California First Time Home Buyer Programs | Down Payment Assistance
See if you qualify in minutes for down payment assistance programs that can lower the cash you need to buy a home.
Jason Whigham
Mortgage Broker
Find out which California DPA programs you qualify for:
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Down payment assistance comes in many forms. Here are the most common programs we help California buyers access.
Many state and local housing agencies offer grants that never need to be repaid. These first time home buyer programs are designed for moderate-income California households and can cover a significant portion of your down payment or closing costs.
Forgivable second mortgages are one of the most common forms of down payment assistance. If you stay in the home for a set period — typically 5 to 10 years — the loan balance is forgiven entirely. It's essentially free money for qualifying buyers.
FHA, USDA, and VA loans each come with their own down payment advantages for first time home buyers. FHA requires as little as 3.5% down, USDA offers zero-down in eligible rural areas, and VA loans require no down payment for qualifying veterans.
Some employers, nonprofits, and community organizations offer first time home buyer assistance funds. These programs are often underutilized and can be combined with other forms of down payment assistance for maximum benefit.
We work with first-time home buyers across Sacramento, Placer County, El Dorado County, and the greater Sacramento region — matching each buyer with the assistance programs they actually qualify for.
The most-used programs in California include:
Eligibility, income limits, and stacking rules change often. We track the current guidelines so you don't have to — tell us where you're buying and we'll tell you exactly which programs you qualify for.
When you work with Jason Whigham, you're not handed off to a call center. You're working with a team that specializes in first time home buyer programs and down payment assistance California — guiding you from eligibility check to closing day.
Mortgage Broker
NMLS #1448396 | 25+ years in mortgage | California first time home buyer & down payment assistance specialist
Jason brings 25+ years of mortgage experience and a deep knowledge of down payment assistance California programs and first time home buyer programs across the state. He identifies every program you qualify for and structures your financing to maximize the assistance available — so you can close with confidence and keep more money in your pocket.
Client Relations & Transaction Coordinator
Jermaine maintains the day-to-day flow of business across the team — coordinating between clients, partners, and our internal operations so every file, conversation, and milestone keeps moving. He handles the operational backbone that turns a busy pipeline into a smooth experience for everyone involved.
Client Experience Lead
Alan designs and optimizes the systems that make working with our team effortless — from initial inquiry to post-close follow-up. He ensures the technology and communication behind every transaction runs as smoothly as the underwriting.
Backed by a full team of processing, underwriting support, and transaction specialists dedicated to getting you to closing day.
Down payment assistance is just the start. Here's what working with our team actually feels like.
From your first question to the day you get the keys, you'll always know where things stand. No chasing, no silence.
First-time buyer, VA, FHA, USDA, conventional, and down payment assistance — we match you to the program that actually fits, not just the easiest one to close.
Buying a home is complicated; we make it feel simple. You'll have a clear plan and a real person guiding you at every step.
Strong, long-standing relationships with lenders, title, escrow, and agents mean fewer surprises and smoother closings.
Competitive rates, clear loan options, and advice anchored to your long-term financial goals — not just today's transaction.
Two recent closings that show what's possible when the right programs get stacked the right way.
Case Study 01
First-Time Buyer · Sacramento County
A first-time buyer thought she was years away from owning. We paired an FHA first mortgage with the CalHFA MyHome program for down payment assistance and stacked GSFA Platinum to cover closing costs — getting her into the keys without draining her savings.
Case Study 02
First-Time Buyer · El Dorado County
A first-time buyer had saved enough for a down payment but was worried about closing costs eating into her reserves. We paired an FHA first mortgage with CalHFA MyHome for the down payment and stacked GSFA Platinum to cover closing costs entirely — leaving her with her emergency fund intact at the closing table.
“Thank you Team Whigham for getting our family a low rate while paying off school loan debt. I am grateful for your team and your great services during this time.”
— J. Rodriguez
“Your process was painless and the customer service was incredible. My family and I truly appriciate your guidance throughout the refinance process. Thank you a ton.”
— Jen W.
“I have been working with Jason for an entire year while my new home construction was underway. Jason and his team performance was exceptional throughout the entire process! He was not only knowledgeable about loans and processing them but he delivered his services and products with the utmost professionalism. Jason personality is an asset to the company. He makes you feel at ease during a sometimes stressful situation. I definitely will be a return customer and the recommendation I refer.”
— Turquoise D.
Eligibility varies by program, but most options target first-time home buyers, low-to-moderate income households, or buyers purchasing in specific areas. Many programs define 'first-time buyer' as anyone who hasn't owned a home in the past three years.
Yes. Most assistance programs are designed to work alongside FHA, conventional, and USDA loans. Stacking is common and can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs at closing.
That's where we come in. We help you identify the state, county, and city programs you may qualify for based on your location, income, and purchase price. Contact us for a personalized assessment.
Amounts vary widely depending on the program, your location, income level, and purchase price. Some cover just closing costs, while others cover a significant portion of the down payment. We assess every available option to maximize your benefit.
Most programs can be qualified within 1–2 weeks, though some state and county options move faster. We handle the legwork to identify which programs you qualify for and manage the application process.
It depends on the program. Grants require no repayment. Most CalHFA assistance programs are deferred-payment "silent seconds" — no monthly payments, but repaid when you sell, refinance, or pay off the home. Some programs include a shared appreciation component, and some local programs are forgivable after a set occupancy period. We explain all conditions upfront so there are no surprises.
Start your down payment assistance request below. We'll match you with the right California programs and walk you through the next steps — no pressure, no surprise fees.
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Your information is confidential and never shared with third parties. Submitting this form does not obligate you to anything.
