The Top 25 Down Payment Assistance Programs in California (2025 – 2026)

As of 11/3/25

Let’s face it. Buying a home is not easy, especially for first-time home buyers. Interest rates are high. Prices are high. Inventory is low. And competition is fierce.  

The good news is, there are still ways to purchase your first or even next home and still make it affordable.

And that is through the help of down payment assistance programs.

Hi, my name is Dominique, I’m a realtor in Southern California, and I’ve seen firsthand how down payment assistance programs can be the difference between people becoming homeowners or staying renters.

Which is why I’m excited to share this article: THE most comprehensive list on the internet of down payment assistance programs.

I’ll start by briefly talking about how down payment assistance programs usually work before diving into the different programs that are available out there, with a particular focus on potential buyers in the Southern California counties.

It’s a lot of information, so if at any point you get overwhelmed and would simply like someone to talk through ALL of the different options out there, feel free to call or text me at 909-243-3022.

How Do Down Payment Assistance Programs Work

Down payment assistance programs work to provide monetary “help” with the primary mortgage on a property.

In other words, most programs are designed to help potential home buyers pay for the things that can’t or won’t be rolled into their loan, such as the down payment, the closing costs, interest rate buyers, or a combination of any of the above.

They are commonly structured in three key ways:

Grants

Grants are the best choice for down payment assistance as they do not have to be paid back. They are not recorded as a lien on the property.

Think of them like gifts, except instead of coming from a relative, they come from an organization or a non-profit.

Usually, after certain conditions are met, like living in the home for a certain period of time or making on-time mortgage payments for a set time frame, the money provided is completely forgiven.

Because these are forgivable, though, certain grants may be taxable, so it’s always wise to consult with your own legal and tax professionals before officially accepting grant assistance.

Forgivable Second Loans

The next popular structure for down payment assistance is a forgivable second mortgage that is recorded against the property when you close escrow.

Unlike a grant, down payment assistance in the form of a forgivable second loan will show up on title, after the first mortgage.

However, with this type of assistance, similar to a grant, after a certain time period or set of conditions are met, the loan can be completely forgiven and will be officially removed from title.

Depending on the structure, forgivable second loans, in my opinion, can be a better option than grants, because they may not be considered taxable, but do not have to be paid back.

Deferred Second Loans

Lastly, down payment assistance programs can be organized as deferred second loans.

With these loans, you pay low to no interest rates over the full life of your first mortgage.

These loans are recorded against the property, and usually don’t have to be paid back until a triggering event, like selling the property or refinancing the first loan.

Depending on the loan, after 30 years, you may owe nothing on the down payment assistance, but more often than not, you’ll owe the full loan amount and interest, which is called a balloon payment.

Some down payment assistance programs that provide larger dollar amounts, like the CA Dream for All program, may even take it a step further and require you to share a percentage of the equity you earn as well.

In other words, at the end of 30 years, they’ll want the original amount of the 2^nd loan, the interest due on the second loan, and a cut of any equity that you earned over the life of the loan to boot.

Before you read this and think why would anyone want to do that, when you have the first two types of down payment assistance (DPA) options available, I’d like to reiterate that these types of programs usually offer the higher dollar amounts in assistance, similar to the CA Dream for all, which offered up to 20% in down payment assistance.

A Quick Disclaimer

Before Getting Started

Now, before getting started, a few key things are important to note.

By reading this guide, you understand that it is provided for informational purposes only. The availability and terms of the down payment and/or closing cost assistance programs referenced are subject to change. Some programs offer assistance that may be due upon sale, refinance, transfer, or assumed of the primary mortgage during the term of the loan.

All applicants are subject to the qualifications of the program administrators listed. Any questions in regard to qualifying should be directed to the points of contact listed. If you would, however, like for me to arrange an introduction with the key contact, just to break the ice, please contact me and will be happy to arrange as a courtesy.

Lastly, none of the information provided is a commitment to lend. Programs, rates, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice.

While my team and I will update the list over time, we do not update it in real time. This list is only provided for informational purposes only and may change without warning by the program administrators.

Another quick note is what it means to be a first-time home buyer. Typically, when these programs refer to a first-time home buyer, they are referring to home buyers who have had no ownership interest in real estate or any real property at any time in the past three years.

Some programs may have strict first-time home buyer requirements, where the buyer can actually not have owned any real estate at any point in their life, which are pointed out for those specific program(s).

With that, let’s get into it!

