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

House at 507 North Encina Street, Visalia, California (ca. 1892)

Mortgage broker serving Visalia, 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 Visalia Homebuyers Choose Us

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

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

  • Downtown Visalia and Mooney neighborhoods both average $400K, well under the $833K conforming limit, allowing conventional loans with just 3% down or FHA at 3.5%.
  • Healthcare workers need lenders who average overtime and shift differential pay over 12-24 months to maximize qualifying income for stable approval.
  • Agriculture-heavy Central Valley means seasonal income workers should use bank statement loans or asset-based programs instead of traditional tax return qualification.

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

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

SCHEDULE FREE CONSULTATION

What Our Clients Say Real stories from real borrowers

How the Mortgage Process Works in Visalia

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

1-2 Days
Market Insights

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

California housing market value rising with upward trend

Prices & Trends

Visalia sits in that sweet spot where California homeownership actually makes sense financially. The median home price is $400K, and it's held steady over the past year. No wild swings, no bidding wars like you see closer to the coast. The conforming loan limit here is $833K, which honestly you won't need to worry about unless you're buying something way above the median. FHA loans max out at $541K. Most of what you're looking at falls comfortably under conventional loan territory, and that's a good thing for your rate and your monthly payment. This isn't a market where you need creative financing gymnastics. Just solid fundamentals.

Who's Buying in Visalia

Two types of buyers dominate here. First-timers who've been priced out of the Bay Area or coastal markets and finally realize their $150K saved goes nowhere in San Jose but buys a real house here. And locals moving up from rentals or smaller places. Median household income is $75,658, and honestly that works fine at this price point with decent credit and some down payment. You've also got investors buying rentals because the numbers actually pencil out in the Central Valley. Homeownership rate is 60%, so this is a real ownership community, not some transient rental zone. People put down roots here.

Your Loan Fit

FHA gets overused at this price point. Look, if you've only got 3.5% down and marginal credit, sure, it's your path in. But if you can scrape together 5% for conventional, you'll save money long-term and dodge the lifetime mortgage insurance trap. Here's what actually makes sense:
  • Conventional with 5% down if you've got decent credit (680+). PMI drops off eventually.
  • FHA at 3.5% down if your credit is in the 600s or cash is super tight.
  • VA loans are unbeatable if you're eligible. Zero down, no PMI, better rates.
  • USDA loans work in some parts of Tulare County if you're looking just outside city limits. Zero down for qualifying buyers.
  • DSCR loans for investors who want to use rental income to qualify instead of personal income.
Don't default to FHA just because it's familiar. Run the numbers on conventional first.

Down Payment & Refinance in Visalia

Already own here? Refinancing is pretty straightforward right now. If you bought with FHA and you've got 20% equity, refinance out of that mortgage insurance immediately. You're throwing away money every month. Rate-and-term refis make sense if rates drop another half point or more from where you locked in. Cash-out refis are popular for home improvements since you've got equity but not necessarily liquid cash sitting around. Investors with multiple properties should look at DSCR cash-out refis to pull equity and buy the next one. PMI removal alone can save you $200-300 monthly if you hit that 20% equity mark.

Get Started

Down payment reality: FHA needs $14K at 3.5%. Conventional at 5% is $20K. Most first-timers aren't sitting on that in savings. They're cobbling it together from a few sources. Maybe $8K saved, $10K gift from parents, $2K from a tax refund. Relocators from expensive markets usually have equity from their previous sale, so they're putting down 10-20% without blinking. Local move-up buyers might have $40K-60K from selling their starter place. If you're stuck at zero, we offer our no-money-down program that covers your minimum 3-3.5% down payment requirement. It's not a grant, it's a second lien, but it gets you in the door now instead of saving for three more years while prices potentially climb.

Local Visalia Expertise

Start with preapproval so you know exactly what you can afford and what loan type makes sense for your situation. Don't guess. Don't assume. Get the actual numbers. Schedule a free call with our team and we'll run scenarios based on your real credit, income, and down payment. We know the Visalia market, we know what appraisers are seeing, and we know which loan programs actually save you money versus which ones just sound good in theory. California homeownership is absolutely doable here. You just need the right financing strategy.

Popular Visalia Neighborhoods

Downtown Visalia • Mooney

Zip Codes We Serve

93277, 93278, 93279, 93291, 93292

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

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

Visalia Loan Program Guide Purchase, Refinance & Investment Programs

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

Quick Compare: Visalia 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 Visalia

FHA Loans

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

Calhfa Programs

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

VA Loans

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

Usda Loans

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

Conforming Loans

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

Local Dpa Programs

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

Bridge Loans

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

LLC Funding Programs

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

Best Refinance Options in Visalia

FHA Loans Refinance

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

VA Loans Refinance

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

Usda Loans Refinance

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

Conforming Refinance

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

Cash Out Refinance

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

Home Equity Refinance

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

Best Investment & Commercial Loans in Visalia

DSCR Loans

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

Fix And Flip Loans

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

Commercial Hard Money Loans

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

Multifamily Loans

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

Best Down Payment Assistance Programs for Visalia

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 Visalia buyers with qualifying income.

CalHFA Down Payment Assistance

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

Local Down Payment Programs

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

Elite Grant Program

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

USDA Zero Down Loans

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

Gift of Equity

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

Non-Occupant Co-Borrower

Visalia 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 Visalia is a Great Place to Buy a Home

Visalia sits right in the heart of the Central Valley, about 45 miles south of [Fresno](/mortgage-loans-and-refinance-in-fresno-ca). Population is 141,466, median household income $75,658. The homeownership rate here is 60%, which tells you this is a place where people buy instead of rent. At $400K median home price, you're looking at one of the last legitimate deals in California where a household pulling in $75K can actually qualify for a conventional loan on a proper single-family home without getting crushed by the payment.

