California First-Time Buyer Programs
Comprehensive state and local programs designed to help California first-time homebuyers achieve homeownership with reduced down payments and expert guidance.
First-Time Buyer Advantages
California offers extensive support for first-time homebuyers through state and local programs designed to reduce barriers to homeownership.
Down Payment Help
Assistance up to $110,000 for down payment and closing costs
Lower Rates
Competitive interest rates below market averages
Education Support
Comprehensive homebuyer education and counseling
Expert Guidance
Professional support throughout the home buying process
State-Wide First-Time Buyer Programs
CalHFA MyHome Program
California Housing Finance Agency
Key Benefits:
- Down payment assistance up to 3.5%
- Competitive fixed rates
- No monthly MI option
Eligibility:
- First-time homebuyer
- Income limits apply
- Complete homebuyer education
Max Income: $150,000
Dream for All Program
California Housing Finance Agency
Key Benefits:
- Shared appreciation loans
- No monthly payments on assistance
- Statewide availability
Eligibility:
- First or second-time buyer
- Income and purchase price limits
- Owner-occupied only
Max Income: $150,000
Local First-Time Buyer Programs
Los Angeles County
LA County First-Time Buyer
Assistance: Up to $110,000
Type: Deferred loan
City of LA Program
Assistance: Up to $90,000
Type: Silent second
Orange County
OC Community Housing
Assistance: Up to $60,000
Type: Deferred loan
Irvine First-Time Buyer
Assistance: Up to $75,000
Type: Silent second
Riverside County
Riverside County Program
Assistance: Up to $50,000
Type: Deferred loan
Palm Springs Initiative
Assistance: Up to $40,000
Type: Grant
San Bernardino County
San Bernardino County
Assistance: Up to $45,000
Type: Deferred loan
Inland Empire Program
Assistance: Up to $35,000
Type: Silent second
How to Qualify for First-Time Buyer Programs
Meet First-Time Buyer Definition
Have not owned a home in the past 3 years (some exceptions apply)
Income Qualification
Meet area median income (AMI) requirements for your county
Complete Education Course
Finish HUD-approved homebuyer education course
Property Requirements
Purchase an eligible property within designated areas
2024 Income Limits by County
| County | 1 Person | 2 Person | 3 Person | 4 Person |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | $97,200 | $111,040 | $124,920 | $138,760 |
| Orange | $116,600 | $133,280 | $149,960 | $166,600 |
| Riverside | $78,400 | $89,600 | $100,800 | $112,000 |
| San Bernardino | $78,400 | $89,600 | $100,800 | $112,000 |
Income limits updated annually. Higher limits may apply for targeted areas.
Ready to Start Your First Home Journey?
Let our California mortgage experts guide you through the first-time buyer programs and find the best option for your situation.