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

Aerial view of Stockton, California skyline

Mortgage broker serving Stockton, 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 Stockton Homebuyers Choose Us

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

Stockton provides attainable homeownership, but buyers face specific financing challenges.

  • Local neighborhoods with varying price points require strategic financing to match each property's requirements.
  • FHA loans with 3.5% down compete well with conventional options in this price range.
  • Credit-challenged buyers find more flexibility with FHA's lower score requirements.

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

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

SCHEDULE FREE CONSULTATION

What Our Clients Say Real stories from real borrowers

How the Mortgage Process Works in Stockton

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

1-2 Days
Market Insights

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

California housing market value rising with upward trend

Prices & Trends

Stockton's market just did something most California cities haven't seen in years. Prices dropped 4.3% over the last year. The median sits at $440K now, and honestly? That's still affordable by Central Valley standards. You're under the conforming loan limit of $833K by a mile, so conventional financing works without any jumbo headaches. The FHA limit is $541K, which gives you room to work if you're going that route. This isn't coastal California pricing. It's not even Sacramento pricing anymore. The correction opened a window.

Who's Buying in Stockton

Two groups dominate here right now. First-timers who've been priced out of the Bay Area finally pulling the trigger on something they can actually afford. And investors. Lots of investors buying rental properties because the yields still make sense even after appreciation slowed down. Median household income is $71K, so dual-income households can make the math work without stretching dangerously. Homeownership rate is 51.7%, so you've got a pretty even split between renters and owners. The relocator story is real. People are cashing out equity from expensive markets and buying here with cash or massive down payments. You're competing with that.

Your Loan Fit

FHA loans are huge here for a reason. At $440K, your 3.5% down payment is only about $15,400. That's reachable for people who've been saving but don't have Silicon Valley money. Conventional at 5% down gets you around $22K, which avoids PMI headaches faster if you can swing it. For the right buyer, financing breaks down like this:
  • FHA if you're at 3.5% down and income is solid but savings are tight
  • Conventional at 5-10% down if you want better rates and can ditch PMI sooner
  • VA is unbeatable if you qualify. Zero down, no PMI, done.
  • DSCR loans for investors who want to scale without income verification drama
  • USDA works in some outer areas if you're buying in the right zone
Don't overthink it. Most people here succeed with plain FHA or conventional. The exotic stuff is for specific situations.

Down Payment & Refinance in Stockton

If you bought here two or three years ago, refinancing might not make sense yet unless rates dropped significantly from your original lock. But if you're sitting on an older loan from before the run-up, there's opportunity. PMI removal is the big one. A lot of people financed with under 20% down when prices were lower, and now they've got the equity to drop it. Cash-out refis are popular for renovations since you can pull equity without selling. Investors are looking hard at DSCR cash-out options to buy more properties while values are softer. Rate-and-term refis work if you're cleaning up your loan structure or ditching an adjustable rate before it moves on you.

Get Started

Let's talk real numbers on down payment. At $440K, you're looking at $15,400 for FHA at 3.5%. That's one scenario. Conventional at 10% is $44K, which is steep unless you sold something already or got family money involved. A lot of buyers here are using gift funds from parents or relatives who want to help. Some are tapping equity from a previous home if they're relocating. And yeah, we offer our no-money-down program that covers your minimum 3-3.5% down payment requirement for qualified buyers. Down payment assistance programs exist in San Joaquin County too, but they come with income caps and hoops. The Bay Area relocators bringing $100K+ from a sale? They're putting 20-25% down and buying in cash-flow mode. That's the split. People grinding to save $20K versus people redeploying six figures.

Local Stockton Expertise

Start with preapproval so you know what you're actually qualified to spend here. Stockton moves faster than people expect, especially on well-priced properties under $450K. Schedule a free call with our team and we'll map out what makes sense for your situation. FHA, conventional, investor loans, whatever fits. We know the San Joaquin County programs and we know how to structure deals that close without drama. Don't wait around hoping prices drop another 5%. They might. Or inventory tightens and you're competing again. Get positioned now.

Popular Stockton Neighborhoods

Spanos Park • Brookside • Lincoln Village West • Weston Ranch

Zip Codes We Serve

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

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

Stockton Loan Program Guide Purchase, Refinance & Investment Programs

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

Quick Compare: Stockton 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 Stockton

FHA Loans

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

Calhfa Programs

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

VA Loans

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

Usda Loans

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

Conforming Loans

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

Local Dpa Programs

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

Bridge Loans

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

LLC Funding Programs

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

Best Refinance Options in Stockton

FHA Loans Refinance

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

VA Loans Refinance

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

Usda Loans Refinance

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

Conforming Refinance

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

Cash Out Refinance

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

Home Equity Refinance

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

Best Investment & Commercial Loans in Stockton

DSCR Loans

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

Fix And Flip Loans

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

Commercial Hard Money Loans

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

Multifamily Loans

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

Best Down Payment Assistance Programs for Stockton

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 Stockton buyers with qualifying income.

CalHFA Down Payment Assistance

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

Local Down Payment Programs

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

Elite Grant Program

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

USDA Zero Down Loans

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

Gift of Equity

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

Non-Occupant Co-Borrower

Stockton 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 Stockton is a Great Place to Buy a Home

Stockton sits in the heart of the Central Valley where I-5 and CA-99 cross, about 80 miles east of San Francisco and 45 miles south of Sacramento. Population is 320,030, median household income $71,612. The homeownership rate here is 51.7%, which tells you this is still a renter-heavy city, but that's changing as Bay Area buyers discover they can actually afford a house here. At $440K median home price, you're looking at one of the last places in Northern California where a household pulling in $70-75K can qualify for a conventional loan on a single-family home without stretching to the breaking point.

