Down-payment assistance can bridge the gap between qualifying for a mortgage and having the cash to close — and California has several programs that pair with FHA and conventional loans.
What's available
The main statewide source is CalHFA, which offers competitive first mortgages alongside down-payment and closing-cost assistance structured as deferred-payment or (in some programs) forgivable second loans. Local city/county programs and lender-specific grants add more options. Programs and funding change, so confirm current availability before you plan around them.
Who qualifies
- Income at or below the program limit for your county and household size.
- A completed homebuyer-education course.
- Use of the home as your primary residence.
- Meeting the paired first-mortgage's credit and DTI requirements (FHA or conventional).
How to use it
The order of operations matters: get pre-approved with a lender approved for the assistance program, confirm your eligibility and the assistance amount, then shop within a price range the program supports. I help buyers find program-approved lenders and write offers that work with assistance timelines, which can run slightly longer than a standard close.
Frequently Asked Questions
What down-payment assistance is available in California?
CalHFA first mortgages with deferred or forgivable down-payment/closing-cost assistance, plus local and lender programs. Availability and funding change.
Who qualifies for down-payment assistance?
Generally buyers at or below county income limits who complete a homebuyer-education course and occupy the home as a primary residence.
Can I combine assistance with an FHA loan?
Often yes — many assistance programs pair with FHA or conventional first mortgages. Use a program-approved lender.
How do I see current listings in Ventura County with assistance?
Active inventory changes constantly. Use the live search to see what's on the market right now, or contact Brian for off-market and coming-soon options and a tailored search.
