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

Masonic Temple (1924), pediment detail, Lassen Street, Susanville, California LCCN2017706243.tif

Mortgage broker serving Susanville, 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 Susanville Homebuyers Choose Us

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

First-time buyers in Susanville can achieve homeownership with low down payment programs.

  • Downtown Susanville and Uptown both average $197K, well below the $833K conforming limit, making conventional loans with 3-5% down ideal for most buyers.
  • Government and public sector workers dominate employment; lenders must properly calculate CalPERS pension income and annualize 9-month contract salaries for county employees.
  • Wildfire zones require FAIR Plan insurance as last resort when standard carriers decline coverage, adding $2,000-4,000 annually to housing costs in Sierra Nevada areas.

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

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

SCHEDULE FREE CONSULTATION

What Our Clients Say Real stories from real borrowers

How the Mortgage Process Works in Susanville

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

1-2 Days
Market Insights

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

California housing market value rising with upward trend

Prices & Trends

Susanville sits in a weird spot financially. The median home price is $197,000, which hasn't budged in a year. No appreciation, no crash, just flat. The conforming loan limit here is $832,750, but honestly that's irrelevant when you're shopping under $200K. FHA's loan limit of $541,287 is also way higher than you'll ever need. The real story is that this is one of the last places in California where you can actually buy a house on a working-class income. Prices are stuck because there's limited demand and limited inventory. You're not competing with twenty offers anymore.

Who's Buying in Susanville

First-time buyers and retirees dominate this market. Median household income is $52,997, so you're not dealing with tech money or Bay Area transplants with equity. Homeownership rate is 54.2%, meaning almost half the town rents. The people who buy here are locals who work in town, veterans using their benefits, or folks escaping expensive metros who can work remotely. Investors show up occasionally for rental properties since the entry cost is so low. But mostly it's regular people trying to stop throwing money at rent and build something. You don't need to be rich to own here. You just need a plan.

Your Loan Fit

FHA loans with 3.5% down are the workhorse in this market. Most buyers here don't have 20% sitting around, and FHA doesn't punish you for that. USDA loans are huge if you qualify since Susanville is rural enough to meet the criteria. Zero down, competitive rates, and you're in. VA is obviously the best deal if you're a veteran or active military. Conventional can work if your credit is strong and you've got 5-10% saved, but FHA is usually easier to qualify for at this income level. Your loan strategy should match your cash position:
  • Under $10K saved? FHA 3.5% down or push for USDA zero down
  • Veteran? VA all day, no question
  • Good credit and $15K+? Conventional might get you a better rate and no PMI with 10% down
  • Tight budget but stable job? FHA is forgiving on credit and down payment
Don't overthink it. Pick the loan that gets you in the door with payments you can handle.

Down Payment & Refinance in Susanville

Refinancing here is mostly about lowering your monthly nut or pulling cash for repairs. If you bought when rates were higher, a rate-term refi can save you $100-200 a month easily. That's real money on a $52K income. Cash-out refis make sense if your roof is leaking or you need to consolidate debt, but don't tap equity just to buy a truck. If you've been paying down an FHA loan and built some equity, refinancing into conventional can drop PMI entirely. That's another $100+ back in your pocket every month. Appraisals can be tricky since the market is flat, so don't expect your home to have magically gained value. But if rates dropped or your credit improved since you bought, refinancing is worth exploring.

Get Started

Let's talk real numbers. 3.5% down on a $197,000 home is $6,895. Add in closing costs and you're looking at maybe $10K-12K total to get into a house. That's achievable if you're disciplined about saving, especially compared to California's coastal markets. A lot of buyers here use gift funds from family or down payment assistance programs through the county. Some scrape together savings over a year or two. And look, if you can't get there on your own, our no-money-down program that covers your minimum 3-3.5% down payment requirement is exactly for this situation. We front the down payment, you handle the mortgage. It's not a loan, there's no payback. It's designed for buyers who can afford the monthly payment but don't have the lump sum sitting in savings. If you're paying $1,200 in rent right now, you can probably afford a $1,200 mortgage. The down payment shouldn't be the thing that stops you.

Local Susanville Expertise

Stop waiting for the perfect moment or the perfect amount saved. The market isn't moving, rates are what they are, and you're still paying rent. Schedule a free call and we'll figure out exactly what you qualify for and which loan type makes sense for your situation. Bring your income docs, credit questions, and we'll map it out. Our team works with buyers at this price point every week. We know the programs, the lenders, and how to get deals done in Susanville. Let's get you out of rental mode and into your own place.

