Bad Credit Home Loans · East Bay · California
Marisela Argenal has helped hundreds of East Bay families secure home loans despite credit challenges. FHA, ITIN, portfolio loans, and credit-building strategies — all in one place.
Book a Free 30-Minute ConsultationFHA · Portfolio · ITIN · VA · Credit Repair Strategies · NMLS #293939 · CalDRE #01501844
You're Not Alone
Credit scores tell a narrow story. They don't reflect the medical emergency that wiped out your savings, the divorce that disrupted your finances for years, or the job loss that forced impossible choices between bills and groceries. Millions of hardworking East Bay families carry imperfect credit not because they are irresponsible — but because life is unpredictable.
Marisela Argenal has spent over 25 years listening to those stories. She understands that behind every credit score is a real person with real goals — and in most cases, a real path to homeownership that standard banks simply won't show you. Her job is to find that path, structure the strongest possible application, and walk alongside you from pre-approval to closing day.
Available Programs
Marisela works with multiple lenders who specialize in borrowers with credit challenges. These are the core programs she uses to get East Bay families into homes:
The most accessible government-backed loan. Accepts 580 credit scores with just 3.5% down. Flexible debt-to-income ratios. Can layer with CalHFA down payment assistance. The most common path for first-time buyers with credit challenges.
Held by the lender rather than sold to investors — meaning more flexibility. Portfolio lenders can work with scores as low as 500, recent late payments, or non-traditional income. Rates vary but the access is unmatched for difficult credit profiles.
For non-citizens without a Social Security Number. Accepts 580–620 credit scores and alternative credit documentation such as rental and utility payment history. Marisela has originated ITIN loans across the East Bay for over 25 years.
For eligible veterans and active military — no minimum credit score requirement from VA. Zero down payment required. No private mortgage insurance. If you or your spouse has served, this is often the best loan available regardless of credit history.
Your Path Forward
Whether you're ready to buy now or need 6–12 months to strengthen your credit, Marisela maps out a clear, personalized plan at your very first consultation.
Marisela reviews your full credit report, identifies errors, derogatory marks, and quick wins — no cost, no obligation.
She creates a written action plan: which balances to pay first, disputes to file, and which loan programs you qualify for today vs. in 90 days.
Once your credit profile is positioned, Marisela submits your application to the best-fit lender and secures a pre-approval letter for home shopping.
From accepted offer to closing, Marisela manages every step — appraisal, underwriting, title — so you receive keys on schedule.
Common Questions
Book a free 30-minute consultation with Marisela Argenal. She'll review your credit, identify every program you qualify for, and give you a clear roadmap to homeownership — in English or Spanish.
