Unlocking California Homeownership: Down Payment Assistance Programs in California

A group of people are standing in front of a house holding a sold sign.

For many aspiring homeowners, saving for a down payment can be a significant challenge. Fortunately, California offers a variety of Down Payment Assistance (DPA) programs designed to bridge the gap and make homeownership more accessible. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or just need a little help, these programs can be a game changer.

What is Down Payment Assistance?

Down Payment Assistance programs provide financial support to cover a portion—or even all—of your down payment and closing costs. These programs come in several forms:]

Grants: Free money that does not need to be repaid.
Forgivable Loans: Loans that are forgiven if certain conditions are met.
Low-Interest Loans: Loans with flexible repayment terms to ease the financial burden.

A poster for down payment assistance with a picture of a living room.

Special Wholesale Options: Fresh Home Loan Inc., DPA Products

Fresh Home Loan Inc. offers a suite of Down Payment Assistance (DPA) products tailored to meet the needs of FHA, USDA, and conventional borrowers. These programs are designed to make homeownership more accessible by reducing upfront costs and providing flexible financing options. Unlike many state and local DPA programs these have NO INCOME RESTRICTIONS! Here’s an overview of their standout offerings:

1. BOOST DPA (FHA & USDA)

Assistance: Provides 3.5%-5% of the loan amount.
Usage: Can be used for both down payments and closing costs.
Eligibility: Ideal for FHA and USDA borrowers looking to minimize upfront expenses and make their home purchase more attainable.

2. ELEVATE GRANT (FHA & Conventional)

Assistance: Offers up to 3.5% of the loan amount as a grant.
Key Benefit: No repayment required, making this a true financial gift for eligible borrowers.
Applicable Loans: Available for FHA and conventional loan programs, catering to a broad range of buyers.

3. AURORA DPA (FHA)

Assistance: Provides options for forgivable or repayable assistance.
Features:Forgivable Loans: Waive repayment if specific conditions are met, such as staying in the home for a set period.
RepayableLoans: Offer structured, borrower-friendly repayment terms.
Best For: FHA borrowers seeking tailored solutions to fit their unique financial situations.

No Income Limitations: A Game ChangerOne of the standout features of these programs is the lack of income limitations. Unlike many other Down Payment Assistance programs, Orion Lending’s DPA options are available to a wide range of borrowers, regardless of income level. This opens the door to homeownership for more buyers, whether they’re moderate-income earners or professionals with higher earnings seeking affordable solutions.

Why Choose Fresh Home Loan Inc. DPA Products?

Broad Accessibility: With no income restrictions, these programs are suitable for a diverse group of borrowers.
Flexible Assistance Options: Tailored programs to fit different financial needs and goals.
Comprehensive Support: Covers down payment, closing costs, and more to ease the path to homeownership.
Expertise You Can Trust: Backed by Orion Lending’s commitment to delivering innovative and borrower-friendly solutions

Other options in California are available as well. These are designed for first time home buyers. There are many DPA programs in California. Here are the three more common:

The Top 3 Down Payment Assistance Programs in California

1. California Dream For All Shared Appreciation Loan

Assistance: Provides up to 20% of the home purchase price.
Repayment Structure: Tied to the home’s appreciation when sold or refinanced.
Eligibility: Specifically for first-time buyers, with at least one borrower required to be a first-generation homeowner.

2. CalHFA MyHome Assistance Program

Assistance: Offers a deferred-payment junior loan of up to 3.5% of the purchase price or appraised value.
Usage: Can be applied toward down payments or closing costs.
Eligibility: Ideal for first-time buyers meeting income and sales price limits.

3. Golden State Finance Authority (GSFA) Platinum Program

Assistance: Provides up to 5.5% of the loan amount, either as a gift or a 0% interest loan.
Target Audience: Available to both first-time and repeat homebuyers.
Additional Benefits: Flexible underwriting compatible with various loan types.

Benefits of Down Payment Assistance

Lower Entry Barriers: Reduces upfront costs, making homeownership more accessible.
Accelerated Homeownership: Allows buyers to enter the market sooner.
Enhanced Buying Power: Increases purchasing options, even in competitive markets.

Who Qualifies for DPA Programs?

While eligibility requirements differ by program, they often include:

First-Time Buyer Status: Defined as not owning a home in the last three years.
Income Limits: Based on area median income (AMI).
Creditworthiness: Minimum credit scores typically range from 580 to 640.
Homebuyer Education: Completion of a HUD-approved course is often required.

How to Apply

Fill Out the Application and Get Pre Approved: https://freshhomeloan.com/apply-now/
Explore State and Local Options: Programs like CalHFA and GSFA offer diverse and robust support.
Seek Expert Guidance: A mortgage broker or agent can simplify the process and match you with the best option.

Take the Next Step!