Popular Susanville Neighborhoods

Downtown Susanville • Uptown

Zip Codes We Serve

96127, 96130

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

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

Susanville Loan Program Guide Purchase, Refinance & Investment Programs

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

Quick Compare: Susanville Mortgage Options

Loan Type Down Payment Credit Score Best For
FHA 3.5% minimum 580+ First-time buyers, lower credit. Limit: $832,750
VA $0 No minimum Veterans, active military - best 0% down option
Down Payment Assistance $0 (grant covers 3-3.5%) 640+ First-time Susanville buyers, income-qualified

Questions? Call (510) 589-4096 or email info@agoodlender.com

Best Home Purchase Loans in Susanville

Usda Loans

USDA loans are ideal for Susanville. Zero down payment for rural properties. Income limits apply.

FHA Loans

Most Susanville buyers use FHA. 3.5% down payment with 580+ credit. Easiest path to homeownership.

Calhfa Programs

CalHFA plus local DPA can cover full down payment in Susanville. Stack programs for maximum assistance.

VA Loans

VA loans are perfect for Susanville. Zero down, no PMI, and every property qualifies.

Local Dpa Programs

Maximum local DPA available in Susanville. Combine city, county, and state programs.

Conforming Loans

Every Susanville home qualifies for conforming financing. Best rates with good credit.

Bridge Loans

Bridge loans help Susanville owners transition between homes. Short-term gap financing.

LLC Funding Programs

Susanville investors use LLC financing. Entity ownership for asset protection.

Best Refinance Options in Susanville

Usda Loans Refinance

USDA streamline refinance for Susanville. Lower your rate with minimal paperwork.

FHA Loans Refinance

Most Susanville refinances use FHA streamline. No appraisal, no income docs, fast closing.

VA Loans Refinance

Susanville veterans should use VA IRRRL. Streamline your refinance with zero hassle.

Conforming Refinance

Conforming refinance rates for all Susanville properties. Straightforward rate-and-term refi.

Cash Out Refinance

Cash-out refinance available for Susanville homeowners. Convert equity to cash for any need.

Home Equity Refinance

Home equity loans available in Susanville. Fixed rate second mortgage against equity.

Best Investment & Commercial Loans in Susanville

DSCR Loans

Investment properties in Susanville use DSCR loans. Rental income drives qualification.

Fix And Flip Loans

Rehab loans available in Susanville. Fix-and-flip financing covers purchase plus renovation.

Commercial Hard Money Loans

Hard money available for Susanville deals. Fast closing for investment properties.

Multifamily Loans

Susanville apartment buildings use multifamily financing. Commercial loan programs available.

Best Down Payment Assistance Programs for Susanville

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 Susanville buyers with qualifying income.

USDA Zero Down Loans

USDA loans are ideal for Susanville. Zero down payment for rural properties. Income limits apply.

CalHFA Down Payment Assistance

CalHFA plus local DPA can cover full down payment in Susanville. Stack programs for maximum assistance.

Local Down Payment Programs

Maximum local DPA available in Susanville. Combine city, county, and state programs.

Elite Grant Program

Maximum grant assistance for Susanville. Elite and local programs reduce buyer costs.

Gift of Equity

Gift of equity works for Susanville family sales. Seller discount becomes buyer's down payment.

Non-Occupant Co-Borrower

Co-borrower option for Susanville buyers. Family member can help you qualify.

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 Susanville is a Great Place to Buy a Home

Susanville sits in the Sierra Nevada at 4,200 feet elevation, about 85 miles northwest of Reno. Population is 15,737, median household income $52,997. The homeownership rate here is 54.2%, and at $197K median home price, this is one of the most affordable places left in California where you can actually buy a house on a modest income. The two state prisons employ a big chunk of the population, which means steady government paychecks and predictable mortgage qualifications for buyers working in corrections.

Schools & Family Appeal

If you're buying with kids in mind, Lassen Unified serves the area with schools like Diamond View and Meadow View Elementary feeding into Lassen High. The district is small, which means class sizes tend to be manageable compared to urban California schools. Lassen Community College right in town is a real asset if you've got older kids or want to take classes yourself. The fact that housing costs $197K instead of $600K means families can actually afford to buy on teacher or nurse salaries, which is pretty rare in California these days. That stability shows in the 54.2% homeownership rate, lower than some places but respectable for a rural mountain community where some folks are just passing through for work contracts.

  • Lassen High School
  • Diamond View Elementary School
  • Meadow View Elementary School
  • Lassen Community College

The Neighborhood Feel

Downtown Susanville runs around $197K and gives you the historic core with older buildings and walkable access to the courthouse and local businesses. These are mostly older homes, some fixer-uppers that work well for FHA 203(k) renovation loans if you're handy or want to build equity through sweat. Uptown sits in the northern part of town, also hovering around that $197K median, with a mix of single-family homes and some manufactured housing on permanent foundations. The price consistency across neighborhoods means you're really choosing based on lot size and condition rather than wildly different price tiers. FHA and conventional loans both work fine here since you're well under conforming limits, and some buyers use USDA rural development loans given the location and income levels.

