Buying a home in California feels impossible for many first-time buyers — but there are programs that can cover your down payment, reduce your rate, and make ownership a reality.
CalHFA Programs
The California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA) offers several programs specifically for first-time buyers.
MyHome Assistance Program: Provides a deferred-payment junior loan of up to 3.5% of the purchase price to help cover your down payment or closing costs. No payments until you sell, refinance, or pay off the first mortgage.
CalHFA Zero Interest Program (ZIP): Up to 3% of the first mortgage loan amount in a zero-interest, deferred loan for closing costs.
CalHFA FHA Loan: FHA-backed first mortgage paired with CalHFA down payment assistance.
CalHome Program
City and county-administered program offering deferred loans for down payment assistance. Availability varies by jurisdiction — Orange County, LA County, and San Diego County each have their own versions.
Federal Programs Worth Knowing
FHA loans: 3.5% down payment (with 580+ credit score). More flexible underwriting than conventional loans.
USDA loans: Zero down payment for eligible rural/suburban areas. Parts of the Inland Empire and outer Orange County may qualify.
VA loans: Zero down for eligible veterans and active military. No PMI ever.
Income and Purchase Price Limits
Most programs have income limits (typically 80–120% of area median income) and purchase price caps. In Orange County, income limits are higher than most California counties due to the high cost of living.
How to Access These Programs
These programs require working with an approved lender. We are familiar with CalHFA requirements and can tell you within minutes which programs you qualify for and how they stack with other financing options.