If you’re considering buying a home or refinancing in 2025—especially in high-cost markets like Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Irvine, Laguna Beach, Manhattan Beach, or Malibu—you already know this isn’t your average lending environment. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a seasoned investor, or a self-employed borrower needing flexibility, finding the right mortgage strategy is everything.
I work with clients across Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego, Riverside, San Bernardino, Santa Barbara, and San Francisco counties. Every city—from Seal Beach to Dana Point, Redondo Beach to Laguna Niguel—has its own market dynamics and pricing pressure. That’s why we don’t do cookie-cutter loans here. We craft mortgage solutions that match your income, your goals, and your timeline from purchasing to refinancing and more.
Trend #1: Jumbo Loans Are the New Normal in SoCal
With median home prices exceeding $1 million in many coastal and urban zip codes, even modest homes now require jumbo loan financing. These are loans that exceed conforming limits set by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (currently $766,550 for 2024 in most areas, higher in some high-cost counties).
Jumbo loans require stronger documentation, tighter debt-to-income ratios, and sometimes larger reserves—but they’re more accessible than most buyers realize. We work with flexible lenders who offer competitive jumbo programs tailored for high-income, equity-rich, or entrepreneurial borrowers.
Trend #2: Self-Employed? Bank Statement and Stated Income Loans Are Back
If you’re self-employed, a 1099 earner, or run a business in real estate, construction, healthcare, or tech, you’ve probably hit a wall with traditional loan applications. Tax returns don’t always show your full story.
We specialize in alternative documentation loans—like bank statement programs, asset depletion loans, and stated income options. Whether you’re in Laguna Hills or Los Angeles, Temecula or Santa Monica, we can help you qualify based on real cash flow—not just your adjusted gross income.
Trend #3: First-Time Buyer Programs Still Exist (Yes, Even in 2025)
Despite rising rates and tight inventory, there are still great programs for first-time buyers—especially across Orange and Riverside Counties. From down payment assistance to FHA-backed low-down-payment loans and even non-QM options with more lenient requirements, you don’t have to sit on the sidelines.
If you’re buying in a place like Lake Forest, San Clemente, or Rancho Cucamonga, we’ll walk you through every option and help you choose a strategy that fits your budget—and your future goals.
Trend #4: Refinancing and Cash-Out Loans Are Strategic, Not Just Rate-Driven
With equity at all-time highs in many Southern California ZIP codes, many homeowners are turning to cash-out refinancing loans—not to chase a lower rate, but to consolidate debt, fund home renovations, or invest in other properties.
We’re also seeing demand for rate-term refinancing from buyers who got stuck with temporary buy-downs or adjustable-rate mortgages and now want stability. Whether you’re in Malibu, Pasadena, or Mission Viejo, we’ll help you evaluate your equity and current rate to decide if refinancing makes sense.
Quote from Jackie
“Most people I work with don’t fit inside a standard loan box—and that’s exactly why they call me. Whether it’s a jumbo loan, bank statement program, or helping a first-time buyer get in the game, I’m here to solve problems, not say no.”
– Jackie Barikhan, Senior Loan Officer, Huntington Beach, CA
Trend #5: Local Expertise Matters More Than Ever
Mortgage guidelines are national—but your pricing, property type, and loan strategy should always reflect local market realities. A townhome in Laguna Niguel is underwritten differently than a duplex in Redondo Beach or a condo in San Francisco.
We’re based in Southern California. We understand how lenders treat condos near the beach, rental restrictions in HOA communities, ADU income, and self-employed borrowers buying in competitive markets. You won’t get that insight from a national call center or AI-based app.
Ready to Talk?
If you’re planning to buy, thinking about refinancing, or simply want advice on your options, reach out today. No pressure—just experienced guidance from someone who actually understands what it’s like to navigate this market.
Visit Mylenderjackie.com for tools, resources, and loan calculators—or schedule a quick consultation to talk through your goals.
