How much do I need for a down payment to buy a home in California?

It depends on the loan program. Conventional loans can start at 3% down, FHA at 3.5%, and VA and certain programs allow 0% down for eligible buyers. Non-QM and jumbo loans typically ask for more. We'll match you to the lowest realistic down payment for your situation.

What credit score do I need to get a mortgage in California?

Many programs start around a 580–620 score, and some Non-QM and FHA options go lower with compensating factors. A higher score usually means a better rate. If your score needs work, we'll give you a clear plan to get approval-ready.

What is a Non-QM loan and who is it for?

A Non-QM (non-qualified mortgage) loan uses alternative income documentation instead of standard W-2s and tax returns. It's built for self-employed borrowers, business owners, real estate investors, and people with complex income. Common types include bank statement loans, DSCR loans (qualify on rental income), and asset-based loans.

Can self-employed borrowers get a home loan?

Yes. With a bank statement loan, we can qualify you using 12–24 months of deposits instead of tax returns, so write-offs don't work against you. It's one of the most common ways self-employed Californians get approved.

How long does it take to close a mortgage in California?

Most purchase loans close in roughly 3–4 weeks once you're in contract, and refinances often move faster. Getting fully pre-approved up front is the single biggest thing that keeps your closing on schedule.

Does Genesis Home Loans work everywhere in California?

Yes — Genesis Home Loans serves homebuyers and homeowners across the entire state of California, from the Bay Area to Los Angeles, San Diego, Sacramento, and everywhere in between.

Loan Application

Let's find your loan

Five short steps, about 5 minutes. No credit pull to get started.

Step 1 of 5

What are you looking to do?

This tells us which programs to line up for you.

Step 2 of 5

Tell us about the property

Estimates are fine — nothing here is locked in.

Property type

How will you use it?

California city or area

Estimated home price

Down payment available

Timeline

Step 3 of 5

How do you earn?

The most important question here — it decides which programs you qualify for.

Approximate annual income

Self-employed? Give us your gross deposits — not taxable income after write-offs.

Step 4 of 5

Credit & obligations

A rough estimate is fine. This is not a credit check — nothing here affects your score.

Estimated credit score

Monthly debt payments

Car loans, student loans, credit card minimums — not your rent.

Anything we should know? (Optional)

Step 5 of 5 — last one

Where do we send your options?

Adriana personally reviews every application. She'll reach out — usually within a few hours.

Full name *

Phone *

Email *

Best time to reach you