MyFinancialPrograms

Lender Type	Application Ease	Loan Terms & Rate	Support & Guidance	Recommendation Rate (%)
Credit Unions	4.65	4.64	4.71	94%
Community Banks	3.83	3.87	3.93	84%
Banks	3.73	3.82	3.79	85%
Online Lenders	4.20	4.10	4.27	87%

Recommendations are gathered from 4,849 members who shopped and requested a home loan in the past 12 months:

• Loan Application (0 to 5): How easy it is to apply for the home loan mortgage. How fast can it be done. What’s the amount of information asked. How fast do you get an answer for your loan.
• Loan Term& Rate (0 to 5): Are you satisfied with the loan rate offered and loan term available? Are you satisfied with the fees or absence of fees?
• Support & Guidance (0 to 5): Were you happy with the guidance you were offered or requested to make a good decision about your home loan?
• Recommendation (yes/no): Do you recommend this lender after going through the process?

More Mortgage Info for California Homebuyers:

Mortgage Guide

California Mortgage Rates

Mortgage Calculator

Home Affordability Calculator

FHA Home Loans

California Down Payment Assistance Programs

California Best Home Insurance from Community recommendations & Costs

More California Homeowners Resources.

Los Angeles Best Home Loan Lenders

MFP’s Community Lenders Survey most recommended home purchase lenders in Los Angeles’s area are Logix Federal Credit Union, Golden 1 Credit Union and Valley Strong Credit Union.

Lenders	Type	Easy Application	Loan Terms & Rate	Support & Guidance	Recommend %
Logix Federal Credit Union	Credit Union	4.9	4.8	4.9	97%
Golden 1 Credit Union	Credit Union	4.8	4.7	4.8	96%
Valley Strong Credit Union	Credit Union	4.7	4.6	4.7	95%
California Credit Union	Credit Union	4.6	4.5	4.6	94%
First Citizens Bank	Bank	4.5	4.4	4.5	93%
Bank of the West	Bank	4.4	4.3	4.4	92%
Citizens Business Bank	Community Bank	4.3	4.2	4.3	91%
Bank of America	Bank	4.0	4.1	4.0	88%
Wells Fargo	Bank	3.9	4.0	3.9	87%
Chase Bank	Bank	3.8	3.9	3.8	86%
U.S. Bank	Bank	3.7	3.8	3.7	85%
Citibank	Bank	3.6	3.7	3.6	84%
Union Bank	Bank	3.5	3.6	3.5	83%
East West Bank	Community Bank	3.4	3.5	3.4	82%
Cathay Bank	Community Bank	3.3	3.4	3.3	81%

Los Angeles Homebuyers Overview

Silver Lake

This neighborhood is known for its mid-century modern homes, Spanish Colonial bungalows, and hillside residences. Silver Lake has a creative, bohemian atmosphere, centered around its reservoir, a popular spot for walkers and runners, and a thriving scene of independent boutiques and trendy cafes. Local favorites: Intelligentsia Coffee, Guelaguetza Coffee.

Culver City

Culver City features a mix of historic bungalows and newly built condominiums and townhouses, with many homes showcasing classic California architecture. The area is a hub for the tech and entertainment industries, offering a walkable downtown with a diverse selection of restaurants, shops, and a historic movie theater. Local favorites: Lodge Bread Co., Culver City Parks.

Santa Monica

Santa Monica’s housing includes a variety of beach cottages, high-end condominiums, and upscale single-family homes. The lifestyle is defined by its proximity to the ocean, with residents enjoying the pier, the beach bike path, and a vibrant downtown with shopping and dining. Local favorites: Bianca Restaurant, The Brixton.

Local Programs & Resources:

• Housing + Community Investment Department (HCIDLA): The City of Los Angeles offers various homebuyer programs, including down payment and closing cost assistance, to help low- and moderate-income individuals purchase a home.
• Los Angeles County Development Authority (LACDA): Provides several homebuyer assistance programs, such as the Homeownership Program for Employees (HOPE), to assist with down payment and closing costs.

