Loan programs
CalHFA is the California Housing Finance Agency, the state's home loan agency for first-time buyers. It doesn't lend to you directly. It works through approved lenders like me, pairing a first mortgage with assistance that can cover part of your down payment and closing costs. I help buyers use these programs all the time.
Who it's for
- First-time buyers who haven't owned and lived in a home in the past three years
- Buyers with steady income who are short on savings for the down payment and closing costs
- Households within CalHFA's income limits for their county
- Buyers using FHA, USDA, Conventional or VA financing
What to know
A first mortgage plus assistance
CalHFA first mortgages come in FHA, VA, USDA and conventional versions. Each one is paired with a second loan that goes toward your down payment, your closing costs, or both, so you bring less cash to closing.
Assistance that waits
The assistance is a deferred second loan, typically repaid when you sell, refinance or pay off your first mortgage. Each program has its own terms, and I'll walk you through exactly what you'd repay and when.
Requirements to plan for
Most programs are for first-time buyers buying a California home to live in. Income limits are set by county and updated each year, credit guidelines apply, and you'll complete a homebuyer education course before closing.
Not all borrowers will qualify. Programs subject to credit approval, eligibility and underwriting guidelines.
FAQ
What CalHFA programs are there?
The main ones I help buyers with:
- MyHome Assistance: help toward your down payment and closing costs, paired with a CalHFA FHA, VA, USDA or conventional first mortgage.
- CalPLUS Conventional with closing-cost assistance: a conventional first mortgage paired with a second loan for closing costs.
- Dream For All: shared-appreciation assistance for first-generation buyers. It opens for applications in limited windows, and buyers are chosen by random selection.
Programs and funding change during the year. I'll tell you which ones are open and which fit you.
How does Dream For All work?
Dream For All is CalHFA's shared-appreciation program for first-generation homebuyers, and it's a limited-time program. Each year CalHFA opens applications for a short window, then picks applicants at random through a lottery-style drawing. Applying doesn't guarantee a spot, so it's worth getting pre-approved before the window opens. I'm certified to originate Dream For All loans, so I can prepare your pre-approval, let you know when the window opens and handle the loan if you're selected.
How do I find a CalHFA lender?
CalHFA doesn't lend to buyers directly. Its loans are only available through CalHFA-approved lenders and loan officers, and I'm one of them. I can check which programs you qualify for, get you pre-approved and handle the CalHFA paperwork through closing.
What credit score do I need for CalHFA?
For CalHFA's government loans (FHA, VA and USDA), the minimum is 640, or 660 for a manufactured home. For conventional loans, it's 660 if your household income is below 80% of your area's median income, and 680 otherwise. Your full credit picture, income and debts matter too, so let's look at your situation together.
Is CalHFA only for low-income buyers?
No. CalHFA's income limits are set by county and are often higher than people expect, so many moderate-income households qualify. Tell me where you're buying and I'll check the limit for your county.
Can I buy a condo or townhome with CalHFA?
Yes, as long as the property meets the guidelines for your loan type and it will be your primary residence. CalHFA programs can't be used for investment properties or second homes.
Do I have to be a first-time buyer?
For most CalHFA programs, yes: you can't have owned and lived in a home in the past three years. Dream For All has an added rule, at least one buyer must be a first-generation homebuyer. I'll check your situation against each program.
What are the income limits?
They depend on your county and household, and CalHFA updates them each year. The current limits took effect June 30, 2026. Tell me where you're buying and I'll check yours.
Can I use CalHFA with a VA loan?
Yes. CalHFA offers a VA first mortgage, and eligible veterans can pair it with assistance toward closing costs.
Do I have to repay the assistance?
Yes. CalHFA assistance is a loan, typically repaid when you sell, refinance or pay off your first mortgage. Dream For All is also repaid with a share of your home's appreciation. I'll explain the terms of each before you choose.
Do I need to take a homebuyer class?
Yes. CalHFA requires homebuyer education before closing, and it can be completed online. I'll point you to an approved course.
Tell me where you are today and I'll show you the clearest path forward.