Question 1

What's the conforming loan limit in Lassen County for 2026?

Accepted Answer

The 2026 conforming limit is $832,750. Loans above that amount are jumbo and typically require 20% down and stronger credit.

Question 2

Can I buy in Susanville with an FHA loan?

Accepted Answer

Yes. FHA loans are available here with no high-cost-area restrictions. The 2026 FHA limit is $541,287. You'll need 580+ FICO and 3.5% down minimum.

Question 3

Is Lassen County a VA high-cost area?

Accepted Answer

No. VA loans are not restricted by high-cost-area rules here. The 2026 VA limit matches the conforming limit at $832,750.

Question 4

What credit score do I need to qualify for a conventional loan?

Accepted Answer

Most lenders want 620+ FICO for conventional loans. Stronger credit (740+) opens better rates and lower down-payment options.

Question 5

How much down payment do I need to avoid PMI?

Accepted Answer

Yes — 20% down eliminates PMI on a conventional loan. Below 20%, PMI applies until you reach 78% LTV. At 80% LTV you can request cancellation.

Question 6

What's the FHA down payment requirement?

Accepted Answer

FHA requires 3.5% down minimum with 580+ FICO. The upfront mortgage insurance is 1.75% of the loan amount, rolled into your balance.

Question 7

Does FHA mortgage insurance ever go away?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your down payment. With 10%+ down, MIP cancels after 11 years. Below 10% down, it runs for the life of the loan.

Question 8

Can I get a VA loan with zero down?

Accepted Answer

Yes — eligible veterans, active duty, and surviving spouses with a Certificate of Eligibility can buy with zero down. No PMI applies; a funding fee replaces it.

Question 9

What's the VA funding fee?

Accepted Answer

The funding fee is 2.15% at zero down on your first VA purchase. It rolls into the loan amount. Veterans with a 10%+ disability rating are exempt.

Question 10

How does the Sierra trail system project affect Susanville property values?

Accepted Answer

The regional trail connecting 15 towns to Lassen Volcanic National Park could boost outdoor recreation appeal. Proximity to trails often supports property demand in mountain communities.

Question 11

What income do I need to qualify for a loan in Lassen County?

Accepted Answer

There's no hard income floor, but lenders verify you can afford the payment. Debt-to-income ratio typically caps at 43-50%. Lassen County's median is $64,395.

Question 12

How long does closing take in Susanville?

Accepted Answer

Conventional loans typically close in 30-45 days. FHA and VA can take 40-50 days due to appraisal and inspection requirements. Local title companies affect the final timeline.

Question 13

What happens if I want to refinance later?

Accepted Answer

Refinancing is available once you have equity and meet credit/income standards. VA borrowers can use a VA Streamline refinance for faster approval and lower costs.

Susanville mortgage questions answered