California

Branches located in California

San Diego

Redding

Carlsbad

Petaluma

Tehachapi

Mission Viejo

West Covina

Welcome to California

The Golden State, known for its breathtaking Pacific coastline, iconic landmarks, and vibrant cities. California’s diverse geography stretches from the towering redwoods of the north to the sun-soaked beaches of the south. The state's dynamic culture blends innovation, entertainment, and natural beauty, making it a destination like no other.

California’s economy leads the nation in sectors like technology, agriculture, and entertainment. From Silicon Valley to Hollywood, each region contributes to the state’s economic strength. Whether you're exploring Yosemite’s scenic landscapes, surfing in Malibu, or strolling the streets of San Francisco, California offers a lifestyle that is as diverse as its people. Let Military Home Spot Lending help you find your perfect home in this incredible state.

Major California Cities

California's "Biggest Cities" section highlights the state’s largest and most influential urban centers, each offering a unique blend of culture, economy, and opportunity. From the tech innovation of San Jose to the entertainment capital of Los Angeles and the cultural landmarks of San Francisco, these cities drive California’s growth and define its identity. This section provides insight into the bustling urban life that makes California a magnet for residents and visitors alike.

Quick Links To Other City Pages

San Diego

Los Angeles

San Jose

San Francisco

Fresno

Sacramento

Long Beach

Oakland

Bakersfield

Irvine

Stockton

Riverside

Santa Ana

Chula Vista

Fremont

Modesto

Veteran Benefits in California

California offers veterans a comprehensive range of benefits that make homeownership, education, and employment more accessible. With tax exemptions, special loan programs, and recreational discounts, veterans in California can take advantage of numerous opportunities that honor their service.

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California's Military Presence

California plays a vital role in national defense, housing numerous prominent military installations across the state. From the desert training grounds at Twentynine Palms to the naval bases of San Diego, these facilities are key to military readiness, technological advancements, and national security. California’s diverse landscape and expansive coastline make it essential for strategic operations, advanced weapons testing, and air and sea training exercises.

• Naval Base San Diego: The largest surface ship base of the U.S. Navy, supporting fleet operations in the Pacific.
• Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton: A major West Coast base providing amphibious assault training and housing the 1st Marine Division.
• Edwards Air Force Base: Known for flight testing and aerospace innovation, Edwards AFB plays a key role in advancing Air Force technology.
• Naval Air Station Lemoore: The Navy's primary West Coast base for carrier-based strike aircraft.
• Vandenberg Space Force Base: A key site for space launches and missile testing, supporting national security space operations.
• Fort Irwin: Home to the National Training Center, where large-scale training exercises prepare soldiers for deployment.
• Beale Air Force Base: A hub for reconnaissance and surveillance missions, supporting the U-2 and RQ-4 Global Hawk aircraft.
• Travis Air Force Base: A vital airlift hub for military logistics and humanitarian aid, operating the C-17 Globemaster and KC-10 Extender.
• Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach: A key site for munitions storage and distribution supporting the Pacific Fleet.
• Los Angeles Air Force Base: Headquarters of the Space Systems Command, overseeing space-based defense programs.
• Coast Guard Base Los Angeles-Long Beach: Plays a critical role in maritime law enforcement and search and rescue operations along the West Coast.
• Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms: The largest U.S. Marine Corps base, specializing in live-fire training and large-scale exercises.
• Naval Postgraduate School Monterey: An advanced educational institution for military officers pursuing defense and security-related degrees.
• Fort Hunter Liggett: A U.S. Army Reserve training facility used for joint-force readiness and combat support missions.

California VA Loan Requirements

VA loan requirements in California align with those in other states, with specific eligibility criteria related to your service time and general requirements, such as fees and residency obligations.

