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

40+
Years Experience

Mortgage broker serving Selma, 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 Selma Homebuyers Choose Us

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

First-time buyers in Selma need the right loan programs to maximize their purchasing power.

  • Downtown Selma homes at $403K fit comfortably under the $833K conforming limit, allowing conventional loans with just 3% down or FHA at 3.5%.
  • Agriculture and food processing workers with seasonal income need bank statement loans or asset-based programs to qualify without traditional W-2 documentation.
  • Self-employed farmers and agricultural contractors should use bank statement loans that qualify on gross deposits rather than write-off-heavy tax returns.

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

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

SCHEDULE FREE CONSULTATION

What Our Clients Say Real stories from real borrowers

How the Mortgage Process Works in Selma

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

1-2 Days
Market Insights

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

California housing market value rising with upward trend

Prices & Trends

Selma sits in the sweet spot for Central Valley affordability. The median home price is $402,500, and it hasn't budged in the past year. No crazy appreciation, no scary drops. Just stable. The conforming loan limit here is $832,750, which gives you plenty of room to work with conventional financing without jumping into jumbo territory. FHA caps out at $541,287, more than double what most homes cost here. You've got options, and honestly, that's half the battle in California real estate right now.

Who's Buying in Selma

First-time buyers dominate this market, especially people getting priced out of Fresno or relocating from the Bay Area and coastal cities. When your household income is around $53,874 and homes are just over $400K, you need smart financing to make it work. But it's doable. Families moving here from San Jose or Oakland look at these prices and feel like they can finally breathe. The homeownership rate is 54.3%, so about half the town rents and half owns. This isn't some investor-heavy rental market. Real families are buying and staying put.

Your Loan Fit

FHA loans are popular here for good reason. The 3.5% down payment requirement makes homeownership accessible fast. But don't sleep on conventional loans if you can scrape together 5% or more. You'll avoid the upfront mortgage insurance premium that FHA hits you with, and your monthly payment drops too.
  • FHA works great if you're sitting on $14K-$17K for down payment and closing costs
  • Conventional at 5% down needs about $20K-$25K but saves you money long-term
  • VA buyers should use that benefit every single time. Zero down, no PMI, better rates
  • USDA loans might be an option depending on which part of Selma you're buying in. Some areas qualify, some don't
Run the numbers both ways before you commit. The difference in monthly payment can be $100-$200.

Down Payment & Refinance in Selma

Already own here? Refinancing makes sense if rates dropped since you bought or if you've got PMI you can ditch. Most people refinance to lower their rate or pull cash out for renovations. Home values have been flat lately, so you're not sitting on a goldmine of equity, but if you bought a few years back, you've probably got enough to work with. Investors should look at DSCR loans if they're holding rentals here. You qualify based on the property's rent, not your W-2 income. Makes life easier if you've got multiple properties or you're self-employed.

Get Started

Let's talk real numbers on down payment. FHA at 3.5% means you need about $14,088 to get into a median-priced home. Conventional at 5% is $20,125. That's the actual cash you need, not some vague percentage. A lot of buyers here use gift funds from family to close the gap. Parents or grandparents can write you a check, and lenders are fine with it as long as it's documented properly. Some buyers tap equity from a previous home if they're relocating. And look, if scraping together even $14K feels impossible, we offer our no-money-down program that covers your minimum 3-3.5% down payment requirement. It's not a loan or a grant you have to pay back. It just gets you in the door faster.

Local Selma Expertise

Getting started is simple. Schedule a free call with us and we'll run your numbers in about 15 minutes. You'll know exactly what you qualify for, what your payment looks like, and which loan type saves you the most money. We work with buyers in Selma every week, so we know the local market and which lenders actually close on time. Don't wait until you find a house to figure out financing. Sellers here want to see preapproval before they take your offer seriously. Our team can get you locked in and ready to move fast when the right property pops up.

Popular Selma Neighborhoods

Downtown Selma

Zip Codes We Serve

93662

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

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

Selma Loan Program Guide Purchase, Refinance & Investment Programs

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

Quick Compare: Selma 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 Selma

FHA Loans

FHA dominates Selma purchases. Low down payment and credit flexibility for first-time buyers.

Calhfa Programs

CalHFA is a strong option for Selma. State programs reduce out-of-pocket costs significantly.

VA Loans

Veterans buy Selma homes with $0 down. Full VA benefits cover all properties here.

