CalHFA MyHome Assistance Program 2026: Down Payment Help for California First-Time Buyers

The CalHFA MyHome Assistance Program is California’s most widely used down payment assistance loan. It provides up to 3.5% of the purchase price or appraised value as a junior (second) loan, with no monthly payment — repaid only when you sell, refinance, or pay off the home. 📞 (800) 239-1108

MyHome Assistance Key Details

• Assistance amount: Up to 3.5% of purchase price or appraised value (lesser of the two)
• Loan type: Junior lien (second mortgage), not a grant
• Interest rate: Simple interest, rate varies — contact us for current CalHFA rates
• Monthly payment: None — deferred until sale, refi, or payoff
• Repayment: Full principal + accrued interest at time of payoff

Who Qualifies for MyHome Assistance

• First-time homebuyer (no ownership in last 3 years)
• Income at or below CalHFA limits for your county
• Must use a CalHFA first mortgage (CalHFA FHA, CalHFA Conventional, or CalPLUS)
• Primary residence only
• Must complete CalHFA-approved homebuyer education before closing

MyHome Assistance + CalHFA First Mortgage Combinations

• CalHFA FHA + MyHome: 3.5% FHA down payment covered by MyHome = 0% out of pocket for down payment
• CalHFA Conventional + MyHome: 3% conventional down payment covered by MyHome
• CalPLUS FHA + MyHome + ZIP: Down payment AND closing costs covered — maximum stacking

How Much Does MyHome Assistance Provide?

On a $650,000 California home: 3.5% MyHome = $22,750 — enough to cover the entire FHA down payment. Combined with ZIP for closing costs, some California buyers close with minimal out-of-pocket cash.

Homebuyer Education Requirement

All CalHFA borrowers must complete a CalHFA-approved homebuyer education course. Options include online courses (eHome, Framework) or in-person HUD-approved counseling. Cost: typically $75–$125 online.

DiVita Home Finance | NMLS #1070853 | Tiburon, CA | 📞 (800) 239-1108