To qualify for a VA loan, you typically need to meet one of the following service requirements:

• 90 days of active service during wartime
• 181 continuous days of active service during peacetime
• 6 or more years of service in the National Guard or Reserves
• Unremarried surviving spouse of a servicemember who died in the line of duty or due to a service-related disability

In addition to these service requirements, VA loans have other conditions, including:

• Funding Fee: A one-time fee that helps cover the cost of the loan, which varies based on the down payment amount and military category. Some borrowers may qualify for a reduced fee or an exemption.
• Occupancy Requirement: Borrowers typically need to occupy their new home within 60 days of purchase, with some exceptions.
• Primary Residence Use: VA loans must be used for the borrower’s primary residence, not for investment properties or second homes.

California also has specific property requirements:

• Seismic Safety Requirements: Homes in certain regions may need to meet earthquake safety standards and retrofitting.
• Licensed Installer for Manufactured Housing: New or proposed manufactured homes must be installed by a licensed installer.

Each lender may have their own set of qualification requirements, so it’s essential to speak with your Loan Officer for detailed guidance.

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California VA Loan Limits

VA loan limits in California can vary by county and change annually based on the housing market. Most counties in California adhere to the standard VA loan limit of $766,550 for a single-family home. However, high-cost areas like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Santa Clara counties have higher limits, reaching up to $1,089,300.

It’s important to note that VA loan limits do not cap the amount you can borrow, but rather determine how much of the loan can be covered with no down payment. When you have full entitlement, you can borrow as much as your lender allows without a down payment, as long as it’s within the county’s loan limit.

VA Loan Entitlement in California

VA loan entitlement represents the amount the VA will guarantee to the lender if the borrower defaults. There are two types of entitlement:

• Full Entitlement: When you have full entitlement, you can borrow up to 25% of the loan amount without a down payment. This entitlement makes VA loans attractive by reducing risk for lenders and offering favorable terms.
• Remaining Entitlement: If you’ve already used part of your entitlement, the VA will guarantee 25% of the county loan limit minus the amount of entitlement already used. This may require a down payment.

Your entitlement is a lifetime benefit that can be reused, subject to certain conditions. Consult your Loan Officer for more details on how entitlement works and how it impacts your loan options.

VA Loan Rates in California

Mortgage rates for VA loans fluctuate based on various factors, including economic conditions and individual borrower characteristics like credit score. VA loans generally offer lower interest rates than other loan types due to the government guarantee.

Types of VA Mortgage Programs in California

• VA Purchase Loan: Available with both fixed and adjustable rates, ideal for borrowers seeking consistent payments or those who anticipate relocation within a few years.
• VA Cash-Out Refinance Loan: Allows borrowers to refinance up to 100% of their home’s value, even from non-VA loans, to access cash for various needs.
• VA Streamline Refinance Loan: Also known as the VA Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL), this option offers a simplified refinance process with potential for lower rates and payments.

How to Get a VA Loan in California

To apply for a VA loan in California, follow these steps:

1. Apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE): This document verifies your eligibility for a VA loan. Your Loan Officer will assist you in gathering the necessary information.
2. Choose the Right Loan: Work with your Loan Officer to determine the best VA loan option for your needs.
3. Find a Home: Your lender may refer you to a Real Estate Agent to help find and negotiate a purchase agreement for your home.
4. Home Appraisal: Your Loan Officer will arrange for a property appraisal by a VA-assigned appraiser.
5. Loan Approval and Closing: If your lender is VA-authorized, they can approve and close your loan without needing separate VA approval.

Once these steps are completed, you’ll be ready to close on your new home and enjoy the benefits of a VA loan in California.

Real Estate in California

California's real estate market is one of the most dynamic and competitive in the country. From luxury homes in Los Angeles to tech-driven growth in Silicon Valley and affordable suburban communities in Sacramento, the state offers diverse opportunities for homeowners. With no state income tax on military pensions and significant veteran property tax exemptions, California remains an attractive location for veterans and their families. Whether you're looking for coastal living, mountain retreats, or urban dwellings, California’s real estate landscape offers something for everyone.