Usda Loans

Many Selma properties qualify for USDA zero-down loans. Rural designation required.

Conforming Loans

All Selma properties qualify for conforming loans. 3% down minimum for first-time buyers.

Local Dpa Programs

Selma local programs provide significant DPA. Stack with state programs for best results.

Bridge Loans

Bridge financing for Selma homeowners moving. Buy your next home without waiting to sell.

LLC Funding Programs

LLC financing available in Selma. Investors can purchase in entity names.

Best Refinance Options in Selma

FHA Loans Refinance

FHA streamline dominates Selma refinances. Quick approval with minimal paperwork.

VA Loans Refinance

VA IRRRL is the best refi for Selma veterans. No paperwork hassles, quick closing.

Usda Loans Refinance

Many Selma homeowners with USDA loans can use streamline refinance. No appraisal needed.

Conforming Refinance

Every Selma refinance qualifies for conforming rates. Best terms for rate reduction.

Cash Out Refinance

Selma owners can access equity through cash-out refi. Rates competitive with purchase loans.

Home Equity Refinance

Fixed home equity loan option in Selma. Predictable payments for major expenses.

Best Investment & Commercial Loans in Selma

DSCR Loans

DSCR financing for Selma investors. Buy rentals based on property income potential.

Fix And Flip Loans

Fix-and-flip financing for Selma investors. Buy distressed properties, renovate, sell.

Commercial Hard Money Loans

Commercial hard money in Selma. Quick funding when timing is critical.

Multifamily Loans

Multifamily loans available for Selma apartment investors. Commercial financing options.

Best Down Payment Assistance Programs for Selma

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 Selma buyers with qualifying income.

CalHFA Down Payment Assistance

CalHFA is a strong option for Selma. State programs reduce out-of-pocket costs significantly.

Local Down Payment Programs

Selma local programs provide significant DPA. Stack with state programs for best results.

Elite Grant Program

Elite grants provide Selma down payment help. Free money for qualified buyers.

USDA Zero Down Loans

Many Selma properties qualify for USDA zero-down loans. Rural designation required.

Gift of Equity

Family property transfers in Selma benefit from gift of equity. No cash down payment needed.

Non-Occupant Co-Borrower

Selma first-time buyers often use co-borrowers. Family help for 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 Selma is a Great Place to Buy a Home

Selma sits in the heart of the Central Valley, 20 minutes south of Fresno in Fresno County. Population is 24,576, median household income $53,874. The homeownership rate here is 54.3%, right in the middle for California. At $402,500 median home price, you're looking at one of the more accessible entry points in the Central Valley for buyers who can't swing Fresno's higher prices but still want reasonable access to city jobs and services.

Schools & Family Appeal

If you're buying with kids in mind, Selma Unified covers the whole city. Selma High School serves the entire district, Abraham Lincoln Middle feeds into it, and Garfield and Jackson Elementary anchor the elementary level. The schools aren't pulling top ratings statewide, but they're stable and the district has deep community roots. For families earning in that $50-60K range, the combination of sub-$410K homes and established schools makes qualifying for a conventional or FHA loan realistic. The homeownership rate tells you something too - over half the residents own rather than rent, so you'll have neighbors who care about property values and community stability.

  • Selma High School
  • Abraham Lincoln Middle School
  • Garfield Elementary School
  • Jackson Elementary School

The Neighborhood Feel

Selma doesn't break down into a bunch of distinct subdivisions the way newer cities do. Downtown Selma runs around $403K median and represents most of the housing stock - you're looking at older homes with character, many from the early to mid-1900s when Selma was a major agricultural hub. The historic district along the main commercial streets gives the city its identity. Most buyers here use FHA loans because the price point and income levels line up perfectly with FHA's lower down payment requirements. You'll find a mix of original Craftsman-style homes and mid-century builds, most on decent-sized lots compared to what you'd get in a newer development. The lack of premium neighborhoods means you won't see huge price swings block to block, which actually helps with appraisals and loan approval.

  • Downtown Selma

Getting Around

The 20-minute commute to Fresno is Selma's biggest selling point for mortgage qualification. You can work in Fresno where wages tend to run higher, then buy in Selma where your dollar stretches further. Highway 99 runs just west of town and gets you north to Fresno or south toward Bakersfield in about 90 minutes if you need it. There's local transit, but real talk, most people drive. That Fresno commute is short enough that you're not burning through gas money or car maintenance the way you would with a 90-minute haul. For buyers trying to make the math work on a mortgage, living close to Fresno jobs without paying Fresno prices is the whole game.

