Home Loans in Marin County

Marin County is one of the most desirable places to live in California, offering a blend of natural beauty, vibrant communities, and close proximity to San Francisco. However, buying a home in this competitive market requires more than just finding the perfect property—you also need the right financing. 

Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or looking to invest in a high-value property, understanding your mortgage options is essential. This guide will walk you through the home loan process, available financing options, and key strategies to help you secure the best mortgage for your dream home in Marin County.

Which best describes you?



Self Employed
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VA Eligible
If you are a current service member or veteran select this option.


Real Estate Investor
Select this option if you invest in income-producing rental properties.


Other
Select this option if none of the other 3 options apply.

What is the loan purpose?



Purchase
A purchase loan can be used to buy a home.


Refinance
A 'rate and term' refinance allows you to improve the terms of your existing mortgage by lowering the monthly payment. A 'cashout refinance' allows you to convert equity into cash.


Home Equity
A home equity loan or line of credit is a 2nd mortgage that allows you to convert equity to cash without having to touch your existing 1st mortgage.

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    Where We Lend

    Marin County is one of the most desirable areas in California, with its breathtaking landscapes, charming towns, and easy access to San Francisco. At Griffin Funding, we offer mortgage solutions across the entire county, including:

    • San Rafael
    • Novato
    • Mill Valley
    • Larkspur
    • Sausalito
    • Tiburon
    • Fairfax
    • Corte Madera

    Types of Home Loans Available in Marin County

    Home loans aren’t one-size-fits-all. Here are some of the most common California mortgage loan options:

    • Conventional Loans: Suitable for borrowers with strong credit and stable income, conventional loans provide competitive interest rates and flexible repayment options.
    • FHA Loans: Backed by the Federal Housing Administration, FHA loans enable buyers with lower credit scores or smaller down payments to qualify for financing.
    • CalHFA Loans: Access specialized programs designed for California residents entering the housing market. Utilize state-sponsored assistance and benefits to make your first home purchase more affordable.
    • VA Loans: Available to veterans and active-duty service members, VA loans offer zero-down financing and favorable terms to facilitate homeownership.
    • DSCR Loans: Designed for real estate investors, DSCR loans allow qualification based on a property’s rental income rather than personal earnings, making them ideal for short-term rentals and investment properties.
    • ADU Loans: These loans support the purchasing of an ADU, construction or conversion of accessory dwelling units, helping homeowners increase property value and rental potential.
    • Home Equity Loans: Homeowners can leverage built-up equity through a second mortgage, cash-out refinance, or home equity line of credit (HELOC) to access funds for various financial needs.
    • California Investment Property Loans: Tailored for real estate investors, these loans provide loans for Airbnb, rental properties, or flipping homes within California.
    • Private Money Loans: Also known as hard money loans, these short-term financing options offer quick access to capital, often used for real estate investments or bridging financial gaps.
    • ITIN Loans: Designed for foreign nationals without a Social Security number, ITIN loans offer a pathway to homeownership through alternative mortgage qualification.
    • USDA Loans: Explore affordable housing options in the rural areas of Marin County. Special loans are available in qualifying regions with no down payment required, making homeownership more accessible in these rural communities.

    Think you qualify for a loan? Contact us today to find out!

    Contact Us

    How to Get a Home Loan in Marin County

    Securing a home loan involves a structured process. The key steps include:

    1. Financial Assessment: Lenders typically look for a strong credit profile and stable income to determine eligibility. Prospective buyers should review their financial standing and address any outstanding debt or discrepancies before applying for a loan.
    2. Pre-Approval: A pre-approval gives buyers a competitive edge in a hot market, showing sellers that they are financially prepared and capable of following through with the purchase.
    3. Selecting the Appropriate Loan: Buyers should consider factors such as interest rates, loan terms, and down payment requirements when choosing conventional, FHA, VA, or jumbo loans.
    4. Loan Application Submission: This step requires submitting income verification, tax returns, employment history, and credit information to the lender for evaluation.
    5. Underwriting and Approval: The lender will assess the risk of lending the funds and ensure the home’s value aligns with the loan amount. 
    6. Closing: Once the loan is approved, buyers will sign the necessary closing documents, pay any required fees, and officially take ownership of the property. 

    Why Work With Griffin Funding?

    Griffin Funding provides a client-centered approach to mortgage lending, offering personalized service, competitive rates, and local expertise. Our team takes the time to understand each borrower’s unique needs, ensuring tailored mortgage solutions. As a lender familiar with the Marin County real estate market, we provide insights that help streamline the homebuying process.

    Our commitment to efficiency is reflected in our Griffin Gold app, which simplifies the mortgage application process. In addition to assisting prospective buyers with their home purchases, we also offer guidance on mortgage refinancing and investment property loans.

    We work closely with clients to ensure they have access to competitive rates and flexible terms, helping them achieve their financial goals. Whether you are purchasing a primary residence, a vacation home, or an investment property, Griffin Funding is committed to providing expert guidance and exceptional service every step of the way.

    Lock in Your Mortgage Rate in Marin County

    Mortgage rates can fluctuate based on market conditions, influenced by factors such as inflation, Federal Reserve policies, and overall economic trends. Because even small changes in interest rates can significantly impact the total cost of a mortgage, buyers need to stay informed and proactive in securing the most favorable terms.

    Here’s how to secure the best rate:

    • Monitor rates: Keep an eye on mortgage trends to time your purchase wisely. Rates can change based on economic factors, so staying informed can help you secure a lower interest rate.
    • Improve your credit score: Paying off debt, making timely payments, and reducing credit utilization can enhance your credit profile and qualify you for better rates.
    • Consider rate locks: Rate locks typically last between 30 and 90 days, providing stability while you finalize your home purchase.
    • Compare loan options: Different loans come with different rates and terms. Exploring different mortgage products can help you identify the most cost-effective financing option for your situation.
    • Market research: Griffin Funding has extensive research including data on the average home appreciation to see how Marin County’s market has performed over the years. Understanding past and projected trends can provide insights into the best times to buy or refinance.

    Purchasing a home in Marin County is both an exciting and complex process. With Griffin Funding’s expertise, homebuyers can confidently navigate their mortgage journey. Whether buying, refinancing, or exploring investment opportunities, our team provides the resources and guidance necessary for success.

    Get in touch today to explore your mortgage options and take the first step toward homeownership in Marin County!