  • Downtown Susanville
  • Uptown

Getting Around

Here's the thing about Susanville: you're not commuting to the Bay Area or LA for work. San Francisco is 288 minutes away, LA over nine hours. This is a place where you live and work locally, or you don't buy here. Local transit exists but most folks drive. The isolation is exactly why homes cost $197K instead of $600K. If you work at one of the prisons or the hospital or county government, that commute is ten minutes and your housing payment is maybe $1,200 a month instead of $4,000. That's the whole value proposition right there.

Jobs & Economy

The California Correctional Center and High Desert State Prison are the economic anchors here, employing thousands of people with state benefits and predictable income that lenders love to see on mortgage applications. Lassen County government, Banner Lassen Medical Center, and Lassen Unified School District round out the major employers. The job market is narrow but stable, heavily weighted toward public sector work. If you're buying here, you're probably working for one of these employers or you're retired and want four real seasons plus access to Lassen Volcanic National Park without paying Tahoe prices. The median household income of $52,997 goes a lot further when you're financing $197K instead of half a million.

  • California Correctional Center
  • High Desert State Prison
  • Lassen County
  • Banner Lassen Medical Center
  • Lassen Unified School District

Susanville Mortgage FAQs
Common questions answered

Common questions from Susanville 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 Susanville?

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 Susanville?

Typical Susanville 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 Susanville?

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

What down payment assistance programs are available in Susanville?

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

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

What are the loan limits in Susanville?

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

Should I get an FHA or conventional loan in Susanville?

For Susanville'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 Susanville. 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 Susanville?

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 Susanville?

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

What if my credit score is below 620?

You still have options in Susanville. 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 Lassen 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 Susanville?

Closing costs in Susanville 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 Susanville?

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 Susanville?

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

Closing costs in Susanville 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 Susanville?

Typical Susanville 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 Susanville?

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 Susanville?

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

What down payment assistance programs are available in Susanville?

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

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

Do you work with first-time homebuyers in Susanville?

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

What if my credit score is below 620?

You still have options in Susanville. 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 Susanville?

For Susanville'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 Susanville?

The FHA loan limit in Susanville is $541,300 for 2025. This is well above the median home price of $197,000, so FHA loans will cover virtually any home you're considering in Lassen County. You'll only need 3.5% down with a credit score as low as 580.

Do I need a jumbo loan in Susanville?

No, you won't need a jumbo loan in Susanville. With a median home price of $197,000 and conforming loan limits at $833,000, nearly all properties fall well within conventional loan limits. Even higher. priced homes in the area will qualify for standard financing options.

What are the 2026 loan limits for Lassen County?

For 2025, Lassen County loan limits are $833,000 for conforming and VA loans, and $541,300 for FHA loans. These limits easily accommodate Susanville's affordable market where most homes are priced under $300,000. Final 2026 limits will be announced in late 2025.

Can I get a VA loan in Susanville?

Yes, VA loans are available in Susanville with a loan limit of $833,000 and no down payment required for eligible veterans. This is an excellent option for military families in Lassen County, especially since you won't pay mortgage insurance and can finance the entire purchase price.

What down payment assistance programs are available in Susanville?

Our No Money Down program offers $0 down payment for qualified buyers in Susanville. USDA loans are also excellent for rural Lassen County properties, offering zero down for eligible buyers. CalHFA programs provide down payment and closing cost assistance, and you may qualify for county. specific programs that help first. time buyers.

What down payment do I need for a Susanville home?

You can buy a Susanville home with as little as $0 down through USDA or VA loans, which are ideal for this rural market. FHA loans require just 3.5% down (about $6,900 on a $197,000 home), and conventional loans need 3% down for first. time buyers. With median prices around $197,000, down payments are very manageable here.

What credit score do I need to buy in Susanville?

You can qualify for a home in Susanville with a credit score as low as 580 for FHA loans or 640 for USDA loans. Conventional loans typically require 620 or higher, while VA loans can sometimes go lower. Given the affordable prices here, many budget. conscious buyers successfully qualify even with modest credit.

How do I choose the right mortgage lender?

Choose a lender experienced with rural financing options like USDA loans, which are perfect for Susanville's market. Look for someone who understands Lassen County's affordable housing landscape and can guide you through down payment assistance programs. A local or regional lender familiar with properties under $300,000 will help you maximize your buying power.

Get Started with Your Susanville Mortgage
Get in Contact With Us

Fill out the form below and we'll reach out to discuss your Susanville mortgage options.

We respond within 24 hours

Call