Mortgage FAQ

It depends on the loan type. FHA loans require a minimum of 580 for 3.5% down (or 500 with 10% down). Conventional loans typically require 620+. For the best rates, 740 or higher is ideal. See our credit score guide.

A common guideline is to keep your total monthly housing cost at or below about 28–31% of your gross monthly income, though many programs allow more. Try our mortgage calculator, or Marcos can run exact numbers on a free call.

Pre-qualification is a quick estimate based on what you tell us. Pre-approval verifies your income, assets and credit, so it carries real weight with sellers and makes your offer stronger.

Typically 30–45 days from application. Loan type, appraisal timing and how quickly documents come in all affect this. Investor loans like fix & flip can close faster.

No. FHA loans require as little as 3.5% down, conventional loans as low as 3%, and VA and USDA loans offer $0 down for eligible borrowers. See purchase loan options.

Closing costs commonly run 2–5% of the purchase price. You'll get an itemized Loan Estimate after you apply, and sellers can sometimes contribute.

Most programs allow gifts from family with a signed gift letter and documentation of where the money came from.

Yes. We offer bank statement loans that use 12–24 months of deposits instead of tax returns. DSCR loans for rental properties don't require personal income documentation at all.

PMI (private mortgage insurance) is required on conventional loans with less than 20% down. You can avoid it with 20% down or a VA loan, and conventional PMI can be removed once you build enough equity.

Usually 60 to 90 days. If it expires before you find a home, we'll update your documents and refresh it.

No. Consultations and pre-approval calls are free with no obligation.

Absolutely. We partner with agents throughout Ventura, Los Angeles, Santa Barbara and Kern counties for fast pre-approvals, clear communication and on-time closings. Agents can reach out about a referral relationship.

All of our loan programs, purchase, refinance and investor loans alike, are available throughout Ventura, Los Angeles, Santa Barbara and Kern counties. That includes Oxnard, Ventura, Camarillo, Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, Los Angeles, Santa Clarita, Palmdale, Lancaster, Santa Barbara, Santa Maria, Lompoc, Bakersfield and everywhere in between. Our office is in Oxnard, and we can work with you entirely by phone and e-sign.

A short-term loan for investors who buy a property, renovate it and resell it. See our fix & flip loans page for details.

Sí. Podemos ayudarle con todo el proceso en español. Reserve su cita de pre-aprobación en español.