The California Path to Homeownership

Don’t let a down payment stand in your way. As a CalHFA-approved lender, we help Californians access special financing, down payment assistance, and closing cost grants.

Talk to a CalHFA Specialist
OVERVIEW

The Lowdown on CalHFA…

The California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA) was created to help low-to-moderate-income residents find a place to call home. CalHFA doesn’t lend money directly; instead, they partner with approved lenders like us to offer specialized loan programs with below-market interest rates and robust down payment assistance.

Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or haven’t owned a home in the last three years, CalHFA provides the “missing piece” of the puzzle. Most CalHFA programs are subordinate loans, meaning they sit behind your main mortgage to cover your 3% or 3.5% down payment, allowing you to move in with very little money out of pocket.

From the redwood forests to the San Diego coast, we are proud to help Californians navigate these state-sponsored benefits to achieve the “California Dream.”

Which CalHFA Loan is Right for You?

CalHFA Government Loans (FHA)

Borrowers with lower credit scores or higher debt-to-income ratios. This is an FHA-insured first mortgage with a 30-year fixed rate.

CalHFA Conventional Loans

Borrowers with stronger credit. This is a conventional, 30-year fixed mortgage that often has lower mortgage insurance costs than standard FHA loans.

MyHome Assistance Program

This is a deferred-payment junior loan that covers your down payment and/or closing costs (up to 3% or 3.5% of the purchase price). You don’t make payments on this until you sell, refinance, or pay off your first mortgage.

CalPLUS ZIP (Zero Interest Program)

A 0% interest second mortgage that provides additional funds specifically for closing costs. It’s a great way to keep your savings intact while buying a home.

Eligibility

Do You Meet the CalHFA Standards?

Because these programs use state funds, there are strict “Income Limits” and “Sales Price Limits” that vary by county.

Requirement Standard Notes
Occupancy Primary Residence You must live in the home as your main residence.
Income Limits Varies by County Each CA county has a cap (e.g., higher in SF/LA than in Fresno).
Credit Score 640 – 660 Min Standard is 640; some programs or manufactured homes require 660.
Education Homebuyer Education You must complete an online or in-person homebuyer counseling course.
Property Type Single Family / Condo Includes PUDs and some guest houses/ADUs.
Citizenship Legal Resident Must be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or qualified alien (DACA eligible).
IS THIS RIGHT FOR YOU?

CalHFA Is Ideal For…

Scenario 1: The Renter with Limited Savings
You have a steady job and good credit, but saving up $20,000 for a down payment in California’s market feels impossible. CalHFA’s MyHome program can cover that entire down payment for you.
Scenario 2: The First-Time Buyer in an Expensive County
You’re looking in high-cost areas like Orange County or the Bay Area. CalHFA offers higher income limits in these regions to ensure working families can still compete in the market.
Scenario 3: The Public Servant
Are you a teacher, fire-fighter, or state employee? CalHFA often has specialized “Extra Credit” programs or favorable terms for those serving our California communities.
Scenario 4: The Multi-Generational Family
Buying a home with an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit)? CalHFA has recently expanded programs to help finance properties that include “granny flats” or casitas to help with California’s housing shortage.

THE PROCESS

Your 5-Step Path to CalHFA Approval

CalHFA loans take a little more coordination than a standard loan, but the savings are worth the extra steps.

Check Your County Limits

15-20 min

We’ll look at your household income and compare it to your specific California county’s CalHFA limit.

The CalHFA Qualifier

1-2 weeks

We verify your credit score and determine which “first mortgage” (FHA or Conventional) is best for you.

Complete Homebuyer Education

3-7 days

You’ll take a fun, informative online course that explains the responsibilities of being a homeowner.

Loan Commitment

Same day

We submit your file to both our internal underwriters and the state for their “Seal of Approval.”

Closing

Same day

The state sends the assistance funds directly to escrow. You sign your papers and get the keys to your new California home!

cALhfa FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to Claim Your Piece of the Golden State?

California is expensive, but you don’t have to do it alone. See which CalHFA programs you qualify for today.