Buy a Home With Confidence — and Support
Down Payment Help Is Here. Let’s Make Homeownership Possible.
Buying a home in California—especially in San Diego—can feel out of reach, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you’re a first-time buyer or someone who hasn’t owned a home in the last three years, there are powerful programs available that can help cover your down payment and closing costs. From city, county, and state programs to veteran and nonprofit assistance, there are real options to turn your dream into a doorstep reality.
Down Payment Assistance in California
CalHFA MyHome Assistance Program
Offers deferred-payment loans for first-time buyers to cover down payment and/or closing costs. Can be used with FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional CalHFA loans.
CalPLUS + ZIP
This combo loan helps cover closing costs with a zero-interest second loan. Ideal for buyers needing extra support with upfront costs.
San Diego County & City First-Time Buyer Programs
SDHC First-Time Homebuyer Program
Up to $40,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance for low- to moderate-income families purchasing within the City of San Diego. Includes deferred payment and low-interest options.
County of San Diego Homeownership Program (HIP)
Offers loans and grants to qualified buyers purchasing in unincorporated areas and some participating cities. Income and purchase price limits apply.
Urban League HOPE Program
The Urban League of San Diego County's HOPE Program(Home Ownership for Personal Empowerment) provides:
Homebuyer education classes One-on-one financial counseling Down payment assistance Help accessing grants and matching funds
This is an excellent option for moderate-income buyers seeking long-term support and education alongside financial aid.
NACA — Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America
The NACA Program is a unique, nationwide nonprofit that provides:
No down payment No closing costs No private mortgage insurance (PMI) Below-market fixed interest rates No minimum credit score required
This powerful option helps make homeownership accessible, especially for underserved communities.
Veterans Preference Inc. – HomeFundIt Program
As a veteran-led organization, Veterans Preference Inc.partners with HomeFundIt, an innovative down payment crowdfunding platform that allows:
• Family and friends to contribute to your down payment
• Matching grant opportunities for qualified buyers
• Integration with homebuyer coaching and financial literacy programs
Whether you’re active duty, a veteran, or a military family member, this program is designed with you in mind.
Other Local & Specialty Programs
Depending on your income, credit, location, and background, you may also qualify for:
WISH Grant Program (Workforce Initiative Subsidy for Homeownership)
Up to $22,000 in matching funds for low-income buyers.
Golden State Finance Authority (GSFA) Platinum Program
Offers non-repayable grants up to 5.5% of the loan amount for down payment/closing costs.
Chenoa Fund
Nationwide program offering forgivable and repayable down payment assistance—even for borrowers with lower credit scores.
Let's Find the Right Program for You
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to buying a home. That’s why we work closely with each client to match them with the right combination of programs, grants, and financing options, maximizing your buying power and minimizing your out-of-pocket costs. We work with lenders who are experts in these programs, who also offer their own lender specific programs.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a veteran, or simply someone who’s ready for the next step, I’m here to guide you from pre-approval to the front door.
Click the link below to explore the Down Payment Resource Center and check your personal eligibility in just a few minutes. Get customized results based on your location and income.
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