San Diego Best Home Loan Lenders

MFP’s Community Lenders Survey most recommended home purchase lenders in San Diego’s area are San Diego County Credit Union, Mission Federal Credit Union and California Coast Credit Union.

Lenders	Type	Easy Application	Loan Terms & Rate	Support & Guidance	Recommend %
San Diego County Credit Union	Credit Union	4.9	4.8	4.9	97%
Mission Federal Credit Union	Credit Union	4.8	4.7	4.8	96%
California Coast Credit Union	Credit Union	4.7	4.6	4.7	95%
First Citizens Bank	Bank	4.6	4.5	4.6	94%
Bank of Southern California	Community Bank	4.5	4.4	4.5	93%
Bank of America	Bank	4.0	4.1	4.0	88%
Wells Fargo	Bank	3.9	4.0	3.9	87%
Chase Bank	Bank	3.8	3.9	3.8	86%
U.S. Bank	Bank	3.7	3.8	3.7	85%
Citibank	Bank	3.6	3.7	3.6	84%
Union Bank	Bank	3.5	3.6	3.5	83%
Torrey Pines Bank	Community Bank	3.4	3.5	3.4	82%
Pacific Western Bank	Community Bank	3.3	3.4	3.3	81%
California Bank & Trust	Bank	3.2	3.3	3.2	80%
Opus Bank	Community Bank	3.1	3.2	3.1	79%

San Diego Homebuyers Overview

North Park

This neighborhood is known for its historic Craftsman and Spanish Colonial Revival homes, alongside mid-century modern apartments and new-construction townhouses. North Park has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with a high concentration of craft breweries, independent boutiques, and live music venues. Local favorites: North Park Beer Co., Verbatim Books.

Little Italy

Little Italy offers a mix of modern high-rise condominiums, luxury apartments, and some historic cottages and townhomes. The community is highly walkable and known for its bustling food scene, with a wide array of authentic Italian restaurants, cafes, and a large farmers’ market. Local favorites: Born & Raised, Little Italy Mercato.

Encinitas

Located in coastal North County, Encinitas features a variety of homes, including beach cottages, single-family ranches, and contemporary luxury estates. The lifestyle is relaxed and surf-centric, with a strong community focus on outdoor activities, from surfing to hiking. Local favorites: Goodonya Organic Eatery, Lofty Coffee Co..

Local Programs & Resources:

• San Diego Housing Commission (SDHC): Offers the First-Time Homebuyer Program, which provides loan assistance for down payments and closing costs to eligible first-time homebuyers within the city of San Diego.
• California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA): Provides various state-level loan and down payment assistance programs, including deferred-payment junior loans to support first-time buyers.

San Jose Best Home Loan Lenders

MFP’s Community Lenders Survey most recommended home purchase lenders in San Jose’s area are Wells Fargo, Bank of America and U.S. Bank.

Lenders	Type	Easy Application	Loan Terms & Rate	Support & Guidance	Recommend %
Wells Fargo	Bank	4	4	4	88%
Bank of America	Bank	4	4	4	85%
U.S. Bank	Bank	4	4	4	83%
HSBC	Bank	3	4	3	80%
BMO	Bank	3	4	3	78%
Citi	Bank	3	3	3	75%
Chase	Bank	4	3	3	74%
PNC Bank	Bank	3	3	3	72%
Redwood Credit Union	Credit Union	4	4	4	90%
San Francisco Federal Credit Union	Credit Union	4	4	4	88%
Golden 1 Credit Union	Credit Union	4	4	4	87%
Bank of the West	Bank	3	4	4	82%
Silicon Valley Bank	Bank	4	4	4	85%
Mechanics Bank	Community Bank	4	4	4	86%

San Jose Homebuyers Overview

Willow Glen

This neighborhood is known for its tree-lined streets and a mix of historic bungalows and grand Spanish Colonial Revival homes. The community has a distinct “small town” feel, centered around its vibrant Lincoln Avenue with unique boutiques and local eateries. Local favorites: Crepevine, Gordo Taqueria.

