Licensed California Mortgage Broker

Mortgage Loans in
Santa Clara County
Santa Clara 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 Santa Clara community.

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Why Santa Clara County Homebuyers Choose Us

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

Happy couple celebrating home purchase in Santa Clara County

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

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

As mortgage specialists serving Santa Clara County buyers across 15 cities, we match your unique situation to the right program.

Santa Clara County buyers navigate varied price points across 15 diverse cities.

  • Premium areas like West Valley 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 Santa Clara County purchase.

SCHEDULE FREE CONSULTATION

What Our Clients Say Real stories from real borrowers

How the Mortgage Process Works in Santa Clara 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 Santa Clara 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 Santa Clara County home. We coordinate everything to make closing day smooth and stress-free.

1-2 Days

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

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

Santa Clara County Loan Limits

High-Cost Area
Loan Type 1-Unit 2-Unit 3-Unit 4-Unit
Conventional
$1,249,125 $1.25M $1,598,880 $1.60M $1,932,396 $1.93M $2,402,067 $2.40M
FHA
$1,249,125 $1.25M $1,598,880 $1.60M $1,932,396 $1.93M $2,402,067 $2.40M

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

Santa Clara County Market

Santa Clara County Housing & Mortgage Market in 2026 Financing options, loan programs & affordability guide

California housing market value rising with upward trend

Prices & Trends

Santa Clara County represents a Bay Area community with $1.4M median home pricing, attracting established professionals, dual-income families, and successful business owners with upper-middle to high household incomes. The appreciating market creating refinancing opportunities presents diverse financing strategies for prospective homebuyers in Santa Clara County. The 56.8% homeownership rate reflects Santa Clara County's mix of homeowners and renters, creating opportunities for first-time buyers entering the market.

Who's Buying in Santa Clara County

Santa Clara County's housing market spans both conforming and jumbo loan territories, with the $1.25M Santa Clara County loan limit creating a natural financing threshold. Santa Clara County offers diverse property price points across different neighborhoods, each requiring tailored financing approaches based on purchase price and buyer qualifications. Buyers typically approach Santa Clara County purchases with 20-30% down payments to avoid PMI and secure competitive rates, though lower down payment jumbo programs exist for well-qualified borrowers.

Your Loan Fit

Santa Clara County residents work across diverse employment sectors including Silicon Valley tech giants (Apple, Google, Meta), Stanford University research, Venture capital and startups, with median household income of $140,000 supporting substantial mortgage qualifications. High-earning borrowers in Santa Clara County frequently include business owners, executives, and self-employed professionals requiring bank statement loans, asset-based qualification, or specialized jumbo documentation beyond traditional W-2 income verification. Despite high incomes, Santa Clara County buyers often approach maximum 43-50% debt-to-income ratios given elevated property prices, requiring careful debt management and sometimes paying down obligations before closing.

Down Payment & Refinance in Santa Clara County

Santa Clara County buyers utilize diverse loan products including jumbo financing for higher-priced properties, high-balance conforming loans near the $1.25M limit, and conventional financing for properties below conforming thresholds. Jumbo lenders in Santa Clara County typically require 680-720+ credit scores, substantial reserves (6-12 months), and comprehensive income documentation, while conventional and FHA options accommodate broader credit profiles. Our loan officers evaluate each Santa Clara County buyer's unique situation to recommend the most advantageous loan program based on credit profile, down payment capacity, and long-term homeownership goals.

Get Started

Our Senior Loan Officers have closed hundreds of Santa Clara County transactions, understanding the nuances of jumbo underwriting, appraisal considerations for luxury properties, and coordination with private banks serving high-net-worth buyers. Our Santa Clara County expertise extends beyond rate quotes to include strategic advice on offer structure, appraisal contingencies, and seller expectations in competitive Santa Clara County markets. This local knowledge enables us to pre-qualify buyers accurately, anticipate potential underwriting issues, and close loans efficiently in Santa Clara County's unique real estate environment.

Santa Clara County Calculators

Calculator with house model and coins representing mortgage calculations

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

Santa Clara County Mortgage FAQs
Common questions answered

Common questions from Santa Clara 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 Santa Clara County?

