The right loan makes the right offer
In San Diego, financing structure often matters as much as price. We match you with lenders who close on time and write letters listing agents trust.
Start pre-approvalLoan programs for San Diego buyers
Conventional
As little as 3% down for qualified buyers. Best long-term cost when credit and reserves are strong; PMI drops off at 20% equity.
Best for: Move-up buyers and strong-credit first-timers
FHA
3.5% down with flexible credit and debt-to-income guidelines. Widely used in Chula Vista, El Cajon, Escondido and National City.
Best for: Credit-building and lower down payment buyers
VA
0% down, no monthly mortgage insurance, and competitive rates for active-duty and veteran buyers — a major factor in Oceanside, Coronado and Chula Vista.
Best for: Military and veteran households
Jumbo
For loan amounts above the county conforming limit, common across La Jolla, Del Mar, Rancho Santa Fe and Carmel Valley. Expect deeper reserve and documentation review.
Best for: Luxury and coastal purchases
Bridge & HELOC
Buy before you sell without a contingency. We structure bridge financing so your offer stays competitive against cash.
Best for: Equity-rich move-up sellers
DSCR & investor
Qualify on the property's rental income rather than personal tax returns — the standard tool for ADU and small multifamily plays.
Best for: Investors scaling a portfolio
Not sure which program fits? Send your scenario and we'll compare payments side by side.
Compare my optionsWhat lenders look at
- Credit score
- 620+ for most programs, 740+ for best pricing
- Debt-to-income
- Typically up to 45–50%
- Reserves
- 2–12 months depending on program
- Documentation
- 2 years income history, or DSCR alternative
- Property type
- SFR, condo warrantability, 2–4 unit rules differ
Down payment assistance
San Diego County and several cities run first-time buyer assistance programs, and CalHFA offers statewide options that pair with FHA and conventional loans. These programs have income caps, purchase price limits and occupancy requirements — we help you confirm eligibility before you write an offer.
- County of San Diego first-time homebuyer assistance
- City of San Diego deferred-payment second loans
- CalHFA MyHome and conventional pairings
- Mortgage credit certificate programs
- Employer and union homebuyer benefits
Get pre-approved this week
Send your scenario and we'll connect you with a San Diego lender who can underwrite up front — the difference between winning and losing a multiple-offer situation.