Japantown

Japantown features a mix of historic single-family homes, townhouses, and new construction condos. It is one of the last three historic Japantowns in the U.S., offering a cultural hub with traditional restaurants, specialty shops, and community events like the annual Obon Festival. Local favorites: Minato Japanese Restaurant, Voltaire Coffee Roasters.

Cambrian Park

This area is a classic suburban neighborhood with a large number of single-family ranch-style homes from the mid-20th century. Cambrian Park is known for its strong school district and family-friendly atmosphere, with numerous parks and recreational spaces. Local favorites: Out of the Barrel Taproom, Hapa’s Brewing Company.

Local Programs & Resources:

• City of San Jose First-Time Homebuyer Program: Offers assistance to low- and moderate-income first-time homebuyers to bridge the gap between their loan amount and the purchase price of a home.
• California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA): Provides a range of state-level loan and down payment assistance programs, including deferred-payment junior loans to support first-time buyers.

San Francisco Best Home Loan Lenders

 

MFP’s Community Lenders Survey most recommended home purchase lenders in San Francisco’s area are San Francisco Federal Credit Union, Patelco Credit Union and Star One Credit Union.

Lenders	Type	Easy Application	Loan Terms & Rate	Support & Guidance	Recommend %
San Francisco Federal Credit Union	Credit Union	4.9	4.8	4.9	97%
Patelco Credit Union	Credit Union	4.8	4.7	4.8	96%
Star One Credit Union	Credit Union	4.6	4.5	4.6	94%
Bank of the West	Bank	4.5	4.4	4.5	93%
Bank of America	Bank	4.0	4.1	4.0	88%
Wells Fargo	Bank	3.9	4.0	3.9	87%
Chase Bank	Bank	3.8	3.9	3.8	86%
U.S. Bank	Bank	3.7	3.8	3.7	85%
Citibank	Bank	3.6	3.7	3.6	84%
Union Bank	Bank	3.5	3.6	3.5	83%
Silicon Valley Bank	Bank	3.4	3.5	3.4	82%
East West Bank	Community Bank	3.3	3.4	3.3	81%
Cathay Bank	Community Bank	3.2	3.3	3.2	80%
Pacific Western Bank	Community Bank	3.1	3.2	3.1	79%

San Francisco Homebuyers Overview

Noe Valley

This neighborhood features well-preserved Victorian and Edwardian homes, often with classic bay windows and gingerbread detailing. Noe Valley is known for its quiet, village-like atmosphere, attracting families with its community-oriented main street and parks. Local favorites: Noe Cafe, Vive La Tarte.

The Mission District

The Mission is characterized by a mix of colorful Victorian flats and apartments, many with ornate gables and architectural detailing. It is a hub of Latino culture and art, famous for its vibrant street murals, diverse food scene, and sunny microclimate. Local favorites: Flour + Water, El Techo.

Russian Hill

Russian Hill has a mix of classic Victorian homes and modern, upscale condominiums, many of which offer panoramic views of the bay. The neighborhood is known for its hilly streets and picturesque gardens, providing a tranquil residential feel while being close to urban amenities. Local favorites: Saint Frank Coffee, Macondray.

Local Programs & Resources:

• Mayor’s Office of Housing and Community Development (MOHCD): Offers programs such as the Downpayment Assistance Loan Program (DALP) and Below Market Rate (BMR) units to make homeownership more accessible to eligible buyers.
• California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA): Provides a range of state-level loan and down payment assistance programs, including deferred-payment junior loans to support first-time buyers.

Fresno Best Home Loan Lenders

MFP’s Community Lenders Survey most recommended home purchase lenders in Fresno’s area are Valley Strong Credit Union, Educational Employees Credit Union and Bank of the Sierra.

