California Home Buying Assistance May 2026

: Provides up to 20% of the purchase price or $150,000 (whichever is less) for down payments through a shared appreciation model.

: 30-year fixed-rate mortgages that combine with the Zero Interest Program (ZIP) for closing costs. Steps to Buying a Home | CA Housing Finance Agency - CalHFA california home buying assistance

Navigating homeownership in California is a multi-step process involving specialized state-run assistance programs, strict eligibility requirements, and significant preparatory paperwork. The California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA) is the primary state entity providing these resources. : Provides up to 20% of the purchase

: A deferred-payment junior loan that provides up to 3% (for conventional loans) or 3.5% (for FHA/VA/USDA loans) of the purchase price for down payments or closing costs. The California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA) is the

California offers several programs designed to reduce upfront costs for first-time buyers:

: Registration typically occurs in a window (e.g., February to March) followed by a randomized voucher drawing.