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.
Bridge loan rates in California are higher than standard mortgage rates — but the tradeoff is speed and flexibility that no conventional loan can match. Here’s what to expect in 2026. See also: California Bridge Loans and Bridge Loan vs. HELOC.
What Are Current Bridge Loan Rates?
California bridge loan rates in 2026 typically run in the 8.5–12% range, depending on loan-to-value, property type, borrower creditworthiness, and lender. Hard money bridge loans are at the higher end; bank-funded bridge loans for strong borrowers can be lower. These are short-term loans — typically 6–24 months — so the higher rate is temporary.
Bridge Loan Rate Factors
Loan-to-Value (LTV): Most bridge lenders max out at 65–75% LTV on the collateral property. Lower LTV = lower rate. Crossing the 65% LTV threshold often triggers a rate premium. Credit score: Bridge lenders are more flexible than conventional, but 680+ credit still matters for rate pricing. Property type: SFR residential bridges have the most competitive rates. Mixed-use, commercial, and raw land bridges are priced higher. Exit strategy: A clear, credible exit (sale pending, refinance approval) improves terms. Lender type: Bank/credit union bridge programs run 8.5–9.5%; private/hard money runs 9–12%+.
Bridge Loan Costs Beyond the Rate
Origination fees (1–3 points), processing fees ($500–$2,000), and appraisal costs ($700–$1,500) add to the true cost. Calculate the total cost over the expected hold period, not just the interest rate. On a 6-month $500,000 bridge at 9.5% with 2 points: $23,750 interest + $10,000 in points + $2,000 in fees = $35,750 total cost for 6 months of flexibility. That’s the real number to weigh against the opportunity cost of not getting the property.
When a Bridge Loan Makes Financial Sense
In California markets where homes appreciate 3–7% annually, paying 9% for a 6-month bridge while capturing the right home at the right price can yield a significant net positive. Calculate the cost of the bridge against the opportunity cost of losing the property — or the cost of moving twice if you sell first and then buy. For most California homeowners in competitive markets, the bridge premium is money well spent.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are current bridge loan rates in California in 2026?
California bridge loan rates in 2026 run 8.5–12%, depending on lender type, LTV, property type, and borrower profile. Bank and credit union bridge programs for strong borrowers (720+ credit, SFR primary residence) can price as low as 8.5–9.5%. Private hard money bridge loans run 9–12%+. Origination points typically add 1–3% of the loan amount upfront. On a 6-month bridge, the all-in cost (interest + points + fees) is more meaningful than the rate alone — calculate the dollar cost over your expected hold period, not the annualized rate. I’ll give you a same-day rate quote when you share your property value, existing mortgage balance, and expected bridge amount.
How much does a bridge loan cost in total for a 90-day California transaction?
On a $500,000 bridge loan at 10% with 2 origination points over 90 days: interest cost is $12,500 (10% ÷ 12 months × 3 months × $500,000), plus $10,000 in origination points, plus $1,500–$2,500 in processing and appraisal fees. Total cost: approximately $24,000–$25,000 for 90 days of bridge financing. That’s the true cost of making a non-contingent offer and securing a California property in a competitive market. For most buyers in Marin, the Bay Area, or LA, the alternative — losing the property to another buyer — costs far more. Many clients tell me it was the best $24,000 they ever spent.
Do bridge loan rates differ between residential and investment property in California?
Yes — investment property bridge loans typically price 0.5–1.5% higher than primary residence bridge loans, reflecting the higher risk profile and more complex exit strategies. A primary residence bridge at 9.5% might price at 10.5–11% for an investment property or multifamily bridge. Commercial or mixed-use bridge loans price higher still — often 11–13% — because the lender pool is smaller and the exit risk is greater. Within investment property bridges, single-family rentals price better than multifamily, and multifamily better than commercial. Tell me your property type and exit strategy and I’ll give you a realistic rate expectation for your specific deal.
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