Download the FREE extensive guide - which dives deeper into requirements, income limits, and how to apply!

Get the Full FREE Guide Here

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1. Dream for All Program

CalHFA

Applicable Areas:

• All of California

  
  

Program Highlights:

• Maximum Benefit: Up to 20% Down payment or $150,000

• Maximum Purchase Price: Not Stated

• Property Type: SFR, Condo, Townhome

• Education Requirement: Yes

• Owner Occupant Requirement: Yes

• Primary Residence Requirement: Yes

• First-Time Homebuyer Requirement: Yes

• First-Generation Homebuyer Requirement: Yes, min. 1 borrower must be

• Minimum Buyer Contribution:  Varies

• Forgivable: No  

• Repayment: Yes, upon sale, title transfer, 1^st mortgage repayment, or in 30 years.  

• Equity Share: Yes, upon sale or refinance 

• Amortizing: Yes 

• Deferred Payments: Yes, 0% deferred interest, no monthly payments

Contact: 

• Preferred Loan Officers: https://www.calhfa.ca.gov/apps/PLO/

Source:  

• https://www.calhfa.ca.gov/dream/

2. Low Income Purchase Assistance Program (LIPA)

City of Los Angeles

Applicable Areas:

• City of Los Angeles incorporated areas only

Program Highlights:

• Maximum Benefit: Up to $140,000

• Maximum Purchase Price: $930,622 for single-family residences and condominiums

• Program Type: Silent 2nd Loan

• Property Types: SFR, condo, townhome - Non-tenant occupied

• Education Requirement: Yes, Los Angeles First time home buyer classes

• Owner Occupant Requirement: Yes

• Primary Residence Requirement: Yes

• First-Time Homebuyer Requirement: Yes

• First-Generation Homebuyer Requirement: No

• Minimum Buyer Contribution: 1% purchase price, potentially more depending on the borrower

• Forgivable: No  

• Repayment: Yes, upon sale, title transfer, 1^st mortgage repayment, or in 30 years.  

• Equity Share: Yes, upon sale or refinance 

• Amortizing: Yes 

• Deferred Payments: Yes, 0% deferred interest, no monthly payments

Contact:

•        View the list of participating lenders here: https://housing.lacity.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Eng-FTHB-Lender-List.pdf  

Source:

• https://housing.lacity.gov/housing/helping-low-income-first-time-homebuyers

3. Moderate Income Purchase Assistance Program (MIPA)

City of Los Angeles

Applicable Areas:

·       City of Los Angeles incorporated areas only

Program Highlights:

• Maximum Benefit: Up to $90,000 - $115,000

• Maximum Purchase Price: $930,622 for single-family residences and condominiums

• Program Type: Silent 2nd Loan for moderate-income families

• Property Types: SFR, condo, townhome - Non-tenant occupied

• Education Requirement: Yes, Los Angeles First time home buyer classes

• Owner Occupant Requirement: Yes

• Primary Residence Requirement: Yes

• First-Time Homebuyer Requirement: Yes

• First-Generation Homebuyer Requirement: No

• Minimum Buyer Contribution: 1% purchase price, potentially more depending on the borrower

• Forgivable: No  

• Repayment: Yes, upon sale, title transfer, 1^st mortgage repayment, or in 30 years.  

• Equity Share: Yes, upon sale or refinance 

• Amortizing: Yes 

• Deferred Payments: Yes, 0% deferred interest, no monthly payments

Contact:

•        View the list of participating lenders here: https://housing.lacity.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Eng-FTHB-Lender-List.pdf  

Source:

• https://housing.lacity.gov/housing/help-moderate-income-first-home-buyers

4. Greenline Home Program

Neighborhood Housing Services Los Angeles

Applicable Areas:

• Los Angeles County

Program Highlights:

• Maximum Benefit: Up to $35,000

• Maximum Purchase Price: N/A

• Program Type:  Grant

• Property Types: 1-unit only, SFR, Condo, Townhome

• Education Requirement: 8-Hour HUD-approved homebuyer education

• Owner Occupant Requirement:  Yes, for minimum 3 years

• Primary Residence Requirement: Yes

• First-Time Homebuyer Requirement: Yes* (have not owned or had interest in a property within the past three years) 

• First-Generation Homebuyer Requirement: No

• Minimum Buyer Contribution: 3% of the buyer’s own funds are required for the transaction