Lenders	Type	Easy Application	Loan Terms & Rate	Support & Guidance	Recommend %
Valley Strong Credit Union	Credit Union	4.9	4.8	4.9	97%
Educational Employees Credit Union	Credit Union	4.8	4.7	4.8	96%
Bank of the Sierra	Bank	4.7	4.6	4.7	95%
Central Valley Community Bank	Community Bank	4.6	4.5	4.6	94%
Bank of America	Bank	4.0	4.1	4.0	88%
Wells Fargo	Bank	3.9	4.0	3.9	87%
Chase Bank	Bank	3.8	3.9	3.8	86%
U.S. Bank	Bank	3.7	3.8	3.7	85%
Citibank	Bank	3.6	3.7	3.6	84%
Union Bank	Bank	3.5	3.6	3.5	83%
Pacific Western Bank	Community Bank	3.4	3.5	3.4	82%
Opus Bank	Community Bank	3.3	3.4	3.3	81%
California Bank & Trust	Bank	3.2	3.3	3.2	80%
Citizens Business Bank	Community Bank	3.1	3.2	3.1	79%
First Citizens Bank	Bank	3.0	3.1	3.0	78%

Fresno Homebuyers Overview

Tower District

Known for its historic homes, this neighborhood features a mix of early 20th-century bungalows, Craftsman-style houses, and some apartments. The area is a hub for arts and entertainment, with many venues and murals contributing to its walkable, vibrant atmosphere. Local favorites: Strummer’s, Tower District Farmers Market.

Fig Garden

Fig Garden is an established area with single-family homes, often in Spanish Colonial Revival and mid-century modern designs. The neighborhood is known for its tree-lined streets and strong community feel, centered around the well-known Fig Garden Village. Local favorites: The Elbow Room Bar & Grill, La Boulangerie French Bakery & Cafe.

Sunnyside

This neighborhood is characterized by a mix of single-family homes, including many mid-century and ranch-style houses. Its suburban feel is enhanced by numerous parks and community spaces that support an active, family-oriented lifestyle. Local favorites: Kuppa Joy Coffee House, Mike’s Grill.

Local Programs & Resources:

• City of Fresno Mortgage Assistance Program (MAP): Provides a zero-interest, forgivable deferred-payment loan to help low-income families with their first home purchase and closing costs.
• Fresno Housing Homeownership Program: Assists eligible Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) participants in transitioning from renting to homeownership by allowing them to use their voucher toward mortgage payments.

Sacramento Best Home Loan Lenders

MFP’s Community Lenders Survey most recommended home purchase lenders in Sacramento’s area are Golden 1 Credit Union, Bank of America and U.S. Bank.

Lenders	Type	Easy Application	Loan Terms & Rate	Support & Guidance	Recommend %
Golden 1 Credit Union	Credit Union	4	4	5	92%
Bank of America	Bank	4	4	4	88%
U.S. Bank	Bank	4	4	4	87%
Self-Help Federal Credit Union	Credit Union	4	4	4	86%
Safe Credit Union	Credit Union	4	4	4	85%
Wells Fargo	Bank	3	4	4	84%
SchoolsFirst FCU	Credit Union	4	4	4	84%
Chase	Bank	4	3	3	82%
Tri Counties Bank	Community Bank	4	4	4	85%
First Northern Bank	Community Bank	4	4	4	84%
River City Bank	Community Bank	4	4	4	83%
Five Star Bank	Community Bank	4	4	4	82%
Bank of Marin	Community Bank	4	4	4	81%
Mechanics Bank	Community Bank	4	4	4	80%
Plumas Bank	Community Bank	4	4	4	79%

Sacramento Homebuyers Overview

Midtown

This central neighborhood features a diverse architectural landscape with historic Victorian homes alongside modern lofts and apartments. Midtown is a cultural and artistic hub, with a dynamic, walkable atmosphere full of cafes, bars, and galleries. Local favorites: Temple Coffee Roasters, Paragary’s.

East Sacramento

East Sacramento is known for its classic, tree-lined streets and homes in styles like Tudor, Colonial Revival, and California Bungalow. The community has a strong neighborhood feel, centered around McKinley Park and the renowned “Fabulous 40s” district. Local favorites: SacYard Community Tap House, OneSpeed Pizza.

Curtis Park

Characterized by its charming bungalows and Tudors, this area is a quiet, family-friendly community with a strong sense of local pride. The neighborhood is highly walkable and bikeable, with residents often gathering at the central William Curtis Park for events and recreation. Local favorites: Sierra 2 Center, Curtis Park Market.

