There are local programs for first-time homebuyers in every city in California.
This article takes a look at the requirements and provides links to the homebuyer program page for every metropolitan city in California.
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First-Time Homebuyer Programs in California
Eligibility Requirements
- You will need to have a minimum 620 credit score, income limits, and loan requirements of the CalHFA-approved lender
- Only available if you plan on living in the home as your primary residence
- Must complete homebuyer education counseling and obtain a certificate of completion through an eligible homebuyer counseling organization
- CalHFA’s MyHome down payment program requires you to be a first-time homebuyer. A first-time homebuyer is defined as someone who has not owned a home in the last three years
National First-Time Homebuyer Loans
- FHA Loans – FHA home loans are very popular with first-time homebuyers cause they require a 580 credit score with just a 3.5% down payment. Debt-to-income ratios up to 50% are allowed making them perfect for low-income borrowers.
- Conventional Loans – Conventional loans require a 620 credit score and a 5% to 20% down payment. If you put 20% or more down, mortgage insurance will not be required.
- USDA Loans – USDA mortgage loans are for low-to-median income borrowers buying a home located in a USDA-eligible rural area. They provide 100% financing with a 620 or higher credit score. Mortgage insurance is required but the rate is the lowest of any type of mortgage program available.
- VA Loans – Veterans of the U.S. military may be eligible for a VA home loan. No down payment or mortgage insurance is required and veterans with a 580 to 620 credit score are eligible.
- HomeReady and Home Possible Loans – Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae created the HomeReady and Home Possible loan programs for low-income first-time homebuyers whose income does not exceed 100% of the area median income requiring just a 3% down payment and a 620 credit score.
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