• Forgivable: Yes

• Repayment: No  

• Equity Share: No

• Amortizing: N/A

• Deferred Payments: No

Contact:

• NHS, 213-381-2862

• Shalom Center, 213-380-3700

Source:

• https://dcba.lacounty.gov/greenline/

5. Dream Home Program

Midfirst Bank

Applicable Areas

• Properties within eligible census tracts in Los Angeles and Santa Barbara Counties ONLY (see the PDF for details)

Program Highlights:

• Maximum Benefit:

  • 0% Down up to $750,000

  • 10% Up to $1 million

  • $20% down up to $1,209,750

• Maximum Purchase Price: None

• Program Type: 100% Financing

• Property Types: 1 – 2 Unit Properties, SFR, Condo, Townhome, Duplex

• Education Requirement: Yes

• Owner Occupant Requirement:   Yes

• Primary Residence Requirement: Yes

• First-Time Homebuyer Requirement: No  

• First-Generation Homebuyer Requirement: No  

• Minimum Buyer Contribution: 10% down payment between $751,000 - $1 Million, 20% down payment between $1,000,001 –  $1,209,750

• Forgivable: No

• Repayment: Yes

• Equity Share: No

• Amortizing: Yes

• Deferred Payments: No 

Contact:

• Scott T. Sealey, (310) 650-4044, Scott@Scottsealey.com

Source:

• Scott@Scottsealey.com

6. SOAR Program

Neighborhood Housing Services of the Inland Empire (NHSIE)

Applicable Areas:

• NHSIE Areas

Program Highlights:

• Maximum Benefit: Up to $10,000 

• Maximum Purchase Price: No

• Program Type: Subordinate 2nd Mortgage, 30 years

• Property Types: Single Family Home, Condo, Townhome

• Education Requirement: Yes, NHSIE-approved course

• Owner Occupant Requirement: Yes

• Primary Residence Requirement: Yes

• First-Time Homebuyer Requirement: Yes

• First-Generation Homebuyer Requirement: No

• Minimum Buyer Contribution: 1,500

• Forgivable: No

• Repayment: Yes

• Balloon Payment: In 10 – 15 years 

• Equity Share: No

• Amortizing: No

• Deferred Payments: Yes - for 30 months 

Contact:

• Maria Solis, maria.solis@nhsie.org, 909-963-5211

Source:

• https://nhsie.org/down-payment-assistance/

7. LA County Home Ownership Program (HOP 80)

Los Angeles County Development Authority

Applicable Areas:

• All unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County, and specific participating cities - download the full guide here or the FULL list.

  
  

Program Highlights:

• Maximum Benefit: $100,000 or 20% of the purchase price, whichever is less (HOP80)

• Maximum Purchase Price: $700,000

• Program Type: Silent 2^nd Loan

• Property Types: SFR, Condo, Townhome

• Education Requirement: Yes, 8 Hours

• Owner Occupant Requirement: Yes

• Primary Residence Requirement: Yes

• First-Time Homebuyer Requirement: Yes

• First-Generation Homebuyer Requirement: N/A

• Minimum Buyer Contribution: 1% in most cases 

• Forgivable: No

• Repayment: Yes

• Equity Share: Yes, up to 20% of home price appreciation 

• Amortizing: No

• Deferred Payments: Yes

Contact:

• hop@lacda.org 

• List of Approved Lenders: https://lacda-sitefinity.azurewebsites.net/docs/librariesprovider25/hif/hop-participating-lender-list4b5f4351-ced4-4c53-8574-0fe98c9f75e4.pdf?sfvrsn=6f7ce7b0_1

Source:

• https://lacda-sitefinity.azurewebsites.net/home-ownership/home-ownership-program

8. LA County Home Ownership Program (HOP 120)

Los Angeles County Development Authority

Applicable Areas:

• All unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County, and specific participating cities - see the PDF for the full list.

