First-Time Homebuyers in California
Low down payment options, help navigating California down payment assistance, and step-by-step guidance from your first question to closing day.
Is First-Time Homebuyers a fit for you?
- Buyers who haven't owned a home in the past three years (a common definition)
- Renters ready to stop paying someone else's mortgage
- Buyers with limited savings for a down payment
- Recent graduates and young families
- Anyone who wants a patient, clear walk-through of the process
Low Down Payment
Conventional options may start around 3% down and FHA around 3.5% for qualified buyers.
Down Payment Assistance
I can help you explore California programs such as those offered through CalHFA, plus local assistance where available.
Guidance at Every Step
I explain each document, each number and each decision in plain language.
Multiple Lender Options
As a broker I compare programs and pricing across lenders, not just one bank.
The First-Time Homebuyers Process
Free consultation
We talk through your budget, savings and timeline.
Pre-approval
I review your documents and issue a pre-approval so you know your price range.
Explore assistance
We check whether you may qualify for CalHFA or local down payment programs.
Shop & make offers
Work with your agent to find the home and write a strong offer.
Close
Underwriting, appraisal, final signing and keys.
General Guidelines
General information only. Actual requirements vary by lender and scenario.
| Down payment | Often 3%-3.5% minimum; assistance may help (varies by program) |
|---|---|
| Credit score | Varies by program and lender |
| Mortgage insurance | Usually required under 20% down; may be removable on conventional loans |
| Homebuyer education | Required for some assistance programs |
| Income limits | Some assistance programs have income and price limits |
| Debt-to-income | Varies by lender and program |
Down payment assistance programs are subject to availability, funding and eligibility rules, including income and purchase price limits. Participation is not guaranteed.
Today's Rates
Rates shown are for informational purposes, change daily, and are not a commitment to lend. Your rate depends on credit, loan amount, property and other factors.
Mortgage Payment Calculator
Loan Term30 Years
1.25% is a planning assumption, not a property-specific quote.
Enter any financed funding, guarantee or upfront insurance fee.
Estimated Monthly Payment
$2,689
Including taxes & insurance · $2,023 principal & interest
Payment Breakdown
- Principal & Interest
- $2,023
- Property Taxes
- $417
- Homeowners Insurance
- $250
- HOA Dues
- $0
- PMI
- $0
Loan Summary
- Base Loan Amount
- $320,000
- Financed Upfront Fee
- $0
- Total Financed
- $320,000
- Loan-to-Value
- 80.0%
- Total Interest (P&I)
- $408,142
Estimates only, not a loan offer or commitment to lend. Rates, taxes and insurance are editable planning assumptions. Program selection is not an eligibility determination. Mortgage insurance and upfront fees vary by program and lender; enter your quoted amounts. Actual payments may differ. VA loans have no monthly mortgage insurance.
Talk to Bill about your numbersFirst-Time Homebuyers FAQ
Ready to Get Pre-Approved?
Personalized guidance across California, with a real person.