Fresno
Branches located in California
About Fresno, California
Located in the heart of California's San Joaquin Valley, Fresno stands as a testament to the Golden State's agricultural prowess. A city rich in history, Fresno boasts a unique blend of urban and rural, with vast farmlands, traditional neighborhoods, and modern amenities. From the tranquility of the Shinzen Friendship Garden to the energy of the Tower District's nightlife, Fresno offers a diverse living experience to both residents and visitors alike.
Average Home Prices in Fresno
The average home price in Fresno, CA, stands at approximately $375,000.
Based on calculations of home data from MLS and/or public records.
Veteran Benefits in California
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California Veterans Homes
California has eight veterans homes, providing essential care and support for veterans in need. These homes are located in various cities, including Barstow, Chula Vista, Fresno, Lancaster, Redding, Ventura, West Los Angeles, and Yountville. Eligibility requirements may vary, and disabled or homeless veterans needing long-term care may qualify regardless of age.
- California Veteran Financial Benefits
California offers a range of financial benefits to veterans, including:
- Income Tax: California active-duty residents do not pay state income taxes if stationed outside the state.
- CalVet Farm and Home Loans: Eligible veterans can access various types of loans, such as home, farm, mobile home, construction, home improvement, and rehabilitation loans, with competitive rates and quick processing.
- Veterans Property Tax Exemption: Honorably discharged veterans may qualify for a property tax exemption of up to $4,000 for real or personal property.
- Disabled Veterans Property Tax Exemption: Disabled veterans may be eligible for property tax exemptions with two different levels: the basic exemption and the low-income exemption.
- California Military Family Relief Fund
The California Military Family Relief Fund (CMFRF) provides short-term financial assistance in the form of grants to California National Guard members and their families affected by mobilization and deployment.
- Motor Vehicle Registration Fees Waived
Medal of Honor recipients, former prisoners of war (POWs), and some permanently and totally disabled veterans may be eligible for a waiver of registration fees and free license plates for certain motor vehicles.
- Business License, Tax and Fee Waiver
Honorably discharged veterans who engage in certain business activities may be eligible for waivers of municipal, county, and state business license fees, as well as other taxes and fees.
- California Veterans Employment Preference
Honorably discharged veterans and their spouses, or surviving spouses of 100% disabled veterans, receive preference in state employment.
- Disabled Veteran State Contract Preference
The Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise program helps small businesses wholly or partly owned by disabled veterans compete for state contracts.
- Commercial Driver's License
Service members and veterans who served in a military position requiring operation of a military motor vehicle equivalent to a commercial motor vehicle on public roads and highways may be exempt from certain parts of the licensing exam.
- California Veteran Dependent College Fee Waiver
Eligible dependents of veterans may qualify for a fee waiver for mandatory tuition and fees at California community colleges, state universities, and UC campuses.
- California National Guard Education Assistance
The California National Guard Education Assistance Award Program covers costs at selected state universities and community colleges for Guard members in active status while attending school.
- California Veteran Recreation Benefits
California offers recreation benefits for veterans, including reduced fees for fishing and hunting licenses, state park and recreation pass benefits, and access to state veterans cemeteries.
Living in Fresno, California
Living in Fresno, California, offers residents a blend of urban conveniences and a touch of rural charm. As the fifth-largest city in California, Fresno serves as the economic hub of the vast agricultural-rich San Joaquin Valley. This unique position means residents can shop at bustling modern malls one day and, on the next, find themselves on a short drive to local farms and vineyards, purchasing fresh produce or wine-tasting. The city boasts a diverse community, reflected in its wide array of ethnic restaurants, cultural festivals, and neighborhoods. Historic landmarks like the Tower District offer residents an eclectic mix of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, while Woodward Park provides ample green space for relaxation and recreation.
Yet, Fresno's allure is not just limited to its urban offerings. The city's central location in California is a major draw for outdoor enthusiasts. Residents are a stone's throw away from three national parks: Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon, making weekend getaways into nature both appealing and feasible. The climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers, is typical of the Central Valley. While some might find the summers a bit warm, the city compensates by hosting numerous events and festivals, like the famed Fresno Fair. As with any city, challenges like traffic and urban sprawl exist, but many who live in Fresno appreciate its lower cost of living compared to many other Californian cities and the tight-knit community vibe it maintains.
Fresno Neighborhoods & Surrounding Cities
- Sunnyside: Known for its historical buildings and a serene suburban feel.
