Question 1

What's the 2026 conforming loan limit in Butte County?

Accepted Answer

The 2026 conforming limit is $832,750. Loans above this amount require jumbo financing with stricter terms.

Question 2

What's the FHA loan limit in Chico?

Accepted Answer

FHA caps at $541,287 in Butte County for 2026. Standard FHA rules apply here.

Question 3

Is Butte County an FHA high-cost area?

Accepted Answer

No. Butte County is not an FHA high-cost area, so the standard $541,287 limit applies.

Question 4

What credit score do I need for a conventional loan?

Accepted Answer

Most lenders require 620 FICO minimum. Scores of 640+ typically qualify for better rates and terms.

Question 5

How much down payment do I need on a conventional loan?

Accepted Answer

Conventional loans accept 3% to 5% down. At 20% down you avoid PMI entirely.

Question 6

What's the minimum down payment for FHA?

Accepted Answer

FHA requires 3.5% down with 580+ FICO. Upfront mortgage insurance is 1.75% of the loan amount.

Question 7

Do I need to be a first-time buyer to use FHA?

Accepted Answer

No. FHA is available to any borrower meeting credit and down-payment requirements, regardless of prior homeownership.

Question 8

How does Butte County's median income affect my options?

Accepted Answer

Butte County's median household income is $68,574. This matters for USDA eligibility, which caps at area-specific thresholds.

Question 9

Can I get a VA loan with zero down?

Accepted Answer

Yes. VA loans allow zero down for eligible veterans and surviving spouses with a Certificate of Eligibility.

Question 10

What's the VA funding fee?

Accepted Answer

First-time VA users pay 2.15% at zero down. Veterans with 10%+ disability rating are exempt from this fee.

Question 11

Is USDA financing available in Chico?

Accepted Answer

USDA loans are available in eligible rural areas of Butte County. Income limits vary by household size per USDA guidelines.

Question 12

How long does closing take in Chico?

Accepted Answer

Conventional loans typically close in 30 to 45 days. FHA and VA often take 45 to 60 days.

Question 13

How does Riverbend Park's Fourth of July event reflect the Chico market?

Accepted Answer

Community events like Riverbend Park's celebration show neighborhood vitality. Active local life appeals to buyers evaluating the area.

Question 14

Do I need to sell my current home first?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. Selling first simplifies qualification by clarifying income and debt ratios without pending sale proceeds.

Chico mortgage questions answered