Program Highlights:

• Maximum Benefit: $85,000 or 20% of the purchase price, whichever is less (HOP120)

• Maximum Purchase Price: $850,000

• Program Type: Silent 2^nd Loan

• Property Types: SFR, Condo, Townhome

• Education Requirement: Yes, 8 Hours

• Owner Occupant Requirement: Yes

• Primary Residence Requirement: Yes

• First-Time Homebuyer Requirement: Yes

• First-Generation Homebuyer Requirement: N/A

• Minimum Buyer Contribution: 1% in most cases 

• Forgivable: No

• Repayment: Yes

• Equity Share: Yes, up to 20% of home price appreciation 

• Amortizing: No

• Deferred Payments: Yes

Contact:

• hop@lacda.org 

• List of Approved Lenders: https://lacda-sitefinity.azurewebsites.net/docs/librariesprovider25/hif/hop-participating-lender-list4b5f4351-ced4-4c53-8574-0fe98c9f75e4.pdf?sfvrsn=6f7ce7b0_1

Source:

• https://lacda-sitefinity.azurewebsites.net/home-ownership/home-ownership-program

9. CalHFA ZIP & MyHome Assistance Program

CalHFA

Applicable Areas:

• All of CA

Program Highlights:

• Maximum Benefit:

  • Up to 3.5% of purchase price or appraised value, whichever is less for FHA loans

  • Up to 3% of purchase price or appraised value, whichever is less for Conventional   

• Maximum Purchase Price: No

• Program Type: Silent 2^nd Loan

• Property Types: Single Family Homes, Condos, Townhomes 

• Education Requirement: Yes  

• Owner Occupant Requirement: Yes  

• Primary Residence Requirement: Yes

• First-Time Homebuyer Requirement: Yes

• First-Generation Homebuyer Requirement: No

• Minimum Buyer Contribution: 1% of the purchase price on the first loan

• Forgivable: No

• Repayment: Yes

• Equity Share: No

• Amortizing: No

• Deferred Payments: Yes

Contact:

• Preferred Loan Officers: https://www.calhfa.ca.gov/apps/PLO/

Source:

• https://www.calhfa.ca.gov/homeownership/materials/files/calplus.pdf

• https://www.calhfa.ca.gov/homebuyer/programs/myhome.htm

10. GSFA Platinum® Standard Program

Golden State Finance Authority

Applicable Areas:

• All of CA

Program Highlights:

• Maximum Benefit: Up to 5% of 1^st Mortgage Loan Amount

• Maximum Purchase Price: Not Stated

• Program Type: Second Mortgage

• Property Types: 1-4 Units, Single Family Homes, Condos, Townhomes

• Education Requirement: No

• Owner Occupant Requirement: Yes

• Primary Residence Requirement: Yes

• First-Time Homebuyer Requirement: No

• First-Generation Homebuyer Requirement: No

• Minimum Buyer Contribution: Varies

• Forgivable: No

• Repayment: Yes

• Equity Share: No

• Amortizing: Yes

• Deferred Payments: No

Contact:

• Find a list of participating lenders here: https://www.gsfahome.org/programs/dpa/lenders.aspx

• GSFA Home: (855) 740-8422, info@gsfahome.org

Source:

• https://www.gsfahome.org/programs/dpa/platinum.shtml

11. GSFA Platinum® Select Program

Golden State Finance Authority

Applicable Areas:

• Eligible Areas all across CA

Program Highlights:

• Maximum Benefit: Up to 5% of 1^st Mortgage Loan Amount

• Maximum Purchase Price: Not Stated

• Program Type: Silent Second

• Property Types: 1-4 Units, Single Family Homes, Condos, Townhomes, Certain Manufactured Homes

• Education Requirement: No

• Owner Occupant Requirement: Yes

• Primary Residence Requirement: Yes

• First-Time Homebuyer Requirement: No

• First-Generation Homebuyer Requirement: No

·        Minimum Buyer Contribution: Varies

• Forgivable: Gift Portion - Yes, Loan Portion – No

• Repayment: Varies

• Equity Share: No

• Amortizing: Yes, over 15 years  

• Deferred Payments: No

Contact:

• Find a list of participating lenders here: https://www.gsfahome.org/programs/dpa/lenders.aspx

• GSFA Home: (855) 740-8422, info@gsfahome.org 

  
  

Source:

• https://www.gsfahome.org/programs/dpa/platinum.shtml

12. GSFA “Assist to Own” Program

Golden State Finance Authority

Applicable Areas:

• All of CA

• Must be employed in an Eligible County

Program Highlights:

• Maximum Benefit: Up to 5.5% of 1^st Mortgage Loan Amount

• Maximum Purchase Price: Not Stated

• Program Type: Silent Second and Gift (if applicable)

• Property Types: 1-4 Units, Single Family Homes, Condos, Townhomes, Certain Manufactured Homes

