California first-time buyers may qualify for FHA with 3.5% down, conventional options starting at 3%, VA with $0 down for eligible veterans, or state and local down payment assistance. There is no single program that fits everyone: income, credit, county, military service, and available funds determine the best match.
California buyers may find help through CalHFA and local city or county programs, usually as grants, deferred second loans, or forgivable loans paired with an FHA or conventional mortgage. FHA itself is a government-insured mortgage, not a cash grant. Income limits, funding, and availability vary, so we check the programs open in the county where you're buying.
More people than you'd think. Most programs define 'first-time' as anyone who hasn't owned a home in the last three years — so if you owned a house years ago and have been renting since, you may still qualify. Some programs don't require first-time status at all.
Often much less than the 20% people assume. FHA loans start at 3.5% down, some conventional programs at 3%, and VA loans can be $0 down for eligible veterans. On top of that, down payment assistance can cover part or all of what's left. We'll show you real numbers for your price range before you commit to anything.
Often, yes — that's where a broker earns their keep. A common combination is an FHA or conventional loan as the main mortgage, down payment assistance layered on top, and gift funds from family filling any gap. We check which combinations the programs themselves allow and line up the whole package for you.
No. FHA is designed for buyers with modest or rebuilding credit, and many assistance programs follow FHA's flexibility. Stronger credit opens more options and better pricing, but a past ding doesn't shut the door. If your credit needs work first, we'll tell you honestly and show you what to focus on.
Many do — usually tied to your county's median income, and the limits are higher than most people expect in Southern California. Some loans, like standard FHA, have no income limit at all. We check your household income against the actual limits for the county where you're buying.
FHA insures a mortgage; it does not award a grant. Down payment assistance is a separate program. Some assistance also pays closing costs, but each program limits eligible uses, income, properties and first mortgages.
CalHFA sources reviewed October 5, 2026. MyHome is a deferred-payment junior loan, not a gift. Dream For All shares appreciation: its portal closed to new applications on March 16, 2026; existing applicants should check their official status. Availability and a funding reservation are not guaranteed.
Before accepting assistance, ask in writing what becomes due when you sell, refinance, move out or pay off your first mortgage. Compare the main loan's cost with and without assistance. CalHFA programs use approved lenders; this comparison does not claim HCF is approved for every program.
| Type | Repayment | What to confirm |
|---|---|---|
| Grant | Usually not repaid if all conditions are met. | Permitted uses, occupancy and any recapture rules. |
| Deferred loan, such as MyHome | Still a debt even without monthly payments. | Interest, maturity, and sale or refinance obligations. |
| Forgivable loan | Forgiven only after meeting its conditions. | Required occupancy period and balance due if you leave early. |
| Shared appreciation, such as Dream For All | Original loan plus a share of appreciation is repaid. | Share percentage, repayment events and voucher availability. |