Schools & Family Appeal

If you've got kids, the school ratings matter for both your daily life and what happens when you sell. Village Oaks Elementary pulls an 8, Weston Elementary a 7, Bear Creek High a 7. Those aren't the top scores you'll see in Marin County, but they're solid and the districts have been investing in improvements. The thing is, families are moving here from the Bay Area where they were priced out, and they're staying put once they buy. That stability helps your property value over time. When you're comparing a $440K house in Stockton to a $1.2M fixer in Fremont, these school ratings start looking pretty reasonable for what you're actually paying.

  • Village Oaks Elementary
  • Weston Elementary
  • Bear Creek High School

The Neighborhood Feel

Where you buy in Stockton determines what loan you'll need and what kind of equity you're building. Spanos Park runs $550K-$750K, the upscale option with a golf course and newer builds on maintained lots. You'll need a conventional loan with solid credit here, sometimes jumbo depending on the property. Weston Ranch offers newer construction in south Stockton, $480K-$650K, popular with families who want modern finishes and good schools. Brookside is the sweet spot for a lot of buyers, $400K-$550K, tree-lined streets and established homes where conventional loans work fine. Lincoln Village West is your entry point at $350K-$450K, diverse and transit-accessible, where FHA loans are common for first-timers who need that lower down payment option.

  • Spanos Park
  • Weston Ranch
  • Brookside
  • Lincoln Village West

Getting Around

You're sitting at the crossroads of I-5 and CA-99, which means you can reach Sacramento in 45 minutes or the East Bay in about an hour on a good day. The ACE Train runs commuters to San Jose, and that's been a game changer for people who work in tech but can't stomach Bay Area home prices. Real talk, the commute is why Stockton stays affordable while Tracy and Livermore have climbed past $700K. If you're working remotely or landed a job at the University of the Pacific or one of the hospitals, you get Northern California access without the Northern California mortgage payment. CA-4 connects you west toward the Delta and Antioch if that's your work corridor.

Jobs & Economy

The job market here is more diverse than people think, and it matters when lenders look at employment stability in the area. Amazon's fulfillment center is massive and still hiring, University of the Pacific provides steady education jobs, and the hospital system between Dameron and Oak Valley employs thousands in healthcare. Stockton Police Department and city services add public sector stability. Team Fishel brings construction and infrastructure work. The mix gives you options if you're buying here and need to switch jobs without leaving town. Lenders like seeing multiple employment sectors because it means the local economy won't tank if one industry stumbles. That employment diversity is part of why Stockton's housing market has recovered strong since the 2008 crash.

  • Amazon Fulfillment Center
  • University of the Pacific
  • Dameron Hospital
  • Oak Valley Hospital
  • Stockton Police Department
  • Team Fishel

Stockton Mortgage FAQs
Common questions answered

Common questions from Stockton 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 Stockton?

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 Stockton?

Typical Stockton 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 Stockton?

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

What down payment assistance programs are available in Stockton?

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

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

What are the loan limits in Stockton?

2026 San Joaquin County limits: FHA $603,750, Conventional $832,750. Any loan above $832,750 is a jumbo loan. Most Stockton properties fall within conforming limits, maximizing your financing options.

Should I get an FHA or conventional loan in Stockton?

For Stockton'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 Stockton. 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 Stockton?

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 Stockton?

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

What if my credit score is below 620?

You still have options in Stockton. 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 Joaquin 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 Stockton?

Closing costs in Stockton 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 Stockton?

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 Stockton?

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

Closing costs in Stockton 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 Stockton?

Typical Stockton 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 Stockton?

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 Stockton?

2026 San Joaquin County limits: FHA $603,750, Conventional $832,750. Any loan above $832,750 is a jumbo loan. Most Stockton properties fall within conforming limits, maximizing your financing options.

What down payment assistance programs are available in Stockton?

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

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

Do you work with first-time homebuyers in Stockton?

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

What if my credit score is below 620?

You still have options in Stockton. 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 Stockton?

For Stockton'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 Stockton?

The 2026 FHA loan limit for Stockton (San Joaquin County) is $524K for a single-family home. This is a moderate-cost area limit. Properties above this amount require jumbo financing. FHA loans allow down payments as low as 3.5% for qualified borrowers.

Do I need a jumbo loan in Stockton?

With Stockton's median home price at $440K, many properties are near or above the $833K conforming limit. Higher-priced homes will require jumbo financing.

What are the 2026 loan limits for San Joaquin County?

The 2026 San Joaquin County loan limits are: FHA: $524K, VA: $1.25M, Conventional: $833K. Any loan amount above $833K is considered a jumbo loan.

Can I get a VA loan in Stockton?

Yes! Veterans and active military can use VA loans in Stockton with $0 down payment. The 2026 VA loan limit for San Joaquin County is $1.25M. For properties above this amount, you can still use a VA loan but will need a down payment on the amount exceeding the limit.

How long does it take to get approved for a Stockton mortgage?

We provide same-day pre-approvals for most loan programs. Full loan approval and closing typically takes 21-30 days for conventional and jumbo loans, and 30-45 days for FHA and VA loans.

What down payment do I need for a Stockton home?

Down payment requirements vary by loan type: Conventional: 3-20%, FHA: 3.5%, VA: $0 for eligible veterans, Jumbo: typically 10-20%. For Stockton's median price of $440K, typical down payments range from 5-10%.

What credit score do I need to buy in Stockton?

Minimum credit scores vary by loan type: FHA: 580, Conventional: 620, VA: typically 620, Jumbo: 680-700+. Higher credit scores qualify for better interest rates.

How do I choose the right mortgage lender?

Look for a lender with California experience, strong communication, competitive rates, and the ability to close on time. We've been serving California homebuyers for 40+ years with senior loan officers who specialize in complex scenarios.

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