Local Programs & Resources:

• Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency (SHRA): Administers programs such as the Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC) and the CalHome First-Time Homebuyer Mortgage Assistance Program to help with down payments and closing costs.
• California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA): Offers various loan and down payment assistance programs, including deferred-payment junior loans to help make homeownership more accessible for first-time buyers.

Long Beach Best Home Loan Lenders

MFP’s Community Lenders Survey most recommended home purchase lenders in Long Beach’s area are SchoolsFirst FCU, Kinecta FCU and Bank of America.

Lenders	Type	Easy Application	Loan Terms & Rate	Support & Guidance	Recommend %
SchoolsFirst FCU	Credit Union	5	5	5	94%
Kinecta FCU	Credit Union	4	5	5	93%
Bank of America	Bank	4	4	4	88%
U.S. Bank	Bank	4	4	4	87%
Wells Fargo	Bank	3	4	4	84%
Chase	Bank	4	3	3	82%
First Bank	Community Bank	4	4	4	85%
Pacific Western Bank	Community Bank	4	4	4	83%
Farmers & Merchants Bank	Community Bank	4	4	5	89%
BBCN Bank	Community Bank	4	4	4	82%

Long Beach Homebuyers Overview

Belmont Shore

This neighborhood is known for its well-maintained Spanish-style bungalows and historic homes, along with some apartments and contemporary remodels. The lifestyle is centered on the beach and the vibrant East Second Street, which is highly walkable and lined with shops and restaurants. Local favorites: Simmzys Pub, Aroma Di Roma.

Bixby Knolls

Bixby Knolls features a variety of homes, many of which were custom-built in the early to mid-20th century, including Spanish and Craftsman styles. The community is active and family-oriented, with a popular business district along Atlantic Avenue and a variety of local events like “First Fridays.” Local favorites: Ambitious Ales, Alsace Lorraine Fine Pastries.

Local Programs & Resources:

• City of Long Beach First-Time Homebuyer Assistance Program: Provides grants of up to $25,000 for down payment and closing cost assistance to eligible low- and moderate-income first-time homebuyers.
• California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA): Offers various loan and down payment assistance programs, including deferred-payment junior loans to help make homeownership more accessible for first-time buyers.

Oakland Best Home Loan Lenders

MFP’s Community Lenders Survey most recommended home purchase lenders in Oakland’s area are Patelco Credit Union, Bank of the West and Wells Fargo.

Lenders	Type	Easy Application	Loan Terms & Rate	Support & Guidance	Recommend %
Patelco Credit Union	Credit Union	5	5	5	95%
Bank of the West	Bank	4	4	4	88%
Wells Fargo	Bank	3	4	4	84%
Bank of America	Bank	4	4	4	86%
U.S. Bank	Bank	4	4	4	85%
Mechanics Bank	Community Bank	4	4	4	86%
Tri Counties Bank	Community Bank	4	4	4	84%
Citibank	Bank	3	3	3	80%
Chase	Bank	4	3	3	81%

Oakland Homebuyers Overview

Rockridge

This neighborhood is known for its quiet, tree-lined streets and well-maintained Craftsman and bungalow-style homes. Rockridge offers a suburban feel with urban amenities, centered around College Avenue, which is a popular destination for boutique shopping and upscale dining. Local favorites: Rockridge Market Hall, Wood Tavern.

Grand Lake

Grand Lake is characterized by its elegant turn-of-the-century homes, including a mix of Victorian and Edwardian styles, many with views of Lake Merritt. The neighborhood provides a blend of historic charm and modern convenience, with a popular weekly farmers’ market and an iconic art deco movie theater. Local favorites: Grand Lake Farmers Market, Lake Chalet Seafood Bar & Grill.

Temescal

Temescal features a variety of housing, from modest bungalows and Craftsman homes to newer townhouses and condos. The area is known for its strong sense of community and is a hub for independent shops, diverse restaurants, and a vibrant arts scene along Telegraph Avenue. Local favorites: Bakesale Betty, Temescal Brewing.

