California VA Loans 2026
California's 1.8 million veterans deserve the best home financing available. VA loans offer$0 down payment, no PMI, and thelowest rates on the market—with no loan limits for those with full entitlement.
Why California Veterans Choose VA Loans
Zero Down Payment
In California's expensive markets, saving 20% for a down payment can take decades. VA loans eliminate this barrier entirely.
No Mortgage Insurance
VA loans never require PMI, regardless of down payment. This saves California veterans hundreds per month.
Serving Military Families Near California Bases
California is home to more military installations than any other state. We help active duty, veterans, and military families across the Golden State.
California-Specific Veteran Benefits
Beyond federal VA loans, California offers additional programs for veterans.
CalVet Home Loan Program
State-funded home loan program with competitive rates. CalVet holds the loan directly and may offer rates below market in certain conditions.
- California residency required
- Can combine with federal VA entitlement
- Available for purchase or refinance
Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption
California disabled veterans may qualify for property tax exemptions up to $254,656 of assessed value—significant savings in high-value markets.
- 100% exemption for qualifying veterans
- Saves $2,500-$3,000+ annually
- Service-connected disability required
VA IRRRL Streamline Refinance
Already have a VA loan? The Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL) lets you lower your rate with minimal documentation and no appraisal.
Calculate VA IRRRL Savings →Calculate Your California VA Loan Payment
See your estimated payment with $0 down and no PMI. Compare VA rates to conventional financing.
California VA Loan FAQs
Is there a VA loan limit in California for 2026?
For veterans with full VA loan entitlement, there is no loan limit—you can buy any priced home with $0 down. If you have reduced entitlement (previous VA loan or foreclosure), county loan limits apply, ranging from $832,750 in standard areas to $1,249,125 in high-cost California counties.
What is the VA funding fee in California?
The VA funding fee for California VA loans is 2.15% for first-time use with zero down, or 1.25%-1.5% with 5%-10%+ down payment. The fee can be financed into the loan. Veterans with service-connected disabilities are exempt from the funding fee.
What are the CalVet home loan benefits?
CalVet offers California veterans additional benefits including the CalVet Home Loan Program with competitive rates, property tax exemptions for disabled veterans (up to $254,656 exemption), and the California Military Family Relief Fund for emergency assistance.
Can I use a VA loan to buy a multi-unit property in California?
Yes! VA loans allow purchase of 1-4 unit properties in California, as long as you occupy one unit as your primary residence. This is popular in expensive markets where rental income helps qualify for higher-priced properties.
Explore More California Loan Options
Thank You for Your Service
Emmett Clark | CA-DRE #01408122
Let me help you use the benefits you've earned. Check your VA loan eligibility today.
From the blog & learning center
VA Loan Guides & Articles
Assumable Mortgages: How to Take Over a VA or FHA Loan
An assumable mortgage lets a buyer take over a seller's VA, FHA, or USDA loan and its low rate. Learn the costs, the equity gap, and how to finance it.
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Gift Funds: The Rules for Down Payment Gifts
A family member can give you money for your down payment, and on most loan types the entire down payment can be a gift. The key rules: it has to be a true gift with no repayment expected, it must come from an acceptable source, and it has to be documented with a gift letter and a clear paper trail.
Read moreSeller Concessions: How Much Can the Seller Pay?
A seller concession is when the seller agrees to pay part of your closing costs as a term of the sale. It's a legitimate, common way to reduce your cash to close, and depending on the loan type and your down payment, a seller can contribute anywhere from 2% to 9% of the purchase price toward your costs.
Read moreWhat Credit Score Do You Need for Each Loan Type?
The minimum credit score depends entirely on the loan program: FHA goes as low as 500-580, VA and USDA have no federal minimum (lenders typically want 580-640), conventional generally starts around 620, and jumbo loans want 700 or higher. Here's the breakdown by program.
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How Can You Buy a House With No Money Down?
Two true zero-down loans exist: VA for veterans and military, and USDA for eligible rural and suburban homes. A few other paths get you close.
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What does a VA renovation loan really involve?
A VA renovation loan lets an eligible veteran buy or refinance a home and finance non-structural repairs into the same VA loan with no down payment. The main hurdle is finding a lender who offers it.
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