Couple reviewing home documents with agent
    2026 Homebuyer Programs

    You May Qualify to Buy a Home With Little or No Money Down

    Many renters believe they need 20% down to buy a home. In reality, there are several programs in California that can help cover the down payment and closing costs.

    Why Most Renters Think They Can't Buy

    Many renters assume they need:

    • 20% down payment
    • Perfect credit
    • $30,000+ in savings

    But many buyers purchase with:

    • Credit scores as low as 580
    • FHA loans with 3.5% down
    • Down payment assistance programs
    Happy family receiving house keys from agent
    Available Programs

    Programs That Can Help Cover Your Down Payment

    Several California and national programs exist to help first-time homebuyers with down payment and closing costs.

    CalHFA MyHome Assistance Program

    Provides down payment and closing cost assistance for first-time homebuyers purchasing homes in California.

    Key Benefits:

    • Up to 3.5% of purchase price
    • Can cover down payment or closing costs
    • Works with FHA and conventional loans

    Typical Requirements:

    • First-time homebuyer (no home ownership in last 3 years)
    • Must meet income limits
    • Must use a participating lender
    • Must occupy the home as a primary residence

    GSFA Platinum Down Payment Assistance

    A program designed to help buyers reduce the upfront cost of purchasing a home.

    Key Benefits:

    • Provides up to 5% down payment assistance
    • Works with FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional loans
    • Some options may be partially forgivable

    Typical Requirements:

    • Minimum credit score requirements
    • Owner-occupied home purchase
    • Income qualifications depending on county

    Chenoa Fund FHA Down Payment Assistance

    One of the most common programs used with FHA loans to help cover the required 3.5% down payment.

    Key Benefits:

    • Covers the entire FHA down payment
    • Available nationwide including California
    • Designed for buyers with limited savings

    Typical Requirements:

    • FHA loan eligibility
    • Minimum credit score requirements
    • Owner-occupied home purchase

    Local City & County Assistance Programs

    Many California cities and counties offer additional homebuyer assistance programs that can be combined with FHA loans.

    Examples:

    • Riverside County assistance programs
    • San Bernardino County homebuyer assistance
    • Los Angeles County first-time buyer programs

    Key Benefits:

    • $20,000 – $85,000 assistance in some areas
    • Down payment help
    • Closing cost assistance

    Typical Requirements:

    • Income limits based on household size
    • Must live in the property as a primary residence
    • First-time buyer in many cases

    What You May Need to Qualify

    Most programs share similar baseline requirements. Exact qualifications vary by program.

    1
    Credit score of 580 or higher
    2
    Stable income
    3
    Debt-to-income ratio within lender limits
    4
    Primary residence purchase
    5
    Completion of a homebuyer education course

    FHA Loans Explained

    FHA loans are one of the most common financing options for first-time homebuyers. When combined with assistance programs, some buyers can purchase with very little out of pocket.

    580+

    Credit Scores Starting

    3.5%

    Down Payments As Low As

    Flexible

    Qualification Requirements

    Free Consultation

    See If You May Qualify for Homebuyer Assistance

    A Bright Path homebuyer specialist will review available programs and help determine what options may be available.

    California neighborhood at sunset

    Stop Renting If You May Be Able to Buy

    Many renters are surprised to learn they already qualify for homeownership. Let us help you explore your options.