First-Time Homebuyer Programs in San Diego and California

You probably need less than you think

The biggest myth in home buying is that you need 20 percent down. Most first-time buyers put down far less. Between low-down-payment loans and assistance programs, many buyers get into a home with a few percent down, and sometimes with help covering that too.

Low-down-payment loan options

• FHA loans: as little as 3.5 percent down with flexible credit.
• Conventional loans: as little as 3 percent down for qualifying first-time buyers.
• VA loans: $0 down and no monthly mortgage insurance for eligible veterans and service members.

San Diego Housing Commission (SDHC) programs

If you're buying in the City of San Diego, SDHC offers some of the strongest help available anywhere:

• SDHC First-Time Homebuyer Program for lower-income households: a deferred-payment loan of up to 17 percent of the purchase price, plus closing cost assistance.
• SDHC Middle-Income Program for households earning roughly 80 to 150 percent of area median income: a $40,000 deferred down payment loan plus a $10,000 closing cost grant.

SDHC also administers programs for the County of San Diego and cities such as Chula Vista. Income limits, price limits, and funding availability apply, and you'll need to complete a homebuyer education course.

CalHFA programs for all of California

• CalHFA MyHome Assistance: a deferred loan of up to 3.5 percent of the purchase price toward your down payment or closing costs. No monthly payment on the assistance.
• CalHFA Dream For All: up to 20 percent of the purchase price, capped at $150,000, for eligible first-generation buyers. It's a shared appreciation loan awarded by lottery in limited rounds. The most recent round closed in March 2026, so ask us about current status and how to be ready for the next one.
• Closing cost help: CalHFA's zero-interest closing cost programs can stack with select CalHFA first mortgages.

Credit or income outside the box?

Self-employed, recently changed jobs, or rebuilding credit? You still have options. Bank statement loans and other non-QM programs qualify buyers whose finances don't fit the traditional mold.

How we help first-time buyers

This is where having your loan and your agent under one roof really matters. The Loan Me Company is both a mortgage brokerage and a real estate brokerage. Assistance programs come with deadlines, price limits, and paperwork that need to line up with your offer. We coordinate all of it in one place:

• We check which programs you qualify for and which ones can be stacked together.
• We get you pre-approved with the assistance built in.
• Your agent searches for homes that fit program price limits.
• We write offers sellers take seriously and walk you through every step to closing.

Want to see the whole journey? It's 12 steps from application to keys, and we guide you through each one.

Talk it through with Conor

Book a free 15-minute consultation with no credit impact and no commitment. We'll look at your income, savings, and goals, and tell you exactly which programs could work for you. Book your free consultation or call 925-708-7991.

First-time homebuyer FAQ

Who counts as a first-time homebuyer?

Most programs define a first-time buyer as someone who hasn't owned a home in the past three years. That means some past homeowners qualify again.

How much do I need to buy my first home in San Diego?

It depends on the loan and programs you use. FHA allows 3.5 percent down, some conventional loans allow 3 percent, and VA loans allow $0 down. Assistance programs can cover part of the down payment and closing costs.

Can I combine down payment assistance programs?

Sometimes. Certain programs can be stacked, while others can't be combined. We'll map out the combination that gives you the most help.

Is CalHFA Dream For All open right now?

Dream For All opens in limited rounds and selects applicants by lottery. The most recent round closed in March 2026. Contact us for the current status.

Do I need a perfect credit score to buy a home?

No. FHA loans and several assistance programs accept credit scores well below perfect. Lender requirements vary, which is why shopping lenders through a broker helps.

Related loan programs

• FHA Loans: Low down payment, flexible credit

• VA Loans: $0 down for eligible veterans and service members

• 1099 Loans: For contractors and freelancers paid on a 1099

The Loan Me Company (Loan Me, Co.) · NMLS #2497863 · CA DRE #02220434 · Conor Cappa, NMLS #1450916 · CA DRE #02100091. Not affiliated with SDHC, CalHFA, HUD, or the VA. Assistance programs have income, price, and eligibility limits, limited funding, and can change or close without notice. This is not a commitment to lend. All loans are subject to credit approval and lender guidelines. Contact us for a current rate quote. Equal Housing Opportunity.