CalHFA Down Payment Assistance
California Housing Finance Agency programs that provide down payment and closing cost assistance to first-time homebuyers. Includes the MyHome Assistance Program and Zero Interest Program (ZIP).
Is This Loan Right for You?
CalHFA Down Payment Assistance is right for you if you are a first-time homebuyer in California who needs help with your down payment or closing costs. Programs like MyHome and ZIP can provide thousands of dollars in assistance that does not have to be repaid until you sell or refinance. Under California Housing Finance Agency guidelines, MyHome offers up to 3.5% of the purchase price as a deferred-payment subordinate loan, while ZIP provides up to 3% at zero interest. You will need a minimum credit score of 640 and must meet income limits that vary by county and household size. Maximum LTV reaches 97%, and these programs combine with CalHFA first mortgages including FHA, VA, or conventional loans. Homebuyer education counseling is required and included. Compared to saving for a full down payment on your own, CalHFA can cut years off your timeline to homeownership. Choose CalHFA if you qualify as a first-time buyer and want to minimize upfront cash outlay for a primary residence.
What Are the CalHFA DPA Requirements?
Min Credit Score
640+
Min Down Payment
0%
Max LTV
97%
Max DTI
45%
Loan Limits
Subject to CalHFA purchase price limits by county (per California Housing Finance Agency program guidelines)
PMI / MIP
Depends on first mortgage type (FHA MIP or conventional PMI)
Occupancy
Primary residence only
Key Features
- MyHome Assistance: Up to 3.5% of purchase price for down payment/closing costs
- ZIP (Zero Interest Program): Up to 3% zero-interest subordinate loan
- Combinable with CalHFA first mortgage (FHA, VA, or conventional)
- Homebuyer education counseling included
- Income limits based on county and household size
How It Works
Eligibility Check
We verify you meet CalHFA requirements: first-time buyer status, income limits for your county, credit score minimums, and homebuyer education completion.
Application & Education
Complete your loan application and enroll in a CalHFA-approved homebuyer education course. We identify which DPA programs you qualify for and structure your financing.
Underwriting & Approval
Your loan is underwritten against both CalHFA program guidelines and the first mortgage requirements (FHA, VA, or conventional). CalHFA issues a reservation for your DPA funds.
Closing & Funding
Close on your home with the CalHFA DPA covering part or all of your down payment and closing costs. The DPA is structured as a silent second or deferred loan.
Estimate Your Payment
Results
This information is not intended to be an indication of loan qualification, loan approval or commitment to lend. Rates, terms, and availability of programs are subject to change without notice.
What Are the Pros and Cons of CalHFA DPA?
Advantages
- Reduces or eliminates the out-of-pocket down payment for first-time buyers
- ZIP program offers zero-interest deferred-payment assistance
- Can be combined with FHA, VA, or conventional first mortgage programs
- Homebuyer education requirement helps prepare you for homeownership
Considerations
- Income limits may disqualify higher-earning buyers
- Purchase price limits apply and may restrict options in high-cost areas
- DPA must typically be repaid when you sell, refinance, or transfer the property
Frequently Asked Questions
Getting a CalHFA DPA Loan in the San Gabriel Valley
NetCORE Lending™ is headquartered in Diamond Bar and has been helping borrowers across the San Gabriel Valley secure calhfa dpa financing since 2015. We serve homebuyers and homeowners in Pomona, Walnut, Rowland Heights, West Covina, Chino Hills, Covina, La Verne, Glendora, San Dimas, Hacienda Heights, and City of Industry — as well as borrowers throughout California.
As a local mortgage broker, we understand the San Gabriel Valley real estate market — from the higher-value properties in Chino Hills and Diamond Bar to the more affordable options in Pomona and West Covina. Our team provides bilingual service in English and Vietnamese and shops 100+ wholesale lenders to find you the lowest available rate on your calhfa dpa loan.
Call (714) 399-6361 to discuss calhfa dpa options with a local loan advisor, or get pre-qualified online in 2 minutes.
Also Consider
Explore other loan products that might be a good fit for your needs.
FHA
Government-backed loans insured by the Federal Housing Administration. Designed for first-time homebuyers and those with lower credit scores or smaller down payments.
Conventional
A traditional mortgage not insured by the federal government. Ideal for borrowers with strong credit and stable income who want competitive rates and flexible terms.
Fixed-Rate
Lock in a consistent interest rate and monthly payment for the entire life of your loan. Available in 15 or 30-year terms, providing long-term payment stability.
FHA 203(k)
FHA-backed loan that finances both the purchase of a home and the cost of renovations in a single mortgage. Ideal for buying fixer-uppers or upgrading your current home.
Ready to Get Started?
Apply online in minutes or call us to speak with a loan advisor about your CalHFA DPA options.
Official Sources
This information is not intended to be an indication of loan qualification, loan approval or commitment to lend. Rates, terms, and availability of programs are subject to change without notice.
Reviewed by Joann Ton, Loan Officer (NMLS# 1461031) | Last updated: June 2026