I’m Michael DiVita — DRE #01372066 | NMLS #241655, DiVita Home Finance (DRE #01818285 | NMLS #323700), Tiburon, CA. I’ve been in California mortgage lending since 2000 and founded DiVita Home Finance in 2007. Call (800) 239-1103.
If you own a California condo and SB 326 compliance is pending or uncertain, you may still be able to refinance through a portfolio lender. Here is what California condo owners need to know in 2026.
How SB 326 Affects Condo Refinancing
When you refinance, your new lender reviews the condo project warrantability. A building deemed non-warrantable due to SB 326 cannot be refinanced through Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. Portfolio lenders who hold loans in-house set their own condo standards and are the primary route for refinancing SB 326-affected condos.
Your Refinance Options
- Portfolio non-warrantable refinance: Up to 80% LTV, rates 0.375%–0.75% above conforming, 680+ credit score minimum
- Wait for compliance certificate: If your HOA expects to resolve SB 326 within 60–90 days, waiting restores access to conventional rates
- Rate-and-term vs. cash-out: Cash-out refinances on non-warrantable buildings require more equity (65%–70% max LTV)
Can I refinance my condo if the HOA has not completed the SB 326 inspection?
Possibly, through a portfolio lender. Conventional refinances require SB 326 compliance for California condos. A portfolio lender evaluates the building independently and may approve refinancing based on the HOA’s active inspection timeline and your equity position. DiVita Home Finance works with 12+ portfolio lenders for these situations.
How much equity do I need to refinance a non-warrantable condo in California?
Most portfolio lenders require 20%–25% equity for a rate-and-term refinance on a non-warrantable condo. For cash-out refinances, expect 30%–35% equity required. DiVita Home Finance will tell you exactly what equity level you need before you apply.
Is it better to wait for SB 326 compliance or refinance now as non-warrantable?
It depends on your HOA’s timeline and how much rates matter to your payment. If your HOA expects a compliance certificate within 60–90 days, waiting may be worthwhile — you’ll qualify for conventional rates at 0.375%–0.75% lower than portfolio pricing. If the timeline is uncertain (6+ months or no clear plan), refinancing now through a portfolio lender locks in your rate and avoids further delay. DiVita Home Finance can run both scenarios for you.
Get a Non-Warrantable Condo Refinance Quote
DiVita Home Finance refinances SB 326-affected condos across California. Start your refinance or call 800-239-1103.
Related Resources
- SB 326 Condo Mortgage California Guide
- Non-Warrantable Condo Mortgage Options
- HOA Special Assessment Loan Options
Talk to Michael Directly
DiVita Home Finance | Tiburon, CA | In lending since 2000, founded DiVita Home Finance in 2007. Michael DiVita DRE #01372066 | NMLS #241655. Company DRE #01818285 | NMLS #323700.
💬 Text: (310) 849-9124