Local Programs & Resources:

• City of Oakland Homebuyer Assistance: The City offers several programs to help first-time homebuyers with down payment and closing costs, including deferred loans and grants to make homeownership more accessible.
• East Bay Housing Organizations (EBHO): A non-profit advocacy organization that works to promote affordable housing in the East Bay, providing resources and information for residents and prospective homebuyers.

Bakersfield Best Home Loan Lenders

MFP’s Community Lenders Survey most recommended home purchase lenders in Bakersfield’s area are Kern Schools FCU, Valley Strong Credit Union and Bank of the Sierra.

Lenders	Type	Easy Application	Loan Terms & Rate	Support & Guidance	Recommend %
Kern Schools FCU	Credit Union	5	5	5	96%
Valley Strong Credit Union	Credit Union	5	5	5	95%
Bank of the Sierra	Community Bank	4	4	5	90%
Wells Fargo	Bank	3	4	4	84%
Bank of America	Bank	4	4	4	86%
U.S. Bank	Bank	4	4	4	85%
Chase	Bank	4	3	3	81%
Citibank	Bank	3	3	3	80%
Mission Bank	Community Bank	4	4	4	85%
Plains Commerce Bank	Community Bank	4	4	4	83%

Bakersfield Homebuyers Overview

Olde Stockdale

This well-established neighborhood is known for its quiet, tree-lined streets and a mix of classic ranch-style and single-family homes, many on large lots. Olde Stockdale offers a serene and mature suburban atmosphere with its proximity to the Stockdale Country Club and other amenities. Local favorites: Old River Grill, Harrington House.

Southwest Bakersfield

Southwest Bakersfield is characterized by its modern housing developments with a variety of newer single-family homes. This area is considered family-friendly and is known for its convenience, with many parks and easy access to major shopping and dining centers. Local favorites: The Marketplace, The Park at River Walk.

Local Programs & Resources:

• California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA) MyHome Assistance Program: Provides a deferred-payment junior loan to assist with down payment and/or closing costs for eligible first-time homebuyers.
• City of Bakersfield Home Accessibility Grant Program: Offers grants for housing modifications to provide or improve access for disabled homeowners or renters.

Anaheim Best Home Loan Lenders

MFP’s Community Lenders Survey most recommended home purchase lenders in Anaheim’s area are Orange County’s Credit Union, SchoolsFirst FCU and Chase.

Lenders	Type	Easy Application	Loan Terms & Rate	Support & Guidance	Recommend %
Orange County’s Credit Union	Credit Union	5	5	5	95%
SchoolsFirst FCU	Credit Union	5	5	5	94%
Chase	Bank	4	4	4	88%
Bank of America	Bank	4	4	4	87%
Wells Fargo	Bank	3	4	4	84%
U.S. Bank	Bank	4	4	4	85%
First Foundation Bank	Community Bank	4	4	5	89%
Pacific Western Bank	Community Bank	4	4	4	85%
Citibank	Bank	3	3	3	80%
BBCN Bank	Community Bank	4	4	4	83%

Anaheim Homebuyers Overview

Anaheim Hills

This community is known for its master-planned neighborhoods, featuring spacious single-family homes, many with scenic hillside views. Anaheim Hills offers a suburban lifestyle with access to extensive trails and parks, providing a serene environment away from the city center. Local favorites: Hana Re Sushi, Anaheim Hills Festival.

Platinum Triangle

The Platinum Triangle is characterized by its high-density, urban living, with a concentration of condominiums, lofts, and high-rise apartments. This area is a major entertainment and sports hub, providing residents with a modern, walkable lifestyle close to major venues and new commercial developments. Local favorites: The Ranch Restaurant & Saloon, Brewery X.

Anaheim Colony Historic District

This neighborhood features a wide variety of historic homes, including Craftsman, Victorian, and Spanish Colonial styles, many of which are beautifully preserved. The district is known for its strong community feel and walkable streets, with a growing number of independent shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Local favorites: Downtown Anaheim, The Blind Rabbit.

Local Programs & Resources:

• City of Anaheim First-Time Homebuyer Program: Offers financial assistance for down payment and closing costs to eligible first-time homebuyers purchasing a home within the city limits.
• California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA): Provides various state-level loan and down payment assistance programs, including deferred-payment junior loans to support first-time buyers statewide.

