First-Time Buyers
First-Time Homebuyer Programs in Pico Rivera
Buying your first home in Pico Rivera usually comes down to two questions: how much can you comfortably borrow, and how much cash do you need at closing. The Pico Lending Team answers both before you start touring homes.
Serving Pico Rivera and Southeast Los Angeles County
Start with a real pre-approval
A meaningful pre-approval is based on reviewed income documentation, credit, and assets rather than a quick online estimate. In competitive Southeast Los Angeles County submarkets, listing agents pay attention to which lender issued the letter and whether the file has been reviewed by an underwriter.
Choosing between program types
Conventional financing with a lower down payment, FHA financing, and VA financing for eligible borrowers each carry different mortgage insurance, credit, and reserve profiles. The right choice depends on your credit, available funds, and how long you expect to keep the loan. We compare payment and cash-to-close side by side.
Down payment and closing cost planning
Down payment assistance and grant programs may be available to qualified buyers, and seller credits can sometimes offset closing costs. Availability, income limits, and property eligibility change, so we confirm what is currently open before you rely on it in an offer.
Leadership
Meet the Team Leaders
Meet the leadership team supporting the Star Financial Pico Lending Team and its mortgage professionals.
Your Pico Lending Team Loan Officers
Tom Ramirez, Branch Manager (NMLS 377347), leads a team of licensed mortgage professionals serving Pico Rivera and the surrounding communities.
- Claudia Sandez
- Kevin Brown
- Daisy Aussenac
- Jessica L. Duran
- Grace Gomez
- Javier Morales
- Jose Antonio Perez
- Ramon De La Cruz Jr.
Tools
Mortgage Calculators
Estimate payments, affordability, and refinance scenarios before you apply. Results are estimates only.
Affordability Calculator
Estimate a potential home-price range based on income, monthly debts, down payment, rate assumptions, taxes, and insurance.
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Estimated home price range
$428,748 – $466,031
- Estimated loan amount
- $426,031
- Principal & interest
- $2,693
- Estimated taxes
- $427
- Estimated total payment
- $3,270
Results are estimates only and are not a loan approval, rate quote, or commitment to lend. Actual payment, rate, fees, taxes, insurance, and qualification may vary based on credit profile, property type, loan program, occupancy, income, debts, and underwriting requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do I need for a down payment?
Requirements vary by program. Some qualified buyers put down 3% to 3.5%, and eligible VA borrowers may not need a down payment. Your loan officer will review the options that fit your file.
How long does pre-approval take?
Once we have your income, asset, and credit documentation, a pre-approval review is typically completed quickly. Timing depends on document completeness and underwriting volume.
Do I need perfect credit to buy a home?
No. Program guidelines vary, and several options accommodate a range of credit profiles. All loans remain subject to credit approval and underwriting guidelines.
Related Loan Programs
Resources
Mortgage Resources
Helpful guides and checklists to help you prepare for the mortgage process.
First-Time Homebuyer Guide
What to expect from pre-approval through closing, including documentation, timelines, and down payment considerations.
FHA Loan Guide
How FHA financing works, including down payment, mortgage insurance, and general eligibility considerations.
VA Loan Guide
An overview of VA home loan benefits, entitlement, the funding fee, and eligibility for qualified service members and veterans.
Credit Tips for Homebuyers
General credit considerations that may affect mortgage qualification and pricing before you apply.
Understanding Closing Costs
A plain-language look at common closing cost categories, prepaid items, and escrow/impound accounts.
Home Buying Checklist
A step-by-step checklist covering documents, budgeting, offers, inspections, and closing preparation.
Coming Soon
Talk With the Pico Lending Team
Connect with a licensed Star Financial mortgage professional to review your scenario and next steps.
St Fin Corp dba Star Financial · NMLS 1429 · Equal Housing Opportunity. This is not a commitment to lend. All loans are subject to credit approval and company underwriting guidelines.