• Education Requirement: No

• Owner Occupant Requirement: Yes

• Primary Residence Requirement: Yes

• First-Time Homebuyer Requirement: No

• First-Generation Homebuyer Requirement: No

• Minimum Buyer Contribution: Varies

• Forgivable: Gift Portion - Yes, Loan Portion – No

• Repayment: Varies

• Equity Share: No

• Amortizing: No

• Deferred Payments: Yes

Contact:

• Find a list of participating lenders here: https://www.gsfahome.org/programs/dpa/lenders.aspx

• GSFA Home: (855) 740-8422, info@gsfahome.org 

  
  

Source:

• https://www.gsfahome.org/programs/dpa/platinum.shtml

13. Riverside County PLHA FTHB Program

Riverside County Housing And Workforce Solutions

Applicable Areas:

• Check here for the most up-to-date funding availability: https://rivcohws.org/downpayment-assistance#2741959481-3539981774

• All Riverside County Unincorporated areas

• Within the City Limits of the select Cooperating Cities - download PDF for full list.

  
  

Program Highlights:

• Maximum Benefit: Based on need, Up to 20% of the purchase price for down payment and not to exceed $100,000.

• Maximum Purchase Price:

  • Single-Family Residence: $564,205

  • Condo: $513,000

  • Manufactured Home: $361,000 

• Program Type: 2^nd loan

• Property Types: Single Family Residences, Condo, Manufactured Homes (on permanent foundation)

• Education Requirement: Yes

• Owner Occupant Requirement: Yes

• Primary Residence Requirement: Yes

• First-Time Homebuyer Requirement: Yes

• First-Generation Homebuyer Requirement: Varies

• Minimum Buyer Contribution: Varies

• Forgivable: No

• Repayment: Yes

• Equity Share: No

• Amortizing: No

• Deferred Payments: Yes

Contact:

• (951) 955-0784, FTHB-programs@rivco.org 

• Approved Lenders: https://rivcohws.org/housing-programs/resources#2741959481-1483500370, https://rivcohws.org/sites/g/files/aldnop131/files/2024-12/PLHA%20FTHB%20Approved%20Loan%20Officer%20List%202023-2036%20-%20120624.pdf  

Source:

• https://rivcohws.org/sites/g/files/aldnop131/files/users/user186/Matrix%202025-2026%20HWS%20%20English%20071125.pdf

• https://rivcohws.org/sites/g/files/aldnop131/files/users/user186/2025-2026%20PLHA%20FTHB%20Borrower%20Information%20Packet%20-%20070125.pdf

14. HomeStart DPA Grant (Conventional)

S.H.I.E.L.D

Applicable Areas:

• All of California

Program Highlights:

• Maximum Benefit: 3% of purchase price

• Maximum Purchase Price: Not Stated

• Program Type: Grant

• Property Types: Single Family Homes

• Education Requirement: Yes, HUD Certified Course

• Owner Occupant Requirement: Yes

• Primary Residence Requirement: Yes

• First-Time Homebuyer Requirement: Yes

• First-Generation Homebuyer Requirement: No  

• Minimum Buyer Contribution: Varies

• Forgivable: Yes, after 6^th consecutive payment 

• Repayment: No

• Equity Share: No

• Amortizing: No

• Deferred Payments: No

Contact:

• Cris Cuevas, True Prime Mortgage, Vice President - Business Development, NMLS: 1889153, 213-784-6867, cris@trueprimemortgage.com

• James Wolfe, HomeStart Navigator, 5857 Pine Avenue, Suite B, Chino Hills, CA, 91709, James@yourshield.org 

Source:

• Emails with Cuevas and Wolfe

• https://www.yourshield.org/dpagrant

15. HomeStart DPA Grant (FHA)

S.H.I.E.L.D

Applicable Areas:

• All of California

Program Highlights:

• Maximum Benefit: 3.5% of purchase price

• Maximum Purchase Price: Not Stated

• Program Type: Grant

• Property Types: 1-4 Units 

• Education Requirement: Yes, HUD Certified Course

• Owner Occupant Requirement: Yes

• Primary Residence Requirement: Yes

• First-Time Homebuyer Requirement: Yes

• First-Generation Homebuyer Requirement: No  

• Minimum Buyer Contribution: Varies

• Forgivable: Yes, after 6^th consecutive payment 

• Repayment: No

• Equity Share: No

• Amortizing: No

• Deferred Payments: No

Contact:

• Cris Cuevas, True Prime Mortgage, Vice President - Business Development, NMLS: 1889153, 213-784-6867, cris@trueprimemortgage.com

