How much house can you afford in California with down payment assistance?

Your real California affordability, the CalHFA MyHome Assistance Program match, and a step-by-step plan — in 30 seconds. No email required.

Calculate your California number — free →
The short answer: In California, the CalHFA MyHome Assistance Program (deferred-payment junior loan) provides up to 3% of the purchase price or appraised value on conventional loans, or 3.5% on FHA loans. Paired with the FHA 31%/43% debt-to-income guidelines lenders use, this calculator shows how much house you can afford in California — with that assistance factored in.

California down payment assistance program

CalHFA MyHome Assistance Program
Deferred-payment junior loan · California
Up to 3% or 3.5% of the purchase price or appraised value

A deferred-payment junior loan of up to the lesser of 3% of the purchase price or appraised value on CalHFA conventional loans, or 3.5% on CalHFA government (FHA) loans.

Official California program page →
Run your California numbers — free, no email

California DPA — common questions

What down payment assistance is available in California?

California's main statewide option is the CalHFA MyHome Assistance Program — deferred-payment junior loan administered by the agency or organization shown on its official program page. Many cities and counties in California add their own programs on top, so it is worth checking all three levels.

How much house can I afford in California with assistance?

It depends on your income, debts and credit. The calculator applies the FHA 31%/43% debt-to-income rule to estimate your price, then shows how much of your down-payment gap California assistance could cover. Most buyers pair it with a 3% conventional or 3.5% FHA down payment.

What credit score do I need for California down payment assistance?

Many state programs set a 620 minimum credit score alongside income limits based on area median income. Exact requirements are set by the agency — verify current terms on the official CalHFA MyHome Assistance Program page before applying.

Check assistance in another state