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 San Luis Obispo County families purchase with minimal upfront cash.

What are the loan limits in San Luis Obispo County?

2026 San Luis Obispo County limits: FHA $948,750, Conventional $948,750. Any loan above $948,750 is a jumbo loan. Most San Luis Obispo County properties fall within conforming limits, maximizing your financing options.

Should I get an FHA or conventional loan in San Luis Obispo County?

For San Luis Obispo County's $825K 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 San Luis Obispo County. 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 San Luis Obispo County?

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 San Luis Obispo County?

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

What if my credit score is below 620?

You still have options in San Luis Obispo County. 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 Luis Obispo 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 San Luis Obispo County?

Closing costs in San Luis Obispo County typically run 2-4% of the purchase price. On a $825K 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 San Luis Obispo County?

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 San Luis Obispo County?

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

Closing costs in San Luis Obispo County typically run 2-4% of the purchase price. On a $825K 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 San Luis Obispo County?

Typical San Luis Obispo County 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 San Luis Obispo County?

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 San Luis Obispo County?

2026 San Luis Obispo County limits: FHA $948,750, Conventional $948,750. Any loan above $948,750 is a jumbo loan. Most San Luis Obispo County properties fall within conforming limits, maximizing your financing options.

What down payment assistance programs are available in San Luis Obispo County?

Our No Money Down program offers $0 down payment for qualified San Luis Obispo County 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 San Luis Obispo County with no money down?

Yes! Zero-down options for San Luis Obispo County 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 San Luis Obispo County families purchase with minimal upfront cash.

Do you work with first-time homebuyers in San Luis Obispo County?

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

What if my credit score is below 620?

You still have options in San Luis Obispo County. 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 San Luis Obispo County?

For San Luis Obispo County's $825K 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 are the 2026 loan limits in San Luis Obispo County?

San Luis Obispo County is designated as a high-cost area. Conventional conforming loan limits are $949K for single-family homes, $1.2M for 2-unit properties, $1.5M for 3-unit properties, and $1.8M for 4-unit properties. FHA limits match these amounts.

Which cities in San Luis Obispo County do you serve?

We serve all cities and communities throughout San Luis Obispo County, California.

Do I need a jumbo loan to buy in San Luis Obispo County?

Thanks to San Luis Obispo County's high-cost designation, you can finance homes up to $949K with a conventional conforming loan. You only need a jumbo loan for properties exceeding this amount.

What down payment assistance programs are available in San Luis Obispo County?

Several programs are available including CalHFA down payment assistance, local first-time buyer programs, and various grant programs. We'll help you identify all programs you qualify for based on your income and location.

About San Luis Obispo County’s Housing Market

If you’re looking in San Luis Obispo County, you already know prices aren’t cheap. But here’s what a lot of buyers miss: the federal government classifies this as a “high-cost” area, which actually works in your favor. That designation bumps conforming loan limits to $949K—so a home that would need jumbo financing in most of the country can be financed with a regular conventional loan here. Better rates, easier qualification.

The county spans 4 cities, and they’re genuinely different from each other. San Luis Obispo runs around $950K, while Atascadero comes in closer to $625K. That’s a wide gap, and it means your financing strategy depends heavily on which area you’re targeting.

What keeps the market stable is that people actually work here. Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and wine industry. When you have that kind of employment base, one sector slowing down doesn’t tank the whole housing market.

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