California Down Payment Assistance
Access up to 3.5% of your home purchase price through CalHFA's MyHome Assistance Program
Up to 3.5%
Assistance based on home purchase price (3% CalHFA, 3.5% FHA)
Silent Second
Deferred loan with no monthly payments until you sell or refinance
First-Time Buyers
Haven't owned a home in 3 years? You qualify as first-time buyer
CalHFA MyHome Assistance Program
The California Housing Finance Agency's (CalHFA) **MyHome Assistance Program** provides eligible California residents with down payment assistance to help make homeownership more affordable. The assistance comes in the form of a "silent second" mortgage—a deferred loan that requires **no monthly payments** and no repayment until you sell your home, refinance, or pay off your first mortgage.
Assistance Amounts
CalHFA First Mortgage: 3% of purchase price
For homes financed with CalHFA's own loan programs
FHA Loans: 3.5% of purchase price
For homes financed with FHA-insured mortgages
What Makes This a "Silent Second"?
- •No monthly payments – Unlike traditional second mortgages, you don't pay anything monthly
- •Deferred repayment – Only repaid when you sell, refinance, or pay off your first mortgage
- •No interest accrual – The loan amount stays the same; no interest builds up over time
First-Time Home Buyer
CalHFA defines this as someone who has **not owned and occupied their own home in the last three years**. Even if you previously owned a home, you may still qualify if it's been 3+ years.
Income Limits
Income limits vary by county and household size. Check the CalHFA website or contact us to verify your eligibility based on your location.
Primary Residence
The home must be your primary residence. Investment properties and second homes do not qualify.
Approved Mortgage Lender
You must work with a CalHFA-approved lender. As licensed California mortgage brokers, we can help you access this program.
Special Note for Teachers & Firefighters: If you're a teacher or fire department employee, certain program limits may not apply. Contact us to learn about additional benefits available to you.
Contact a CalHFA-Approved Lender
Work with a licensed California mortgage broker (like us!) who can access CalHFA programs and guide you through the application process.
Get Pre-Approved
Complete your mortgage pre-approval to determine how much home you can afford and confirm your eligibility for the MyHome program.
Apply for DPA with Your Mortgage
Your lender will submit your CalHFA MyHome assistance application alongside your primary mortgage application.
Close on Your Home
The down payment assistance funds are applied at closing, reducing the cash you need to bring to the table.
Ready to Access California DPA?
Get pre-approved in 24 hours and discover how much down payment assistance you qualify for.
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