California has some of the best first-time homebuyer assistance programs in the country — yet most buyers don’t know they exist until after they’ve already closed. Here’s the full breakdown for 2026.
CalHFA Dream For All Shared Appreciation Loan
This is California’s flagship down payment assistance program. The state provides up to 20% of the purchase price as a silent second loan — no monthly payments. In exchange, when you sell or refinance, you repay the original loan amount plus 20% of the home’s appreciation. In 2026, Dream For All is available on a voucher lottery system due to high demand. Income limits apply (typically 120–150% of Area Median Income depending on county).
CalHFA MyHome Assistance Program
Provides a deferred-payment junior loan of up to 3.5% of the purchase price for FHA loans or 3% for conventional loans. No interest accrues during the deferral period. Can be combined with Dream For All. Income limits and purchase price caps apply — higher in Bay Area counties.
CalHFA Zero Interest Program (ZIP)
Covers closing costs with a deferred-payment, zero-interest loan of up to 3% of the first mortgage amount. Ideal for buyers who have the down payment but struggle with California’s high closing costs.
Local Programs Worth Knowing
- GSFA Platinum: Up to 5% down payment assistance as a grant (no repayment required) for qualifying income levels.
- Chenoa Fund: FHA-paired down payment assistance available statewide.
- County programs: Marin, San Francisco, Alameda, and many other counties have their own first-gen buyer programs — ask your broker about local options.
2026 Income Limits for CalHFA
Income limits vary by county and household size. As a general guide: Marin County (2-person household) ~$177,000; San Francisco County ~$188,000; Santa Clara County ~$183,000. These limits increase most years. Always verify current limits at calhfa.ca.gov.
How to Access These Programs
CalHFA programs are accessed through approved lenders. Not all mortgage brokers or banks are CalHFA-approved — you need to work with one that is. The application process is similar to a standard mortgage but requires additional documentation for program eligibility.
Ready to get started? Call DiVita Home Finance at (800) 239-1108 or schedule a free consultation. We’re California mortgage brokers with 20+ years of experience in Marin County, the Bay Area, and statewide.
