Down payment assistance, grants, forgivable loans, and tax credits available to California buyers. Each program below is verified, with eligibility rules, benefit amounts, and a direct link to the official agency.
Last reviewed July 2026·4 programs·6 federal programs
Deferred-payment junior loan of 2.5% of the first mortgage amount for down payment and closing costs, paired with CalPLUS Access FHA or Conventional first mortgages.
Income limit
CalHFA income limits vary by county
Minimum credit score660
First-time buyer requiredYes
Special requirements: Must use with a CalPLUS Access first mortgage. Homebuyer education required.
Shared appreciation loan - CalHFA pays up to 20% of purchase price (capped at $150,000). When you sell, you repay principal plus a share of appreciation. Runs in annual lottery-based application windows; the 2026 window (Feb 24 - Mar 16) is closed.
Income limit
$150,000 (1-2 person) / $180,000 (3+)
Minimum credit score660
First-time buyer requiredYes
Special requirements: Annual lottery with limited funding - watch for the next application window. First-time buyers only, and at least one borrower must be a first-generation homebuyer.
View official program page
Apply during open application windows through a CalHFA-approved lender.Verified July 2026
CalVet Home Loan
Administered by California Department of Veterans Affairs
Below-market interest rate
Special mortgage program for California veterans with competitive rates and flexible terms.
Income limit
No strict income limits for veterans
First-time buyer requiredNo
EligibilityVeterans only
Special requirements: Must be California veteran. Can be combined with federal VA benefits.
Low down payment mortgage with reduced mortgage insurance. Allows income from non-borrower household members. A $2,500 credit for very-low-income borrowers (50% AMI or less) is available through early 2027 when at least one borrower is a first-time buyer.
Do I have to be a first-time homebuyer to qualify?
Most California programs require first-time buyer status, but the definition is broader than most people think — the IRS considers you a first-time buyer if you haven't owned a primary residence in the last three years. Each program above lists its specific rules.
What credit score do I need?
Minimum credit scores vary by program. Most California programs require 620 to 660, though some lower-tier products accept lower scores with manual underwriting. Check each program's eligibility section above.
How do I actually apply?
Most state programs aren't applied to directly — you go through a participating lender, who handles the program application as part of your mortgage. Each program above links to the official agency page with the current list of approved lenders.
Can I combine multiple programs?
Often yes — many states allow you to stack a state down-payment grant with a federal FHA or VA loan. Some programs explicitly forbid combining; check each program's "special requirements" above.
Do these programs cost anything?
The programs themselves are free to apply for. Some require completing a homebuyer education course (typically $50–$100, sometimes free). Forgivable second mortgages technically don't cost you unless you sell or refinance early — read the terms carefully.