Santa Ana Best Home Loan Lenders

MFP’s Community Lenders Survey most recommended home purchase lenders in Santa Ana’s area are Orange County’s Credit Union, SchoolsFirst FCU and First Foundation Bank.

Lenders	Type	Easy Application	Loan Terms & Rate	Support & Guidance	Recommend %
Orange County’s Credit Union	Credit Union	5	5	5	96%
SchoolsFirst FCU	Credit Union	5	5	5	95%
First Foundation Bank	Community Bank	4	5	5	93%
Bank of America	Bank	4	4	4	87%
Chase	Bank	4	4	4	86%
Wells Fargo	Bank	3	4	4	84%
Pacific Western Bank	Community Bank	4	4	4	85%
BBCN Bank	Community Bank	4	4	4	84%

Santa Ana Homebuyers Overview

French Park

Victorian and Craftsman-style houses line tree-lined streets in one of Santa Ana’s oldest neighborhoods. This early 20th-century development originally housed prominent families and maintains its historic charm with beautiful architecture. Local favorites: The Den Cafe, Café Cultura.

Downtown Arts District

Urban lofts and converted buildings occupy this 10-square-block Artists Village between First and Fourth Streets. The area features regular art walks, gallery openings, and live music venues that create a vibrant community atmosphere. Local favorites: Native Son, 4th Street Market.

Floral Park

Classic homes with large lots and winding tree-lined streets characterize this 1920s neighborhood. The area retains the charm of Southern California’s suburban expansion era with beautifully preserved historical architecture. Local favorites: Perla Mexican Cuisine, Sariñana’s Tamale Factory.

Local Programs & Resources:

• City of Santa Ana My First Home Program: Provides up to $120,000 for low-income and $80,000 for moderate-income first-time homebuyers with 0% interest rate.
• CalHFA MyHome Assistance Program: Offers deferred-payment junior loans to assist with down payment and closing costs for California homebuyers.

Riverside Best Home Loan Lenders

MFP’s Community Lenders Survey most recommended home purchase lenders in Riverside’s area are Altura Credit Union, SchoolsFirst FCU and Bank of America.

Lenders	Type	Easy Application	Loan Terms & Rate	Support & Guidance	Recommend %
Altura Credit Union	Credit Union	5	5	5	96%
SchoolsFirst FCU	Credit Union	5	5	5	95%
Bank of America	Bank	4	4	4	88%
U.S. Bank	Bank	4	4	4	87%
Wells Fargo	Bank	3	4	4	84%
Chase	Bank	4	4	4	86%
First Bank	Community Bank	4	4	4	85%
Pacific Western Bank	Community Bank	4	4	4	84%

Riverside Homebuyers Overview

Mission Grove

This is a newer community featuring a mix of single-family homes, apartments, and condominiums. It offers a suburban lifestyle with convenient access to a central retail hub and is bordered by Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park, providing opportunities for outdoor recreation. Local favorites: Dukes of Chutney, Cactus Cantina.

Canyon Crest

Canyon Crest is one of the city’s largest neighborhoods, featuring a mix of housing types from apartments to Craftsman and Mission-style homes. The area is known for its hilly terrain with scenic views and is anchored by a large town center offering a variety of local shops and dining. Local favorites: Simple Simon’s Bakery & Bistro, Isabella’s Cupcakes & More.

Downtown Riverside

Downtown Riverside is the city’s urban core, offering a mix of historic homes, including Victorian and Craftsman styles, and new urban-infill developments. The area is highly walkable, with a pedestrian mall and a rich concentration of cultural attractions, museums, and local eateries. Local favorites: Heroes Restaurant & Brewery, The Fox Performing Arts Center.

Local Programs & Resources:

• Fair Housing Council of Riverside County: Offers free workshops and resources for first-time homebuyers to help them understand the home-buying process and access financial assistance programs.
• California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA): Provides various state-level loan and down payment assistance programs, including deferred-payment junior loans to support first-time buyers.

