California has some of the most generous first-time buyer assistance programs in the country. CalHFA, Dream For All, MyHome — we're approved lenders for all of them and we'll match you to the right one.
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These are the primary programs we originate. Availability, income limits, and funding vary — some programs open and close based on state funding. Contact us to check current availability.
California's shared appreciation loan program. The state contributes up to 20% of the purchase price. When you sell or refinance, you repay the loan plus a share of the appreciation.
A deferred-payment junior loan for down payment and/or closing costs. Simple structure — no appreciation share, just a silent second that's repaid when you sell, refinance, or pay off the first mortgage.
A zero-interest deferred loan specifically for closing costs on CalHFA first mortgages. Eliminates the out-of-pocket closing cost barrier entirely when combined with MyHome or Dream For All.
CalHFA programs layer on top of a standard first mortgage. The process is more involved than a conventional loan — but we handle the complexity.
We review your income, household size, county, and credit profile to identify which programs you qualify for — and how much assistance you can receive.
CalHFA requires a HUD-approved homebuyer education course before closing. We'll direct you to the right course — most can be completed online in a few hours.
We structure your first mortgage (FHA or conventional) alongside the DPA second loan. Both are underwritten together and close simultaneously.
Both loans close at the same time. Your DPA funds are applied at closing — you move in with dramatically less cash out of pocket.
Most CalHFA programs share a common set of eligibility requirements. Meeting these is the starting point — individual programs may have additional criteria.
First-Time Homebuyer You must not have owned or had ownership interest in a home in the past 3 years. Exceptions exist for some programs.
California Property The home must be located in California and will be your primary residence. Investment properties and second homes are not eligible.
Income Limits Income limits vary by county and household size. Orange County limits are higher than inland counties. Many buyers earning $150K–$200K still qualify depending on family size.
Credit Score Minimum 660 FICO for most CalHFA programs. Some programs require 680. A higher score helps with the first mortgage rate.
Homebuyer Education At least one borrower must complete a HUD-approved homebuyer education course before closing. Certificate required at closing.
Purchase Price Limits CalHFA has maximum purchase price limits by county. In Orange County, limits are typically $1M+. We'll confirm the current limit for your target area.
Sample income limits for select CA counties (approximate). Limits increase with household size.
| County | 1–2 Person | 3+ Person |
|---|---|---|
| Orange County | $228,000 | $266,000 |
| Los Angeles | $195,000 | $228,000 |
| San Diego | $195,000 | $228,000 |
| San Bernardino | $150,000 | $175,000 |
| Riverside | $150,000 | $175,000 |
| Sacramento | $148,000 | $172,000 |
Limits are approximate and subject to change. Contact us for current program-specific limits for your county and household size.
Check If I Qualify →California has programs that can cover your entire down payment. Let us check your eligibility and tell you exactly how much you can receive.