Affordable Homes · Sacramento, CA
With the right loan program, buying a home in Sacramento is possible — even with a low down payment or less-than-perfect credit. Our local team helps you find the best path to homeownership.
Loan programs for affordable homeownership
Why Sacramento is a smart place to buy right now
FHA vs Conventional — which is right for you?
Best for buyers with lower credit scores or limited savings. 3.5% down, flexible qualifying, and widely available in the Sacramento area.
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
Credit, income, savings — we look at the full picture, not just one number.
We match you with the program that gets you into a home with the least out of pocket.
A pre-approval letter puts you in a strong position when you find the right home.
We guide you all the way to closing day — no surprises.
No commitment. No hard credit pull. A local loan specialist will follow up within one business day.
Frequently asked questions
What credit score do I need to buy a home in Sacramento?
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 Sacramento?
Yes — California has several programs including down payment assistance that can cover part or all of your down payment. Many Sacramento-area buyers qualify and don't know it. We check your eligibility as part of our free consultation.
How much home can I afford in Sacramento?
A general rule is that your monthly housing payment should be no more than 28-31% of your gross monthly income. With the right loan program, 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 Sacramento-area 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.
Can I buy a house in Sacramento with bad credit?
Yes, it's possible. FHA loans accept credit scores as low as 580 with a 3.5% down payment, and some lenders allow scores down to 500 with a 10% down payment. We work with buyers across the credit spectrum to identify the loan program that fits their situation, rather than assuming a low score rules someone out.
How much income do I need to buy a home in Sacramento?
There's no single income requirement — it depends on your down payment, credit profile, and the home price. A common guideline is keeping your monthly housing payment at or below 28-31% of your gross monthly income. A free consultation can give you a specific number based on your situation.
What's the difference between an FHA loan and a conventional loan?
FHA loans are government-backed, allow credit scores as low as 580, and require as little as 3.5% down, making them accessible for buyers with limited savings or less-established credit. Conventional loans typically require a 620+ credit score and as little as 3% down, and can offer better long-term terms once a buyer has stronger credit and equity. We compare both options to determine which one saves more over time.
Is Precision Home Loans a direct lender or a broker?
Precision Home Loans operates as both a licensed mortgage bank and a broker in California. That means we can fund loans directly or shop a buyer's loan across multiple lenders to find better terms — whichever route serves the buyer best.