• James Wolfe, HomeStart Navigator, 5857 Pine Avenue, Suite B, Chino Hills, CA, 91709, James@yourshield.org 

Source:

• Emails with Cuevas and Wolfe

• https://www.yourshield.org/dpagrant

16. Workforce Initiative Subsidy for Homeownership (WISH) Program

FHLBank of San Francisco         

Applicable Areas:

• All of California

Program Highlights:

• Maximum Benefit: $32,099

• Maximum Purchase Price: N/A

• Program Type: Grant

• Property Types: Single Family Home

• Education Requirement: Yes

• Owner Occupant Requirement: Yes

• Primary Residence Requirement: Yes

• First-Time Homebuyer Requirement: Yes

• First-Generation Homebuyer Requirement: No  

• Minimum Buyer Contribution: Varies

• Forgivable: Yes, after 5 years of owner occupancy

• Repayment: Varies

• Equity Share: No

• Amortizing: No

• Deferred Payments: N/A

Contact:

• Member Institutions which can be found here: https://www.fhlbsf.com/products/community-programs-grants/wish/wish-participation#pfi

Source:

• https://www.fhlbsf.com/products/community-programs-grants/wish

• https://www.fhlbsf.com/products/community-programs-grants/wish/wish-participation#pfi

17. Cal Home Program

Applicable Areas:

• The following cities are currently advertising/accepting applications for CalHome on their websites:

  • Huntington Park

  • Bell Gardens 

  • Oceanside

  • Eligible cities in Riverside, San Bernardino, and Imperial Counties via. NPHS

• The following cities have run out of funds or are no longer accepting applications at the time of this writing:

  • Azusa

  • Lynwood

  • Chino

  • Baldwin Park

Program Highlights:

• Maximum Benefit: 40% of the purchase price up to $200,000 for single family homes and townhomes, $100,000 for manufactured homes, but based on need so can be less

• Maximum Purchase Price: Varies by city

• Program Type:  Silent Second

• Property Types: Single-family homes, townhomes, condos, manufactured homes 

• Education Requirement:  Yes

• Owner Occupant Requirement: Yes  

• Primary Residence Requirement: Yes

• First-Time Homebuyer Requirement:  Yes

• First-Generation Homebuyer Requirement: No  

• Minimum Buyer Contribution: Varies, 1 – 3% of purchase price 

• Forgivable: Yes, after full loan term

• Repayment: Yes

• Equity Share: No

• Amortizing: Yes

• Deferred Payments: Yes

Contact:

• N/A

Source:

• https://nphsinc.org/home-ownership-center/down-payment-assistance/

• https://norwalkca.gov/departments_services/community_development/calhome_program.php 

• https://www.bellgardens.org/services/city-services/calhome

• https://www.lynwoodcalhome.com/fthb

• https://www.ci.oceanside.ca.us/government/housing-neighborhood-services/housing/homebuyer-programs

18. Chenoa Fund Program

CBC Mortgage Agency

Applicable Areas:

• All of California

• All U.S. States (except New York)

Program Highlights:

• Maximum Benefit: Up to 3.5 - 5% of the sales price or appraised value, whichever is less

• Maximum Purchase Price: None*

• Program Type: Grant or Second Loan

• Property Types: 1 – 2 units

• Education Requirement: Varies

  • Borrowers with credit scores 600-619: Yes, through Money Management International, including MMI (see below).

  • Borrowers with credit scores 620-639: Yes, but can use any HUD approved education course, including MMI (see below).

  • Borrowers with credit scores <640: Yes

  • Borrowers with credit scores 640+: No

• Owner Occupant Requirement: Yes

• Primary Residence Requirement: Yes

• First-Time Homebuyer Requirement: No

• First-Generation Homebuyer Requirement: No

• Minimum Buyer Contribution: Varies

• Forgivable: Varies

• Repayment: Varies

• Equity Share: No

• Amortizing: Varies

• Deferred Payments: Varies

Contact:

• 866–563–3507, CBC Mortgage Agency

• You can also use this link to get started: https://chenoafund.org/affordable-housing/

Source:

• https://chenoafund.org/  

• https://chenoafund.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/CBCMA-Product-Matrix-6.4-September-13-2019.pdf 

19. NACA

Applicable Areas:

• All of California

• Across the U.S.

