Eligibility Quiz · California

CalHFA Dream For All

See whether you qualify for California's down-payment assistance program for first-generation buyers — up to 20% toward your purchase.

iAll numbers shown are estimates only. They are not tax, legal, or financial advice. Consult a licensed California real estate agent and a CPA before relying on any figure for a real transaction.

Annual household income *All earners in the household combined.County of purchase *Estimated purchase price Your credit score *

I am a first-generation buyer (parents have not owned a home in 7+ years)This will be my primary residence

Your Eligibility

Fill out the form, then we'll show whether you qualify and how much assistance you may receive.

The short answer

CalHFA’s Dream For All is a shared-appreciation down payment assistance program for first-time California buyers, providing help toward the down payment in exchange for a share of the home’s future appreciation when you sell or refinance. Funding is limited and the program’s rules, income limits, and application method have changed between rounds, so eligibility and terms must be confirmed against the current CalHFA round.

Frequently asked questions

It’s a CalHFA down payment assistance program for first-time buyers. Instead of charging monthly interest, it’s a shared-appreciation loan: CalHFA contributes toward your down payment and is repaid that amount plus a percentage of your home’s appreciation when you sell or refinance.

Generally first-time buyers who meet CalHFA income limits for their county, complete homebuyer education, and use an eligible CalHFA loan. Because funding is capped and the program has run as a limited round (and at times a voucher lottery), exact eligibility depends on the current round — verify with CalHFA or an approved lender.

You repay the original assistance plus a share of how much your home rose in value — for many borrowers 20% of the appreciation (15% for lower-income buyers). If the home’s value didn’t rise, you generally repay only the original amount. Repayment is triggered when you sell, refinance, or pay off the first mortgage.

The program has run in limited rounds with capped funding, and its structure (including a voucher-based selection process) has changed over time. Availability depends on whether CalHFA has an open round and remaining funds — always check CalHFA’s current program page before counting on it.

WHAT'S NEXT

Get matched with a buyer's agent

A verified local agent, no obligation.

Explore neighborhoods

Median prices, schools, and walkability across CA.