Schools & Family Appeal

Visalia Unified runs the show here, and it's a big reason families plant roots instead of just passing through. You've got four main high schools - Mt. Whitney, Golden West, Redwood, and El Diamante - which means the district has options and competition that keeps quality up. The schools aren't pulling perfect 10 ratings, but they're solid and stable, and that stability matters when you're thinking about resale five or ten years down the line. Families who buy here tend to stay, which is why that 60% ownership rate holds steady even when other Central Valley towns see more turnover. When you're running comps for an appraisal, homes in good school zones consistently hold value better than those on the edges.

  • Mt. Whitney High School
  • Golden West High School
  • Redwood High School
  • El Diamante High School

The Neighborhood Feel

Here's the thing about Visalia - it's not carved into wildly different price tiers like coastal cities. Downtown Visalia runs around $400K for homes near Main Street, the Fox Theatre, and the walkable core. You're paying for location and character here, older homes with actual personality, and conventional loans work fine at this price point. Mooney up north also hits that $400K median, more residential and spread out, good for families wanting yard space without going rural. The pricing consistency across town means you're choosing based on lifestyle rather than getting priced out of half the city. FHA and conventional loans both get plenty of use here since you're not dealing with jumbo territory unless you're buying something really special.

  • Downtown Visalia
  • Mooney

Getting Around

Visalia doesn't have freeway access the way bigger cities do, and that's actually part of why it stays affordable. You're 42 minutes to Fresno via Highway 198 if you need a bigger city, 76 minutes to Bakersfield. Stockton is 154 minutes, so don't plan on commuting there. Most people who buy in Visalia work locally or regionally within the Central Valley. The lack of easy freeway connections to the Bay Area or LA keeps outside money from flooding in and driving prices up. If you work remote or have a job in town, you're getting California homeownership at prices that actually make sense with your income.

Jobs & Economy

The employment base here is solid and diversified enough to keep the housing market stable. Kaweah Health Medical Center is the big dog, healthcare jobs that aren't going anywhere. Visalia Unified School District employs a ton of people, same with Tulare County government. College of the Sequoias adds education sector stability, and Valley Children's Healthcare brings in more medical employment. This mix of public sector, healthcare, and education means steady paychecks and predictable employment, which is exactly what keeps mortgage default rates low and property values consistent. Lenders like seeing stable employment bases when they're underwriting loans in an area.

  • Kaweah Health Medical Center
  • Visalia Unified School District
  • College of the Sequoias
  • Tulare County government
  • Valley Children's Healthcare

Visalia Mortgage FAQs
Common questions answered

Common questions from Visalia 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 Visalia?

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 Visalia?

Typical Visalia 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 Visalia?

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

What down payment assistance programs are available in Visalia?

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

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

What are the loan limits in Visalia?

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

Should I get an FHA or conventional loan in Visalia?

For Visalia'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 Visalia. 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 Visalia?

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 Visalia?

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

What if my credit score is below 620?

You still have options in Visalia. 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 Tulare 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 Visalia?

Closing costs in Visalia 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 Visalia?

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 Visalia?

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

Closing costs in Visalia 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 Visalia?

Typical Visalia 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 Visalia?

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 Visalia?

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

What down payment assistance programs are available in Visalia?

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

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

Do you work with first-time homebuyers in Visalia?

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

What if my credit score is below 620?

You still have options in Visalia. 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 Visalia?

For Visalia'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 Visalia?

The FHA loan limit in Visalia is $541,300 for 2025. This covers most homes in the area since the median price is around $400K, making FHA loans an excellent option for first. time buyers who need lower down payments and more flexible credit requirements.

Do I need a jumbo loan in Visalia?

You won't need a jumbo loan for most Visalia homes. With conforming and FHA limits at $833,100 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 the median price.

What are the 2026 loan limits for Tulare County?

For 2025, Tulare County's loan limits are $541,300 for FHA loans, $833,100 for VA loans, and $833,100 for conforming loans. These limits are set annually and typically increase each year, so 2026 limits will likely be announced in late 2025 with modest adjustments based on home price trends.

Can I get a VA loan in Visalia?

Yes, VA loans are available in Visalia with a generous loan limit of $833,100. If you're a qualified veteran or active military, VA loans offer 0% down and no mortgage insurance, making them one of the best options for buying a home in Visalia's $300K. $450K market.

What down payment assistance programs are available in Visalia?

Our No Money Down program offers $0 down payment for qualified buyers, making homeownership immediately accessible. CalHFA programs provide down payment and closing cost assistance with competitive rates, and Tulare County may offer local DPA programs for first. time buyers. Some areas of Visalia may also qualify for USDA loans with zero down payment.

What down payment do I need for a Visalia home?

You can buy a Visalia home with as little as 0% down using VA, USDA, or our No Money Down program. FHA loans require just 3.5% down (about $14,000 on a $400K home), while conventional loans typically need 3. 5% down. With median home prices around $400K, down payment assistance programs can help cover most or all of your upfront costs.

What credit score do I need to buy in Visalia?

You can qualify for an FHA loan in Visalia with a credit score as low as 580, or even 500 with a larger down payment. Conventional loans typically require a 620 minimum, while VA loans are more flexible. Given Visalia's entry. level market, many lenders work with first. time buyers to find programs that fit their credit profile.

How do I choose the right mortgage lender?

Choose a Visalia lender who specializes in FHA loans and down payment assistance programs, since these are crucial for the local market. Look for someone who understands first. time buyer needs, offers multiple loan options including CalHFA and DPA programs, and can close on time. Local expertise matters in Visalia's competitive $300K. $450K market where you'll need quick pre. approvals and smooth transactions.

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