- Woodward Park: A residential area with proximity to the vast urban park of the same name, offering recreational activities.
- Tower District: Renowned for its vibrant arts scene, local eateries, and nightlife.
- Roosevelt: A community with rich cultural heritage and numerous local events.
- Fig Garden: Offers a mix of vintage homes and upscale modern estates, with a shopping village at its heart.
- Bullard: A rapidly developing area with schools, parks, and shopping centers.
- Central Fresno: The hub of the city with easy access to amenities, services, and transportation.
- West Fresno: A growing area with new housing developments and a b sense of community.
- Downtown Fresno: The heartbeat of the city, with its cultural venues, offices, and entertainment options.
- McLane: A quiet residential neighborhood with schools and parks, perfect for families.
- Sierra Sky Park: A unique residential airpark community where homes have hangars and there's a shared runway.
- Hoover: A suburban neighborhood with a variety of dining and shopping options.
- Clovis: Right next to Fresno, Clovis offers a blend of urban convenience and small-town charm.
- Huntington Boulevard: Known for its historic homes and the iconic Kearney Boulevard palm trees.
- Van Ness Extension: A prestigious area with large homes, expansive lots, and tree-lined streets.
Military Bases near Fresno
While Fresno isn't directly home to large military installations, its strategic location in California means it's within reach of several key military bases essential for national defense. Some of the notable bases near Fresno include:
- Lemoore Naval Air Station: An essential hub for the Navy's west coast strike fighter community, located to the southwest of Fresno.
- Fort Hunter Liggett: The largest U.S. Army Reserve Command post, it plays a critical role in training exercises.
Local Universities in Fresno
Fresno, located in the heart of the Central Valley, hosts a range of universities and colleges that cater to various academic pursuits. These institutions not only contribute to the intellectual fabric of the region but also offer diverse opportunities for residents and students alike. Here are some of the renowned universities in Fresno:
- California State University, Fresno (Fresno State): A significant institution offering a vast range of undergraduate and graduate programs, known for its research endeavors and Bulldogs athletics.
- Fresno Pacific University: A Christian university that provides a comprehensive liberal arts education with a focus on community engagement and service.
- Fresno City College: The first community college in California, it boasts an array of associate degree programs and vocational training.
- San Joaquin College of Law: A local institution dedicated to training future legal professionals in the Central Valley.
- UEI College - Fresno: Provides vocational and trade programs, preparing students for careers in healthcare, business, and skilled trades.
Unlock the Potential of VA Loans in Fresno
As Fresno stands out with its harmonious blend of urban lifestyle and sprawling green vistas, it's an ideal location for veterans and active-duty service members to call home. VA Loans in Fresno have been specifically crafted to offer a myriad of exceptional benefits, ensuring your dream of owning a house becomes a tangible reality:
- Zero Initial Payment: Leverage the power of VA Loans and step into Fresno's property market without a substantial upfront cost, giving your homeownership journey a strong start.
- Competitive Interest Rates: Benefit from rates that stand among the industry's finest, guaranteeing a mortgage that's both affordable and manageable.
- Say Goodbye to PMI: With VA Loans, the additional burden of private mortgage insurance is nonexistent. Redirect the savings to embellish your new Fresno residence.
With its agricultural abundance juxtaposed with cutting-edge urban facilities, Fresno emerges as a prime locale for veterans. And when you have MHS Lending in your corner, you gain unparalleled insights and assistance to leverage every VA Loan benefit to the maximum.
Why MHS Lending is Your Trusted Partner for Fresno VA Loans
Renowned for our specialized focus on VA Loans in Fresno, MHS Lending prides itself on providing insights that come from years of dedicated service. Here's what makes us the preferred choice for the city's veterans:
- Customized Solutions: At MHS Lending, our veterans are given the utmost priority. We modify our offerings to align with your distinct requirements, ensuring a meticulous and compassionate approach throughout.
- Optimizing Your Benefits: Our singular mission is to let you harness the fullest potential of your VA Loan perks, promising an effortless journey from the initial application to the eventual closing.
- An Uncomplicated Journey: Enter the housing domain of Fresno without a hitch. Our commitment is to simplify your purchasing process, letting you cherish the excitement of your upcoming abode.
Yearning to dive into the enriching life that Fresno promises? MHS Lending is poised to assist you every step of the way. Embark on your homeownership quest now.
Quick Links To Other City Pages
- California Veteran Financial Benefits