Pre-approval typically takes 24-72 hours. Full underwriting approval takes 14-21 days. Santa Clara County's competitive market often requires quick approvals—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 include: pay stubs (30 days), W-2s (2 years), tax returns (2 years), bank statements (2 months), and photo ID. Self-employed Santa Clara County borrowers can use bank statement programs requiring 12-24 months of deposits instead of tax returns. Asset-based qualification is available for high-net-worth buyers.

How long does it take to close on a house in Santa Clara County?

Typical Santa Clara County closing timeline: 30-45 days from accepted offer. VA/FHA loans may take slightly longer. Cash buyers close in 7-14 days. In competitive situations, we offer expedited underwriting for well-qualified borrowers who need faster closings.

What down payment do I need to buy a home in Santa Clara County?

In Santa Clara County's $1.4M market, most buyers put 15-20% down to secure competitive jumbo rates and avoid PMI. Some jumbo programs allow 10% down with strong credit (720+) and 12+ months reserves. Conventional loans under $1,249,125 can go as low as 3-5% down.

How can I avoid PMI on my Santa Clara County home purchase?

PMI applies to conventional loans under 20% down. Options to avoid it: put 20% down, use an 80-10-10 piggyback structure (80% first mortgage, 10% second, 10% down), or choose lender-paid PMI (slightly higher rate). For jumbo loans, many programs don't require PMI even with 10-15% down.

What are the loan limits in Santa Clara County?

2026 Santa Clara County limits: FHA $1,249,125, Conventional $1,249,125. Any loan above $1,249,125 is a jumbo loan. With Santa Clara County's $1.4M median price, many single-family purchases require jumbo financing.

What are the requirements for a jumbo loan in Santa Clara County?

Jumbo loans (above $1,249,125) in Santa Clara County typically require: 680-720+ credit score, 10-20% down payment, 6-12 months cash reserves after closing, and comprehensive income documentation. Rates are competitive with conforming loans. Our Senior Loan Officers specialize in jumbo underwriting for Santa Clara County's high-value properties.

Can I buy investment property in Santa Clara County without showing my income?

Yes. DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio) loans qualify based on the property's rental income, not your personal income or tax returns. Santa Clara County's strong rental market makes DSCR loans attractive. The property just needs rent covering 1.0x the mortgage payment. Requires 20-25% down and 680+ credit.

What if I was denied by another lender?

A denial doesn't mean you can't buy in Santa Clara County. We review your denial letter, identify the specific issues (credit, DTI, income documentation), and match you with lenders who have more flexible guidelines. Self-employed borrowers denied by big banks often qualify through our bank statement and asset-based programs.

What credit score do I need to buy a home in Santa Clara County?

Jumbo loans in Santa Clara County typically require 700+ credit scores, with the best rates at 740+. We have select jumbo programs starting at 680 with compensating factors. Conforming loans start at 620, and FHA accepts 580+ (or 500 with 10% down).

Can I get approved if I'm self-employed or have 1099 income?

Absolutely. Over 40% of our Santa Clara County clients are self-employed. We offer bank statement loans (12-24 months deposits), P&L-only programs, and asset depletion loans for high-net-worth buyers. Our team specializes in complex income verification that big banks can't handle.

Can I qualify using RSUs, stock options, or bonus income?

Yes. We work with lenders who understand tech and executive compensation in Santa Clara County. RSUs and stock options can be used with a 2-year vesting history. Bonus income requires 2 years of history. We can also use unvested RSUs as reserves for jumbo qualification.

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 Santa Clara 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 Santa Clara County?

Closing costs in Santa Clara County typically run 1.5-2.5% of the purchase price. On a $1.4M home, expect $20,000-$40,000 covering appraisal, title insurance, escrow fees, loan origination, and prepaid taxes/insurance. Jumbo loans may have slightly higher fees.

How long does it take to get approved for a mortgage in Santa Clara County?

Pre-approval typically takes 24-72 hours. Full underwriting approval takes 14-21 days. Santa Clara County's competitive market often requires quick approvals—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 Santa Clara County?

In Santa Clara County's $1.4M market, most buyers put 15-20% down to secure competitive jumbo rates and avoid PMI. Some jumbo programs allow 10% down with strong credit (720+) and 12+ months reserves. Conventional loans under $1,249,125 can go as low as 3-5% down.

What if I was denied by another lender?

A denial doesn't mean you can't buy in Santa Clara County. We review your denial letter, identify the specific issues (credit, DTI, income documentation), and match you with lenders who have more flexible guidelines. Self-employed borrowers denied by big banks often qualify through our bank statement and asset-based programs.