Program Highlights:

• Maximum Benefit: Up to $25,000*

• Maximum Purchase Price: None, but there is a max. loan amount

  • In High-Cost Areas:

  • 1 Unit - $822,375

  • 2 Units - $1,053,000

  • 3 Units - $1,272,750

  • 4 Units - $1,581,750

• Program Type: Deferred Second Loan

• Property Types: 1- 4 units 

• Education Requirement: Yes

• Owner Occupant Requirement: Yes  

• Primary Residence Requirement: Yes

• First-Time Homebuyer Requirement: No

• First-Generation Homebuyer Requirement: No

• Minimum Buyer Contribution: Varies

  • $36 Annual Membership Fee

  • Earnest money deposit to secure the property (returned at closing)

  • Home inspection fee

  • Pre-payment for property insurance and taxes

  • Reserves

• Forgivable: Yes, typically after 5 – 10 years

• For the $25,000 soft-second lien: The lien is reduced by $5,000 each year you live in the property, and after five years, it is generally considered fully forgiven. If you sell or refinance before the five years are up, you will need to repay the remaining amount.

• Neighborhood Stabilization Agreement: this is a deferred loan that doesn’t accrue interest, but must be repaid when you sell or refinance the home.

• Repayment: Yes

• Equity Share: No

• Amortizing: Yes

• Deferred Payments: No

Contact:

• (425) 602-6222, services@naca.com 

Source:

• https://www.naca.com/naca-programs/

• https://www.naca.com/faq/naca-overview/

Bank Specific Programs

You may also be surprised to hear that certain banks also offer down payment and closing cost assistance for home buyers based on where they decide to buy, their race or ethnicity, as well as their income.

Because bank programs are often promotional, they are subject to change quickly, so if you see a program that you would be potentially interested in you are highly encouraged to reach out to the point of contact that was designated on the flyer for each: Please note, all of the information below is taken in direct quotes from the flyers provided by each of the institutions.

All terms are subject to change without notice. All of the following is provided for informational and educational purposes only.

20. FHLBC Downpayment Plus Program via. BMO – Up to $6,500*

“FHLBC Downpayment Plus Program Downpayment Plus is a program from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago offering up to $6,500 to qualified borrowers.

The assistance provided is in the form of a five-year forgivable grant. Grants are forgiven on a monthly basis over a five-year retention period. Upon completion of five years, the grant is forgiven.

Restrictions apply. Please see the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago's website at www.fhlbc.com for complete requirements.

*Source & Contact for Details:

·         Todd Chau Mortgage Banker 626.822.0378 Todd.Chau@BMO.com NMLS #666888 http://www.bmo.com/us/Toddchau

21. Citi’s Lender Paid Assistance – up to $7,500*

“Citi's Lender Paid Assistance Program can help cover closing costs associated with purchasing a home. Borrowers may be eligible for assistance up to $7,500 toward closing costs, including buying down the rate, by meeting all of the following criteria¹:

• Purchase a primary residence in specific geographic areas

• Property is located in certain census tracts, and/or the borrower's income is less than 120% of the median family income

• Complete pre-purchase homebuyer education from a Citi-approved housing counseling agency”

¹Lender Paid Assistance is a non-repayable lender credit that will be first applied to eligible closing costs. Any remaining funds can be used to buy down the rate.

Up to a maximum of $7,500 is available on the purchase of a primary residence in Citibank Assessment Areas and also specific census tracts in Atlanta, Austin, Cambridge, Dallas, Denver, Houston and Philadelphia Metropolitan Statistical Areas, and is subject to additional property, income and other eligibility requirements.

The credit only can be applied to non-recurring closing costs, cannot be applied to interim interest and prepaid escrows, and cannot be used for any portion of the down payment. The borrower may not receive cash back at closing. The credit cannot be combined with any other Citi provided incentive, offer or promotion. Lender Paid Assistance is only available on Purchase transactions.”

