California Down Payment Assistance Programs

California down payment assistance is mostly run through CalHFA, the state housing finance agency, plus city and county programs. Most help comes as a deferred second loan you repay when you sell, refinance or pay off the home.

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    • The short answer

    California down payment assistance programs

    CalHFA MyHome Assistance Program

    A deferred-payment junior loan for down payment or closing costs, paired with a CalHFA first mortgage.

    California Dream For All

    A shared-appreciation loan for first-generation buyers, offered in funding rounds when available.

    CalPLUS with ZIP

    A CalHFA first mortgage combined with the Zero Interest Program for closing costs.

    City and county programs

    Many cities and counties — including San Diego and Los Angeles — run their own assistance with local income limits.

    Who usually qualifies

  • First-time buyer status (generally no ownership in the last 3 years)
  • Household income under the county limit
  • Completion of a homebuyer education course
  • Owner-occupied primary residence
  • Minimum credit score set by the program and loan type

    • Program funding, amounts and income limits change often. We confirm current limits for your county before you make an offer.

    California questions

    How much down payment assistance can I get in California?

    It depends on the program, your income and current funding. CalHFA MyHome is typically a percentage of the purchase price or appraised value. We check current program limits for your county before you make an offer.

    Do I have to repay California down payment assistance?

    Most CalHFA assistance is a deferred junior loan, repaid when you sell, refinance or pay off the first mortgage. Some local programs offer forgivable assistance.

    Can I use down payment assistance with an FHA loan in California?

    Yes. CalHFA assistance can be paired with CalHFA FHA and conventional first mortgages, and some local programs work with FHA as well.

    Next step

    Understand rate locks in California

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