Home Loans Made Simple. Rates Made Competitive.
Fast approvals, the best rates, and a local team that truly knows the San Joaquin Valley. From first-time buyers to seasoned investors — we've got you covered.
Today's Sample Rates (APR varies — see below)
Get a personalized rate quote in 3 minutes — no credit impact.
Ready to lock in your rate?
Start Application →Close in as little as 21 days*
Our streamlined, fully digital process gets you from application to keys — fast.
*Based on complete documentation. Timelines vary by loan type and applicant circumstances.
Apply Online
Complete our secure digital application in minutes. Upload documents right from your phone.
Get Pre-Approved
Receive a verified pre-approval letter, often same-day. Shop with confidence and make stronger offers.
Lock Your Rate
Choose from our competitive loan options and lock in your rate while it's right for you.
Close & Celebrate
We guide you through closing. Sign documents digitally and get the keys to your new home.
Find Your Numbers
Explore your options with our free mortgage calculators — no login required.
Calculator results are estimates for informational purposes only. Not a commitment to lend. Actual rates, payments, and costs will vary based on credit, loan type, and property. Consult a licensed loan officer for a personalized quote.
Enter details above and click
Calculate My Payment
Enter your income & debts to see
how much home you can afford
See if buying makes financial sense
compared to your current rent
Loan Programs
A full range of mortgage solutions for every buyer, every goal, every budget.
Conventional Loan
Not government-insured. Down payment as low as 1–3% depending on location and qualification. Ideal for borrowers with strong credit.
As low as 1% downFHA Loan
Insured by the FHA. Down payment as low as 3.5%, combinable with down payment assistance. Great for first-time buyers.
As low as 3.5% downVA Loan
For veterans & active-duty service members. Zero down payment required. No PMI. Guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs.
0% down for vetsPrivate Money
For borrowers outside conventional qualification. Land, ag, commercial, fix & flips, multi-family, and SFR. Much faster closings.
Fast approvalJumbo Loan
For purchases exceeding conforming loan limits. Tailored for high-value properties with competitive rates for qualified buyers.
High-value homesDown Payment Assistance
Additional programs for buyers who haven't saved enough for a down payment. Get into your home sooner with less out of pocket.
Get in soonerConstruction Loan
Short-term financing to build from the ground up. We work with you from land purchase through certificate of occupancy.
Build your dreamUSDA Loan
Zero-down mortgages for rural and suburban homebuyers. Designed for moderate-income borrowers in eligible areas.
0% down ruralReal Results. Real People.
"Our loan officer made the whole process seamless. We were first-time buyers and they walked us through every single step. We closed on time with no surprises."
"I've used SJ Valley Mortgage twice — once to buy and once to refinance. Always responsive, honest, and the best rate available. No B.S. — just results."
"As a veteran, finding a lender who truly understands VA loans made all the difference. They handled everything professionally and I closed with zero down."
Mortgage Guides & Resources
Get educated before you apply. Our free guides help you make smarter decisions.
The Complete First-Time Homebuyer's Guide
Everything you need to know from credit score to closing day, explained simply.
Read Guide →Down Payment Assistance Programs in California
Did you know you may qualify for thousands in assistance? Learn your options.
Learn More →How to Improve Your Credit Score Before Applying
Small changes can mean thousands in savings. Here's what actually moves the needle.
Read Guide →VA Loan Benefits: What Every Veteran Should Know
No down payment, no PMI, competitive rates — are you using your full benefit?
Explore Benefits →Common Questions
Typically 21–30 days from application to close. With complete documentation upfront and our fully digital process, we can often close faster. Purchase loans typically take 21–25 days; refinances 15–21 days.
It depends on the loan type. Conventional loans typically require a 620+ score. FHA loans can go as low as 580 (or 500 with 10% down). VA loans have no minimum, though lenders set their own standards. Contact us — we'll assess your situation.
Pre-qualification is an estimate based on self-reported info — quick but not verified. Pre-approval is a verified commitment backed by a credit check and income documentation. Sellers and agents take pre-approvals much more seriously.
Typically 2–5% of the loan amount. This includes origination fees, title insurance, escrow, and prepaid items. Use our calculator above for an estimate. Some programs allow seller concessions to cover costs.
Yes. Self-employed borrowers typically need 2 years of tax returns and may have additional documentation requirements. We also offer bank statement loans and private money options for those whose tax returns don't reflect true income.
A 15-year loan saves significant interest over the life of the loan and builds equity faster, but monthly payments are higher. A 30-year loan has lower monthly payments and greater flexibility. Our loan officers can run the numbers for your specific situation.
Still have questions?
Our local loan officers are available to walk you through any part of the process — no pressure, no obligation.
Talk to a Loan Officer →Meet the Team
Local experts who know Bakersfield, Kern County, and the Central Valley inside and out.
Ready to Get Started?
No pressure. No obligation. Just expert guidance from a local team that cares.
Office Hours
Monday – Friday: 8am – 6pm
Saturday: By appointment