California’s Down Payment Assistance programs are here to help make your dream of homeownership a reality. Contact me today for personalized guidance and program details.

https://freshhomeloan.com/apply-now/

A man is holding a child in his arms and says stop waiting start living 0 % down purchase program

For more information contact Garrick Werdmuller: https://freshhomeloan.com/schedule-a-meeting/
Garrick Werdmuller
garrick@freshhomeloan.com
1151 Harbor Bay Parkway Suite 136
Alameda CA 94502
(510) 282-5456

Socials:
https://www.facebook.com/freshhomeloan/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/garrick-werdmuller-b044253/
https://www.youtube.com/@freshhomeloan-garrickwerdm316

All loan approvals are conditional and not guaranteed and subject to lender review of all information. Loan is conditionally approved when lender has issued approval in writing, but until all conditions are met, loan cannot be funded. Specified rates and [products may not be available to all borrowers. Rates subject to change according to market conditions and agreed upon lock times set by borrower. Fresh Home Loan Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Mortgage Broker in California. This licensee is performing acts for which a real estate license is required. Fresh Home Loan, Inc. is licensed by the California Department of Real Estate #02137513 NMLS # 2124104

#Mortgage #RealEstateInvesting #PropertyInvestment #DelayedFinancing #CashOutRefinance #RealEstateFinance #InvestorFinancing #FlexibleFinancing #FirstTimeHomeBuyer #RealEstateInvestors #FreshHomeLoan #CaliforniaRealEstate

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Garrick Werdmuller

510-282-5456

garrick@freshhomeloan.com

A man is standing in front of a before and after picture of a house.

From Garage to ADU: How a 203(k) Loan Helped One Family Maximize Their Space

By Garrick Werdmuller • June 18, 2025

🛠️ From Garage to ADU: How a 203(k) Loan Helped One Family Maximize Their Space 🛠️ Buy It and Fix It With One Loan: The FHA 203(k) Limited A few years ago, I helped a couple purchase their home with just 5% down. It was a great fit for them at the time — solid neighborhood, the space they needed, and a bonus: a detached garage with potential. Fast forward to today — their teenage son was getting older and needed his own space. Naturally, they started exploring how to turn that detached garage into an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) so he could move in and have a bit more independence. They gave me a call, hoping to tap into their home’s equity with a line of credit. But after running the numbers, it became clear that a traditional HELOC wouldn’t provide enough funds to cover the full conversion. That’s when I brought up a lesser-known option: the FHA 203(k) Limited loan . The FHA 203(k) Limited program snapshot outlines a renovation loan product allowing borrowers to finance both the purchase and rehabilitation of a property with a single mortgage , specifically for non-structural repairs or improvements. Here's a summarized overview for reference or communication: 🏡 What Is It? The FHA 203(k) Limited is designed for: Homebuyers purchasing a fixer-upper Homeowners refinancing and remodeling Primary residences only You can finance both the home and non-structural renovations—like kitchens, bathrooms, floors, HVAC systems, roofs, appliances, and more—with a single mortgage . 💡 Why Use a 203(k) Limited? ✅ Finance up to $75,000 in repairs and upgrades ✅ Only 3.5% down payment ✅ One loan, one closing ✅ No 203(k) Consultant required ✅ Ideal for non-structural repairs and cosmetic improvements ✅ Perfect for first-time buyers and FHA borrowers 🛑 What You Can’t Do With It This is for light remodeling only. You can’t use this loan for: Structural changes or additions Foundation work Landscaping (except for erosion prevention) Pools, hot tubs, or other luxury features (Bummer ! I know! 😒) 🧾 Borrower Submission Checklist Here’s what we’ll need to get started on your FHA 203(k) Limited loan: ✅ Basic Docs Loan Application (apply online or schedule an appointment) Government-issued ID Most recent 30 days of paystubs Last 2 years of W-2s or tax returns (for self-employed borrowers) Most recent 2 months of bank statements ✅ Property & Repair Info Signed Purchase Contract (if purchasing) Contractor’s Written Proposal with: Itemized list of repairs Cost breakdown (labor + materials) Statement that work is non-structural W-9 form from contractor Contractor license & insurance (if required by local jurisdiction) ✅ Appraisal & Renovation Docs Appraisal supporting As-Is and After-Improved Value Permit list (if applicable) Final Work Plan (signed off before close) 💬 Final Thoughts The FHA 203(k) Limited can turn a fixer into your dream home—or give your current space the refresh it deserves. With just one loan , you get flexibility , affordability , and peace of mind . Have a property in mind? Let's talk! 👉 Schedule a Free Consultation https://freshhomeloan.com/schedule-a-meeting/ 🏡 #FHA203k #203KLoan #RenovationLoan #FixerUpper #HomeRemodel #MortgageSolutions #FirstTimeHomeBuyer #HomeLoanHelp #RealEstateTips #MortgageBrokerLife #CaliforniaHomes #BayAreaRealEstate #CentralValleyHomes #DreamHomeGoals

A man is holding a card in front of a house.