Best California Home Loans Brokers

MFP’s Community Lenders Survey most recommended home purchase broker or consultant in California’s area are Lending Bankers Mortgage, Bennett Capital Partners and Movement Mortgage.

Lending Bankers Mortgage (98% Recommend)

• Highest in both Recommend % (98%) and Support & Guidance (4.9) among all California lenders
• Members frequently highlight their responsiveness and personalized solutions

Bennett Capital Partners (96% Recommend)

• Perfect 5.0 in Loan Terms & Rate Satisfaction with 96% Recommend score
• Homeowners consistently praise their market expertise and closing efficiency

Movement Mortgage (95% Recommend)

• 4.8 Easy Application score with 95% Recommend rate, strongest digital integration
• Users emphasize advisor availability and streamlined processes

Firm	Easy Application	Loan Terms & Rate Satisfaction	Support & Guidance	Recommend %
Lending Bankers Mortgage	4.7	4.8	4.9	98%
Bennett Capital Partners	4.6	5.0	4.8	96%
Movement Mortgage	4.8	4.7	4.7	95%
Fairway Independent Mortgage	4.5	4.6	4.8	94%
Guild Mortgage	4.4	4.5	4.6	93%
Home Financing Center	4.3	4.4	4.5	92%
CrossCountry Mortgage	4.2	4.3	4.4	91%
Expert Mortgage Group	4.1	4.2	4.3	90%
Quality Mortgage Solutions	4.0	4.1	4.2	89%
Ruulio Mortgage	3.9	4.0	4.1	88%
Premier Lending Group	3.8	3.9	4.0	87%
Coastal Mortgage Associates	3.7	3.8	3.9	86%
Sunshine State Funding	3.6	3.7	3.8	85%
Palm Mortgage Company	3.5	3.6	3.7	84%
Horizon Lending Solutions	3.4	3.5	3.6	83%
California Mortgage Advisors	3.3	3.4	3.5	82%
Capital Funding Mortgage	3.2	3.3	3.4	81%
Elite Mortgage Consultants	3.1	3.2	3.3	80%

Best California Home Loans Online Lenders

MFP’s Home Purchase Lenders Survey: Top online home purchase lenders for California residents are Rocket Mortgage, Better Mortgage, and SchoolsFirst FCU.

Lender	Loan Amounts	APR Range	Loan Terms	Easy Application	Rate Satisfaction	Support & Guidance	Recommend %
Rocket Mortgage	Up to $3M	6.25%-8.50%	8/15/20/30	5.0	4.5	4.5	94%
Better Mortgage	Up to $2.5M	6.00%-8.25%	15/30	4.5	4.5	4.0	92%
SchoolsFirst FCU	Up to $1.5M	5.90%-7.90%	15/30	4.0	4.0	4.5	86%
California Credit Union	Up to $1M	5.75%-7.75%	15/30	4.0	4.5	4.5	87%
First Tech FCU	Up to $2M	5.95%-8.15%	15/30	4.0	4.0	4.0	85%
Premier America CU	Up to $1M	5.80%-7.80%	15/30	4.0	4.5	4.5	88%
First California Bank	Up to $1.5M	6.05%-8.35%	15/30	4.0	4.0	4.0	84%
Pacific Premier Bank	Up to $2M	6.10%-8.40%	15/30	4.0	4.0	4.0	85%
Bank of the West	Up to $3M	6.15%-8.45%	15/30	4.5	4.0	4.5	86%
U.S. Bank	Up to $3M	6.20%-8.50%	15/30	4.0	4.0	4.0	85%
LoanSimple	Up to $1M	6.20%-8.30%	15/20/30	4.5	4.0	4.5	89%
Guaranteed Rate	Up to $3M	6.15%-8.45%	10/15/20/30	4.0	4.0	4.0	86%
New American Funding	Up to $2M	6.25%-8.75%	15/30	4.0	3.5	4.5	85%
Movement Mortgage	Up to $2.5M	6.00%-8.20%	15/30	4.5	4.0	4.5	88%
Guild Mortgage	Up to $1.5M	6.10%-8.50%	15/20/30	4.0	4.0	4.0	85%