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 Santa Clara 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 Santa Clara County?

Closing costs in Santa Clara County typically run 1.5-2.5% of the purchase price. On a $1.4M home, expect $20,000-$40,000 covering appraisal, title insurance, escrow fees, loan origination, and prepaid taxes/insurance. Jumbo loans may have slightly higher fees.

What documents do I need to apply for a mortgage?

Standard documents include: pay stubs (30 days), W-2s (2 years), tax returns (2 years), bank statements (2 months), and photo ID. Self-employed Santa Clara County borrowers can use bank statement programs requiring 12-24 months of deposits instead of tax returns. Asset-based qualification is available for high-net-worth buyers.

How long does it take to close on a house in Santa Clara County?

Typical Santa Clara County closing timeline: 30-45 days from accepted offer. VA/FHA loans may take slightly longer. Cash buyers close in 7-14 days. In competitive situations, we offer expedited underwriting for well-qualified borrowers who need faster closings.

What credit score do I need to buy a home in Santa Clara County?

Jumbo loans in Santa Clara County typically require 700+ credit scores, with the best rates at 740+. We have select jumbo programs starting at 680 with compensating factors. Conforming loans start at 620, and FHA accepts 580+ (or 500 with 10% down).

What are the loan limits in Santa Clara County?

2026 Santa Clara County limits: FHA $1,249,125, Conventional $1,249,125. Any loan above $1,249,125 is a jumbo loan. With Santa Clara County's $1.4M median price, many single-family purchases require jumbo financing.

What are the requirements for a jumbo loan in Santa Clara County?

Jumbo loans (above $1,249,125) in Santa Clara County typically require: 680-720+ credit score, 10-20% down payment, 6-12 months cash reserves after closing, and comprehensive income documentation. Rates are competitive with conforming loans. Our Senior Loan Officers specialize in jumbo underwriting for Santa Clara County's high-value properties.

Can I get approved if I'm self-employed or have 1099 income?

Absolutely. Over 40% of our Santa Clara County clients are self-employed. We offer bank statement loans (12-24 months deposits), P&L-only programs, and asset depletion loans for high-net-worth buyers. Our team specializes in complex income verification that big banks can't handle.

Can I buy investment property in Santa Clara County without showing my income?

Yes. DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio) loans qualify based on the property's rental income, not your personal income or tax returns. Santa Clara County's strong rental market makes DSCR loans attractive. The property just needs rent covering 1.0x the mortgage payment. Requires 20-25% down and 680+ credit.

Can I qualify using RSUs, stock options, or bonus income?

Yes. We work with lenders who understand tech and executive compensation in Santa Clara County. RSUs and stock options can be used with a 2-year vesting history. Bonus income requires 2 years of history. We can also use unvested RSUs as reserves for jumbo qualification.

How can I avoid PMI on my Santa Clara County home purchase?

PMI applies to conventional loans under 20% down. Options to avoid it: put 20% down, use an 80-10-10 piggyback structure (80% first mortgage, 10% second, 10% down), or choose lender-paid PMI (slightly higher rate). For jumbo loans, many programs don't require PMI even with 10-15% down.

What are the 2026 loan limits in Santa Clara County?

Santa Clara County is designated as a high-cost area. Conventional conforming loan limits are $1.2M for single-family homes, $1.6M for 2-unit properties, $1.9M for 3-unit properties, and $2.4M for 4-unit properties. FHA limits match these amounts.

Which cities in Santa Clara County do you serve?

We serve all cities and communities throughout Santa Clara County, California.

Do I need a jumbo loan to buy in Santa Clara County?

Thanks to Santa Clara County's high-cost designation, you can finance homes up to $1.2M with a conventional conforming loan. You only need a jumbo loan for properties exceeding this amount.

What down payment assistance programs are available in Santa Clara 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 Santa Clara County’s Housing Market

If you’re looking in Santa Clara 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 $1.25M—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 10 cities, and they’re genuinely different from each other. Palo Alto runs around $3.2M, while Morgan Hill comes in closer to $1.1M. 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. Silicon Valley tech giants (Apple, Google, Meta), and stanford University research. When you have that kind of employment base, one sector slowing down doesn’t tank the whole housing market.

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