California First-Time Home Buyer Complete Checklist
Your step-by-step guide to buying your first home in California. Includes all documents needed, CalHFA programs, down payment assistance options, and a timeline to homeownership.
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What's Included in Your Checklist
A comprehensive roadmap covering every step of the California home buying process, from pre-approval to closing day.
Pre-Approval Preparation
- Check your credit score (minimum 580 for FHA, 620 for conventional)
- Calculate debt-to-income ratio (should be under 50%)
- Gather 2 years of tax returns and W-2s
- Collect 2 months of bank statements
- Document all income sources
- Save for down payment (3-20% of purchase price)
California Program Research
- Research CalHFA MyHome Assistance (up to $10,000)
- Check county-specific down payment programs
- Verify first-time buyer eligibility (no ownership in 3 years)
- Review income limits for your county
- Complete homebuyer education course
- Compare CalHFA vs conventional loan options
Home Shopping Process
- Get pre-approved with CalHFA-approved lender
- Determine your budget and monthly payment comfort
- Research neighborhoods and school districts
- Work with buyer's agent familiar with CA programs
- Schedule home inspections for properties
- Review HOA documents if applicable
Making an Offer
- Review comparable sales in the area
- Determine offer price and contingencies
- Include pre-approval letter with offer
- Negotiate seller concessions for closing costs
- Set inspection and loan contingency periods
- Review purchase agreement with agent
2025 California Assistance Programs
Our checklist includes detailed information about all available California first-time buyer programs and how to qualify.
CalHFA MyHome
Zero-interest loan for down payment and closing costs
CalPLUS
Additional assistance with CalHFA first mortgage
Dream For All
Shared appreciation loan program
County Programs
Additional county and city-specific programs
Documents You'll Need
Our checklist includes a complete list of documents required for your California home purchase and loan application.
Income Verification
- Pay stubs (30 days)
- W-2 forms (2 years)
- Tax returns (2 years)
- Employment verification letter
Asset Documentation
- Bank statements (2 months)
- Investment accounts
- Gift letter if applicable
- 401k/retirement accounts
Credit & Debt
- Credit report authorization
- Student loan statements
- Auto loan documents
- Credit card statements
Property Related
- Purchase agreement
- Earnest money receipt
- Homeowners insurance quote
- HOA documents
Why California Buyers Trust Our Checklist
Save Weeks of Research
Everything you need to know about California's complex home buying process in one comprehensive guide.
Maximize Your Savings
Learn about every assistance program available to California first-time buyers and how to qualify.
Avoid Costly Mistakes
Navigate California's unique requirements and regulations with confidence using our proven checklist.
What First-Time Buyers Are Saying
"This checklist was a lifesaver! It helped me understand exactly what I needed for my CalHFA application. I got approved for $10,000 in assistance!"
"The timeline and document list made everything so much easier. I knew exactly what to prepare and when. Highly recommend for any California buyer!"
"I didn't even know about half these programs! The checklist helped me get both state and county assistance. Saved me thousands!"
Start Your California Home Buying Journey Today
Join thousands of California first-time buyers who have used our checklist to navigate the home buying process with confidence.