What down payment assistance programs exist in San Diego County?
In San Diego County, first-time home buyers may qualify for programs like the CalHFA MyHome Assistance Program, the GSFA Platinum Program, and the County of San Diego First-Time Homebuyer Program. These can help cover down payment and closing costs, making homeownership more accessible. With guidance from Peraza Real Estate, you can identify which programs fit your budget and goals.
Why Down Payment Assistance Matters in San Diego
San Diego is one of the most expensive housing markets in the U.S. The median home price exceeded $900,000 in 2025, meaning even a 3% down payment can require more than $27,000 upfront. For many first-time buyers, that’s a major hurdle.
Down payment assistance (DPA) programs help by:
Reducing upfront costs.
Providing low-interest or deferred-payment loans.
Offering grants that don’t need to be repaid.
Expanding access to buyers who may otherwise be priced out of the market.
Popular Down Payment Assistance Programs in San Diego County
Here’s a breakdown of common options:
1. CalHFA MyHome Assistance Program
State-run program for first-time buyers.
Offers up to 3% of the purchase price (or $11,000 max) as a deferred-payment junior loan.
Works with FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional first mortgages.
Payment is deferred until the home is sold, refinanced, or the mortgage is paid off.
2. GSFA Platinum Program
Provides down payment assistance in the form of a gift (grant).
Up to 5% of the loan amount.
Available to both first-time and repeat buyers (income limits apply).
Can be used for down payment or closing costs.
3. County of San Diego First-Time Homebuyer Program
Targets lower-income households.
Provides silent second mortgages for down payment and closing costs.
Deferred payments with no monthly obligation.
Certain income and purchase price limits apply (vary by city and household size).
4. City-Specific Programs
Several cities within the county offer their own programs:
Chula Vista First-Time Homebuyer Program – Deferred loans to help with down payments.
National City First-Time Homebuyer Assistance – Silent second loans with deferred payments.
Escondido First-Time Buyer Program – Helps with closing costs and down payments for eligible households.
Local Insight: How These Programs Impact San Diego Buyers
San Diego’s competitive housing market means buyers often face stiff competition. Having down payment assistance can help:
Increase your purchasing power.
Free up cash for renovations or emergency savings.
Reduce reliance on family gifts or personal loans.
👉 Example: On a $700,000 home in La Mesa, a buyer using a 5% GSFA Platinum grant could receive up to $35,000 toward their down payment and closing costs — often the difference between getting into a home or waiting years to save.
Who Qualifies for Down Payment Assistance in San Diego?
While program details vary, most share these common requirements:
First-time buyer status (no homeownership in the last 3 years).
Income limits based on household size and program type.
Purchase price caps (often around the county’s median price).
Credit score minimums – typically 620+.
Peraza Real Estate works with local lenders who specialize in matching you with the right program for your situation.
How to Apply for Assistance Programs
Check eligibility – Review income, credit score, and property type.
Work with a participating lender – Only certain lenders can originate CalHFA or GSFA loans.
Get pre-approved – This shows sellers you’re serious and financially prepared.
Partner with a local agent – Peraza Real Estate ensures you find homes that qualify under program guidelines.
Submit applications early – Some city-funded programs have limited annual budgets.
FAQs About Down Payment Assistance in San Diego
Do these programs need to be repaid?
Some, like CalHFA’s MyHome loan, are deferred and repaid when you sell or refinance. Others, like the GSFA Platinum grant, do not need repayment.
Can I combine programs?
Sometimes. For example, CalHFA programs can often be layered with local city assistance, but you must confirm with your lender.
Are there income limits?
Yes. For instance, CalHFA limits in San Diego County can exceed $200,000 in household income, while city programs may have lower caps.
Why Work With Peraza Real Estate?
Down payment assistance can be confusing, with each program having different requirements, timelines, and paperwork. Peraza Real Estate brings years of experience helping first-time buyers in neighborhoods like Chula Vista, La Mesa, North Park, and Imperial Beach.
Our team connects you with trusted San Diego lenders who understand assistance programs and can maximize your eligibility.
👉 Don’t let the down payment stop you from becoming a homeowner. Contact Peraza Real Estate today to explore which programs fit your needs and start your San Diego homeownership journey.
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Explore San Diego County's down payment assistance programs for first-time buyers. Peraza Real Estate explains options like CalHFA, GSFA, and local city programs.