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Down Payment Assistance · California

Down Payment Assistance in California (2026)

The real programs that can cover your down payment in California — and the honest truths about them, from a mortgage insider since 2007 who sells nothing.

California has some of the toughest home prices in the country, which is exactly why down payment assistance matters more here than almost anywhere. The statewide programs run through CalHFA, and there are city and county programs stacked on top.

The main down payment assistance programs in California

These are the flagship programs — but funding, income limits, and rates change constantly, so always confirm current details at the official source below before you count on one.

CalHFA MyHome Assistance Program

A deferred-payment junior loan toward your down payment or closing costs, sized as a percentage of the purchase price. You pay it back when you sell, refinance, or pay off the first.

CalHFA Dream For All Shared Appreciation Loan

Down payment help in exchange for a share of your home's future appreciation. Extremely popular — funding runs out fast, so watch for open windows.

CalHFA Forgivable Equity Builder Loan

A junior loan that can be forgiven over time if you keep the home as your primary residence. When available, it's some of the best help in the state.

Before you take any of them — read this first Every DPA program has strings: some are true grants, some are silent seconds that can trap your rate, and many aren't actually free — you pay through a higher interest rate. Read the honest DPA guide so you know exactly what you're signing.

Who qualifies in California

Most California programs share the same gates: income limits (which vary by county and household size), a first-time buyer rule (usually not having owned a home in the last three years — often waived for veterans and in targeted areas), a homebuyer education course, a minimum credit score, and a tighter debt-to-income limit than a standard loan. Because that DTI cap is stricter, qualifying often comes down to restructuring a monthly payment or two — run your numbers here to see what you'd need.

Find & apply in California

CalHFA (California Housing Finance Agency)
The official statewide source — current programs, income limits, and approved lenders.
Open →
DownPaymentResource
The national database — search 2,000+ programs by your exact city and county.
Open →

See how assistance changes what you need

A covered down payment means a lower income to qualify. Run your California price and loan type — free, no pitch.

Open the Income Calculator →

Frequently asked questions

Is there down payment assistance in California?
Yes. California has statewide programs through its Housing Finance Agency, plus city and county programs. Start with the official sources above and DownPaymentResource, which tracks programs by your exact location.
Is California down payment assistance free?
Sometimes. True grants can be free or forgivable, but many marketed products are funded through a higher interest rate. Always ask whether it's a true grant or you're paying for it in your rate.
Do I have to be a first-time buyer?
Usually you must not have owned a home in the last three years, but that's often waived for veterans and in designated target areas. Check the specific program's rules.

Educational content only — not financial, mortgage, or legal advice, and not a loan offer or solicitation. Timothy George has been in the mortgage business since 2007; he is not a currently-licensed loan originator and does not originate loans. California program terms, funding, income limits, and rates change constantly — confirm every detail with the program administrator, the California Housing Finance Agency, and a currently-licensed professional before you act. Linked third-party sites are for convenience and are not endorsements.