Question 1

What's the conforming loan limit in Tehama County?

Accepted Answer

Per FHFA's 2026 conforming loan limits, the cap here is $832,750. Loans above that are jumbo and carry tighter underwriting.

Question 2

What's the median home price in Tehama right now?

Accepted Answer

The median home price is $251,000 as of late August 2026. Homes average $251 per square foot.

Question 3

How much down payment do I need?

Accepted Answer

Down payment minimums differ by loan program and lender guide. FHA and VA programs publish their own minimums; SRK CAPITAL matches your file to the program that fits.

Question 4

Do I need 20% down to avoid PMI?

Accepted Answer

Yes — putting 20% down avoids PMI on a conventional loan. Below that, PMI applies until 78% loan-to-value under the Homeowners Protection Act.

Question 5

What credit score do I need?

Accepted Answer

Credit requirements vary by lender and loan program. SRK CAPITAL shops your file across lenders to find the best fit for your profile.

Question 6

Is Tehama County an FHA high-cost area?

Accepted Answer

No. Tehama County is not designated as an FHA high-cost area. Per HUD's 2026 FHA limits, the cap here is $541,287.

Question 7

Is Tehama County a VA high-cost area?

Accepted Answer

No. Tehama County is not a VA high-cost area. Per the VA's 2026 county limits, VA loans can go up to $832,750 for eligible borrowers.

Question 8

How long does closing take?

Accepted Answer

SRK CAPITAL closes most loans in 17 to 21 days. When a file is expedited, closing happens in 10 days.

Question 9

What does the monthly payment look like on a $251,000 home?

Accepted Answer

Monthly payment on a $251,000 home depends on the rate, term, and down payment you choose. SRK CAPITAL can price this out once those details are set.

Question 10

Can I get a VA loan in Tehama?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Per VA guidance, eligible veterans and active duty service members can buy with zero down in Tehama County. No PMI applies; a VA funding fee replaces it.

Question 11

Can I use an FHA loan in Tehama?

Accepted Answer

Yes. FHA loans work in Tehama with a low-down-payment option set by HUD's FHA handbook. Mortgage insurance runs for the life of the loan when the down payment is under 10%, per FHA rules.

Question 12

Is USDA financing available in Tehama?

Accepted Answer

USDA loans may be available in eligible rural areas of Tehama County. Per USDA program rules, they offer zero down subject to an income limit set per household size.

Question 13

How does the county median income affect my qualification?

Accepted Answer

Tehama County's median household income is $61,834. Lenders use your income to calculate debt-to-income ratios.

Question 14

What's the difference between a broker and a bank?

Accepted Answer

Banks originate and service loans in-house. Brokers like SRK CAPITAL shop your file across multiple wholesale lenders to find the best rate and terms.

Tehama home loan questions answered

Ready to move on a home in Tehama?