Guía definitiva de préstamos ITIN – Tu paso hacia la compra de casa

By Smith Chung • June 18, 2025

¿Qué es un préstamo ITIN? Un préstamo ITIN es una hipoteca diseñada para personas que declaran impuestos usando un Número de Identificación de Contribuyente Individual (ITIN) en lugar de un número de Seguro Social (SSN). El ITIN lo otorga el IRS a quienes no son elegibles para un SSN pero aún así deben declarar impuestos en EE. UU. 💬 En resumen: ¿No tienes SSN? ¡No hay problema! Si has sido financieramente responsable y cuentas con documentación básica, ¡podrías calificar! 💪 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 ¿Quién se beneficia de un préstamo ITIN? Los préstamos ITIN están diseñados para quienes persiguen el sueño americano — incluso sin documentación tradicional. Podrías beneficiarte si: 🌎 Eres inmigrante viviendo en EE. UU. sin green card ni SSN 🧾 Declaras impuestos usando un ITIN 💼 Tienes ingresos estables (W-2, por cuenta propia o incluso en efectivo con comprobantes) 💳 Pagas renta y servicios a tiempo y puedes demostrarlo 💥 Hemos ayudado a familias que pensaban que comprar casa era imposible — ¡y cerraron en solo 30–45 días! 🛠️ ¿Cómo funcionan los préstamos ITIN? Los préstamos ITIN generalmente son financiados por prestamistas no tradicionales (non-QM) o bancos especializados que operan fuera de los lineamientos de Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac. Aquí te explicamos cómo funcionan: 💰 Tipos de préstamo: Tasa fija o ajustable Compra, refinanciamiento o retiro de efectivo Propiedad principal, segunda vivienda y algunas propiedades de inversión 💵 Pago inicial: Generalmente del 10 % al 20 % A menudo se permiten fondos de regalo 📊 Crédito: En algunos casos no se requiere puntaje FICO Se puede usar historial de renta, servicios públicos o incluso crédito internacional 📉 Tasas y plazos: Ligeramente más altas que las convencionales Disponibles con tasa fija a 30 años o ARM de 5/7/10 años 📄 Documentación que necesitarás Para obtener una precalificación, debes demostrar estabilidad, ingresos y solvencia. La mayoría de los prestamistas solicitarán: 🆔 ITIN válido y vigente 📑 2 años de declaraciones de impuestos 💼 Comprobante de ingresos (W-2s, 1099s, o P&L si trabajas por cuenta propia) 🏦 2–3 meses de estados de cuenta bancarios 🌐 Identificación válida (pasaporte, matrícula consular, etc.) 🏘️ Historial de renta (comprobante bancario o carta del arrendador) 💡 Consejo extra: ¡Algunos prestamistas incluso aceptan ingresos o activos del extranjero! 🚫 Conceptos erróneos comunes sobre los préstamos ITIN ❌ Mito 1 : Los préstamos ITIN son ilegales. ✅ Falso. Son 100 % legales y cumplen con las regulaciones federales. ❌ Mito 2 : No calificas si eres trabajador independiente o te pagan en efectivo. ✅ No es cierto. Con declaraciones de impuestos o registros bancarios, definitivamente puedes calificar. ❌ Mito 3 : Te van a estafar o cobrar de más. ✅ ¡No con nosotros! Buscamos la mejor opción para tu préstamo y te explicamos todo con claridad. 🌱 ¿Por qué los préstamos ITIN son importantes para nuestras comunidades? 🏘️ Ser dueño de una casa crea riqueza generacional, estabiliza vecindarios y eleva a las familias. Para muchos inmigrantes, los préstamos ITIN son un puente hacia un futuro mejor — y nos enorgullece ser parte de ese proceso. ❤️ 🧑‍💼 Cómo pueden ayudar los agentes de bienes raíces Agentes inmobiliarios — ¡no dejen pasar esta oportunidad! Los compradores con ITIN son leales, motivados y, en muchos casos, están bien establecidos en sus comunidades. Aquí algunas formas de atenderlos mejor: 🤝 Haz equipo con prestamistas que conozcan las reglas de ITIN • 📆 Establece tiempos y expectativas realistas • 💗 Lidera con empatía y orientación 📣 ¿Quieres destacar? Dirige tu marketing a clientes con ITIN — ¡nosotros te respaldamos! 💼 El enfoque de Fresh Home Loan hacia los préstamos ITIN En Fresh Home Loan Inc., trabajamos con prestamistas confiables para ofrecer soluciones hipotecarias ITIN rápidas, justas y transparentes. Ya sea tu primera casa o una inversión, estamos contigo en cada paso. ✅ 🚀 ¿Listo para comenzar? ¿Conoces a alguien que pueda beneficiarse de un préstamo ITIN? Hagamos realidad el sueño de ser dueño de una casa — de la forma correcta, con apoyo y claridad desde el primer día. 🏠✨ “Llama hoy mismo para empezar tu precalificación — en Fresh Home Loan hablamos tu idioma y creemos en tu futuro.”