Jobs & Economy

Agriculture drives everything here. Selma Unified School District is the largest employer and provides stable public sector jobs with benefits. Del Monte Foods and Sun-Maid Growers both have major operations here - Sun-Maid's headquarters is actually in Selma, which tells you how central the raisin industry is to the local economy. Beyond that, you've got packing houses and agricultural operations throughout the area. The job mix is heavily weighted toward ag production, food processing, education, and related services. Most buyers either work locally in these industries or commute to Fresno for office jobs, healthcare, or government work. The income levels reflect that ag economy - $53,874 median household income means lenders here see a lot of conventional loans with lower down payments and plenty of FHA applications.

  • Selma Unified School District
  • Del Monte Foods
  • Sun-Maid Growers
  • Local agricultural operations and packing houses

Selma Mortgage FAQs
Common questions answered

Common questions from Selma 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 Selma?

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 Selma?

Typical Selma 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 Selma?

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

What down payment assistance programs are available in Selma?

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

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

What are the loan limits in Selma?

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

Should I get an FHA or conventional loan in Selma?

For Selma'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 Selma. 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 Selma?

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 Selma?

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

What if my credit score is below 620?

You still have options in Selma. 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 Fresno 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 Selma?

Closing costs in Selma 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 Selma?

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 Selma?

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

Closing costs in Selma 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 Selma?

Typical Selma 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 Selma?

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 Selma?

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

What down payment assistance programs are available in Selma?

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

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

Do you work with first-time homebuyers in Selma?

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

What if my credit score is below 620?

You still have options in Selma. 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 Selma?

For Selma'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 Selma?

The FHA loan limit in Selma is $541,300 for 2025. This covers nearly all homes in Selma's market, where the median price is around $403,000, making FHA loans an excellent option for first. time buyers with limited down payment savings.

Do I need a jumbo loan in Selma?

You won't need a jumbo loan for most homes in Selma. With conforming and FHA limits at $833,000 and $541,300 respectively, and typical home prices between $300K. $450K, standard loan programs will cover your purchase. Jumbo loans are only necessary for luxury properties well above Selma's median price of $403,000.

What are the 2026 loan limits for Fresno County?

For 2025, Fresno County's loan limits are $541,300 for FHA loans, $833,000 for VA loans, and $833,000 for conforming conventional loans. These limits are set annually and typically adjust each January based on home price trends, so 2026 limits will be announced in late 2025.

Can I get a VA loan in Selma?

Yes, VA loans are available in Selma with a generous loan limit of $833,000, which covers all typical homes in the area. If you're a qualified veteran or active military, VA loans offer 0% down with no mortgage insurance, making them one of the best options for homebuyers in Selma's $300K. $450K market.

What down payment assistance programs are available in Selma?

Our No Money Down program offers $0 down payment for qualified buyers in Selma. Additionally, CalHFA programs provide down payment and closing cost assistance for first. time buyers, and Fresno County offers local DPA programs that can cover 3. 3.5% of your purchase price. Some areas of Selma may also qualify for USDA loans with zero down payment.

What down payment do I need for a Selma home?

You can buy a Selma home with as little as 0% down through VA, USDA, or our No Money Down program. FHA loans require just 3.5% down (about $14,000 on a $403,000 home), while conventional loans typically need 3. 5% down. Down payment assistance programs can help cover most or all of these costs for qualified first. time buyers.

What credit score do I need to buy in Selma?

You can qualify for an FHA loan in Selma with a credit score as low as 580, or even 500 with 10% down. Conventional loans typically require a 620 minimum score, while VA loans are often approved with scores around 580. 620. Given Selma's entry. level market, FHA's flexible credit requirements make homeownership accessible for many first. time buyers.

How do I choose the right mortgage lender?

Choose a lender experienced with Selma's entry. level market who understands FHA loans and down payment assistance programs that are crucial for buyers in the $300K. $450K range. Look for someone who can explain CalHFA, county DPA programs, and zero. down options clearly, and who offers competitive rates with transparent fees. A local lender familiar with Fresno County will navigate your transaction more smoothly than a national bank.

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