California Down Payment Assistance Programs
Access multiple down payment assistance programs in California. Get $0 to $150,000 in grants and loans to help you buy your first home. Expert guidance included.
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Free consultation on all available programs
California Down Payment Assistance Programs 2025
Multiple programs available with different eligibility requirements and benefit amounts. We'll help you find the best combination for maximum assistance.
CalHFA MyHome Assistance
Most popular statewide program
- 3% of loan amount or $120k max
- 0% interest, deferred payment
- Income limits up to $191,550
- Available statewide
Dream For All Program
Shared appreciation loan
- Up to 20% of purchase price
- 0% interest, shared appreciation
- Income limits vary by county
- First-time buyers only
Local County Programs
City & county specific
- Riverside County programs
- San Bernardino programs
- City-specific grants
- Can combine with state programs
How Down Payment Assistance Works
Simple 4-step process to access thousands in down payment assistance
1. Apply for Pre-Approval
Get pre-approved for your home loan and check eligibility for assistance programs simultaneously.
2. Calculate Your Benefits
We calculate exactly how much assistance you qualify for across all available programs.
3. Find Your Home
Shop for homes knowing exactly how much assistance you have available for down payment and closing costs.
4. Close with Assistance
Your assistance funds are applied at closing, reducing your out-of-pocket costs significantly.
General Eligibility Requirements
Most down payment assistance programs have similar basic requirements, though specific details vary by program.
Income Limits
Generally 80% to 120% of Area Median Income (varies by county and family size)
First-Time Buyer Status
Haven't owned a home in the past 3 years (some exceptions apply)
Primary Residence
Property must be your primary residence, not investment or vacation home
Completion of Education
Homebuyer education course required for most programs
Credit Requirements
Minimum credit scores typically 640+ (some programs accept lower)
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Free Eligibility Check
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Serving California Homebuyers
Licensed throughout California with expertise in Inland Empire down payment assistance programs
Riverside County
Corona, Murrieta, Temecula, Riverside, Moreno Valley, Palm Springs
San Bernardino County
Ontario, Fontana, Rancho Cucamonga, San Bernardino, Victorville
Orange County
Anaheim, Irvine, Santa Ana, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach
Los Angeles County
Los Angeles, Long Beach, Pasadena, Glendale, Burbank
Frequently Asked Questions
How much down payment assistance can I get in California?
You can receive up to $150,000 through the Dream For All program, up to $120,000 through CalHFA MyHome, plus additional local grants. Many buyers combine multiple programs for maximum assistance.
Do I have to pay back down payment assistance?
It depends on the program. CalHFA MyHome is 0% interest and only paid back when you sell, refinance, or pay off your loan. Dream For All is a shared appreciation loan. Some local grants are forgivable after 5-10 years.
Can I combine multiple down payment assistance programs?
Yes! Many buyers combine state programs like CalHFA with local city or county programs to maximize their assistance. We'll help you identify the best combination for your situation.
What credit score do I need for down payment assistance?
Most programs require a minimum 640 credit score, though some local programs accept scores as low as 580. The underlying mortgage loan will also have credit requirements that vary by loan type.
Are there income limits for California down payment assistance?
Yes, income limits vary by county and family size. For example, in Riverside County, a family of four can earn up to $147,200 for some programs and up to $191,550 for others. We'll check all available options.
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Don't let down payment be the barrier to homeownership. Get expert guidance on all available programs and maximize your assistance today.
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Aditya Choksi - Senior Loan Officer | aditya@21stcenturylending.com