Affordable Homes · Fresno, CA

Your Fresno home is closer than you think.

With the right loan program, buying an affordable home in Fresno is possible — even with a low down payment or less-than-perfect credit. Our local team helps you find the best path to homeownership.

3.5%

minimum down payment

580+

credit score accepted

Local

Fresno loan specialists

See what I qualify for →

✓ Licensed mortgage professionals

📍 Serving Fresno & Central Valley

🔒 No obligation consultation

Loan programs for affordable homeownership

FHA Loans

Only 3.5% down with a 580+ credit score. The most popular option for first-time Fresno buyers.

Conventional 97

Just 3% down for qualified buyers. Great if your credit score is strong.

Down Payment Assistance

California offers programs that help cover your down payment — many Fresno buyers don't know they qualify.

USDA Loans

Zero down payment for homes in eligible rural areas near Fresno. More areas qualify than you might expect.

Why Fresno is a smart place to buy right now

Fresno offers real value compared to the rest of California:

✓ Median home prices well below the California average

✓ Strong job market and growing local economy

✓ More home for your money than Bay Area or LA

✓ State and local down payment assistance available

✓ Great neighborhoods at every price point

✓ Central location with access to mountains and coast

FHA vs Conventional — which is right for you?

FHA Loan

Best for buyers with lower credit scores or limited savings. 3.5% down, flexible qualifying, and widely available in Fresno.

Conventional Loan

Best for buyers with stronger credit. As little as 3% down, no upfront mortgage insurance premium, and potentially lower long-term costs.

How it works

Step 1

Tell us about your situation

Credit, income, savings — we look at the full picture, not just one number.

Step 2

Find your best loan program

We match you with the program that gets you into a home with the least out of pocket.

Step 3

Get pre-approved

A pre-approval letter puts you in a strong position when you find the right home.

Step 4

Close and get your keys

We guide you all the way to closing day — no surprises.

Find out what you qualify for

No commitment. No hard credit pull. A local loan specialist will follow up within one business day.

✓ Thank you! A local loan specialist will be in touch within one business day.

Frequently asked questions

What credit score do I need to buy a home in Fresno?

It depends on the loan program. FHA loans accept scores as low as 580 with 3.5% down, or even 500 with 10% down. Conventional loans typically require a 620 or higher. We work with buyers across the credit spectrum and will find the best option for your situation.

Are there down payment assistance programs in Fresno?

Yes — California has several programs including the CalHFA down payment assistance program that can cover part or all of your down payment. Many Fresno buyers qualify and don't know it. We check your eligibility as part of our free consultation.

How much home can I afford in Fresno?

A general rule is that your monthly housing payment should be no more than 28-31% of your gross monthly income. With Fresno home prices more affordable than most California cities, many families find they can buy more home than they expected.

What is the minimum down payment to buy a home?

As low as 3% with a conventional loan, or 3.5% with an FHA loan. With down payment assistance programs, some Fresno buyers are able to purchase with little to nothing out of pocket.

How long does it take to get pre-approved?

Most pre-approvals are completed within 24-48 hours. Once you're pre-approved, your letter is typically valid for 60-90 days — giving you time to find the right home without rushing.