*Source & Contact for Details:

·         Vikas Chaddah Home Lending Officer (714) 612-5093 vikas.chaddah@citi.com citi.com/vikaschaddah NMLS# 453275

22. U.S. Bank American Dream Home Loan – up to $10,000*

“Benefits of an American Dream loan:

• Down payment as low as 3%

• Competitive, fixed interest rate for the life of the loan

• Mortgage insurance paid by U.S. Bank

• Assistance funds up to either $5,500 or 3% of the purchase price up to $10,000 that may be used toward down payment, closing costs, required repairs and minor improvements

• Can be combined with other down payment assistance and grant programs”

*Source & Contact for Details:

·         Katharine Dizon Gross Mortgage Loan Officer office: 818-236-4097 cell: 818-635-7259 katharine.dizongross@usbank.com NMLS # 448755

23. BofA America's Home Grant® Program – up to $7,500*

Available in all California counties except Alpine, Colusa, Del Norte, Glenn, Humboldt, Mariposa, Modoc, Plumas, Sierra, Siskiyou, Trinity

Highlights

• Maximum amount up to $7,500

• May be used for nonrecurring closing costs, such as title insurance and recording fees

• Client does not have to be a first-time homebuyer

• Qualified homebuyers can get a lender credit to help make buying a home more affordable.

• “Up to $7,500 in closing cost help¹

• Program funds can only be used for nonrecurring closing costs including title insurance, recording fees, and, in certain situations, discount points that may be used to lower the interest rate.

• Lender credit cannot be applied toward down payment, prepaid items or recurring costs, such as property taxes and insurance.

• Best of all, this is not a loan - It does not have to be repaid.

24. First Citizen’s Bank Forgivable Loan Program – up to $30,000*

•  “Up to $30,000 toward your down payment and closing costs.

• "The $30,000 can be applied toward: • Down payment assistance. • Lender closing costs, third-party fees and settlement costs."

• "You must occupy the home as a primary residence for the first five years of the loan²"

• "The First Citizens Bank Forgivable Loan Program must be combined with select First Citizens Bank first mortgage programs³”

• "Per an in-person conversation with Jeannette at a Down Payment Assistance event, there is a $147,000 cap on income. Income above $194,000 would have to be a first-generation home buyer."

*Source & Contact for Details:

• Jeannette Ruiz Mayes | NMLS# 727255 Field Mortgage Banker 300 S Grand Ave Ste. 3900 Los Angeles, CA 90071 818.687.9935 jmayes@svb.com firstcitizens.com

25. City National Ladder Up Home Loan Grant – Up to $20,000

• Down payment as low as 3%.

• Grant up to $20,000 that may be used for down payment, closing costs or buying down the rate.

• Up to $50,000 for purchase transactions in select areas (majority Black or Hispanic census tracts in in the Los Angeles-Long Beach-Glendale, CA MSA)

• No mortgage insurance required.³

• Reduced loan origination fees.

• Loan may be used toward a home purchase or a refinance.

• Qualified applicants may be eligible for a checking account with a waived monthly maintenance fee and other standard City National products and services.⁵

Discontinued Programs

CalHFA Extra Credit Teachers Program (ECTP)

While an extremely popular program in its time, the CalHFA Extra Credit Teachers Program (ECTP) that offered down payment and closing cost assistance for teachers, administrators, school district employees and staff members working for any California K-12 public school.

This program was a silent second that offered an additional $7,500 ($15,000 in High Cost Areas) or 3% of the purchase price, whichever was less. 

https://www.calhfa.ca.gov/homeownership/bulletins/2020/2020-01.pdf

CalHFA EEM Grant 2025

Buyers used to be able to use the CalHFA EEM program with an FHA Energy Efficient Mortgage and receive an additional 4% of the loan amount towards energy efficient measures. There were no restrictions on where borrowers could purchase within the state of California, and the funds did not have to be paid back.

However, effective November 4, 2019, the Cal-EEM + Grant Loan Program was discontinued and the additional 4% EEM Grant will no longer be offered.  Borrowers could continue to use FHA’s Energy Efficient Mortgage (EEM) with either the CalHFA FHA or CalPLUS FHA loan programs.

https://myemail.constantcontact.com/CalHFA-Enews--Program-Bulletin--2019-20.html?soid=1102887337889&aid=N1jgdUmP_hM

Conclusion

You're one big giant step closer to buying a home, and hopefully within this guide, you've found a few down payment assistance programs that can make that dream a reality.

Even if you're not located in Los Angeles area or even in Southern California, there's still a program for you.

Use this tool (it's a personal favorite of mine): The Fannie Mae Down Payment Assistance Tool found here:

https://yourhome.fanniemae.com/calculators-tools/down-payment-assistance-tool.

With this program, you can search for down payment assistance programs all across the country using a zip code, county, or even state.

And remember, if you want to stay up to date on changes to the program, subscribe to the e-newsletter using the link here.

Any program you think I’m missing...let me know down below.

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