California Program · CalHFA
CalHFA Homebuyer Programs
California’s own home-financing engine. CalHFA pairs affordable first mortgages with silent-second down payment help — so more Californians can reach the closing table.
Overview
One agency, a full toolkit.
The California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA) offers a suite of programs designed to make homeownership possible in one of the country’s toughest markets. You choose a CalHFA first mortgage — Conventional, FHA or VA — and layer on down payment and closing-cost assistance through CalHFA’s subordinate “silent second” loans. I’ll assemble the right combination for your budget and goals.
How it works
The essentials
MyHome
MyHome Assistance
A deferred-payment junior loan worth up to 3.5% of the purchase price (or appraised value), used for your down payment or closing costs. No monthly payment — a silent second repaid when you sell, refinance or pay off.
CalPLUS + ZIP
Zero Interest Program (ZIP)
Pair a CalPLUS first mortgage with the Zero Interest Program for closing-cost help — a deferred, zero-interest second that keeps cash in your pocket at closing.
Bonuses
Teachers & tax credits
California K-12 educators may qualify for the Extra Credit Teacher Program (ECTP); first-time buyers may add a Mortgage Credit Certificate for an annual federal tax credit.
Who it is for
Do you qualify?
- California buyers using a CalHFA first mortgage
- First-time buyers (required on most CalHFA assistance)
- California K-12 educators (ECTP)
- Buyers who need down payment or closing-cost help
- Buyers who complete CalHFA homebuyer education
- Households within CalHFA income limits
At a glance
Program highlights
MyHome up to 3.5%
Silent-second down payment help.
Deferred payments
No monthly payment on the assistance.
Conventional / FHA / VA
A CalHFA first mortgage for your scenario.
ZIP closing-cost help
Zero-interest help via CalPLUS.
Teacher & MCC options
Extra help for educators and first-timers.
Homebuyer education
Required — and it sets you up to succeed.
CalHFA programs are administered by the California Housing Finance Agency and offered through CalHFA-approved lenders, subject to program guidelines, income limits, and first-time-buyer and homebuyer-education requirements, which vary and are subject to change. This is not a commitment to lend. Contact David to confirm current terms and your eligibility.
California dreaming? Let’s make it real.
Every situation is different. Let me confirm your eligibility and run the numbers. Call (303) 557-3846 or start online.
California down payment assistance is one of several programs I run in the state. See mortgage lending in California — high-cost county limits, non-QM and ITIN options.