Buying a home in California: the help you may qualify for.

Down payment and closing cost help

From the California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA).

• MyHome Assistance

  Up to 3.5% (FHA) or 3% (conventional) of the price

  Deferred-payment second loan for down payment or closing costs; no payment until you sell, refinance or pay off the home.

• Dream For All

  Shared appreciation down payment help

  For first-generation homebuyers. When you sell or pay off the loan, you repay the help plus a share of the home's appreciation. Offered in funding rounds.

• CalVet Home Loans Military and heroes

  Low or no down payment

  From the California Department of Veterans Affairs for veterans buying an owner-occupied home in California (generally 90 days of active duty and an honorable discharge). No California residency requirement.

  CalVet Home Loans details

Who qualifies: Income limits apply, and CalHFA requires homebuyer education. Use CalHFA's Am I Eligible tool and a CalHFA-approved loan officer.

Property tax exemptions and credits

Exemptions lower your home’s taxable value or your bill. Most aren’t automatic: you apply with your county assessor. California’s official exemptions information.

For homeowners who live in the home

• Homeowners' exemption

  $7,000 off your home's taxable value

  For a home that is your principal residence on January 1. A manufactured home on rented land can qualify when the home itself is subject to property tax (you can claim this or the renters' credit, not both).

  How to apply: Form BOE-266 with your county assessor, by February 15 for the full exemption. (California Board of Equalization)

For veterans

• Disabled veterans' exemption

  A large exemption, adjusted for inflation each year (more for low-income households)

  For veterans rated 100% disabled (or paid at the 100% rate for unemployability), blind in both eyes, or who have lost the use of two or more limbs, and for qualifying unmarried surviving spouses. Ask your county assessor for this year's amount.

  How to apply: Form BOE-261-G with your county assessor. (California Board of Equalization)

Want to see which ones fit you? Answer a few questions in the property tax exemptions checker.

Your next steps

1. Work out a monthly cost you’re comfortable with in the home cost calculator. It also lists California’s programs with the loans you may qualify for.
2. Talk with a free or low-cost HUD-approved housing counselor. Find one near you.
3. Ask each lender which of these programs they work with, and compare Loan Estimates from at least three.
4. Follow the step-by-step home buyer’s guide from budget to keys.

Common questions