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Sonoma County moves fast. When the right property hits the market in Cotati, waiting to sell first can cost you the deal.
Bridge loans give you short-term cash to close on the new home now. You repay the loan once your existing property sells.
6–12 months
Typical Loan Term
620 (varies)
Min Credit Score
20–30%+ typical
Equity Needed
Non-QM
Loan Type
Higher than conventional
Rate Type
Bridge loans are non-QM products. Lenders focus on equity and exit strategy, not just your debt-to-income ratio.
You typically need strong equity in your departing property. Most lenders want at least 20–30% equity to approve the bridge.
Big retail banks rarely do bridge loans well. Most have slow processes that defeat the purpose of short-term financing.
Wholesale lenders through a broker move faster. We work with 200+ lenders and know which ones close bridge loans in days, not weeks.
The biggest mistake I see: borrowers underestimate how long their current home will take to sell. Build buffer into your timeline.
Also price the carry cost honestly. Bridge loan rates run higher than conventional. Factor that into your net proceeds math before committing.
Hard money loans are the closest alternative. They carry similar rates but often come with heavier fees and shorter terms.
A Home Equity Line of Credit is cheaper, but getting approved while carrying two mortgages is harder than most borrowers expect.
Cotati sits in a tight Sonoma County corridor with limited inventory. Contingent offers get passed over — bridge financing removes that problem.
As of April 2026, Sonoma County real estate stays active year-round. A bridge loan keeps you competitive without waiting on your sale.
Most bridge loans run 6 to 12 months. Some lenders extend to 24 months if the exit strategy is strong.
Yes. Lenders care about your equity and your plan to sell — not whether the listing is active yet.
Requirements vary by lender, but most want 620 or higher. Equity matters more than credit on most bridge deals.
Yes. Bridge loans are short-term, higher-risk products. Rates vary by borrower profile and market conditions.
Talk to your lender early. Some offer extensions. Having a refi or hard money backup plan is smart before you close.
Some lenders offer interest-only or deferred payments. Structure depends on the lender and your qualifying profile.
Bridge Loans in Cotati