California's state-level DPA programs get all the attention. But dozens of cities and counties run their own down payment assistance — and you can stack local programs on top of state ones.
I'm Bill McCoy, a California mortgage broker (CA DRE #01212512). Here's a breakdown of what's available locally, plus two statewide alternatives most buyers miss.
If you haven't read it yet, start with our overview of CalHFA's Big Three programs — Dream For All, MyHome, and ZIP.
City and County Programs
Los Angeles County
LA County Home Ownership Program offers up to $75,000 in down payment assistance. It's a 3% silent second mortgage — deferred payment, no interest. Income limit: $127,200 for a family of 4.
San Francisco
Downpayment Assistance Loan Program (DALP) provides up to $200,000 for your down payment. You read that right. Repaid when you sell. Must be a first-time buyer and meet income limits.
San Diego County
County of San Diego Home Buyer Assistance offers up to $30,000 for down payment and closing costs. Must purchase in unincorporated areas. Income limits apply.
Orange County
OC Housing Authority runs multiple programs offering 3-6% assistance. Some city-specific programs exist in Anaheim and Santa Ana. Income limits vary by program.
Sacramento
CalHOME Program provides up to $16,500 for down payment and closing costs. Deferred loan, no interest.
Always check your city or county for a local program. Many are first-come-first-served and run out of funding mid-year. Apply early.
Two Statewide Alternatives
Golden State Finance Authority (GSFA)
CalHFA's smaller sibling. The GSFA Platinum Program offers down payment assistance up to 3% or 3.5% — zero interest, deferred repayment. Slightly more flexible on credit scores than CalHFA. Learn more at GSFA.
Chenoa Fund
A national program available in California. Provides 3.5% down payment assistance for FHA or VA loans. Unlike CalHFA, you pay it back monthly as part of your mortgage payment (not deferred). Good for buyers who want help but don't mind a slightly higher monthly payment.
Income Limits by County (2026)
Income limits vary by county and household size. Here are examples for a family of 4:
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CA DRE #01212512 | Free, no-obligation quote
| County | MyHome Limit | Dream For All Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | $225,600 | $184,450 |
| Orange | $225,600 | $184,450 |
| San Diego | $191,300 | $159,100 |
| Riverside | $159,100 | $136,650 |
| Sacramento | $166,100 | $136,650 |
| Fresno | $122,600 | $102,950 |
Limits are higher for larger households and in high-cost areas. Check your county limits on CalHFA's website.
Real-World Example
Maria and David, San Jose. Combined income: $150,000. Savings: $12,000. Credit scores: 690 and 705. Looking at homes around $650,000.
Without DPA they'd need $19,500 down (3% conventional) plus $16,000 in closing costs. That's $35,500 — they don't have it.
With CalHFA MyHome + ZIP: MyHome provides $22,750 (3.5%). ZIP covers $10,000 in closing costs. Out-of-pocket: $2,750 from their savings. They're able to buy. Without DPA, they'd rent for another 2 years while saving.
FAQ
Can I use DPA on a condo?
Yes, as long as the condo is FHA-approved (for CalHFA MyHome with FHA) or meets Fannie/Freddie guidelines.
Do deferred DPA loans affect my debt-to-income ratio?
No. Deferred junior loans like MyHome and ZIP have no monthly payment, so they don't count against your DTI.
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Can veterans use DPA?
Yes. VA loans are eligible for CalHFA MyHome and ZIP. You can buy a home with $0 down and $0 out of pocket by stacking VA + MyHome + ZIP.
What if I make too much for CalHFA?
Look at conventional 3% down programs, or check local programs that often have higher income limits.
What if I'm not a first-time buyer?
CalHFA ZIP has no first-time requirement. GSFA has options too. And if you haven't owned a home in the past 3 years, you qualify as "first-time" for most programs.
Get Started
Don't wait for funding windows to close. Local programs run out fast.
New to buying? Read our First-Time Homebuyer's Guide to California and our CalHFA program overview.
Better Offers Inc | CA DRE #01212512
CalHFA-Approved Lender