Do I have to be a first-time buyer to get down payment help?

Often, but not always. Many programs (like CalHFA MyHome and most city/county programs) require first-time-buyer status, but some — such as GSFA Platinum — do not. We'll check every option for your situation.

Can I combine down payment assistance programs?

Sometimes you can layer a statewide program with a local one, depending on the rules and your first mortgage. We review what stacks so you get the most help you're eligible for.

Does assistance mean higher monthly payments?

Most assistance here is a 'silent second' with no monthly payment — you repay it when you sell, refinance, or pay off the loan. Some help is a grant you never repay.

First-time buyers · Southern California

California Down Payment Assistance Programs

The down payment is the #1 hurdle for first-time buyers in Southern California — but you may not need to cover it all yourself. Statewide and local programs across Los Angeles, the Inland Empire, and beyond offer grants and deferred loans for down payment and closing costs. Here's a plain-English guide, and we'll match you to the ones you qualify for — in English or Spanish.

Programs that help with your down payment

CalHFA Dream For AllStatewide (California)Up to 20% down/closing CalHFA MyHome AssistanceStatewide (California)Up to 3–3.5%GSFA PlatinumStatewide (California)Up to ~5.5% (grant/second)LA City LIPACity of Los AngelesUp to ~$161,000 LA County HOPLos Angeles County (unincorporated + participating cities)Up to ~$100,000 Inland Empire DPARiverside & San Bernardino CountiesUp to ~$40,000

How we help you use them

1Get pre-approved so you know your price range and which programs fit
2We identify every assistance program you qualify for by income and area
3We structure your loan to layer the assistance correctly
4You close with less cash out of pocket

Down payment assistance FAQ

Do I have to be a first-time buyer to get down payment help?: Often, but not always. Many programs (like CalHFA MyHome and most city/county programs) require first-time-buyer status, but some — such as GSFA Platinum — do not. We'll check every option for your situation.
Can I combine down payment assistance programs?: Sometimes you can layer a statewide program with a local one, depending on the rules and your first mortgage. We review what stacks so you get the most help you're eligible for.
Does assistance mean higher monthly payments?: Most assistance here is a 'silent second' with no monthly payment — you repay it when you sell, refinance, or pay off the loan. Some help is a grant you never repay.

Program names, dollar amounts, income limits, and availability change frequently and some programs run out of funding during the year. Details here are for general information only and are not a commitment to lend or a guarantee of eligibility. Confirm current terms with a loan officer. Equal Housing Lender.