Licensed California Mortgage Broker

Mortgage Loans in
Sierra County
Sierra 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 Sierra community.

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Why Sierra County Homebuyers Choose Us

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

Happy couple celebrating home purchase in Sierra County

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

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

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

Sierra County offers opportunities for buyers with the right financing strategy.

  • Wide price range means finding the right loan program matters
  • First-time buyers compete with investors for inventory
  • Pre-approval strength makes the difference in negotiations

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

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

SCHEDULE FREE CONSULTATION

What Our Clients Say Real stories from real borrowers

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

1-2 Days

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

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

Sierra County Loan Limits

Loan Type 1-Unit 2-Unit 3-Unit 4-Unit
Conventional
$832,750 $833K $1,066,250 $1.07M $1,288,800 $1.29M $1,601,750 $1.60M
FHA
$541,287 $541K $693,050 $693K $837,700 $838K $1,041,125 $1.04M

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

Sierra County Market

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

California housing market value rising with upward trend

Prices & Trends

Sierra County offers Sierra Nevada homeownership opportunities at $350K median pricing, serving first-time buyers, young families, and working-class households with entry-level to moderate household incomes. The appreciating market creating refinancing opportunities presents multiple financing pathways for prospective homebuyers in Sierra County. The 55.0% homeownership rate reflects Sierra County's mix of homeowners and renters, creating opportunities for first-time buyers entering the market.

Who's Buying in Sierra County

Sierra County's median $350K pricing positions most properties comfortably within conforming loan limits, maximizing financing options including FHA, conventional, and VA programs. Sierra 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 Sierra 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

Sierra County households earn median income of $52,000, positioning many families to qualify for mortgage financing appropriate to local property values. Many Sierra County borrowers qualify using standard W-2 income documentation, while self-employed buyers and gig economy workers utilize alternative documentation programs including bank statement loans showing 12-24 months deposit history. Most Sierra 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 Sierra County

For Sierra County first-time buyers and budget-conscious households, our 6-Month Forgivable Grant Program eliminates the down payment barrier entirely, covering 3% down on conventional financing. 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 Sierra County, the program covers up to $26K in down payment assistance for purchases up to $859K, working with Sierra County's $350K median pricing to deliver accessible zero-down financing for median-priced homes. This program positions Sierra County homeownership within reach for working families who have saved closing costs but lack large down payment reserves.

Get Started

Sierra County buyers predominantly use FHA financing for 3.5% down payment accessibility, zero-down programs including our forgivable grant and VA benefits, and occasional USDA loans for qualified rural properties. 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 Sierra County's diverse buyer qualifications. Our loan officers evaluate each Sierra 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 Sierra County Expertise

We've helped hundreds of Sierra County families achieve homeownership, specializing in first-time buyer programs, down payment assistance navigation, and credit qualification for buyers entering California's real estate market. Our Sierra County expertise extends beyond rate quotes to include strategic advice on offer structure, appraisal contingencies, and seller expectations in competitive Sierra County markets. This local knowledge enables us to pre-qualify buyers accurately, anticipate potential underwriting issues, and close loans efficiently in Sierra County's unique real estate environment.

Sierra County Calculators

Calculator with house model and coins representing mortgage calculations

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

Sierra County Mortgage FAQs
Common questions answered

Common questions from Sierra 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 Sierra 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 Sierra County?

Typical Sierra 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 Sierra County?

You have several low down payment options in Sierra 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 Sierra County buyers purchase with 3.5% or less down.

What down payment assistance programs are available in Sierra County?

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

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

What are the loan limits in Sierra County?

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

Should I get an FHA or conventional loan in Sierra County?

For Sierra County's $350K 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 Sierra 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 Sierra 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 Sierra County?

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

What if my credit score is below 620?

You still have options in Sierra 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 Sierra 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 Sierra County?

Closing costs in Sierra County typically run 2-4% of the purchase price. On a $350K 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 Sierra 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 Sierra County?

You have several low down payment options in Sierra 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 Sierra 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 Sierra 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 Sierra 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 Sierra County?

Closing costs in Sierra County typically run 2-4% of the purchase price. On a $350K 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 Sierra County?

Typical Sierra 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 Sierra 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 Sierra County?

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

What down payment assistance programs are available in Sierra County?

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

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

Do you work with first-time homebuyers in Sierra County?

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

What if my credit score is below 620?

You still have options in Sierra 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 Sierra County?

For Sierra County's $350K 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 Sierra County?

Sierra County is designated as a standard area. Conventional conforming loan limits are $807K for single-family homes, $1M for 2-unit properties, $1.2M for 3-unit properties, and $1.6M for 4-unit properties. FHA limits match these amounts.

Which cities and communities in Sierra County do you serve?

We serve all of Sierra County including Loyalton (the only incorporated city), plus communities like Downieville (the county seat), Sierra City, Sierraville, Sierra Brooks, Calpine, and Pike.

Do I need a jumbo loan to buy in Sierra County?

Most properties in Sierra County fall under the $807K conforming limit, allowing you to use conventional financing with better rates.

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

Sierra County’s housing market is tough to pin down with traditional metrics because you’re looking at one of California’s smallest counties by population. With just over 3,200 residents and no incorporated cities, this isn’t a place where you’ll find rows of suburban developments or competing neighborhoods. The conforming loan limit here sits at $807,000, same as standard counties across the state, which means you won’t get the higher borrowing power that comes with high-cost area designations. The county’s communities are scattered across mountain terrain, from Downieville to Sierra City to Loyalton, and each has its own character and price point.

You’ll find everything from older cabins needing work to updated mountain homes, but inventory is limited and sales are infrequent compared to metro areas. That means when you’re ready to buy, you can’t always be picky about timing or expect multiple options to choose from. The local economy leans heavily on tourism, outdoor recreation, and some timber industry, which keeps things stable but seasonal. Property values here hold up because supply is constrained by geography and land use regulations, not because there’s a booming job market pulling people in. If you’re financing a home here, expect your lender to take a close look at comparable sales since appraisals can be tricky with so few transactions to reference. hasPage: false

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