Are you considering purchasing a house in Irvine, CA? Look no further, as this is an excellent starting point. Sammamish Mortgage is here to assist you in acquiring your ideal Irvine, CA home.
Why Irvine is One of the Best Places to Buy a Home
Irvine, CA, is a master-planned city known for its top-rated schools, safe neighborhoods, and booming economy. With a strong job market, excellent public amenities, and a high quality of life, it’s no surprise that Irvine is one of the most sought-after places to live in Orange County.
From modern townhomes in the Irvine Spectrum area to luxurious estates in Shady Canyon, the city offers diverse housing options. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced homeowner, securing the right financing is key to making Irvine your home.
Navigating Irvine’s Competitive Real Estate Market
Irvine’s real estate market is highly competitive, with homes often selling quickly. The city’s prime location, proximity to major business hubs, and top-tier universities make it a magnet for professionals, families, and investors.
If you’re planning to buy a home in Irvine, getting pre-approved early can give you a strong advantage. At Sammamish Mortgage, we offer customized loan solutions to help you secure financing, whether you’re looking for a high-rise condo near UC Irvine or a spacious family home in Woodbridge.
Smart Refinancing Options for Irvine Homeowners
If you already own a home in Irvine, refinancing could help you save money or unlock your home’s equity. With rising property values in Orange County, refinancing is a great way to lower your interest rate, reduce your monthly mortgage payment, or fund home improvements.
Our refinancing options include:
Rate-and-term refinance – Lower your interest rate or adjust your loan term.
Cash-out refinancing – Tap into your home equity for renovations, investments, or other financial needs.
Fixed-rate conversion – Switch from an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) to a stable, fixed-rate loan.
Not sure which option is best for you? Our expert mortgage team will guide you through the refinancing process and help you find the right solution.
Why Homebuyers Trust Sammamish Mortgage in Irvine
We have decades of experience helping homebuyers and homeowners in California find the best mortgage solutions. Here’s why Irvine residents trust us:
Competitive Mortgage Rates – Get access to rates 24/7.
Personalized Loan Solutions – We tailor mortgage programs to fit your financial goals.
Simple Online Process – Apply, upload documents, and track your loan from anywhere.
Local Market Knowledge – We understand Irvine’s real estate market and lending landscape.
Fast & Efficient Closings – We work quickly to ensure a smooth homebuying process.
Take the Next Step Toward Homeownership in Irvine
Buying or refinancing in Irvine? Let us help you secure the right mortgage. Contact Sammamish Mortgage today to explore your loan options and get pre-approved for your dream home in Irvine.
Irvine Mortgage Lenders
In order to secure the most favorable mortgage rate, it is essential to find a trustworthy and reputable mortgage lender. Seek out a mortgage lender that employs highly experienced Loan Officers. This approach ensures that you obtain a loan tailored to your specific circumstances, avoiding the risk of borrowing beyond your means.
Home Loan Programs
Irvine borrowers have a wide range of home mortgage options available to them when it comes to real estate.
Getting a 30-year fixed-rate loan usually means paying more in interest over the life of the loan, but gives California homebuyers a low monthly mortgage payment.
If you are a veteran, an active duty service member, or the surviving spouse of a military vet, a VA loan often requires no down payment or a very low down payment.
If you live in a very expensive part of the country, don’t give up hope. Jumbo loans can help you if the price of your dream home is a bit over the conventional loan limits.
A mortgage is a loan used to purchase or refinance a home, with the property serving as collateral for the loan.
How do I qualify for a mortgage in California?
Eligibility for home loans in California typically depends on factors like credit score, income, down payment, and property type.
What are the steps involved in getting a mortgage?
The mortgage process usually involves getting pre-approved, submitting a full loan application with documentation, undergoing appraisal and underwriting, and closing on the loan once approved.
Do I need a down payment to buy a home in California?
Yes, most loans require a down payment, typically 3%–20%, though VA and USDA loans may offer zero down.
What is the minimum credit score for a mortgage in California?
Conventional loans generally require a credit score of 620+, FHA loans may allow as low as 580, while jumbo loans often need 700+.
What’s the difference between a conforming and jumbo loan in California?
A conforming loan falls under Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac limits ($806,500 baseline in 2025, up to $1,209,750 in high-cost counties), while jumbo loans exceed these loan limits.
What mortgage programs are available in California?
Popular options include conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, and jumbo loans.
What are closing costs in California?
Closing costs typically range from 2% – 5% of the loan amount, including fees, title insurance, and escrow.
Who pays closing costs in California?
Usually the buyer, but sellers sometimes offer credits to cover part of them.
Do I need mortgage insurance in California?
Yes, if your down payment is less than 20% on a conventional loan, or with FHA loans regardless of down payment.
Can I buy an investment property with a California mortgage?
Yes, but you’ll typically need a larger down payment and higher credit score.
Are there mortgages for self-employed buyers in California?
Yes, lenders may accept bank statements, tax returns, or other income documentation to qualify self-employed borrowers.
Can I refinance my California mortgage?
Yes, you can refinance to lower your rate, change loan terms, or access equity through cash-out refinancing.
Why should I choose Sammamish Mortgage?
Sammamish Mortgage offers $1 lender fees, in-house underwriting for faster approvals, competitive rates, vast network of lenders, and over 1,500 5-star reviews from satisfied clients.
No Obligation and transparency 24/7. Instantly compare live rates and costs from our network of lenders across the country. Real-time accurate rates and closing costs for a variety of loan programs custom to your specific situation.