Novato
Mortgage Lenders

Down payment requirements depend on the loan program. Conventional loans need 3–20% down — on Novato's $1,100,000 median price that ranges from $38,500 to $220,000. FHA loans require 3.5% ($38,500). VA loans for eligible veterans require zero down. Investment property loans typically require 20–25% ($220,000–$275,000). The right number depends on your loan type and credit profile — we'll help you find the lowest viable down payment for your situation.

Standard purchase loans in Novato close in 21–30 days with a complete file. Buyers using VA loans should plan for 30–45 days to allow time for the VA appraisal. DSCR and investment property loans can close in 14–21 days. Fix-and-flip hard money loans can fund in as few as 7–10 days. The biggest delays come from incomplete documentation — having your income, asset, and ID documents ready at application can shave a week off the timeline.

Novato buyers have access to several assistance programs. CalHFA's MyHome Assistance Program provides a deferred-payment junior loan of up to 3.5% of the purchase price for down payment or closing costs. The CalHFA Zero Interest Program (ZIP) covers closing costs with no interest and no monthly payments. FHA loans require just 3.5% down ($38,500 on Novato's $1,100,000 median) with more flexible credit requirements. Many first-time buyers in Novato combine an FHA loan with a CalHFA assistance layer to reduce out-of-pocket costs significantly.

FHA loans require only 3.5% down ($38,500 on $1,100,000) and accept credit scores down to 580, but charge mortgage insurance for the life of the loan if you put less than 10% down. Conventional loans require 3–20% down, drop PMI automatically at 80% LTV, and carry no upfront MIP. If your credit score is 680+ and you can put 5–10% down, conventional usually wins on total cost. If your credit score is below 680 or your down payment is limited, FHA is typically the better entry point. We run both scenarios with your actual numbers before you decide.

A rate lock guarantees your interest rate for a set period — usually 30, 45, or 60 days from lock date. In Novato where days on market average 24, most buyers lock at application or just after going under contract. Longer locks cost slightly more (typically 0.125–0.25% in points per 15 additional days). If rates drop after you lock, some lenders offer a one-time float-down option. Missing your lock expiration because of closing delays can require an extension fee or re-lock at current market rates — so coordinating your timeline with your lender from day one matters.